Things to do in Riverview FL

Are you planning to visit or live in Riverview, FL?

Riverview is known as one of the oldest settlements in the state of Florida. Its name comes from the Alafia River – the very same river that the early settlers chose as their home base. Today, this area is located close to Tampa Bay.

Whether you live in a Riverview neighborhood or are visiting the area, you don’t have to worry about finding things to do. There are plenty of activities for all types of people including outdoor adventures, fascinating museums, and fun entertainment options for the whole family.

In this article, we are going to list the top activities you should try in Riverview and the best places to visit. You’ll learn about amusement park rides, nature trails, and other fun things in the town and its immediate surroundings of Tampa Bay.

#1: Visit Alafia Scrub Nature Preserve

One of the best ways to enjoy the Alafia River is by paying a visit to this nature preserve. The preserve has been created to protect natural habitats like creeks, scrub, ravines, and tidal marsh.

You can try out two hiking trails that are loop-style and sufficiently marked. The longer one is 1.3 mi and the shorter one covers a hike of about 0.8 mi. Many people use these trails for birdwatching. This is best done between November and May.

#2: Try Cosmic Bowling

Located in Riverview, The Alley at South Shore is a top-class modern bowling alley that offers a stunning cosmic bowling experience. This means that the whole bowling alley is illuminated with neon lights and magical shades of blue and red.

In addition to bowling, you can also have a go at their laser maze challenge. As a resident of Riverview, this place is great for kids’ birthday parties. There are 42 bowling alleys in total and a separate space for birthday celebrations.

#3: Visit Bell Creek Nature Preserve

This is the best option for some outdoor time if you don’t want to leave Riverview. The 477-acre preserve aims to protect local species from getting negatively affected by urban development.

This nature preserve has a few hiking trails that are well marked. Since this is a pet-friendly area, you can take your dog or other pets for a walk. Keep an eye out for designated fishing spots. It’s a good place for watching native bird species as well.

#4: Enjoy a Fun Day Out at Busch Gardens Tampa

You can reach Tampa in about 30 minutes by car as it’s only around 20 miles away from Riverview.

The Busch Gardens Tampa is an Africa-themed amusement park that has numerous admission options. For instance, you can get top value from annual passes or you may opt for a classic day pass.

This is one of the best amusement parks in the area. Their roller coasters are absolutely wild and have been hailed as one of the best in Florida.

#5: Visit Balm-Boyette Scrub & Triple Creek Nature Preserve

These two hiking spots are right next to each other. Most hikers choose Triple Creek as their starting point and end at Balm-Boyette. However, you can do your hike vice-versa. It won’t really make a big difference.

That said, starting at Triple Creek is a good idea because you don’t need to leave Riverview. The preserve is located right along Balm Boyette Road. Then, you can head out to Balm-Boyette which is famous for a rare Florida scrub and other protected species.

#6: Take a Pick at the Local Dining Options

There are many places to enjoy good food in Riverview. You can start out your day in the right way by visiting The Egg & I. This breakfast spot offers classic American meals to kickstart your morning.

You can cover your lunch and dinner needs in Cappy’s Pizzeria or Acropolis Greek Taverna if you’re looking for any kind of pizza or a nice Greek meal. You can order a mouth-watering moussaka, hummus, and other traditional dishes.

#7: Enjoy Inshore Fishing

Tampa Bay is so close to Riverview. You could go on an inshore fishing tour even if you haven’t tried it before. The professional tours have you covered with expert advice and guidance on how to catch pompano, snook, and tarpon.

The fishing itself is only a part of the experience. In addition, you will benefit from getting away from the city and your daily worries. The scenery of Tampa Bay and the inlet is stunning. Most of the tours have an on-board cooler for your drinks as well.

#8: Go to Lowry Park Zoo

In 20-25 minutes, you’ll reach Lowry Park Zoo situated in Tampa. You’ll find animals from all over the world there. The main exhibition areas focus on flora and fauna from Africa, Asia, and Australia.

This zoo is claimed to be one of the best in Florida. For added convenience, all the tickets can be purchased online. As a feel-good bonus, all the ticket proceeds help the owners maintain and operate the zoo and conservation program.

In a Nutshell: Things to do in Riverview, FL

Riverview and its surrounding areas have plenty of activities for visitors and residents of all ages to enjoy.

Here are our top picks for your next visit to Riverview, FL:

• Hike in Bell Creek Nature Reserve, Triple Creek, Balm-Boyette Scrub, and Alafia Scrub Nature Preserve
• Go on an inshore fishing tour in Tampa Bay
• Check out the Busch Gardens Tampa for a fun-filled day
• Go cosmic bowling in the Alley at South Shore
• Visit Lowry Park Zoo located in Tampa

For more information about Riverview property management, contact Cavalier Estates.