We love to be outdoors! Every afternoon I tell my kids we need our “sunshine time” and I really believe getting outside each day for at least an hour has saved my sanity on stressful days. My kids always behave better after getting some fresh air, sunlight, and exercise. And I love that they can be loud, creative, and active without me worrying about messes and damage to the house. It a win-win for everyone!
One of our favorite parks in the area is Curtis Hixon Park in Downtown Tampa. My kids love the merry-go-round, slides, and unique playground climbers!
Curtis Hixon Park has a fun, urban atmosphere as it’s located along downtown’s waterfront Riverwalk area. The City of Tampa has done a great job of transforming this area over the past few years into an active, family friendly area.
We like that the ground is made of rubber! We don’t come home with sand and dirt in our shoes, and it’s a gentle impact if the kids fall.
The rubber is rippling and torn in a few places. Hopefully the city will replace it at some point.
Visitor Details
Website: https://www.visittampabay.com/listings/curtis-hixon-waterfront-park/7676/
Address: 600 N Ashley Dr, Tampa, FL 33602 The park is 8 acres and includes a large lawn, dog park, interactive fountains/splash pads, boat dock and water taxi, Tampa Museum of Art, Glazer Children’s Museum, and the playground. The playground area is just south of the Tampa Museum of Art. I usually park in the Poe Parking Garage and it’s a short walk over to the playground.
Hours: 7AM to 10PM
Pricing: Free! There may be a small fee for parking, depending on the location you choose and day you’re there.
Insider Tips
There are great paved paths! We have brought rollerblades, bikes, skateboards, and ripsticks in the past.
There are fountains very close by so bring bathing suits and towels if it’s a hot day and you want to add some water play!
There’s a little shade from a few small trees but most of the playground is not covered so you may want to bring sunscreen or a hat.
