A major addition to Downtown’s hospitality landscape is underway as McKibbon Hospitality breaks ground on a 13-story dual-flag hotel in the Channel District. The project brings together the AC Hotel and Moxy Hotel brands and will deliver 310 rooms. The new building will be just steps away from Water Street and close to major venues like Benchmark International Arena, further strengthening the area as a destination for visitors and events.
Slated to open in early 2028, the project is positioned to support rising demand for lifestyle-driven hospitality while contributing to the area’s ongoing evolution as a vibrant, mixed-use neighborhood.
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The Tampa Downtown Partnership has confirmed its featured speakers for the upcoming Hurricane Preparedness Debriefing, including experts from The Florida Aquarium, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and Tampa Fire Rescue. Together, these leaders will provide critical insight on hurricane preparedness, emergency response, and resources available to support Downtown residents and businesses ahead of the 2026 season. Emmy-winning meteorologist Greg Dee of Tampa Bay 28 will take center stage as emcee.
Join us on Wednesday, May 27, from 8:00 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Barrymore Hotel Tampa Riverwalk. Attendees can expect timely updates, guidance, and opportunities to connect with key partners across the region. Breakfast and networking are included.
Register Here
Downtown residents and visitors will now be able to time-travel to the 1920’s. An Atlanta-based speakeasy concept is making its way to Tampa’s Downtown, as Red Phone Booth plans its first location in the Bay Area, at the ground floor of the EAX Building.
The Prohibition-era-inspired venue will transform nearly 8,000 square feet into an immersive hospitality experience, featuring craft cocktails and signature dishes. The space is expected to host more than 300 guests and will reflect continued investment in unique, experience-driven destinations that enhance Downtown’s vibrancy.
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Registration is now open for the next Channel District Date Nights, a quarterly series held by the Tampa Downtown Partnership, bringing unique, community-driven experiences to Washington Street Park. This program invites residents and visitors to bring their plus one and enjoy interactive “how-to” classes in a relaxed, outdoor setting. The upcoming event will feature a Couples Somatic session. Make sure you bring your own towel or yoga mat!
The Environmental Protection Commission will be celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the 2026 Clean Air Fair this week. This milestone event brings the community together to promote sustainability, environmental awareness, and cleaner air through engaging exhibits and family-friendly activities. There will also be live music, plant giveaways, food, drinks, and giveaways.
Make sure to stop by this Thursday, May 7th, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Poe Plaza (Located at the corner of Franklin & Jackson St.)
Celebrate Mother’s Day with timeless elegance at the newly renovated Rialto Theatre as they host a special Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea inside their new Tea Room & Cafe from May 8 through May 10. Guests will enjoy a beautifully curated tea experience featuring tea sandwiches and fresh pastries. Every guest will receive a complimentary floral bouquet to take home.
Tea seating is $65 per person, with garden tea or elegant attire encouraged.
Buy Tickets Here
Applications are now open for the 2026 Winter Village Shops, and this is your chance to be part of one of Downtown’s most beloved holiday traditions. Hosted annually at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, Winter Village transforms the heart of Downtown into a festive destination featuring shopping, skating, and seasonal experiences that draw thousands of visitors each year.
Local makers, retailers, and food vendors are invited to apply for a coveted spot in the holiday market, where unique products and artisan goods take center stage in a high-traffic, high-visibility setting. From handcrafted items to specialty treats, Winter Village Shops offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to showcase your business and connect with the community during the busiest season of the year.
Apply Now
Please take a few minutes to fill out our survey! This survey gives residents, workers, and visitors the opportunity to weigh in on the convenient, $2 hub-to-hub transit service that’s making it easier to explore and connect across Downtown.
Your input will directly inform how we continue to enhance and evolve the DASH program—ensuring it remains accessible, efficient, and responsive to the community’s needs.
Take The Survey Now
Tampa’s Downtown is set to host the 2027 and 2028 SEC Gymnastics Championships at the Benchmark International Arena. Many world-renowned athletes, including star gymnast Suni Lee, will be competing over the next two years.
The Southeastern Conference made the announcement last week, bringing one of the most prestigious events in college sports to Tampa’s urban core.
Dates and ticket information are expected to be released as the events get closer.
The Digital Marketing Coordinator supports the Tampa Downtown Partnership’s communication efforts by managing daily social media content, updating the website, and assisting with copywriting and content development. This role plays a vital part in ensuring a consistent digital presence that reflects the organization’s mission, programs, and placemaking initiatives. The ideal candidate is creative, organized, and proactive, with a passion for digital media and storytelling.
APPLY NOW
The Placemaking Specialist / Assistant Manager is a hands-on, execution-focused role responsible for supporting the delivery of Downtown Tampa’s placemaking and experience initiatives. This position helps bring programs to life — from recurring activations and neighborhood events to installations and seasonal programming.
DASH Driver Ambassadors ensure efficient transportation of individuals between 20+ designated DASH hubs within the Special Services District (SSD) of Tampa’s Downtown while being a friendly and inviting ambassador of Downtown. Driver Ambassadors operate a company-provided four-door EV and utilize app-based software to receive and accept ride requests, navigate hub locations, and track rides.
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Tampa’s Downtown Neighborhood Placemaking Grant is a dynamic initiative aimed at fostering vibrant and inclusive neighborhoods. The program offers annual grants up to $30,000 available to the seven neighborhoods of Tampa’s Downtown. These grants are intended to fund community-driven projects that are free and accessible to all residents, workers, and visitors in the neighborhood, driving long-term impact. Number of grants awarded will be based on submissions and those requested funds. The program’s primary objective is to enhance the quality of life for all members of the community and create a strong sense of belonging and engagement through collaborative placemaking initiatives.
LEARN MORE.
May 6 >> What’s Pop-In at the Mayor’s Food Truck Fiesta | Lykes Gaslight Park
May 7 >> What’s Pop-In at Rock the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
May 13 >> Channel District Date Night | Washington Street Park
May 19 >> Coffee with a Champion | Embarc Collective
May 27 >> Hurricane Preparedness Debriefing | Barrymore Hotel
Sundays at 6pm >> Yoga in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Mondays at 6pm >> HIIT in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Tuesdays at 6pm >> Zumba in the Park | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Thursdays at 4-8pm >> Art on the House | Tampa Museum of Art
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Monday Memo –Monday Memo is a weekly update of “insider Downtown information” regarding developments, transportation, special opportunities and other useful information to help you make the most of Downtown. Subscribe to receive this weekly newsletter.
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