Resources
Resources for exploring the area
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Exploring Tampa
While Tampa is an urban center along the north shore of Tampa Bay, it has many natural lands protecting the water supply of the region.
Some of these are quite massive. One of the more popular destinations is the Lower Hillsborough River Wilderness Preserve, with lengthy off-road biking trails.
Public lands cluster along the Little Manatee and Alafia Rivers, which pour into Tampa Bay from the east.
In the city itself, parks are primarily urban green spaces. The Tampa Riverwalk stretches along the Hillsborough River for 2.5 miles downtown.
It connects the cruise ship port and the Florida Aquarium to Channelside, a popular mall, as well as the Tampa Bay History Center, Glazer Children’s Museum, and the Tampa Museum of Art.
The Bayshore Trail, along the Bayshore Greenway, extends about 5 miles from Columbus Statue Park to Gandy Boulevard, showing off scenic views across Tampa Bay.
For an understanding of historic Ybor City, visit the in-city state park that focuses on the Cuban community that grew around the early cigar trade.
Best Parks and Trails in Tampa
As seen on the map above, Tampa and its metro area has an extraordinary number of parks and trails. These are our picks for don’t-miss outdoor destinations. Click on icons on the map to learn more about the rest.