The Water Street Tampa expansion is taking another major step forward with the announcement of a brand-new downtown entertainment district. The team behind the transformative development revealed plans that build on the area’s rapid momentum, introducing a downtown entertainment district, a live performance venue, and expanded urban development designed to reshape Tampa’s cultural core. Near the heart of the city, this vision reinforces Water Street Tampa as one of Florida’s most ambitious mixed-use projects.
What’s Included in the New Entertainment District
As part of the Water Street Tampa expansion, plans from Strategic Property Partners (SPP) call for a 3,500-seat performance venue, a 250-room hotel, and 100,000 square feet of retail, dining, and entertainment space. This blend of hospitality, retail space, and entertainment venues is designed to keep downtown Tampa active day and night while attracting both residents and visitors seeking premium experiences.
Prime Location in the Heart of Channelside
The proposed entertainment district will rise on a vacant parcel across from Benchmark International Arena on Channelside Drive, between Morgan Street and Jefferson Street. This strategic location anchors the Channelside district, enhances walkability, and strengthens downtown connectivity. SPP says it will partner with Vinik Sports Group to operate the entertainment venue “and enhance the world-class events offered across Water Street Tampa.”
Designed for Rising and Mid-Tier Artists
With Benchmark International Arena, the Yuengling Center, and Raymond James Stadium already serving as Tampa’s major event destinations, the new venue fills an important gap. Its smaller size makes it ideal for touring artists, live concerts, and flexible bookings. The venue is designed for “rising and mid-tier touring artists,” thanks to its 3,500-seat capacity, adding diversity to Tampa’s live entertainment landscape.
Creating a Connected Entertainment Corridor
While the district will include new dining and shopping options, the main focus remains entertainment. The development is meant to complement Water Street Tampa’s existing restaurants and retail while establishing a new destination for live performances. With close proximity to the Tampa Riverwalk and Ford Thunder Alley, SPP believes the project will “establish a fully connected entertainment corridor for residents and visitors.” This vision enhances urban lifestyle, visitor experience, and downtown vibrancy.
Leadership Vision Behind the Expansion
“Water Street Tampa was designed to evolve, and this entertainment district is the next step in completing the larger vision,” said Josh Taube, CEO of Strategic Property Partners. “Water Street Tampa today is a dynamic neighborhood with waterfront, public spaces, residences, retail, hotels, and offices all connected through a walkable experience. This project activates the western edge of the neighborhood by adding an entertainment energy through live music and cultural experiences; strengthening WST as a preeminent destination.” His words underline the long-term vision, cultural growth, and city transformation behind the project.
Renderings and Timeline
Renderings courtesy Strategic Property Partners showcase a vibrant downtown entertainment district designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding neighborhood. Developers expect to break ground in 2027, marking another milestone in the Water Street Tampa expansion. Though still a few years away, the project promises to further transform downtown Tampa into a true entertainment hub driven by modern design, strategic planning, and economic growth.
Industry and City Support
“Fans will see more shows, more often, and with greater variety,” said Steve Griggs, Chief Executive Officer of Vinik Sports Group. “This district will strengthen the entertainment ecosystem surrounding the arena, forging the live entertainment center of Tampa Bay.”
“This Water Street expansion moves Tampa forward as a top entertainment destination,” said Tampa Mayor Jane Castor. “It strengthens tourism and creates new experiences for residents and visitors, all within steps of the Riverwalk and Convention Center.” These endorsements highlight the project’s role in boosting tourism, local economy, and regional identity.
With construction still ahead, anticipation is already building—could this entertainment district redefine how Tampa experiences live music and culture? Stay tuned, because the best is yet to come.
Are you on social media? Check out our profile for more local news! Follow @TampaLatest for up-to-the-minute updates in Tampa, Florida.
