Tampa on July 4th

[EydieG]

We will be coming into Tampa on July 4th for a cruise the next day. Are there any good fireworks going on that night?

 

Thanks!

[SeaPA1]

We will be coming into Tampa on July 4th for a cruise the next day. Are there any good fireworks going on that night?

 

Thanks!

 

Yes, the city's main fireworks show is in the downtown area. They shoot them off from a barge in the Garrison Channel, essentially right out in front of where the cruise port is located. The Channelside entertainment complex is a good viewing spot; they also have food/beverage vendors, etc. - both in the complex and along Channelside Drive (going south, towards the Forum where Tampa's hockey team plays). That stretch of road is also a good viewing point, as there is little in the way of buildings or things that would obstruct your view.

 

They also usually have the outside area of the Aquarium open for viewing; it is also an excellent spot (not sure if they charge a fee).

 

It will surely be crowded. If you need to take a cab back to your hotel, I'd suggest you wait an hour or so after the fireworks end so that you don't spend a fortune on the taxi meter running while sitting in traffic.

 

Here's a link to the page for the organization that puts it on:

 

http://www.funintampabay.com/EventDetail.asp?ID=238