City planners in Tampa have initiated some progressive steps toward creating inclusive spaces in the community. Tampa has developed the Riverwalk waterfront experience as well as accessible hotels, stadiums, and, importantly, nature parks.
This guide is designed for wheelchair users who would like to experience the city of Tampa with a safe and enjoyable experience. Instead of half-baked suggestions, this guide provides direct information on how to navigate the city, book accessible accommodations, experience accessible attractions, and enjoy the best of the best of the city and outdoor activities.
Each section aims to acknowledge the real issues to avoid, while highlighting the areas of Tampa that allow for comfortable, accessible travel. By the end of the guide, you should have a clear road map for planning a travel experience that is enjoyable, engaging, and meaningful.
Table of Contents
Chapter One: Getting to Tampa & Getting Around
Chapter Two: Accessible Lodging in Tampa
Chapter Three: Tampa’s Attractions & Activities
Chapter Four: Nature & Outdoors
Chapter Five: Where to Eat & Shop in Tampa
Chapter Six: Practical Tips & Local Resources
Chapter Seven: Accessible Day Trips From Tampa
Chapter Eight: Traveler’s Checklist
Conclusion: Is Tampa a Good Travel Destination for Wheelchair Users?
Getting to Tampa & Getting Around
Let’s dive right in with traveling to and around Tampa.
Tampa International Airport (TPA)
Tampa International Airport has a long-standing reputation as one of the top places in the United States to fly in and out of, due to its great accessibility options.
Those who need to utilize a wheelchair will be happy to know that curbside drop-offs use a ramp, there are ADA-compliant restrooms, and accessible ticket counters. The elevators are located near gates and other important locations inside the airport, and every terminal indicated large print signs.
TPA also takes part in the TSA Cares initiative, giving the option to request assistance through the security checkpoints for travelers with disabilities.
If you want a more assisted security experience, call at least 72 hours ahead for the personalized service of TSA Cares.
For a long wait, there are charging stations that cater to wheelchair users as well as designated companion areas for comfortable seating.
Public Transit
Tampa’s local public bus and transportation service is operated by Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) and all buses are low floor with deployable ramps, securement areas, and audible announcements. Check out HART’s trip planner tools to help get around.
Tampa’s TECO Line Streetcar is accessible as the trams have ramps for boarding as well as wide entryways. The street car runs along an area between Downtown Tampa and Ybor City.
While HART is reliable for bus routes, they mainly serve central city areas and often do not extend far into suburban neighborhoods. To avoid surprises, check HART’s online accessibility maps before planning routes.
HART provides HARTPlus paratransit van service for those individuals with disabilities who cannot use HART’s fixed-route bus service.
Eligibility for HARTPlus is for people with physical, cognitive, emotional, visual or other disabilities that prevent them from using the HART fixed-routed bus system no matter how they may have traveled the bus in the past, either permanently or under certain circumstances.
HARTPlus details:
- Picks people up and delivers them to their destination
- Takes people to an accessible bus stop
- There is a two-step eligibility process for an individual interested in HARTPlus service
- Completion of an application sent in advance
- In-person interview and functional evaluation if necessary to determine individual circumstances
Ride-shares & Taxis
You can request wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAV) from any of the popular rideshare apps; however, the amount of time it typically takes to receive your ride using WAV will generally take longer compared to standard rideshare vehicles.
There are also local companies that operate wheelchair friendly taxis, which can be pre-booked, making planning for travel much smoother.
For guaranteed availability you may prefer to schedule your accessible vans from private providers like us, Wheelers Accessible Van Rentals, or one of several other local operators.
Navigation Locally
Navigating Tampa’s downtown is evenly graded and easy to traverse. The Riverwalk is a continuous paved path along the water front that connects to most of the major attractions without steep grades or barriers.
Ybor City is often quieter than downtown, however, Ybor has brick roads and uneven sidewalks associated with its historic character.
Wheelchair users concentrating on the main thoroughfares may find that the layout of sidewalks, curb-cuts, and ramps are fairly consistent to assist their mobility.
Accessible Lodging in Tampa
Finding an accessible hotel in Tampa comes down to knowing which locations and features best match your needs.
Hotels & Resorts
Most major hotel brands in Tampa are ADA compliant, with accommodations that include roll-in showers, grab bars, lowered counters, and wider doorframes.
Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt locations along the Riverwalk do a good job of maintaining accessibility and have well-trained staff.
Resorts closer to the beach sometimes have additional features, such as pool lifts and accessible boardwalks.
3 Location Considerations
These are considered Tampa’s hotspots for tourists:
#1 Downtown Tampa/Riverwalk
Strongest option if you want to be close to museums, restaurants, and the Riverwalk. Staying here means there’s less need to make long trips back and forth between attractions.
#2 Near Busch Gardens
Only recommended for families or groups, or where the group is likely going to the theme park multiple times, to minimize travel time and make it less exhausting.
#3 Waterfront Hotels
Best for visitors who enjoy views and quick access to the bay or Gulf beaches (often, there will be resort-style accessibility as well).
Booking Considerations
Always call the hotel. Before you book, confirm that the proper features are in place. Ask very specific questions:
- What are the width measurements of the doors into the room and bathroom?
- Is the shower a roll-in entry or a step up?
- Are the beds at a comfortable transfer height?
- Is there accessible shuttle service?
This proactive approach will limit the number of surprises you may have on arrival.
Tampa’s Attractions & Activities
Tampa is full of things to see and do, and many of the best attractions are accessible to wheelchair travelers. From museums to sporting events to theme parks and historic districts, you will not have a shortage of options to enjoy in the city.
Museums & Culture
Tampa has an immense cultural footprint and many of the museums and galleries in the city are designed to be accessible.
The museum features open spaces, wide elevators, and smooth flooring allowing legibly for moving around exhibits. Companion seating is available in the lecture areas for both wheelchair and standard mobility visitors. Accessible restrooms are on every floor of the building.
Completely wheelchair accessible with ramps located in every area of the facility. Wheelchairs free of charge can be borrowed at the entrance when you purchase tickets. Elevators connect all exhibit levels, and there are large panoramic viewing windows to give seated visitors clear visibility throughout the exhibits.
An accessible waterfront museum that allows wheelchair accessible entry ways, elevators to each floor, and accessible restrooms following ADA compliance. Exhibits include interactive displays which are accessible to wheelchair height.
A fantastic stop for families, all exhibits are accessible on every floor. The museum features wide hallways, a wheelchair friendly play area, and family restrooms that are accessible.
Located on the University of Tampa campus, the historic site is partially accessible. Although some of the older areas are not totally accessible owing to preservation regulations, the main exhibit area does provide elevators and ramps.
Straz Center for the Performing Arts
The largest performing arts center in Florida offers companion seating, elevators, hearing assist devices. Every theatre in the complex includes seating for wheelchair patrons, all with clear sight lines to the stage.
Sports & Entertainment
Tampa has world-class venues that provide attention to accessibility needs.
Hosting NHL games, concerts, and other major events, Amalie Arena provides wheelchair seating throughout the venue, with companion seating included. Every level has elevators and assistive listening devices.
The home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the stadium provides ADA parking right next to the entry gates, wide concourses and staff that are trained to assist guests with mobility needs. Wheelchair seating guarantees clear sight lines even when the crowd is on their feet.
The spring training home to the New York Yankees offers accessible seating, ADA restrooms, and staff to assist with entry and seating.
Located at the University of South Florida, this multipurpose arena is accessible with wheelchair spaces, elevators, and ADA parking.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Busch Gardens is Tampa’s largest & most popular attraction. They provide an extensive accessibility guide that explains ride restrictions, available assistance and accommodations.
There is a rental location at the front gate for wheelchairs and ewheels. The park has a Ride Accessibility Program (RAP) that gives guests with mobility needs a chance to preview rides and receive directions on what attractions are accessible to them.
There are accessible seats with designated space for wheelchairs at live shows, dining locations and animal exhibits. Accessible restrooms are available, including family restrooms with changing tables.
Tampa Riverwalk & Ybor City
One of the most famous accessible spaces is the Tampa Riverwalk. The 2.5-mile paved pathway provides direct routes to downtown attractions, parks, and restaurants with minimal inclines and smooth rolling surfaces, accessible restrooms, and multiple rest areas with benches along the way.
The Riverwalk provides easy and leisurely viewing of the waterfront and avoids challenging situations of traversing the bridges.
Ybor City is Tampa’s historic Cuban district, and features a lively and culturally rich environment, but with mixed accessibility. The major streets have ramps that provide access to many shops and dining locations, and with accessible entries.
The cobblestone roads and older buildings can restrict access in other ways. Wheelchair users may want to use the Ybor City Museum and Centro Ybor entertainment complex as primary places to access via Ybor City, as both have accessible facilities.
Nature & Outdoors
Tampa’s outdoor environments provide endless opportunities for enjoying Florida’s warm weather in an active, comfortable way. Oftentimes, the area’s beaches, parks, and trails have considerate accessibility features, and there are several places in the area that offer adaptive outdoor programs for those who are looking for a bit more adventure.
Accessible Beaches
Just outside of downtown Tampa is Ben T. Davis Beach, the closest beach to the city center. Here, beach mats lead up to a firm area of beach (where you’ll find paved parking and accessible restrooms) for easily wheeling your chair right up to the shoreline.
Clearwater Beach is approximately 40 minutes away. Clearwater Beach is one of the region’s most accessible beaches. The lifeguard stations provide manual beach wheelchairs for general use, and the promenade area has plenty of wide and smooth paths. The main walkways have ramps down to the sand, and there are accessible bathrooms near the pier.
Parks & Trails
Lettuce Lake Park has paved boardwalks and paths through shaded wetlands with overlooks to get close to the wildlife, while still being able to keep a stable base. The observation towers include ramps, and there are picnic shelters with level entries where you can sit at wheelchair-accessible tables.
Hillsborough River State Park has paved paths that run along the river through forested shaded areas. Many of the paths are set up with convenient rest stops that have benches for resting and leave plenty of clear space for a wheelchair to fit. The park has several ADA-compliant restrooms.
Tampa Riverwalk connects downtown places of interest along the waterfront on 2.5 miles of smooth pavement. Along the route, you will find multiple rest areas, accessible bathrooms, and ramps connecting the streets, all of which are easy for your workouts and adventures.
Adaptive Outdoor Programs
Some local groups, including Brooks Adaptive Sports and Hillsborough County Adaptive Sports provide guided kayaking, and fishing trip programs that have specialized equipment (and trained staff).
The outdoor recreation programs offer adaptive gear and locations on calm water and with support it can be a safe and enjoyable way for wheelchair users to try out outdoor recreation on the water. Booking in advance is vital because of limited availability of equipment.
Where to Eat & Shop in Tampa
With lots of options for dining and shopping, many of Tampa’s favorite restaurants and shopping districts are also wheelchair-friendly. The food scene in Tampa ranges from casual waterfront cafes to fine dining, and many of them have wide entrances, ramps, and enough room to easily get around.
The following diverse districts offer unique experiences for wheelchair visitors without adding unnecessary stress for getting something to eat, drink, or shop.
Ybor City
Ybor City is rich in Cuban heritage and vibrancy. Columbia Restaurant has wheelchair accessible entrances and spacious seating areas, and bathrooms that meet ADA regulations. There are also several smaller cafes and bakeries, with quiet entrances and outdoor dining areas along 7th Avenue as well.
Hyde Park Village
Hyde Park Village offers a more casual experience, with fine dining and even local spots. Restaurants here offer smooth sidewalks, curb cuts, accessible parking, and whether indoors or out, they are usually large enough to enjoy a meal without feeling crowded.
Hyde Park Village is also a shopping district, with both local boutiques and also your favorite national stores in a convenient walking area. Farmers’ markets and pop-up craft fairs are scattered throughout the year, but be mindful of whether the farmers’ market is taking place on a paved parking lot or a city-run park, as the ease of access can be very different.
Channelside & Riverwalk
Channelside and the Riverwalk are popular downtown destinations for waterfront dining and drinking. Most of these venues offer seafood and casual dining, with great views. They are both designed with accessibility in mind, so you can expect smooth walkways, wide entrances/no steps, and comfortable outdoor seating. Each also provides accessible bathrooms and tables with sufficient room for a wheelchair, without feeling cramped.
International Plaza & Bay Street
International Plaza and Bay Street is Tampa’s largest mall and fully ADA compliant. You can enjoy the wide corridors, elevators to every level, and accessible non-stall bathrooms. Most stores guarantee enough room for wheelchairs to move throughout, with fitting rooms with grab bars and benches.
Practical Tips & Local Resources
Here are a few tips and resources to help you get the most from your Tampa trip.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Tampa?
Tampa can be extremely hot and humid in summer; the average temperature is above 90 degrees, with most afternoons featuring heavy rain and/or storms. Spring (March through May) and fall (October through November) will be more comfortable for wheelchair users. While the winter has mild temperatures, it is the most popular time for travel in Tampa, so plan ahead for accommodation.
Click here to see Tampa temperature averages by month.
What if I Have a Medical Emergency?
Tampa General Hospital and St. Joseph”s Hospital both provide appropriate accessibility programs.
For the delivery of medications or meeting medical needs, pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens provide delivery options reducing the need to leave the house.
Who Runs Local Accessibility Groups & Programs?
Local organizations, such as the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council and local disability organizations provide information regarding accessible spaces. If you connect with them, it may help ensure resources are available during your travels.
See also:
- Accessible Attractions – visittampabay.com
- Accessible Travel – visitflorida.com
- HUG – helpusgather.org
Which Apps & Tools Can I Use for Planning My Trip?
Technology and apps:
- Wheelmap: Identify accessible places across the world.
- AccessNow: A community app with accessibility reviews provided by the community.
- Google Maps: Use the “wheelchair accessible” route filter with public transit.
Accessible Day Trips From Tampa
Looking to getaway for a day while visiting Tampa? If so, here are a few of the best day trip options:
Clearwater & St. Petersburg
Clearwater Beach has beach wheelchairs and paved sidewalks. St. Pete has the Salvador Dali Museum, which has complete ADA access, wide galleries, and accessible bathrooms.
Orlando
Orlando is approximately 1.5 hours away and for topic parks in the forefront is Orlando for mobility. Disney has disability access service (DAS) and Universal Studios has rider swap pleases programs that makes the attractions most accessible for wheelchair travelers.
Sarasota
Sarasota has cultural highlights including the Ringling Museum and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, both of which have paved paths and ADA-compliant restrooms.
Traveler’s Checklist
- Confirm hotel room door widths, shower style, and bed height.
- Book wheelchair-accessible transport in advance.
- Bring spare mobility aids (batteries, chargers, cushions).
- Download accessibility apps before travel.
- Research venues individually for the latest information.
- Carry a list of local hospitals and pharmacies.
- Pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and cooling towels for hot weather.
- Schedule rest breaks into daily plans to avoid fatigue.
Is Tampa a Good Travel Destination for Wheelchair Users?
Tampa has so much more to offer you than sunshine and palm trees. For a wheelchair traveler, Tampa is a city that combines cultural richness with gorgeous outdoor spaces and a growing commitment to accessibility.
Tampa has accessible beaches, theme parks, stadiums, and nature trails to allow you to visit Florida’s Gulf Coast on your own terms. With advance planning and the tools and resources in this guide, wheelchair travelers will feel confident, comfortable, and enthusiastic exploring Tampa.
When booking your wheelchair accessible van rental throughout Florida, reach out to Wheelers for reliable, clean, competitively priced vans. We’ll get you where you want to go!