Hotel Tampa Riverwalk in Tampa, FL

We paid extra for the hotel’s “Upgrade Your Stay” promotion, which advertised an upgrade to the next room tier upon check-in, subject to availability. Prior to arrival, I called the hotel to confirm the terms, and a front desk agent verified that if the next room tier was available at check-in, we would be upgraded at no additional charge. At check-in, I asked about the upgrade and was told that next-tier rooms were available, but that an additional $60 fee would be required to upgrade. When I explained that the upgrade had already been purchased as part of the promotion, the front desk agent confirmed that the promotion was on our reservation but stated that we did not qualify for any upgrade regardless of availability. In other words, the hotel acknowledged that we paid for the upgrade but refused to honor it unless we paid more. This was disappointing and felt misleading. Based on this experience, I would recommend carefully reviewing promotional offers and confirming expectations in writing before booking.

Mixed feelings about our stay. The hotel has a great location with a beautiful view of the river and boardwalk, which is definitely its strongest point. We will never come back here! That said, our experience had several downsides. Due to the noise (Room 219) we requested to move to a higher floor. We were charged $60 for the change... We stayed in room 509, and the A/C was extremely noisy all night, making it even harder to sleep. After 11:00 PM there was no one available at the front desk to complain or request assistance. On top of that, when neighboring guests leave their rooms, the doors slam very loudly and if you were falling asleep...it will wake you up. The boardwalk performers use speakers, and the noise can be heard clearly inside the room even with the sliding doors closed. Housekeeping also does not line trash cans with bags, which felt a bit careless. There is no self-parking, which is inconvenient. Unfortunately, the front desk staff were not very friendly. Both in the morning and evening, they came across as sarcastic, almost as if we were impaired. They did not explain hotel amenities at all, leaving us to figure out what was available on our own. The only thing they actively promoted was the restaurant. For the price, if you don’t mind outside noise, loud A/C, and limited service, the hotel is do-able, mainly because of the location. However, it definitely fell short of expectations in comfort and customer service. Hidden fees on your receipt like $47.30 per day for Valet Parking when there are no signs indicating the cost... plus an Amenity fee of $25.00 per day when they don't event tell you what the amenities are. There is no microwave in the room, FYI...

The highlight was by far Joseph behind the pool bar. Great drinks, friendly conversation and good music! Highly recommend a visit if you are on the Riverwalk!

Joseph at the pool bar was so fun and on top of the service. He made our whole experience that much more enjoyable and we were able to relax and enjoy our drinks poolside

Joseph is the best bartender ever!! A must do for every Tampa trip!!! Clean bar and great time!! Great drinks and service! Will be back!