The city is officially in festive mode — lights are glowing along the Riverwalk, holiday markets are popping up, and it somehow still feels like flip-flop weather. Whether you’re checking out a tree lighting, grabbing a seasonal cocktail, or just enjoying the cooler temps, we’ve got your scoop on what’s happening this weekend.

— Pat & Shannon Cooper

What’s Happening

Tampa City Council is preparing to vote on a new ordinance that would tighten rules for bicycles, electric bikes, scooters and similar riders on some of the city’s busiest multi-use trails — including popular spots like the Riverwalk and Bayshore Boulevard. The proposals are aimed at curbing risky rider behavior and creating clearer expectations for everyone sharing the pathways.

Why it Matters

With Tampa’s trails getting busier — especially during peak hours and on weekends — conflicts between pedestrians and faster-moving cyclists or e-bike/scooter riders have become more common. Proponents of the ordinance argue that new rules will improve safety and reduce close calls, especially in high-traffic areas where runners, walkers, strollers and riders all mix. A vote by City Council could bring fines or restrictions on certain behaviors, which would be a notable change for how trails are used and enforced.

The Big Picture

This effort is part of a larger trend in Tampa and other growing cities balancing micromobility growth with public safety. As e-bikes and scooters become more prevalent, local governments are grappling with how to regulate them on shared pathways that weren’t originally designed for motorized traffic. How Tampa addresses this — through speed limits, group size limits, or fines — could shape future trail access, impact rider behavior, and influence broader traffic and transportation planning in the region.

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Why It’s Worth a Visit

River’s Edge delivers one of the most scenic dining experiences in downtown Tampa. Located right on the Riverwalk with floor-to-ceiling windows and cool river views, this spot pairs modern American cuisine with beautiful waterfront vibes — perfect for brunch with friends, a relaxed lunch after a stroll, or a date night with sunset views. It’s casual but elevated, and you really soak in that downtown Tampa energy. 

What to Try

How We’re Feeling

River’s Edge gives classic Tampa vibes — relaxed daytime hangout or easygoing dinner spot with killer views. It’s not the highest-rated food destination in town, but for a scenic Riverwalk meal with friends, visitors, or a date, it’s a spot worth bookmarking. Think chill waterfront eats + good atmosphere, especially when the sun’s out and the river breeze is rolling.

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Waymo has started running its autonomous vehicles on public roads in Tampa as part of testing ahead of a future passenger service rollout, with humans onboard during the initial mapping phase. Full Scoop →

A new downtown Tampa high-rise development is set to include four waterfront restaurants, bringing more dining options along the Tampa Riverwalk and adding to the city’s expanding waterfront food scene. Full Scoop →

Plans are moving forward for a new downtown Tampa entertainment district near Water Street, featuring a 3,500-seat performance venue, a 250-room hotel, and roughly 100,000 sq ft of retail, dining, and entertainment space to boost live events and nightlife in the area. Full Scoop →

Students at Sullivan Partnership Elementary in Tampa got to pick out and take home five new books during their school’s first-ever book fair, part of the “If You Give a Child a Book” campaign that raised funds and donated nearly 2,400 books this year. Full Scoop →

A new report from the Florida League of Cities says proposals to eliminate or sharply cut property taxes could strain local budgets, widen gaps between wealthy and rural communities, and jeopardize funding for services in smaller, inland areas, even as state leaders debate how to replace the lost revenue. Full Scoop →

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If you’re near USF and looking for a beginner-friendly boxing or Muay Thai gym within ~20–30 minutes, locals consistently recommend these spots:

🥊 Tampa City Boxing (Seminole Heights)

A longtime favorite for beginners and experienced fighters alike. Great coaching, welcoming vibe, and solid fundamentals.

🇹🇭 Ybor City Muay Thai

One of the most respected Muay Thai gyms in the area. Authentic training, structured classes, and beginner-friendly despite producing serious fighters.

🥊 BoxFit Tampa (South Tampa & Wesley Chapel)

More fitness-focused boxing, perfect if you want technique + cardio without jumping straight into sparring.

🇹🇭 Tampa Muay Thai (Carrollwood)

Well-reviewed for fundamentals and beginner classes. Friendly environment with options to grow into more advanced training.

🥊 Title Boxing Club (Multiple Locations)

Not traditional fight training, but great for newcomers who want a boxing-inspired workout at a predictable monthly price.

💡 Pro tip: Most gyms offer a free trial or intro class — try a few to see which coaching style and vibe fits you best.

Have a gym you swear by? Reply and let us know — we love spotlighting local favorites 👀🔥

🗓️ 12/15
2 | Lightning
5 | Panthers

🗓️ 12/18
1 | Lightning
2 | Kings

🏒 Lightning v Hurricanes (12/20 @ 7:00 PM EST)
📍Benchmark International Arena | Tampa, FL

The Tampa Bay Sports Commission has appointed Lanness Robinson — a longtime Hillsborough County schools athletic director and former board chair — as its new executive director, succeeding Rob Higgins and set to start in January to lead efforts in attracting major sports events to the region. Full Scoop →

A new proposal in Clearwater calls for replacing the longtime Landings Golf Course with a stadium and larger sports complex, though no specific team or franchise has been tied to the project yet. Full Scoop →

78 🌡️ 50 | 🌤 | 7% | 💨WNW 10 mph

77 🌡️ 57 | 🌤 | 1% | 💨NE 6 mph

79 🌡️ 57 | 🌤 | 9% | 💨NNE 5 mph

Your support keeps The 813 Scoop growing — thank you, neighbors!

Pat & Shannon Cooper