What To Do in Tampa After Riding Cross-Bay Ferry

Published on 03/10/22: Cross Bay Ferry, post two! Tips and what to do in Tampa after riding the Cross-Bay Ferry (in walking distance). First, thanks for following along as we explore our incredible area. We appreciate you! #LiveWhereYouVacation

Walking along Tampa’s Riverwalk

This post focuses on a 15-minute eastern stroll down Tampa’s Riverwalk, toward Sparkman Wharf. My next post will cover creative alternatives to walking (not Uber/Lyft). Finally, a future post will cover a western/northern walk toward Armature Works. So much to see, the ferry docks in a great location!

Alright, so you’ve just cruised across Tampa Bay in the breeze and sunshine, while sipping drinks, eating snacks and maybe even playing games. (see my first Cross-Bay Ferrg post for these details) Now you disembark in Tampa, what next?

The Sail Plaza

Exit to the right and you’ll see The Sail Plaza overlooking the water and Harbour Island. Here you’ll find an offering of “cocktails and bites”.
Next you’ll come to the Tampa Marriott Water Street, with their waterfront Anchor and Brine. Hotel restaurants and bars may not resonate with everyone, though we occasionally belly up and pretend we’re on vacation.

Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park

Next you’ll pass the 5 acre Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park, which includes a shaded playground for the kids and seating for adults. This area was a military post many years ago.

The Tampa Bay History Center

The Tampa Bay History Center (4.6/5 stars) is adjacent to the park. Tickets range from free for < 7 to $16.95 for adults. “Explore 12,000 years of Florida history”.

Columbia Cafe

Attached to the History Center you’ll find the Columbia Cafe “serving Spanish and Cuban inspired dishes”. The Columbia restaurants are well known around Tampa and have been family owned and operated for more than 115 years.

Visiting Sparkman Wharf After Existing Cross-Bay Ferry

Continue on a few more minutes to one of our favorites, Sparkman Wharf (4.5/5 stars). A “…dining garden, biergarten, and recreational lawn”. There’s often a huge cruise ship docked, making us, once again, feel like we’re on vacation. There are 15+ options for casual dining plus a large turfed area for kids to play. With waterfront views, great drink selection & occasional live music, we dig Sparkman. It’s also home to Splitsville Tampa, with bowling, billiards & dining.

The Florida Aquarium and American Victory Ship

And if you continue 5 minutes past Sparkman, you’ll come to The Florida Aquarium (with food options) and American Victory Ship & Museum! (our Jan 21st post)

As someone noted, there are also gift shops at both the Tampa Bay History Center and Florida Aquarium. Neither of these retail outlets require entry fees.

Click here for Ferry FAQ’s

Google Reviews: 139 with a 4.5/5 Average

Departure Address: 375 Bayshore Drive NE, St Pete

Arrival Address: 333 S Franklin St, Tampa

Phone: 727-273-6877

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