Parking in a big city can be quite the pain sometimes. In an area like Downtown Tampa where city-wide events abound and people flock to the area, it can be quite the task finding a spot. Even then, if you find one, trekking halfway across the city in dress pants or worse in the hot Florida sun is no fun task. Here's a little information to hopefully make parking in Downtown Tampa a little easier on you.
Find exclusive deals on parking near your event venue of choice through Parkway Parking. Simply reserve online or call their agents to book your parking. Stress less knowing your parking spot is guaranteed and ready for you.
Your best bet is typically going to be any of the large parking garages around town that are owned by the city. The rates are the cheapest, spots are (typically) always available, and even if they're not, there's usually some type of signage to let you know so you don't waste your time. The William F. Poe Parking Garage on Ashley Drive is an ideal spot if you're looking for easy access to the The Straz Center, the public library, or the Glazer Children's Museum. The Whiting Street Garage is a little farther South on Florida Ave. and Whiting St. and centrally located for easy acccess to a number of locations downtown. For a full list of garages, visit the Tampa Downtown Partnership website here.
Who doesn't like free stuff? If you're in Downtown Tampa after 6 p.m. during the week, streetside parking North of Kennedy Boulevard is completely FREE....if you can find a spot; same goes for all day on both days of the weekend as well. If you're not parked during those hours, these spaces typically have a two-hour time limit.
Luckily you're not restricted to paying with just change either. Take note of your spot and pay at one of the solar-powered pay stations next to all street side parking with credit card (Visa or Mastercard only), cash, or change.
If you're in Downtown Tampa because you're leaving on a cruise from the port, your best bet for long-term parking is going to be the Channelside Long-Term Garage just South of Channelside Dr. and Whiting St.
If worst comes to worst and things are just too hectic to handle Downtown, you can always park in Ybor City and take the awesome TECO Line Streetcar down to the area for a minimal cost as well.
As you can see, you've got options when it comes to parking in Downtown Tampa. To be on the safe side, always bring some cash with you just in case you have to park in a privately-owned and typically cash-only lot. Good luck and have fun!
