Getting around a busy city with heavy traffic and limited street parking can be stressful for drivers new to the area. The Tampa Bay Observer has compiled several public transportation and rideshare options for residents and visitors looking to travel throughout the city without relying on a personal vehicle.
Dash
DASH is a local microtransit service in Downtown Tampa that offers riders an affordable and environmentally friendly way to travel around the city.
The service operates through the DASH app and allows users to request rides between “virtual hubs” for $2 per person.
DASH operates Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 9 p.m.
The service uses five Tesla Model Y vehicles connecting 30 hubs across neighborhoods including Water Street, Tampa Heights, Channelside and the River Arts District.
According to the city, DASH provided more than 30,000 trips in 2023 and officials are looking to expand the program.
TECO Line Streetcar System
The TECO Line Streetcar System is free for all riders and features 11 stops throughout Tampa.
Stops include Centennial Park, Centro Ybor, Streetcar Society, Cadrecha Plaza, Port Tampa Bay, York Street, Florida Aquarium, Water Street, HSBC, Dick Greco Plaza and Hattricks.
Streetcars arrive approximately every 15 minutes. Service runs Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fridays from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Riders can also download the streetcar app to view live arrival information.
HART Bus Services
HART bus service covers more than 1,000 square miles with approximately 200 buses serving travelers throughout Hillsborough County.
The service also provides transportation to Tampa International Airport seven days a week.
A one-way fare costs $2, while the daily fare cap is $4. The monthly fare cap is $65. Discounts are available through Flamingo Fares cards and passes.
Reduced fares are available for riders ages 6-18, seniors ages 65 and older, riders with disabilities, visually impaired riders and Medicare recipients.
A one-day family pass is available through the Flamingo Fares app for $12.50. The pass covers up to five people from activation through 3 a.m. the following day.
The monthly unlimited passport costs $85.
Pirate Water Taxi
The Pirate Water Taxi offers daily tours with stops near popular attractions, museums, restaurants and parks along the Tampa Riverwalk.
All-day passes start at $34 for adults, $24 for children and $29 for groups of eight or more. Infants ride free.
The pass includes a wristband that allows riders to hop on and off at any stop throughout the day. Wristbands also provide discounts at select venues.
The water taxi operates Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Stops include Tampa General Hospital, Florida Aquarium, Sparkman Wharf, Harbour Island, Armature Works, Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, The Sail Plaza, the Tampa Convention Center and more.
Riders can track schedules and routes online.
Electric Scooters
The City of Tampa partners with LIME and SPIN to provide e-bikes and e-scooters throughout the city for travelers seeking micromobility options.
Riders can download either company’s app and scan the QR code located on the bike or scooter to begin a trip. Pricing is tracked through the app and riders can end the trip once they arrive at their destination.
Operators must be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver’s license.
As Tampa continues to grow, city leaders are expanding transportation alternatives for residents and visitors. VisitTampaBay also provides resources for limos, charter buses, private boats and other transportation options.
The Tampa Bay Observer reminds travelers to use public transportation safely and responsibly.