As one of the earliest parks in the South Tampa area, Ballast Point Park has been providing outdoor fun for countless Floridians since its construction in 1894. Besides offering splendid views of downtown Tampa, Ballast features a water area, playground and covered picnic area. Families head here in droves during the summer months for some good old fashioned outdoor recreation.

Owned and operated by the city's Leisure Services Department, this “botanical experience” of tropical splendor, orchids and bromeliads features streams and pools adorned with colorful pink flamingos. There are special activities for children and wildlife presentations for everyone. Horticultural displays occur seasonally. A Rainforest Information Center here has exhibits of some of the eerier critters, including snakes and other reptiles, spiders, and scorpions. In the Garden you'll also find a captivating butterfly aviary.

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park provides for a calm and serene space in a busy town. This recreation park is equipped with modern equipments like LED lighting, adjustable seating arrangement, NEOS 360 Ring featuring challenging games for kids and so forth. Also, the lighting and water supply for the park is done through reclaimed water, thereby conserving water and electricity. It also has playground, picnic area, a separate dog park and walking trail, thereby catering to the entire family. All in all, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is an ideal space to spend a lazy afternoon.

A hub for outdoor activities, this Tampa park offers visitors the opportunity to hike, fish, kayak, and more. The little ones can let loose on the playground structure and the picnic tables and barbecue's are perfect for a summer gathering. A nature center informs visitors on the local flora and fauna along with the extensive hiking trail information.