Tucked away just southeast of the bustling city of Tampa, Riverview, Florida, is a community that’s full of surprises. What was once a quiet bedroom community has blossomed into a vibrant destination with its own unique personality.
We’re talking about a place where you can find sprawling nature preserves, fantastic family-friendly attractions, and a dining scene that’s quickly becoming the talk of the town. It offers a perfect blend of relaxed Florida living and modern convenience.
Get ready to explore a side of the Sunshine State that many tourists completely miss. This guide is your all-access pass to the very best things to do in Riverview.
We’ve dug deep to find the spots that locals love, from outdoor adventures that will get your heart pumping to peaceful retreats where you can simply unwind. Your adventure in this dynamic corner of Florida is about to begin, so let’s dive right in.
1. Alafia River State Park – Best Overall, Best for Nature Lovers & Adventure
For an authentic Florida wilderness experience, Alafia River State Park is absolutely unbeatable. This isn’t your typical flat Florida landscape; the park is situated on reclaimed phosphate mining land, which created a unique terrain of dramatic hills and valleys rarely seen in the state.
It’s a sprawling, 7,672-acre paradise for anyone who loves to get outside. The mountain biking trails here are world-renowned, attracting riders from across the country for their challenging and technical routes.
But you don’t have to be an expert biker to enjoy this gem. The park also offers excellent hiking trails that wind through shady forests and along the serene Alafia River, perfect for bird watching and spotting alligators and other wildlife.
You can fish in the river or one of the lakes, or even go horseback riding on designated trails. It’s the ultimate outdoor playground and a top pick for the best things to do in Riverview, FL.
Pack plenty of water, your sense of adventure, and prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty.
2. Bell Creek Nature Preserve – Best for Hiking, Birding & a Peaceful Escape
If you’re looking for a more tranquil nature experience, Bell Creek Nature Preserve is your spot. This 640-acre preserve is a hidden sanctuary that protects a vital part of the local ecosystem.
The well-maintained trails are mostly flat and easy, making them perfect for a family walk, a morning jog, or a quiet stroll where the only sounds are the birds and the rustle of leaves in the breeze.
The trails take you through a variety of habitats, including pine flatwoods and hardwood hammocks, and cross over beautiful Bell Creek itself. It’s a fantastic place for wildlife photography, especially for bird enthusiasts.
You’ll feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle, yet you’re right in the heart of Riverview. For a low-key, budget-friendly outing that showcases the real Florida, a visit to Bell Creek is one of the most relaxing Riverview activities you can choose.
3. The Regency Mall & Shopping Plaza – Best for Shopping, Dining & Beating the Heat
When the Florida sun is beaming down, sometimes you just need some air-conditioned fun. The area around the Regency Mall is a hub of activity and a go-to for things to do in Riverview when you want to shop, eat, and play.
While the mall itself offers familiar department stores, the real action is in the surrounding plazas, which are packed with a huge variety of shops, from big-box retailers to unique local boutiques.
After you’ve worked up an appetite, you’ll be spoiled for choice with the dining options. The area is a food lover’s dream, featuring everything from popular chain restaurants to hidden gem eateries serving up incredible burgers, tacos, and international cuisine.
There’s something for every taste and budget, making it a perfect spot for a family dinner or a meal with friends. It’s the convenient, one-stop-shop for a full day of entertainment.
4. Riverview 14 GDX – Best for a Night Out & Movie Buffs
For a classic night out, you can’t beat the Riverview 14 GDX movie theater. This isn’t just any cinema; it’s a modern theater with comfortable, reclining seats and a fantastic GDX sound system that makes you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action.
Catching the latest blockbuster here is an event in itself. It’s the perfect plan for a date night, a fun activity with the kids, or a way to escape a rainy afternoon.
The theater is located in a busy shopping center, so you can easily grab a bite to eat before or after the show. With its state-of-the-art facilities and prime location, it’s a cornerstone of entertainment and a top choice for things to do in Riverview at night.
Sometimes, the simple pleasure of watching a great movie on a giant screen is exactly what you need.
5. E.G. Simmons Regional Park – Best for Families & Water Fun
Head west a few minutes and you’ll find one of Hillsborough County’s best-kept secrets: E.G. Simmons Regional Park. This massive park sits right on the shores of Tampa Bay and is an absolute paradise for families and water lovers.
The park features a fantastic, shallow-water beach that’s perfect for young children to splash and play safely. The calm waters are also ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding.
You can fish from the 600-foot fishing pier or launch your boat from the ramp. With picnic areas equipped with grills scattered throughout, it’s a prime spot for a family reunion or a weekend barbecue with friends.
The park offers a true Old Florida feel with its beautiful oak trees and peaceful bay views. Spending a day at E.G. Simmons is easily one of the best outdoor things to do in Riverview, FL for families seeking sun and sand without the crowds of the Gulf Coast.
6. Winthrop Town Centre – Best for a Evening Stroll, Shopping & Community Vibe
Winthrop Town Centre is the heart of modern Riverview. This open-air, mixed-use development is more than just a shopping center; it’s a community gathering place.
With its charming Main Street feel, complete with fountains and green spaces, it’s a wonderful place to spend an evening. You can browse a variety of shops, from national retailers to small local businesses offering unique gifts and services.
When it comes to dining, the options are diverse and delicious. You can find everything from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants with inviting outdoor patios.
The center often hosts community events like outdoor concerts and seasonal festivals, which always draw a happy crowd. For a pleasant, walkable experience that captures the friendly spirit of the town, exploring Winthrop Town Centre is a must-do activity in Riverview.
7. Riverview Civic Center & Park – Best for Community Events & Recreation
To really connect with the local community, check out the Riverview Civic Center. This active hub is where a lot of the magic happens.
The center hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, from craft fairs and art shows to fitness classes and community meetings. It’s a great place to see what’s going on and mingle with residents.
Outside, the adjacent park offers recreational facilities like sports fields and a playground, making it a popular spot for local leagues and families.
Checking the civic center’s calendar before your visit can lead you to a unique local happening. Engaging with the community here is a fantastic way to experience the authentic, friendly vibe that makes Riverview such a special place to visit.
8. 3 Kids Recreational Center – Best for Active Families & Sports
If your family has energy to burn, the 3 Kids Recreational Center is the place to be. This public facility is a powerhouse of activity, offering an incredible array of options for all ages.
The center features a huge aquatic complex with pools and water slides, perfect for cooling off on a hot day. There are also numerous sports fields, basketball courts, and a well-equipped fitness center.
It’s a place where the community comes together to play, exercise, and socialize. Whether you want to swim some laps, shoot some hoops, or just let the kids run wild in a safe and fun environment, this rec center has you covered.
It’s an affordable and action-packed destination that ranks high on the list of fun things to do in Riverview with kids.
9. Bullfrog Creek – Best for Kayaking, Canoeing & Fishing
For the ultimate quiet adventure, explore the serene waters of Bullfrog Creek. This slow-moving tidal creek is a hidden gem for paddling enthusiasts. Launching a kayak or canoe here feels like stepping into a timeless Florida.
You’ll glide through a canopy of moss-draped trees, surrounded by the sounds of nature. It’s a fantastic spot for fishing, with plenty of spots to cast a line for snook, redfish, and trout.
The creek is generally calm, making it suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. You’ll feel like an explorer discovering a secret waterway.
This is one of those unique Riverview activities that provides a deep connection to the area’s natural beauty and is a wonderful alternative to the more crowded coastal waterways.
10. The Spaghetti Shop – Best for a Unique Local Meal & Foodies
Every great town has that one iconic local restaurant, and in Riverview, The Spaghetti Shop is a beloved institution. This family-owned spot has been serving up hearty, delicious Italian-American cuisine for years in a cozy, no-fuss setting.
It’s the kind of place where the servings are generous, the flavors are classic, and you leave feeling completely satisfied.
While the name highlights pasta, the menu offers a wide range of options to please everyone, including plenty of choices for meat lovers and those seeking vegetarian dishes.
It’s a perfect example of the fantastic local dining scene that makes finding things to do in Riverview so enjoyable. Eating here isn’t just a meal; it’s a taste of local history and hospitality.
11. Summerfield Crossings Golf Club – Best for Golfers & a Relaxing Round
Golfers, listen up! The Summerfield Crossings Golf Club is a public course that offers a fantastic and affordable golfing experience. This well-maintained 18-hole course is challenging enough for seasoned players but still welcoming for those who are just starting out.
The fairways are lined with beautiful Florida landscaping and water features come into play on several holes.
The relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make for a very enjoyable day on the links. After your round, you can unwind at the clubhouse.
Spending a morning or afternoon here is a quintessential Florida pastime and a top-tier item for your list of Riverview, FL things to do if you enjoy the game.
12. Riverview Farmers Market – Best for Fresh Food & Local Vibe
For a true taste of local life, don’t miss the Riverview Farmers Market. Held regularly, this market is a vibrant gathering place where local farmers, artisans, and food producers come together.
You can find the freshest seasonal produce, homemade baked goods, local honey, beautiful plants, and unique handcrafted items.
It’s more than just shopping; it’s a social event. You can chat with the growers, sample delicious treats, and enjoy live music. It’s a wonderful way to support the local economy and experience the community spirit firsthand.
Grabbing some fresh fruit for a snack or a unique souvenir is a perfect way to cap off your Riverview adventures.
Conclusion
As you can see, Riverview is so much more than a pass-through town. It’s a destination packed with its own unique charm, incredible outdoor spaces, and a welcoming community spirit.
From the wild trails of Alafia River State Park to the family fun at E.G. Simmons, there’s an experience here for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to explore all these amazing things to do in Riverview, Florida.
Check the dates for local markets and events, pack your bags, and get ready to discover your new favorite spot in the Tampa Bay area