Gasparilla Guide 2023: Everything You Need To Know

  I t's that time of year! Gasparilla season. The pirates have taken over.  Me and another pirate, 2017 Another year has come and that means it's time for another season of Gasparilla. Lets get some of the more important questions out of the way real quick: How much does it cost? Nothing. Gasparilla is a free event. They do offer paid upgrades, but the parade itself is free. Where is it? The Children's parade and Day parade are off of Bayshore Ave in South Tampa into the Channel District in Downtown Tampa. The Knight Parade is on 7th Ave in Ybor City. Where do we park? I've found that the easiest place to park is the parking garages in Ybor. They offer parking + a bus into Downtown for a reasonable price (note: This has not been announced for 2023 as of now. This will change as the event draws nearer.).  You can also park on neighborhood streets. You'll get a few individuals who will try to scare you away. Keep in mind that they do not own the road and you are free
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Top 3 Water Activities To Do in Downtown Tampa

People tend to refer to Downtown Tampa (incorrectly) as a ghost town. It is one of the most often cited areas of the city when people make the claim that "Tampa is a boring city." I'm here right now to show you some of the fun you can have on the Hillsborough River.



#3: eBoats Tampa
Do you consider yourself an avid boater? Those of us here at Exploring Tampa don't take advantage of the Hillsborough River anywhere near as often as we should. We did, however, get the opportunity to ride along on one of eBoats Tampa's boats. The coolest part about these boats is that, well, they're electric. You don't have to worry about stopping for gas. And, according to Captain Kevin, they last for quite a few hours. Once rented, you have the opportunity to travel as far north as Lowry Park and you're free to go as far south as the Tampa Bay. Food and alcohol is also permitted on the boat, so feel free to bring your crew for a party on the river. Just don't plan on using their boats for Gasparilla. Unfortunately, due to the contract they have with the docks, they are not allowed to run during the Gasparilla invasion. For more information about the eBoats, check out: eboatstampa.com


#2: The Tampa Bay Water Bike Company
Located on the same docks as the eBoats, Tampa Bay Water Bike Company offers an entirely new experience for river enthusiasts. Have you been looking for a new way to get that cardio in? Do you just enjoy riding bikes? Look no further! It's like your bike at the gym were equipped with floaties and a paddle, and your legs control the speed. Cruise along the most scenic bike route in Tampa! The best part, however, is that you don't have to watch out for crazy motorists. For more information about the Tampa Bay Water Bike Company, check out: http://www.tampawaterbikes.com/


#1: Pirate Water Taxi
It's no secret that Tampa likes its pirates. I mean, c'mon, we have an entire celebration dedicated to a fictitious pirate in the way of Jose Gaspar. However, there's something VERY different about the Pirate Water Taxi. You could get around Downtown and Seminole Heights using the beautiful Riverwalk, yes, but why? You can hop on one of these boats and get a new experience you've never had before. You get breathtaking views of Downtown Tampa along with a history lesson from your driver. The best part is, you can hop on and off the boat all around the Downtown and Seminole Heights area. This is the perfect way to check out some of those restaurants, museums, and other sites you've been telling yourself you need to see. For more information, check out: http://www.piratewatertaxi.com/

Did I miss your favorite activity on the Hillsborough River? Have you tried any of these for yourself? Leave a comment below. If you'd like more information on Tampa, check out my YouTube Channel and if you'd like to support my efforts, don't hesitate to buy a shirt from our Spreadshirt. Also, don't be afraid to click subscribe and you'll instantly be notified whenever a new entry is posted. If you'd like to meet other people who love Tampa, consider joining our Facebook Group. Thank you all and I will see you next time!

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