The Best Parks & Recreational Amenities in South Tampa FL

Buying a home isn't only about what the home offers. Surrounding amenities and attractions can also play a critical role, which certainly includes parks and recreational amenities. So if you're considering a move to South Tampa and love spending time outside, here's a glimpse into what some of the best parks, playgrounds, and more have to offer. 

Ballast Point Park

Located on the eastern side of South Tampa, Ballast Point Park offers an array of activities for the whole family. Forget a simple slide and swing set; this place has a massive multi-unit play structure complete with everything from rock climbs to bars, to rocking horse submarines. It neighbors an expansive splash pad that operates year-round, and a pavilion. There's also a large picnic area to be enjoyed with friends on a sunny afternoon or even used as a party venue should you choose; lots of people in South Tampa love coming to Ballast Point Park for both leisure and community activities. Being situated on the water, this outdoor space is privy to amazing sunrises, sunsets, and daytime views of Hillsborough Bay. Downtown Tampa serves as a backdrop to the countless memories that can be made here. The 600-foot pier and boat dock make it easy to get out on the water with canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards, or to just relax and admire the beauty of Tampa Bay.

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

Perhaps the newest outdoor space on our list, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park was just recently completed by the City of Tampa. It consists of eight acres of visually impressive and sustainable design features. From the Great Lawn at its center, visitors can enjoy a range of programming, performances and entertainment as well as two interactive fountains – the Louver fountain and Mist fountain – that make for fun photo opportunities. There is also a variety of other amenities such as a dog run, kiosk with restrooms, park offices and pavilion building with restrooms.

Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park

In need of a little more space? Look no further than Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park. At 25 acres in size, it's one of the biggest in South Tampa. Size isn't the only thing it has going for it, though - ask any local and they'll rave about the park's wealth of raquet sport courts, playground equipment, splash pads, and waterfeatures. They might also mention common amenities like the community front portch, public art, pavillion, event facility, festival lawn, and festival shelters. As if that wasn't enough, Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park's boathouse also offers standup paddleboard and kayak rentals at affordable hourly rates.

Fred Ball Park

Formerly known by the name Palma Ceia Spring Park, Fred Ball Park is a longtime favorite gathering place of South Tampa residents. There's plenty of infrastructure to accommodate, including a large lawn, gazebo, and multiple swing benches make this an ideal spot for a picnic. The park is notably well-managed by the Tampa Federation of Garden Clubs, which is located just across the street. Some people would describe Fred Ball as small, but that's often what busy city dwellers are in search of. Quaint, private, and cut out from the noise, you're sure to get the break you need by spending an afternoon here.

Bayshore Boulevard

Bayshore Boulevard is often considered the backbone of Tampa, Florida. Stretching over four miles from downtown, it has one of the longest continuous sidewalks in the United States. Not only that, but spectacular views as well. Take a stroll and you'll get a postcard picture of the city skyline and surrounding bay. You'll also stumble upon several waterfront restaurants, shops, and boutiques along the way, likely alongside the countless other locals and tourists who come to this place first when they're in need of a good walk or bike ride.