Al Lopez Park | Tampa

Information

Landmark: Al Lopez Park
City: Tampa
Country: USA Florida
Continent: North America

Al Lopez Park, Tampa, USA Florida, North America

Al Lopez Park is a 224-acre public park situated in Tampa, Florida, USA.

It serves as a recreational area with diverse facilities for sports and leisure.

Visual Characteristics

The park features extensive open green spaces, mature oak trees providing canopy cover, and paved pathways. It includes several sports fields, a lake, and a playground area. The terrain is generally flat.

Location & Access Logistics

Al Lopez Park is located at 4810 N Himes Ave, Tampa, FL 33614. It is approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) northwest of Tampa's central business district. Access is via North Himes Avenue and North Dale Mabry Highway. Ample free parking is available in designated lots throughout the park. Public transport options include the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) bus lines, specifically routes 1, 15, and 19, which stop near the park entrances.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The park was established in 1957 and named in honor of Al Lopez, a former Major League Baseball player and manager born in Tampa. The land was acquired by the City of Tampa for public use. Ecologically, it is situated within the Tampa Bay watershed, with the park's lake acting as a stormwater management feature.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include baseball and softball games on multiple fields, basketball on courts, and tennis on courts. A 1.5-mile paved walking and jogging trail encircles the park. Fishing is permitted in the lake. The park also contains a large playground and picnic areas with grills.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at multiple locations within the park. Shaded areas are provided by trees and covered picnic shelters. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong throughout the park. Food vendors are not permanently stationed within the park, but are often present during organized events.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for outdoor activities is during the cooler months of October through April. Early morning or late afternoon offers the most comfortable temperatures and softer lighting for photography. The park is accessible from dawn until dusk.

Facts & Legends

Al Lopez Park is home to the Al Lopez Museum of Baseball, a small facility dedicated to the life and career of the park's namesake. The museum is open on select days and hours.