Opportunities abound to enjoy the Hillsborough River

Historically, cities were often founded on rivers for the economic opportunity it afforded. Rivers served as vital transportation routes, facilitating the movement of goods and people between inland areas and coastal ports. The navigable waters of rivers allowed for the efficient transport of agricultural produce, raw materials, and manufactured goods, fostering trade and commerce. Rivers also provided access to natural resources essential for early economies. Settlers utilized the Hillsborough River for fishing, logging, and agriculture, exploiting the abundant resources of the riverine ecosystem to support their livelihoods.  

In addition to economic considerations, rivers offered strategic advantages for defense and security. Settlements along rivers could utilize the waterways as natural barriers, protecting against incursions from indigenous populations and rival powers. 

Waterfronts such as Tampa’s became bustling hubs of activity, teeming with merchants, sailors, and artisans engaged in commerce and industry. Tampa’s river and bay port areas facilitated cultural exchange and interaction as diverse populations converged, contributing to the rich tapestry of the early city. 

While Port Tampa Bay remains a significant economic sector for Tampa and the region, the early industrial and commercial waterfront on the Hillsborough River has evolved to more residential, office, and recreational uses over the years. The Hillsborough River offers residents and visitors alike a refreshing escape into nature within the heart of the bustling metropolitan area. Flowing approximately 60 miles from its headwaters in the Green Swamp to its confluence with Tampa Bay, the Hillsborough River meanders through a diverse landscape of lush forests, wetlands, and urban corridors.

Along its course, the river presents a myriad of activities for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and interests. Today, the lower Hillsborough River has concessions for renting powerboats, kayaks, and paddleboards. The Pirate Water Taxi takes people to various stops along the Hillsborough River. For the more adventurous, the Bay Rocket offers an adrenaline-filled jet boat thrill ride! Most recently, the multi-million-dollar river dinner cruise ship Craft Tampa was built to navigate Tampa’s urban scenic areas of the Hillsborough River, offering 2-hour brunch, lunch, and dinner cruises. At 10 ft 8 in of air draft (vertical clearance), Craft Tampa navigates the many low bridges on the Hillsborough River with only inches to spare, similar to the river cruises in Europe. 

Like never before, the lower Hillsborough River provides many opportunities for residents and visitors to get out on the water and enjoy this great natural resource.