20 Attractions to Explore Near Water Works Park

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts is truly a hub of culture and entertainment with an impressive nine venues ranging from cozy theater spaces to expansive concert halls — each equipped with incredible sound technology to ensure the best possible viewing experience. It offering a continuously changing schedule of performances that include Broadway shows, classical and contemporary music concerts, dance events, comedy acts, spoken word programs and much more.

Perry Harvey Sr. Park is an outdoor experience for the entire family to enjoy. With its bike trail, basketball court, picnic area, and playground set-up, there’s something for everyone at Perry Harvey Sr. Park! Spend a day here floating down the Hillsborough River on a rented canoe or kayak, play a game of hoops on the lighted basketball court near midday overlooking the river or take an afternoon stroll along the winding bike trail with stunning views of downtown Tampa.

Tampa Theatre is a stunning piece of architecture that remains the city's crown jewel. Built-in 1926 and lovingly restored to its original grandeur in 1977, this historic building has become a true cultural icon. This beloved movie palace captures the glamour and romance of Hollywood’s golden age with its intricate details. From concerts to events and classic films to charities, today Tampa Theatre continues to welcome locals and visitors alike for unforgettable experiences.

Tampa Museum of Art is an outstanding institution for experiencing and appreciating the finest in visual art from around the world. Housed within its walls are permanent collections that display artwork from ancient to modern times including European masters, ancient Greek and Roman antiquities, contemporary American art and more. The museum also has temporary exhibitions and special programming that showcase the works of renowned international artists as well as local talent.

Housed in a 53,000-square-foot facility in downtown Tampa, the museum features 170 interactive exhibits in multiple themed areas. Traveling exhibits occasionally supplement the museum's permanent collection as well.

Tampa is a vibrant city with an abundance of activities to enjoy. Whether you head to Ybor City for entertainment or walk along the scenic waterfront of Bayshore Boulevard, there is something for everyone in Tampa. You can explore the natural beauty of Citrus County by taking a kayak tour along one of its many rivers and springs, or simply relax on one of the area’s idyllic beaches. Cultural and fine arts are also prevalent in Tampa.

The Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is a refreshing spot for locals and visitors alike to take in the beauty of Tampa Bay. Located on East Bank of the Hillsborough River downtown, this 10-acre park features breathtaking views of the Tampa skyline, an interactive fountain where kids can cool off, an expansive stretch of green space perfect for picnicking and relaxing during Florida's sunny days, as well as cultural programming such as free concerts.

The Centro Asturiano de Tampa was founded in 1923 as a social center for members of the Spanish and Italian immigrant communities. It provided them with a place to gather socially and recreate, as well as access to healthcare, education, and other services. Today, it continues to serve the community of Hillsborough County by hosting various cultural events and educational programs. The four story building also houses a library filled with more than 5,000 books ranging from literature to history.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church, offers its parishioners a place of worship with a rich history and sense of community. This historic church dates back to 1899 and offers a variety of services for those looking for spiritual guidance. Not only does the vibrant church provide beautiful services but it also supports outreach programs such as Feeding Tampa Bay Food Pantry, Women’s Pregnancy Center, Oasis Worship Center and is active in local missions.

Tampa, is a vibrant mix of urban culture, beautiful beaches, and historical landmarks. As home to the University of South Florida and Busch Gardens, The Ybor City Historic District provides a glimpse into the city's famed cigar-making past and features iconic brick buildings housing shops, museums and enticing Cuban restaurants. Outdoors lovers can enjoy Fort De Soto Park where stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico abound or drive up to Clearwater Beach for miles of white sand shoreline.

Plant Hall was formerly known as the Tampa Bay Hotel, which was a 511-room resort hotel opened on February 5, 1891 by Henry B. Plant near the terminus of his rail line. The museum's exhibits focus on Gilded Age tourism, the elite lifestyle of the hotel's guests, and the building's use during the Spanish–American War.

2.6-mile-long (4.2 km) open space and pedestrian trail development along the Hillsborough River . The Riverwalk extends along most of the downtown Tampa waterfront, forming a continuous path connecting multiple parks, attractions, public spaces, and hotels.

Parque Jose Marti is an outdoor recreation area that offers visitors a chance for exploration and play. This park covers 125 acres of land with plenty open space for picnics, sports activities, and walks. The walking paths are lined with tall trees and benches for rest, providing a pleasant environment throughout the park. There are also two lakes in the park which can be used for recreational fishing. Parque Jose Marti is the perfect destination to entertain children of all ages.

Tampa Bay Fun Boat is a great way to explore Florida's beautiful Hillsborough County from a unique vantage point. Spend the day cruising around and take in all the sights of the gorgeous landscape and waters, aboard their comfortable pontoon boat. Their knowledgeable captain will show you hidden gems like secret beaches, wildlife preserves and local landmarks that you might not have seen otherwise. There are plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing or just lounging in the sun.

The Florida Aquarium is a world-class facility showcasing the magic of aquatic life from all around the globe. Visitors can delve into unique habitats such as the Bays & Beaches, Wetlands, and Tropical Corals to get up close and personal with more than 20,000 amazing aquatic animals and plants. If you wish to dive even deeper into marine science, The Florida Aquarium offers educational programs for school groups and other educational institutions.

A history museum in Tampa. Exhibits include coverage of the Tampa Bay area's first native inhabitants, Spanish conquistadors, and historical figures who shaped the area's history, as well as a reproduction of a 1920s cigar store.

The TECO Line Streetcar System is a treasured part of the Tampa Bay Region's transportation system. Started in 2002, this popular and efficient 2.7-mile streetcar route runs from downtown Tampa, through the rapidly growing Channelside District, to Ybor City - one of the city's original Latin Quarters. With newly added modern streetcars that are wheelchair accessible, This System provides riders with frequencies throughout most of their operating hours–seven days a week.

The J.C. Newman Cigar Company has been family owned and operated since 1895, making it one of the oldest cigar businesses in America. This local institution is still owned by the Newman family and is a thriving business today. They produce over 6 million handmade cigars per year with 80 employees across multiple shifts in their Tampa-based factory. The company is dedicated to craftsmanship, quality control and continuing the long history of classic American cigar brands .

Ybor City Museum State Park is a great destination for exploring the history of Ybor City. The museum in the park highlights the city's rich culture and history, focusing on its 19th-century cigar industry roots. Visitors to the museum will learn about the Tampa's first settlers and see unique artifacts like machines used to make cigars. There are beautiful trails looping around the park letting visitors take in sights like old cigar factories, Spanish Revival homes, and Victorian architecture.

It is a large scale, 250,000-square-foot (23,000 m2) aquarium home to more than 7,000 aquatic plants and animals from Florida and all over the world.