Welcome to Downtown Tampa
Unique and trendy city in the midst of a development boom
For those who prefer to be in the midst of the action in a lively, urban neighborhood, Downtown Tampa delivers. This vibrant area is in the midst of a development boom, with new entertainment complexes going up and expansive parks being unveiled to allow for peaceful green space despite the hustle and bustle of the neighborhood. Along with the new
Water Street Tampa, high-rise office buildings are effortlessly juxtaposed with luxury condominiums in a state of balance and harmony. The city’s top architects and planners have designed outdoor cityscapes, inviting public spaces, and dynamic workplaces that have resulted in a highly accessible and easily walkable neighborhood. Below chic apartments and sleek condos lie a number of great restaurants, shops, and bars, so you’re never far from what you need or desire.
When you choose to live in Downtown Tampa, you’re close to the best of the city — from exciting events at the St. Pete Times Forum to large, popular festivals at Curtis Hixon Park. From here, the TECO Line Streetcar can whisk you to other desirable areas of Tampa for shopping, dining, and nightlife from Hyde Park to historic Ybor City to Channelside.
What to Love
- On-the-go, urban vibe with every imaginable convenience
- Waterfront setting with dining, entertainment, and shopping
- Easy access to other top Tampa neighborhoods
Local Lifestyle
The residents of revitalized Downtown Tampa work hard and play hard — and they’re lucky enough to have a walkable commute. The neighborhood offers fantastic choices for residences and any number of urban conveniences right downstairs. After hours, Downtown Tampa residents seek out up-and-coming restaurants, shop at high-end retail stores, take a jog along the Tampa Riverwalk, or even kayak in the Hillsborough River. This is a choice place for young professionals who don’t want to deal with a lengthy commute and wish to pack as much living as they can into the day, even on a Tuesday.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
When the workday is done, Downtown Tampa residents needn’t walk far for dining and entertainment. Cocktail enthusiasts will love their proximity to CW’s Gin Joint, where notable and more obscure liquors are served in a gentile setting, completely devoid of pretension. This is the place for those serious about their drinks! Be sure to try to get a seat at the small bar toward the back, where you can watch the mixologists work their magic.
Craving great food and a cultural ambiance? Head to Ulele on the Tampa Riverwalk, which celebrates the fusion of ingredients from Florida waters and the land that was once home to Native Americans, including a princess named Ulele. The visually appealing dishes are prepared over a huge barbacoa grill.
Wind down at The Sail Pavilion, the only 360-degree, open-air waterfront bar in Tampa. Then, make your way along the Tampa Riverwalk to historic Tampa Heights, just north of Downtown Tampa, and take in the fully restored, exposed-brick Armature Works. Within this original streetcar and trolley barn, you’ll find the popular Heights Public Market, the M.Bird Rooftop Lounge, and the celebrated dining of Steelbach and Oak & Ola.
Things to Do
Downtown Tampa is where it’s at right now. The Water Street Tampa revitalization effort will connect the Tampa Convention Center, Amalie Area, Tampa Bay History Center, Florida Aquarium, and Tampa Riverwalk, making it easier than ever for residents to connect with each other in inviting public areas.
Sparkman Wharf, right on the waterfront, is one of the neighborhood’s top community and cultural destinations. There are loft-style office spaces, street-level shops, intimate restaurants, a Biergarten, and even a lawn for tossing around a Frisbee. It’s like having your own backyard, despite living in the heart of the city.
Sparkman Wharf is just one section of the 2.6-mile Tampa Riverwalk, which passes through Downtown Tampa. Follow the Hillsborough River along the Historical Monument Trail for a lesson in local lore, walk the route after dark when it’s colorfully illuminated, or pop into the Tampa Museum of Art. On a sunny day, the eight-acre Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is the perfect place to mingle with your neighbors, complete with the Great Lawn for various performances and activities, a dog run, and two interactive fountains.
There’s plenty to do throughout the year in Downtown Tampa, from the Gasparilla Pirate Festival to the Winter Village event. Honor the area’s original buccaneers during the Gasparilla Parade of Pirates along historic Bayshore Boulevard, and join your neighbors in applauding the colorful floats and numerous marching bands. Welcome winter at the Winter Village, when Curtis Hixon Park is transformed into the sights and sounds of the holidays. Cheer the Tampa Bay Lightnings from the stands beside the ice at Amalie Arena, right in Downtown Tampa, or join other boisterous fans at Hattricks Tavern.Schools
Downtown Tampa is home to a well-respected university, located on the banks of the Hillsborough River.
