Get ready to discover an exhilarating neighborhood vibrant with life! Water Street in Tampa features picturesque riverwalks, global cuisine, sporting events, cultural activities, and outdoor lifestyle activities that will keep you busy from dawn till dusk.
I’ve wandered every inch of Water Street Tampa, and it’s the perfect place to let yourself get lost in the streets of Tampa. This incredible area in downtown Tampa has a way of capturing hearts — and yours is next! Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, a delicious meal at a top-rated restaurant, or an exciting event at a world-class venue, these are just a handful of things to do that make Tampa such an incredible place to live.
Tampa’s Water Street Attractions
Water Street Tampa spans 16 blocks in downtown Tampa, and it’s jam-packed with attractions. Here are a few of my favorite must-sees when exploring Tampa!
Visit Tampa Riverwalk
One of the top things to do on Water Street Tampa is to visit Tampa Riverwalk, Hillsborough River’s downtown Tampa path. This 2.6-mile pedestrian trail runs along the Hillsborough River and Garrison Channel, connecting many of Tampa’s most popular attractions. Take a leisurely stroll, break a sweat with a jog, or rent a bike and enjoy the stunning views of the water and the city skyline. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of places to stop and relax, including parks, restaurants, and shops. Have a picnic and bring your kiddos to splash in the foundations at 8-acre Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park! The Glazer Children’s Museum is also located at the Waterfront Park.
Enjoy the Views at Sparkman Wharf
Another must-visit destination on Water Street Tampa is Sparkman Wharf. This outdoor dining and recreation space is located along the Garrison Channel and features a collection of repurposed shipping containers housing local restaurants and bars. Have a drink and some snacks and relax on the spacious lawn area, taking in the stunning waterfront views. Sparkman Wharf also hosts regular events, including live music, movie nights, and yoga classes.
Explore the Florida Aquarium
For a fun and educational experience, head to the Florida Aquarium. This popular attraction is just a short walk from Water Street Tampa in the Channel District. Explore a variety of aquatic exhibits showcasing marine life from Florida and around the world, including sharks, alligators, and a wide array of colorful fish. Take advantage of the outdoor splash pad and play area for kids.
Attend an Event at Amalie Arena
If you’re looking for some excitement, check out the events at Amalie Arena. This state-of-the-art venue is home to the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning and hosts a variety of other events throughout the year, including concerts, family shows, and sporting events. Whether you’re a hockey fan or just looking for a fun night out, Amalie Arena is the perfect place to be. Book your tickets in advance to ensure you don’t miss out.
Check Out the Tampa Bay History Center
Tampa has a tremendous history and culture. The History Center is a 60,000-square-foot facility on the Riverwalk with three floors of permanent and temporary exhibition galleries telling the story of 12,000 years of Florida’s history.
The Best Restaurants on Water Street in Tampa
One of the best things about Water Street (and Tampa itself) is the incredible dining scene. From upscale steakhouses to casual cafes, there are dining options for every taste and budget.
Don’t see what you’re looking for? To tell you the truth, these are just a handful of the amazing culinary experiences on Water Street and what Tampa has to offer—feel free to pick my brain for many more foodie recommendations!
Anchor and Brine
Deemed one of the best restaurants on the Tampa Riverwalk, Anchor and Brine from Chef Richard Sandoval in the Marriott Water Street offers a fusion of local fresh seafood dishes and hand-crafted cocktails. It also boasts an incredible waterfront view with a dog-friendly patio, so the ambiance alone is worth it!
Also worth checking out on the main level of the JW Marriott is Driftlight, a modern take on the steakhouse, and SiX, a Tampa rooftop bar and restaurant with gorgeous views on the JW Marriott’s sixth floor.
Lona
Another favorite Chef Sandoval restaurant, Lona marries Mexican classic dishes with contemporary flavors, with fresh ceviches, flavorful tacos, and authentic Mexican dishes. Save room for dessert, because they make a mean espresso martini and tres leches.
Wagamama
Asian-inspired Wagamama is extremely popular, featuring light lunches to hearty dinners of Asian fare, from stir fries and noodles to curries and salads. Pair them with a robust drink menu with all sorts of beer, wine, and sake, or nonalcoholic mocktails, fresh juices, and boba.
Predalina
While not technically on Water Street but just next to it, Predalina deserves a shoutout as another favorite and ranks as one of the best places to eat in downtown Tampa. With a focus on Mediterranean seafood, your meal will be complete with some delicious baklava!
Sunda New Asian
For a more casual dining experience with a twist (and waterfront views!), check out Sunda New Asian. This popular restaurant is located in the Sparkman Wharf area and serves a menu of contemporary Asian cuisine with influences from Japan, China, and Southeast Asia. The menu features a variety of small plates, sushi rolls, and entrees, as well as creative cocktails and sake.
These dining hot spots are just the tip of the iceberg. From fast, casual fare (CAVA, Fit Bowl Co.) to sweet treats (Chill Bros. Scoop Shop, Everglazed Donuts & Coldbrew, Jeni’s Ice Cream) to swanky bar nightlife (Arts Club, Alter Ego), it’s impossible to get bored. And your taste buds will thank you!
Health & Fitness on Water Street
One of the huge draws of living in Tampa, Florida, is the “feel good” outdoor lifestyle. And if you’re a health nut, the number of indoor and outdoor options is, quite frankly, overwhelming. Check out gyms and workout spots like Pilates-inspired Bodyrok, boutique Biomefit, and HIIT-style F45 Training.
In addition to walking, jogging, and biking alongside the waterfront, you’ll also find outdoor spaces at Sparkman Wharf and Armature Works with monthly outdoor fitness activities (and cool events). Once you venture out in all of Tampa, you’ll find many other water activities like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, swimming, and even workouts on the beach!
Getting Around Water Street
Water Street is very walkable and bike-friendly. Right in the heart of Water Street Tampa, you’ll find bike-sharing stations courtesy of Coast Bike Share. Grab a bike and ride your way through the neighborhood – a fantastic way to soak up the atmosphere and get some exercise, too.
Riding the TECO Line Streetcar is a fantastic option, too, as it connects Water Street to lively neighborhoods like Ybor City and the Channel District. With its frequent departures every 15-20 minutes, you’ll be cruising around in no time —and it’s an affordable treat, too.
Driving and Parking
If you’re planning to drive, you’ll be happy to know that there are several parking garages and surface lots located throughout downtown Tampa:
- Amber parking lot (serves Amalie Arena)
- Channelside garage (across the street from Sparkman Wharf)
- Cumberland garage
- Cumberland parking lot (serves Amalie Arena, Predalina, and more)
- Florida parking lot (good for the business district)
- Garrison parking lot (uncovered parking for Sparkman Wharf, Heron, Tampa Bay History Center, and Riverwalk)
- Morgan parking lot
- Pam Iorio garage (serves Amalie Arena)
Don’t feel like public parking? There are valet parking options at both Marriotts and on Water Street itself (just off Water Street on Raybon Ct.).
Discover What Makes Tampa So Special
My recommendations only scratch the surface of all the things you can do on Water Street, and we haven’t even begun to talk about all of the things you can do in the greater Tampa area!
That’s the beauty of Tampa—around every corner, there’s something new and exciting waiting to be discovered. But don’t just take my word for it—come on out here and let me show you how unique Tampa is. As someone born and raised here, there are so many reasons I’ve stayed. Give me a call, and let’s talk about Tampa real estate options, neighborhoods, and our enviable lifestyle!