Tampa Riverwalk with Kids: The Complete Family Guide
The Tampa Riverwalk is one of Tampa's best free family attractions—a stunning 2.6-mile waterfront path connecting parks, playgrounds, museums, restaurants, and splash pads along the Hillsborough River. Whether you're looking for a morning stroll, afternoon adventure, or full-day family outing, the Riverwalk delivers.
This guide covers everything families need to know: the best stops for kids, where to park, what to bring, and how to maximize your Riverwalk experience.
Riverwalk Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Length | 2.6 miles |
| Cost | FREE |
| Hours | Open 24/7 (attractions vary) |
| Best Ages | All ages |
| Stroller-Friendly | Yes, fully paved |
| Bike-Friendly | Yes |
Best Stops for Kids Along the Riverwalk
1. Water Works Park (North End)
Why Kids Love It: Tampa's best splash pad plus a huge adventure playground
Water Works Park is the crown jewel for families. The splash pad features water jets, dumping buckets, and spray features—all FREE. The adjacent playground has climbing structures, slides, and shaded seating for parents.
Pro Tip: Arrive before 10 AM on weekends to beat crowds. Bring swimsuits and a change of clothes.
- Splash Pad Hours: 10 AM - 7 PM (April-October), 10 AM - 5 PM (November-March)
- Parking: Free lot at Water Works Park
2. Armature Works
Why Families Love It: Food hall with diverse options + outdoor lawn
The historic streetcar building now houses a vibrant food hall with 10+ vendors. Kids can find pizza, tacos, ice cream, and more while parents enjoy craft cocktails. The outdoor lawn has games and space to run.
- Hours: 11 AM - 10 PM daily
- Kid Favorites: Pizza, ice cream, outdoor games
3. Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park
Why Kids Love It: Adventure playground + splash pad + sports courts
This 25-acre park offers an incredible adventure playground with towers, climbing nets, and slides. The splash pad is modern with interactive water features. Basketball, tennis, and an event lawn round out the offerings.
- Playground: All ages (toddler area separate)
- Splash Pad: Same hours as Water Works
- Parking: Free lot on North Boulevard
4. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Why Kids Love It: Splash fountain + playground + central location
The iconic splash fountain (the "Louvre") sprays from the ground—perfect for toddlers. A playground sits adjacent, and you're steps from Glazer Children's Museum.
- Splash Pad: 10 AM - 7 PM (seasonal)
- Parking: Tampa Convention Center garage (validate at Glazer Museum for free parking)
5. Glazer Children's Museum
Why Kids Love It: Interactive exhibits for ages 0-10
Tampa's premier children's museum sits right on the Riverwalk. Hands-on exhibits include a fire truck, veterinarian clinic, water play, and more.
- Admission: $17.50 per person
- Free Day: First Tuesday 3-7 PM
- Best For: Ages 0-10
6. The Florida Aquarium
Why Kids Love It: Marine life + outdoor splash pad
Located at the south end of the Riverwalk, The Florida Aquarium features touch tanks, penguin encounters, and an outdoor splash pad included with admission.
- Admission: Adults $34.95, Kids $29.95
- Parking: $10 at Aquarium garage
7. Sparkman Wharf
Why Families Love It: Outdoor food hall + lawn + bay views
Container restaurants, lawn games, and stunning bay views make Sparkman Wharf a perfect Riverwalk ending point. Kids run on the lawn while parents enjoy food and drinks.
- Hours: 11 AM - 10 PM (varies by restaurant)
- Kid Favorites: Pizza, burgers, ice cream
Getting Around the Riverwalk
Walking
The full 2.6 miles takes 45-60 minutes without stops. With kids, plan 2-3 hours with playground breaks.
Biking
Coast Bike Share stations are located throughout. Rent bikes for $3.50/30 minutes. Great for older kids (helmet not included).
Pirate Water Taxi
The most magical way to experience the Riverwalk! The Pirate Water Taxi stops at 8 locations including:
- Convention Center
- Tampa General Hospital
- Armature Works
- Sparkman Wharf
Cost: $10/day unlimited rides
Hours: 11 AM - 10 PM
Why Kids Love It: It's a PIRATE SHIP!
Electric Scooters
Bird and Lime scooters are available for adults. Kids under 18 cannot ride.
Where to Park (Free & Paid)
| Location | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Water Works Park | FREE | North end, splash pad |
| Julian B. Lane Park | FREE | Mid-Riverwalk, playground |
| Tampa Convention Center | FREE (w/validation) | Glazer Museum visits |
| Fort Brooke Garage | $2/hour | Central Riverwalk |
| Sparkman Wharf | First 2 hrs free (w/purchase) | South end |
What to Bring
Essential Items:
- Sunscreen and hats
- Swimsuits and towels (for splash pads)
- Change of clothes for kids
- Stroller or wagon for little ones
- Snacks and water bottles
- Cash for vendors/parking meters
Nice to Have:
- Bikes or scooters (or rent there)
- Portable phone charger
- Blanket for lawn picnics
Best Times to Visit
| Season | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Morning (8-10 AM) | Cooler, less crowded | Splash pads may not be open |
| Weekday | Fewer crowds | Some restaurants limited hours |
| Fall/Winter | Perfect weather | Splash pads reduced hours |
| Spring | Beautiful weather | Can get busy |
Avoid: Summer afternoons (too hot), weekend afternoons (crowded)
Sample Family Itineraries
Half-Day Morning (3 hours)
- Park at Water Works Park (free)
- Splash pad and playground (1 hour)
- Walk to Armature Works for lunch (30 min walk)
- Explore food hall and lawn (1 hour)
- Walk back or Pirate Water Taxi return
Full-Day Adventure
- Start at Armature Works for breakfast
- Walk south to Julian B. Lane playground
- Splash pad break
- Continue to Curtis Hixon + Glazer Museum
- Lunch at Sparkman Wharf
- Florida Aquarium (if time/budget allows)
- Pirate Water Taxi back to start
Nearby Attractions
The Riverwalk connects to these family favorites:
- Glazer Children's Museum - Interactive kids museum
- Florida Aquarium - Marine life + splash pad
- Tampa Bay History Center - Pirate ship exhibits
- Ybor City - Historic district (trolley ride away)
Riverwalk Events
The Riverwalk hosts family-friendly events year-round:
- Gasparilla Parade (January) - Pirate invasion!
- Taste of Tampa (Spring) - Food festival
- Rock the Park (Monthly) - Free concerts
- Holiday boat parades (December)
The Tampa Riverwalk is one of Tampa's best free family destinations. With playgrounds, splash pads, museums, and dining all connected by a beautiful waterfront path, it's perfect for any age. Start planning your Riverwalk adventure today!
