If you’ve been singing the lyrics “I walk a lonely road” a lot lately, you’re not… alone (well, in a sense). Tampa roads are actually less lonely than many, but we’ll get to that in a minute.
If national averages indicate anything, it’s that roads overall may have been more lonely during the past few years. According to a recent data report by Streetlight, annual average daily walking trips dropped 36% in the US between 2019 and 2022.
How does that national average shake out in Tampa, and where are the best spots to raise those national trend (and step count) numbers? Let’s take a look.
By the numbers
- -31% | Percent change in walking trips in Florida
- -29% | Percent change in walking trips in Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater
- 50 | Tampa’s score out of 100 on Walk Score’s walkability meter
What does a percent change in walking trips mean? Say a metro area sees a -50% change in walking trips. This means, on average, walking trips declined by 50% in that area. (For the record, none of the top 100 metros in the study saw that much of a decline — the biggest dip was 49% in Akron, OH.)
This is just a peek at some of the views from North Shore Park.
Photo by TBAYtoday
Where to walk the walk
Wondering where you can get your steps in? Check out these pedestrian-friendly spots around the Tampa Bay area, from local parks to protected streets.
- Tampa Riverwalk, Downtown Tampa | This 2.6-mile path runs along the Hillsborough River — with lots of eateries and bars conveniently located for your post-walk snack.
- Bayshore Boulevard, South Tampa | The wide walking path is perfect for towing the jogging stroller or pups along — make sure to oogle at the historic homes.
- Hillsborough River State Park, 15402 US-301, Thonotosassa |Head a little outside Tampa to trek on the 7+ miles of trails.
- Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, 1101 Country Club Way S., St. Petersburg | Attached to the Lake Maggiore Environmental Education Center, these wooded trails are perfect if you want to catch a glimpse of wildlife.
- North Shore Park, 901 North Shore Dr. NE., St. Petersburg | This popular waterfront park boasts a windy path perfect for runs or strolls, plus a volleyball court and plenty of spots for taking in the views.
