Riverview, Fla., is a small residential community located approximately 45 minutes south of the Tampa metropolitan area in Hillsborough County. Riverview was named for the Alafia River, which cuts through the town, and is a local canoeing and fishing attraction.
Fishing
Riverview's estuaries and rivers host large populations of snook, redfish and trout, and for those willing to head out to sea, the list grows to include tarpon, grouper, kingfish, tuna, snappers, amberjack, king mackerel and several varieties of shark. Riverview does have its own marina, and fishing charters are available for those without their own boats.
Canoeing and Kayaking
Canoeing and kayaking are both very common to Riverview residents and visitors alike, as the river and estuary are both shallow, clear waters with easy access to the ocean. Riverview has a large number of public boat ramps and canoe rental agencies. The waters are so pristine that many may also snorkel on such outings.
Manatee Viewing
From Nov. 1 to April 15, one can follow Big Bend Road past the Highway 41 intersection right into the entrance to Riverview's manatee viewing station. The warm waters of the bay coupled with the additional heat provided by the local power plant keep the marine mammals close to town for a large part of the year.
State Park
Weeki Wachi Springs State Park, located roughly an hour and a half north of Riverview, offers a wide variety of activities--especially to those with children in tow. A viewing platform of the springs hosts a daily mermaid show, and a small theater shows educational films by season. A small water park adjoins the springs, and canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling and wildlife tours are all available.
Events
Riverview hosts the Alafia River Challenge, a canoeing and kayaking race usually held in the second week of November. Florida's Strawberry Festival is also held just a short drive north of Riverview, from Feb. 26 to March 7, and the Florida State Fair, which is even closer to Riverview, is held from Feb. 5 to Feb. 15. The fairgrounds also holds special events and expos on everything from personal health to horsemanship, and browsing its calendar alone can provide a long list of things to do in town.
Member Comments