A Romantic Day in Tampa — Riverside Strolls, Rooftop Cocktails & Sunset Pier
One relaxed, intimate day for couples: a cozy brunch, a gentle riverwalk and museum visit, waterfront lunch, an afternoon refresh at a boutique hotel, rooftop cocktails for golden hour, a sunset moment on Ballast Point Pier, and a classic romantic dinner.
Highlights
- Brunch at the stylish Oxford Exchange
- Hand-in-hand stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk and Curtis Hixon Park
- Waterfront lunch at Ulele
- Relax and freshen up at The Epicurean Hotel
- Rooftop cocktails at Élevage for golden hour
- Sunset at Ballast Point Park Pier
- Intimate dinner at Bern's Steak House
Itinerary
Day 1
A relaxed, romantic day timed for spring warmth and long golden hours; paced to let couples linger and savor each moment.
Brunch at Oxford Exchange — cozy cafe, books & light-filled conservatory
Start with a leisurely brunch in an intimate, beautifully designed space (bookshop, conservatory and cafe). Order a signature coffee and share a pastry or avocado toast.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a window table in the conservatory when you book — it’s quieter and perfect for intimate conversation and photos.
- Parking: there’s metered street parking nearby and a small lot; allow 5–10 extra minutes for parking in Hyde Park on weekend mornings.
- If you want a low-key keepsake, browse the bookstore together and pick a small book or postcard to remember the morning.
Stroll the Tampa Riverwalk & Curtis Hixon Park — riverside benches and skyline views
A gentle walk along the Riverwalk past parks, public art and riverfront views — ideal for holding hands, sitting on a bench, and enjoying waterfront city scenery.
Tips from local experts:
- Walk at an easy pace and pause on the low benches near the water — golden-hour light on the river is particularly flattering for photos.
- The Riverwalk is paved and stroller/wheelchair friendly; bring a light layer for breezier spring mornings.
- Watch for steady bike traffic on shared paths — stay to the right and hold hands while stepping aside to let faster riders pass.
Tampa Museum of Art — quiet galleries and modern-architecture moments
A short cultural stop to enjoy compact, carefully curated art galleries — an intimate cultural interlude that won’t feel rushed.
Tips from local experts:
- Pick one or two galleries to linger in rather than trying to see everything — the smaller scale keeps things intimate.
- The museum’s terrace and plaza are great for a quick quiet moment together with views of the river and Riverwalk.
- Check gallery hours before you go (hours vary); mid-morning/early-afternoon is usually less crowded for couples.
Waterfront lunch at Ulele — native-inspired foods and river views
Enjoy a relaxed, flavorful lunch on the riverfront terrace — great for sharing plates and craft brews in a locally loved spot.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a riverside table when you book or arrive — the terrace sets a lovely tone for a romantic midday meal.
- Try sharing a few small plates (shellfish or smoked items) so you can taste more together and linger longer.
- There’s outdoor seating; bring sunglasses and a light layer — spring afternoons can be warm with a breezy waterfront chill.
Relax & refresh at The Epicurean Hotel — boutique hotel break
Return to a boutique hotel to relax, freshen up and prepare for the evening (a chance for a short nap, shower or change into evening attire).
Tips from local experts:
- If you’re not staying here, call ahead to arrange a short refresh or use the lobby bar to relax — the hotel is very couple-friendly.
- The hotel is in Hyde Park Village — enjoy a slow window stroll nearby if you want a gentle pre-evening walk.
- Ask the front desk about late-afternoon quiet spots or a quick reservation at the rooftop to coordinate the evening.
Rooftop cocktails at Élevage (Epicurean) — golden-hour cocktails with skyline views
A signature rooftop lounge ideal for sipping craft cocktails while watching the sky change color — a perfect romantic lead-in to sunset.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a rooftop table for golden hour — arriving 30–45 minutes before sunset gives you prime light and the best views.
- Dress smart-casual: the rooftop tends toward a stylish crowd, which enhances the intimate ambiance for couples.
- Ask the bartender for a lighter, shareable cocktail or flight so you can taste each other’s picks and toast the day.
Transfer: Drive to Ballast Point Park & Pier (easy scenic route)
A short, scenic drive across South Tampa toward Ballast Point for an unobstructed sunset pier moment — use this time to relax and play a shared playlist.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow extra travel time on spring evenings — traffic can pick up near popular waterfront neighborhoods.
- There’s limited parking at Ballast Point; plan to arrive a bit early and look for the park lot or nearby street parking.
- Bring a light blanket or jacket for the pier — spring evenings on the bay can get breezy after sunset.
Sunset at Ballast Point Park Pier — the evening special moment
A romantic sunset on the long pier overlooking Old Tampa Bay — ideal for close conversation, skyline silhouettes and quiet photos.
Tips from local experts:
- Stand near the far end of the pier for the best panoramic sunset views and fewer crowds.
- Bring a small picnic snack or sparkling water from earlier stops if you want a private toast as the sun dips.
- The pier is wheelchair- and stroller-accessible; there are benches and railings for comfortable standing views.
Romantic dinner at Bern's Steak House — classic, intimate dining experience
Conclude with an iconic, intimate dinner at Bern’s for a slow, indulgent meal — reserve well in advance and plan to linger for dessert in the dessert room if you wish.
Tips from local experts:
- Make reservations well in advance and request a quiet table; mention it’s a special-occasion couple’s dinner to help secure atmosphere-friendly seating.
- Bern’s is a multi-room experience — consider booking the dessert room after dinner for a private-sweet finish (ask staff to reserve it when you arrive).
- The pace is unhurried: plan for 2–3 hours and enjoy the wine pairing or explore their famous steak and vintage wine selections together.
