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December 11, 2025
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Exploring Downtown Tampa: Your Step-By-Step Guide to Get to Sparkman Wharf from AVE Tampa Riverwalk
AVE Editorial Team
July 26, 2023
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3 minutes
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What is Sparkman Wharf?
Sparkman Wharf is an exciting outdoor entertainment destination located on Tampa's Downtown Waterfront. Offering a lively atmosphere, this local hotspot boasts gourmet street food, unique retail shops, and a variety of entertainment options like Splitsville, a retro bowling alley, and an action-packed recreational lawn. Sparkman Wharf is also both pet-friendly and family-friendly, making it a great option for any occasion!
How to Get to Sparkman Wharf from AVE Tampa Riverwalk
Getting to Sparkman Wharf from AVE Tampa Riverwalk is a breeze. It’s a 6-minute drive by car, but walking and taking advantage of Tampa's free streetcar is way more fun. Enjoy a scenic 15-minute walk to Downtown Tampa Station, followed by a short three-stop ride to Amalie Arena Station on Channelside Drive. From there, you'll find Sparkman Wharf's entrance just across the street.
Walking Directions to Sparkman Wharf:
Walk for approximately 15 minutes.
Head east on W Tyler Street toward N Ashley Drive.
Turn right on N Ashley Drive.
Turn left on E Whiting Street.
Turn right onto South Franklin Street.
Board the Trolley at Downtown Tampa Station: Take the 800 North to Ybor line (FREE).
Exit at Amalie Arena Station on Channelside Drive.
Arrive at Sparkman Wharf.
Casual Food and Fine Dining Options in Downtown Tampa at Sparkman Wharf
Sparkman Wharf is a food enthusiast’s dream, featuring a diverse range of street-food vendors operating out of colorful, redesigned shipping containers. The counter-order system allows you to sample dishes from multiple vendors in one visit. Fan favorites include Gallito Taqueria, Fit Bowl Co., and JoDog. If you have a sweet tooth, indulge in a scoop from Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams or check out the Hampton Chocolate Factory. For a more formal dining experience, Noble Rice, JOTORO Kitchen & Tequila Bar, and Battery (TPA) are all highly recommended.
Fashion and Pet Retail Shopping at Sparkman Wharf
In addition to the fantastic dining options, Sparkman Wharf offers two charming retail boutiques. Modern Paws is a pet shop featuring a delightful array of treats, accessories, and toys for your furry friends. There's also a women's lifestyle boutique, Joyful Notion, that features trendy apparel and accessories, as well as stunning fresh flower arrangements.
Where to Enjoy Waterfront Views in Downtown Tampa
For entertainment, the recreational lawn at Sparkman Wharf offers breathtaking waterfront views. They feature live music and bands on a regular basis and offer ample seating including swinging benches and lounge chairs. You could also lay a blanket on the turf for an outdoor picnic!
Fun Entertainment and Group Activities in Downtown Tampa at Sparkman Wharf
If you need a break from the heat, check out Splitsville, a modern bowling alley with a retro feel offering feather bowling, ping pong, billiards, foosball, darts, and shuffleboard. They also have a full bar and kitchen serving up elevated pub food like gourmet burgers and salads. The unique offering of feather bowling is a Belgian-inspired game like curling, except without the ice. Instead, teams throw cheese-wheel-shaped balls down a lane trying to land close as possible to the feather. If you’re looking for a fun group outing – this is the spot!
Visit Sparkman Wharf Using AVE Tampa Riverwalk’s Step-by-Step Guide
Overall, it’s an easy commute to travel from AVE Tampa Riverwalk to Sparkman Wharf and it’s an exciting attraction with something for everyone. Enjoy the diverse dining scene, live music, and fun group outings. Visit Sparkman Wharf from AVE Tampa Riverwalk using our step-by-step guide and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of this captivating waterfront destination!
To browse our AVE Tampa Riverwalk apartment availability or schedule a tour today, click here.
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