Tampa: Riverwalk and Downtown Tour on a Rydable

Tampa: Riverwalk and Downtown Tour on a Rydable – An Unconventional Way to Explore the City

Imagine zipping along Tampa’s scenic waterfront on a giant, plush animal that feels more like a playful ride than a traditional tour. That’s exactly what the Riverwalk and Downtown Tour on a Rydable offers—an energetic, fun-filled way to see Tampa’s sights with a relaxed, humorous twist. From the moment you start, it’s clear this isn’t your average sightseeing experience.

What really sets this tour apart? We love the unique rideable creatures that make the city’s views more interactive, the informative guides who share local stories and secrets, and the laid-back atmosphere that makes it suitable for all ages. A potential consideration? It’s definitely outdoors, so you might want to bring sunscreen and be prepared for some sun and wind.

This experience is perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone looking to explore Tampa with a bit of humor and a lot of personality. If you’re after a memorable, engaging way to learn about the city’s culture while having a blast, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Good To Know

• Playful transportation makes city sightseeing light-hearted and fun
• Guides are knowledgeable and share local insights with humor
• Scenic views of Tampa’s waterfront and landmarks abound
• Photo opportunities at iconic spots like the Jose Gasparilla pirate ship
• Accessible and small group (limit of 10 participants) for a personalized experience
• Cost-effective at $79 per person with included ice cream and stories

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from Tampa’s Rydable Tour

The tour begins at a conveniently located meeting point just across from the Tampa Convention Center, at the Embassy Suites Hotel corner of Franklin Street and Channelside Drive. From here, you get a quick intro on how to operate your giant stuffed animal-shaped Rydable—trust us, it’s surprisingly easy and stable, with handling that makes even beginners feel confident from the start.

The Creative Rydable Ride

The rides themselves are the highlight. These plush, eye-catching creatures provide a playful alternative to traditional scooters or bikes. We loved how simple they are to maneuver, and how their bright design immediately sparks smiles. The guides, Jeff and Eric, are friendly and funny, sharing stories and fun facts that make even the most casual sightseeing engaging.

Cruise Water Street and the Riverwalk

Starting from Water Street, you’ll glide past local hotspots such as the Tampa Museum of Art and the Glazer Children’s Museum. These spots are perfect for quick photo stops, especially with the river as a stunning backdrop. The scenic views along the Tampa Riverwalk are spectacular—think lush greenery, public art, historic bridges, and vibrant city life all in one.

The breezes tend to pick up here, making the ride refreshing, especially in warm weather. The guides often pause for interesting tidbits about Tampa’s history, culture, and waterfront development, making the tour both fun and educational.

Exploring Green Spaces and Iconic Landmarks

Next, you’ll make a stop at Curtis Hixon Park, a lush green oasis that’s perfect for a quick break. We appreciated how easy it was to navigate the Rydable through the park’s paths, and how the guides kept the mood light with stories about Tampa’s urban growth.

As you approach the museum campus, you’ll pass by the Tampa Museum of Art and the Glazer Children’s Museum—another great spot for photos and some playful banter. Then, the highlight of the tour—the legendary Jose Gasparilla pirate ship—comes into view across the water. The guide shares some local pirate lore, which adds a layer of excitement, especially for kids or fans of Tampa’s pirate-themed traditions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Final Photo and Fun Facts Stop

The cruise culminates at a spot with a perfect view of the pirate ship, where you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snap photos with your Rydable and the ship as a backdrop. The guides give brief, lively explanations of Tampa’s pirate lore, making the final stop a memorable conclusion to a lively, scenic journey.

What’s Included and What to Know

For $79 per person, the tour includes a 2-hour guided ride on your Rydable, an ice cream stop, and many photo opportunities. The guides are native storytellers who love sharing local insights—Gillian, one reviewer, mentioned that Jeff and Eric are “friendly, funny & laid back,” which clearly enhances the experience.

Note: Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan to meet at the designated spot conveniently located near the Convention Center. It’s a small group experience, limited to 10 participants, which helps keep things intimate and personalized.

Practical Tips

Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and plenty of water—outdoors and on the move can be draining. A camera is essential for capturing the vibrant sights and fun moments. The Rydables are wheelchair accessible, making this adventure suitable for most mobility levels.

Authentic Experiences from Past Participants

Gillian’s glowing review sums it up: “This tour was one of the MOST FUN things we’ve ever done. It was so cool riding around and finding out so much local information. The hosts Jeff & Eric were friendly, funny & laid back. We’re tempted to do it again!”

Such feedback highlights how the guides’ friendly approach and engaging storytelling really elevate the experience, creating a relaxed, joyful atmosphere that makes learning about Tampa a delightful side effect.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

If you’re seeking something different from the usual city tour—something playful, relaxed, and visually stunning—this Rydable adventure fits the bill. It’s especially good for those who prefer outdoor activities and enjoy a bit of humor and creativity in their sightseeing. It’s also fantastic for families or groups of friends wanting a shared adventure that’s easy to enjoy regardless of age.

The value is clear: for just $79, you get a full two hours of fun, guided storytelling, stunning views, and plenty of photo ops. Plus, the ice cream stop adds a sweet touch to the outing.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for families with children, couples looking for a laid-back activity, or groups of friends wanting to have fun while exploring Tampa. If you appreciate informative guides and interactive activities, you’ll find this tour both entertaining and enriching.

It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the city differently—not on foot or in a typical vehicle, but on a fun, plush creature that sparks joy and curiosity. If you’re after a quick, relaxed introduction to Tampa’s waterfront and downtown, this is a fantastic choice.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup provided?
No, the tour begins at a meeting point located across from the Tampa Convention Center at the Embassy Suites Hotel corner of Franklin Street and Channelside Drive.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy riding, sightseeing, and photo stops.

Is the Rydable easy to operate?
Yes, the guides will introduce you to the Rydable at the start, and they are designed to be smooth, stable, and simple to handle—even if you’re a first-timer.

Can children participate?
Yes, this experience is suitable for children of all ages. However, babies under 1 year are not recommended to join.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and a camera are recommended for a pleasant outdoor experience.

What’s included in the price?
A guided 2-hour ride, ice cream stop, and photo opportunities. Guides also share fun facts and local stories.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the Rydables are wheelchair accessible, making the tour inclusive for many mobility needs.

Are there any restrictions on smoking?
Yes, smoking is not allowed during the tour, which helps keep the environment enjoyable for everyone.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

In brief, the Tampa Riverwalk and Downtown Tour on a Rydable offers a lively, engaging, and genuinely fun way to see Tampa’s waterfront and city sights. With friendly guides, scenic views, and playful rides, it’s a memorable adventure—especially suited for those who want to experience Tampa with a smile on their face. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a solo explorer, this tour promises a relaxed, cheerful day out in the Sunshine State.

You can check if your dates are available here: