Selmon Greenway: Tampa’s Green Spine

Have you checked out the Selmon Greenway yet? No? Well, what are you waiting for? The Selmon Greenway is a great way to get around town — whether on foot or bike — all while enjoying the Florida sunshine.

The Selmon Greenway is a shaded 1.7-mile multi-use trail runs east-west from Ybor City, through the Channel District, to the Riverwalk. With pocket parks, bike racks, landscaping, lighting, benches, and public art, the Greenway has quickly become a safe, comfortable, and fun way to get around Tampa. Below we highlight some of the best finds along the Greenway path.

Ybor City

At the North End of the Greenway is Ybor City. Known as Tampa’s “Latin Quarter,” Ybor City was Florida’s first industrial town.  Marked by its distinctive brick buildings, historic cigar factories, narrow cobblestone streets, and wrought-iron balconies reminiscent of New Orleans, Ybor has served as an entertainment center for decades. Today, historic buildings have been revitalized to office space, boutique hotels, and loft apartments. Despite the changes, Ybor City has managed to hold on to its old-world charm through museums, parks, retail stores, cultural celebrations, and restaurants. Stroll down 7th Avenue and enjoy Cuban coffee, a hand-rolled cigar, eclectic cuisine, or a concert at one of the many music venues.

Channel District

Midway along the Greenway, you will find the Channel District, one of the hottest, fastest-growing neighborhoods in Tampa. With numerous luxury residences, restaurants, retail shops, and attractions along the water, we can see why this area is so popular. The Florida Aquarium, SS Victory Ship, Tampa History Center, and Amalie Arena are all within walking distance. Sparkman Wharf, a dynamic waterfront space offering great food, outdoor space, and entertainment, has been a fan favorite since opening in 2018. Locals are eagerly awaiting the completion of Water Street Tampa, a new 50-acre district that will bring retail, offices, homes, hotels, culture, and education to the area.

Riverwalk

Where do boaters, walkers, runners, cyclists, and strollers come together? The Tampa Riverwalk. Located on the banks of the historic Hillsborough River, the Riverwalk provides miles of parks, waterfront, and facilities to enjoy special events and exhibitions. The Riverwalk has completely transformed downtown Tampa — opening the public’s access to the rover, linking five museums, seven parks, and numerous hotels, restaurants, and outdoor spaces. Follow the paved walk to the end, where you’ll find renowned Ulele restaurant, popular Waterworks park, and Armature Works, a premier community destination with popular eateries, a public market, event spaces, and coworking space.

The picture-perfect Tampa weather is begging you to get outside and explore the city. And the Selmon Greenway is a great transportation alternative to get around.