6 of Our Favorite Parks in Tampa, FL (2023 Update)

Tampa has a treasure trove of natural wonders. There are many hidden gems in Florida that are waiting to be discovered. Tampa’s parks offer a sanctuary from the daily grind— a place where you can reconnect with nature and rejuvenate your spirit.

Not only are parks in Tampa a haven for relaxation and reflection, but they also serve as a classroom for visitors to learn about Florida’s ecosystems. In this article, we’ve included a variety of parks, each to suit different preferences. Our goal while compiling this list was to highlight parks that are:

• Fun
• Full of nature
• Relaxing

We’re a local roofing company that loves serving our community and supplying the best quality work to homeowners who need roofing work done right! We spend a lot of our time working hard so we love the relaxation that the parks have to offer.

If you’re interested in learning about some of the best parks in Tampa, check them out below!

1) Lettuce Lake Park

Nestled along the banks of the Hillsborough River, Lettuce Lake Park is a true gem in Tampa’s crown. This 240-acre park has an array of ecosystems. As you walk along the 1.25-mile boardwalk, keep your eyes peeled for the park’s many bird species. One of the highlights for Lettuce Lake Park visitors is bird watching.

Also, for those seeking a more immersive experience, Lettuce Lake Park also offers canoe and kayak rentals. This allows visitors to explore the waters of the Hillsborough River up close. After a day of adventure, you can unwind at one of the park’s picnic areas and enjoy a leisurely meal amidst the serene setting.

 2) Hillsborough River State Park

Established in the 1930s as a public park, Hillsborough River State Park is one of Florida’s oldest and most beloved state parks. Spanning over 3,000 acres, this quick escape offers a glimpse into the state’s diverse landscapes. The area includes lush subtropical forests and serene riverbanks. 

Hillsborough’s extensive trail system caters to hiking and cycling enthusiasts, with paths ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging treks. For those seeking more adventure, the park also allows visitors to rent canoes, kayak, and go horseback riding. Not to mention, there are grounds set up for camping as well.

The park’s diverse ecosystems also support a myriad of other creatures, such as turtles, eagles, bobcats, and even the occasional alligator.  Hillsborough River State Park is a must-visit destination for nature and wildlife lovers.

 3) Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park

Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. This 25-acre park has stunning views, providing a gorgeous backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. It’s a place that the entire family can enjoy.

The park’s extensive waterfront promenade is perfect for jogging, cycling, or simply soaking up the sun. Its expansive green spaces offer a serene setting for relaxation and reflection.

Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park also features a wealth of recreational facilities, including tennis courts, basketball courts, and a state-of-the-art playground for children.  For those looking to beat the heat, there’s a water works park, complete with a splash pad.

Furthermore, this beautiful park hosts a variety of events and concerts throughout the year, making it a hub of activity and entertainment for the local community.

4) Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is an exciting theme park that perfectly blends excitement with natural beauty. It’s a must-visit destination for any Tampa traveler. This park is home to an impressive collection of roller coasters, immersive animal encounters, and live entertainment that caters to visitors of all ages.

Busch Gardens is not only a thrilling amusement park but also an accredited zoological facility that houses over 200 species of animals. It includes endangered species such as the cheetah and the orangutan.

As you explore this vast park, you’ll discover gorgeous landscapes and vibrant gardens that’ll transport you to another world. Even if you haven’t visited the Serengeti, you’ll get a glimpse of what it’s like when you visit Busch Gardens!

5) Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of downtown Tampa, Florida. It has amazing views, and it’s become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The park covers 8 acres of land and features a variety of amenities, including a playground, a splash pad, a dog park, and several picnic areas.

There are also plenty of walking paths and bike trails that wind through the area, making it the perfect place to get some fresh air and enjoy the day. This park hosts a variety of events, including concerts, food festivals, and cultural celebrations. One of the most popular events held at Curtis Hixon is the Gasparilla Music Festival, which features live music from local and national artists.

6) Cypress Point Park

Cypress Point Park is another fantastic park located in Tampa, Florida. It offers visitors a chance to unwind and connect with nature. Visitors can indulge in a wide range of activities, such as volleyball, biking, golfing, and paddleboarding. This park is also home to several species of birds and wildlife that nature enthusiasts can enjoy while walking along the trails.

One of the main attractions of Cypress Point Park is its long stretch of white sandy beach. The beach offers visitors an opportunity to relax and soak up some sun while taking in the beautiful views.

Visitors can also rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the bay and its surrounding areas. And, if you bring little ones with you, there’s a playground with tons of fun things for the kiddos to get into.

Exploring All That Tampa Has to Offer

If there’s one thing you can say about us, it’s that we love our community! When it comes to exploring Tampa, we thoroughly enjoy getting out there and seeing all that the city has to offer. When we’re not putting our all into great customer service and quality roofing services, we’re having fun. 

For us, it’s important to work hard and play hard. So, if you’re in need of roofing repair or replacement, we can handle the job. We offer a variety of services for residential and commercial properties.

To inquire more about how we can help you, call 813-807-4009, or contact us on our website!