Tampa's Best-Kept Secret Is A Walkable Riverside Neighborhood With Peaceful Vibes And Tree-Lined Lanes

Florida is famous for its palm trees and seaside communities, but nestled on its west coast is a little-known gem that deserves special attention. Riverside Heights is a riverfront neighborhood in the Tampa Bay area, blending Old Florida vibes with modern living. It sits on the Hillsborough River, hence the name, where residents enjoy pleasant parks and peaceful waterfront vistas.

One of Tampa's first suburbs, Riverside Heights was developed in the early 20th century and has since grown into the charming enclave we see today. Residents are actively involved in their community, engaging in block parties, parades, and holiday events. With so many family-friendly activities and a world of outdoor adventures in close proximity, it's hard to believe that more people don't know about this beautiful part of Tampa. But from here, visitors can enjoy a quiet day of kayaking on the river or a visit to Busch Gardens, which is about 20 minutes away.

Riverside Heights is conveniently situated near the dazzling Tampa Riverwalk, connecting you to various attractions in the vicinity. You can be at the center of the action, surrounded by a variety of downtown shops, restaurants, and entertainment, in about 10 minutes. If you are craving more mellow surroundings, you can easily surround yourself in nature within an hour. A quick car ride offers an escape to peaceful beachside destinations, like the remote island of Egmont Key, where you'll see a variety of native wildlife. Some places, like Pine Key, are only accessible by boat but provide a much-needed break from crowds.

Imagine sitting on a dock on a breezy afternoon and watching boats cruise by from your Riverside Heights backyard. This is essentially what living in one of the homes along the Hillsborough River could be like. There are several waterfront homes along the west side, but even inland, you'll find beautiful lanes with shady streets, historic architecture, and sidewalks for safe walking. While modern construction and renovations have taken place in Riverside Heights, you will also see Victorian homes and more traditional bungalows. These structures have stood the test of time (and the occasional hurricane), reminding us of how Florida used to look back in the day. 

There are a few quaint neighborhood parks within Riverside Heights, including Duran and Plymouth Parks, where residents go to relax. Duran Park has moss-draped oak trees for shade, a playground for children, picnic tables, and a dog park. Plymouth Park also has a playground, along with shady tree-lined trails where you can stroll around and enjoy the sights. Along the eastern border of Riverside Heights is Woodlawn Cemetery, a historic graveyard with impressive monuments and mausoleums. It's definitely worth the walk if you like looking at old gravestones and learning about Florida's past inhabitants.

The Hillsborough River offers plenty of recreation for you to enjoy. You will typically see people boating and fishing on the river, or cruising along on a paddleboard. Jet skiing and kayaking are also popular here. Urban Kai offers equipment for rent, in case you didn't bring your own. Remember to pack your sunscreen — the Florida sun can be brutal.

Just across the water from Riverside Heights, you'll find Rick's on the River, a marina, bar, and grill with waterfront dining. Whether sampling their oysters or enjoying live music, Rick's atmosphere and friendly vibes will make you want to stay all day. If you're boating along the Hillsborough River and get hungry, you can dock at Rick's and enjoy a drink or meal — there's no docking fee when dining at the restaurant. One Tripadvisor reviewer had this to say: "What a great find while in Tampa. A really good vibe, friendly staff, great food, ice cold beer! Looking forward to a future return!" Whether sampling their oysters or enjoying live music on the water, Rick's atmosphere and friendly vibes will make you want to stay all day.

Besides all the cool things to do in Riverside Heights, you also have the larger metropolitan area to look to for nightlife and entertainment. The suburb is minutes from Tampa's popular attractions, such as the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and the Henry B. Plant Museum, as well as lesser-known activities like ghost tours and escape rooms. Explore the Tampa Riverwalk, a pedestrian path guiding you to dining and shopping hotspots. At the path's northern end, you'll find Rocca, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving delicious home-style Italian cuisine. The Riverwalk spans 2.6 miles, offering a scenic view of the Hillsborough River and its surrounding landscape.

It's easy to see why the Riverside Heights area is such a popular destination for living and vacationing. There are few places where you can enjoy the Florida lifestyle without the crowds, while staying in close proximity to popular tourist attractions. Riverside Heights gives you the best of both worlds — a serene suburb amidst all the action.