River Tower Park

Historic Landmark

Located in Tampa's Sulphur Springs neighborhood, River Tower Park spans 14 acres of green space with the historic Sulphur Springs Water Tower as its centerpiece. The Sulphur Springs Water Tower stands 214 feet tall, commanding attention from even Interstate 275 passersby. Built in 1927, this Gothic Revival style tower isn't just pretty to look at - it's a marvel of early 20th century engineering with its 45-foot deep foundation and 200,000-gallon capacity over an artesian well. You can't miss this local landmark that's become synonymous with the area.

Riverside Setting

The park hugs the banks of the Hillsborough River, offering peaceful water views along its shoreline. If you're feeling adventurous, take the walkway under Interstate 275 to connect with the larger Sulphur Springs Park for an extended outdoor experience. The wide, open fields give you plenty of room to breathe - ideal for walking your four-legged friend, tossing a frisbee, or just finding a quiet spot to watch the world go by.

Recent Improvements

The City of Tampa has renovated this historic green space in recent years. The tower received a much-needed facelift with cleaning and fresh paint, plus new lighting that makes it glow beautifully at night, complementing Tampa's downtown skyline. These renovations have preserved the tower's historic character while enhancing its visibility in the nighttime landscape. For many locals, the tower represents an important piece of neighborhood history and identity.

Community Gatherings

The park hosts various community events throughout the year. Since 2019, the annual River Tower Festival has celebrated the rich diversity of the Sulphur Springs and Seminole Heights communities with a vibrant mix of music, art, food, and family activities. One of the park's highlights is hosting the Florida Orchestra during Pops in the Park concerts. These free performances draw crowds who arrive with blankets, chairs, and picnic baskets in tow, ready to enjoy beautiful music under the open sky. During these special events, you can find food trucks and portable restrooms with handwashing stations available.

Visitor Information

River Tower Park is refreshingly simple - it's all about the historic tower, river views, and open space. You're welcome to bring your dogs (just keep them leashed). Note that this is more of a natural, undeveloped park without permanent restrooms, picnic tables, or playground equipment. If you're planning to explore the open fields, wear appropriate footwear as sand spurs pop up in some areas, especially important if you're bringing your dog along for the adventure.