Spend the Day at the Newly Transformed Coachman Park

The new Coachman Park in Clearwater recently underwent an $84 million makeover and reopened to the public in the summer of 2023. It connects the waterfront and the Downtown Clearwater community with renovations that include a new park space, gateway plaza, pedestrian promenade, scenic overlook, playground, splash pad, fountains, and performing arts venue.

Daily recurring events include health and fitness classes, yoga on the lawn, food and beverage experiences, exhibitors, children’s games, as well as activities and park amenities, walking trails, and more.

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Coachman Park is situated along the picturesque Clearwater Harbor, making it a perfect spot for a waterfront date day or night. Whether you’re looking to spend a sunny afternoon with your significant other or want a fun date night out, Coachman Park is the perfect place.

What is there to do at Coachman Park?

The Sound at Coachman Park

One of the biggest highlights of the park’s redevelopment is the 9,000-capacity covered outdoor performing arts venue called The Sound by Ruth Eckerd Hall. This massive amphitheater has already been named one of Clearwater’s best venues and offers both covered seating and open space on The Lawn. They’ve already welcomed some big names such as Gavin DeGraw, Cheap Trick, Colbie Callait, Ringo Starr, Alabama, and Goo Goo Dolls. Make sure to check out their site for a full schedule of events.

They do have food trucks and beer and cocktail stands at The Sound. Please note – all payments are cashless.

Although the venue is open-air, there is plenty of covered space and large fans to help beat the heat if you go during one of the warmer months.

The Green and Coachman Gardens

The large open area features a 19-acre park space for guests to wander and enjoy. On select days, you can stroll through the outdoor vendor markets to shop for local handmade goods. There is also a small stage on The Green where you can catch shows and performances during park events.

It’s the perfect spot for enjoying the beautiful weather and one of our top spots for a romantic picnic. You can roll out a blanket or take a seat at one of the park benches or picnic tables that face the water.

Gateway and Upper Plaza

A tree-lined gateway plaza and bluff walk connects the park to downtown Clearwater. The upper plaza area has a shaded pedestrian promenade overlooking the park, the Memorial Causeway Bridge, and Clearwater Bay. Coming soon – it will also feature a public art wall.

The Lake

The Lake is the main activity area of the park. The large body of water has two flowing fountains and a pedestrian bridge (tip: this is a great spot to pose for the ‘gram).

If you’re bringing kids along, they’ll love the pirate-themed playground. The structure features an assortment of different-sized open and closed slides, climbing structures, and a wooden bridge. The playground is surrounded by sand, giving it a true pirate island-style feel. Parents can relax in the lounge chairs in the sand under the awnings while the kids play.

Just in front of the playground, you can cool off by running through the large splash pad area or play a game of giant checkers or chess.

Know Before You Go

Parking

Parking can be tricky – we highly recommend planning your parking ahead of time, especially during the major events.

There are several public parking lots around Coachman Park and you can also get there via rideshare or public transportation (we recommend the Clearwater Ferry). If you park in a lot or garage further away from the park, parking shuttles are available. There is also street parking available (tip: be sure not to park in the Clearwater Main Library lot or you may get towed).

Visit their website to find out where you can pick up a parking shuttle, ferry, or find a lot.

Restrooms

There are public restrooms in the center of the park near the splash pad and in between The Sound and the Clearwater Main Library.

Beat the Heat

Though you’ll feel the ocean breeze from time to time, it’s an open-air space and the newly planted trees are still growing, which means shade is limited for now. There are several areas that have shade structures to provide some relief from the heat, as well as the splash pad to cool off, but be sure to pack plenty of water and sunscreen.

Special Events

Coachman will have regular and special events going on year-round, from music fests to movies on the lawn. Be sure to follow them on Facebook for event info and updates.

Want more local date ideas? Check out 40+ Best Things to Do in Tampa Bay this Month: Events and MORE