5 Top Tampa Parks for Kids and Families

I love parks.  I love that they are not only free, but I think that they are just great places to head to with your family, kids, families and friends for an afternoon of fun, a morning of exercise or an evening of music at an event.  I wanted to highlight my favorite parks in Tampa.  These parks not only have great playgrounds, but they also offer more, are located in close proximity to additional fun activities and also offer special events that might attract your family for an outing.
Curtis Hixon Park (Downtown Tampa)

Such a great place to head to if you are looking for a fun day in the city.  Located in the heart of downtown, this park is 75,000 sq. ft of open space.  The Glazer Children’s Museum is located right next to the park, as are a few places to eat or snack.  And make sure to check out the list of events that happen in the park too.  We love the Rock the Park and Fit Kids Playground events that happen monthly.
Ballast Point Park (South Tampa)

A hidden park located in South Tampa, just south of Gandy Blvd. and Bayshore Blvd.  It has a newly redesigned playground and splash pad.  My favorite part about this park is the pier. It’s fun to take a walk and go fishing on a Saturday afternoon.  There is a small place to eat or snack (or buy bait) too!
Kate Jackson Park (South Tampa)

A favorite South Tampa park located just south of Hyde Park Village.  So much fun to venture down to this park and bring a lunch, bathing suits and a bike or scooter for the kids.  They have so many things to do for kids.  Basketball court, a splash pad, playground and a recreation center that often has classes for kids too!  A place to eat is near by and Hyde Park Village is such a fun place to walk around as well!
Rivercrest Park (Seminole Heights)

Located in Seminole Heights and not too well known.  Bring your bike as the bike path is my favorite part of this park! (It is where all my kids learned to ride!)  The path will take you down by the Hillsborough River and the playground is always fun for everyone!
Lowry Park (Across the street from Lowry Park Zoo)

This park is located right across the street from Lowry Park Zoo.  This park is just off the Hillsborough River and is in walking distance to the zoo.  There are a few playgrounds and lots of shelters for parties and gatherings.  The park has nature paths that are super fun to walk through.
I hope that you take advantage of some of our free parks this summer.  Jump around and try to hit a new one each week.  Kids love new adventures!  Remember, it starts in the parks!