Riverwalk Run from Armature Works
Armature Works is just north of downtown, at the end of the Riverwalk, northwest of Waterworks Park.
We meet on the south side of the building, which turns out to be a great place for breakfast, post run.
This beautiful run along the Hillsborough River often provides sightings of dolphins, manatees, and alligators, and a gorgeous view of the downtown skyline at sunrise is virtually guaranteed. A mile down the Riverwalk, you’ll see the famous University of Tampa minarets across the river. You’ll pass by the Straz Theater, Hixon Park, and Amalie Arena.
Parking: Plenty of parking around Armature Works, but most requires payment.
Route: We run south on the Riverwalk to the Convention Center, then head east on the Riverwalk, under the Franklin Street Bridge to Harbour Island, then continuing on to the second bridge, Beneficial Drive. Take that bridge to Harbour Island, hang a sharp right just after getting over the bridge to get back down to the waterfront. At that point, you’re heading back west. The sidewalk will take you under the Franklin Street Bridge, but you’ll see about a 100 feet away, a staircase behind Jackson’s Bistro. Take that staircase up to the level of the bridge, take that bridge back to downtown, and then retrace your steps to Armature Works. That’s about five miles
Three options for more mileage:
Take Platt Street Bridge to Bayshore and add any number of miles.
Do the Harbour Island loop a couple more times.
Cross the Laurel Street Bridge to Julian B. Lane Park.
Restrooms: Water Works Park, Hixon Park, Sail Pavilion, Tampa Convention Center (if it’s open), Cotanchobee Park.
Water fountains: Water Works Park, Hixon Park, Sail Pavilion, Cotanchobee Park, Bayshore, next to the pirate ship
Breakfast: Armature Works is like a big, nice food court with full service restaurants as well. When we finish our run, a couple restaurants are open for breakfast as well as Buddy Brew Coffee.
