Skip to main content
Riverview Civic Center and Boat Ramp picnic ground in Riverview, FL
Photo: Athol Tulloch
View of Riverview Civic Center and Boat Ramp in Riverview, FL
Photo: Jamie Coderre
View of Riverview Civic Center and Boat Ramp in Riverview, FL
Photo: Vinny Farrell

Riverview Civic Center and Boat Ramp

4.3(248 reviews)$Park
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 5 and up. Elementary and middle school kids will enjoy the basketball courts and organized activities, while teens appreciate the fitness facilities. Younger children can enjoy picnic areas and family events, though there's limited toddler-specific equipment.

About

Riverview Civic Center and Boat Ramp is a versatile community hub that offers families a mix of indoor and outdoor activities year-round. With basketball courts for active play, fitness facilities, picnic grounds, and waterfront access via the boat ramp, it's perfect for families who want multiple activity options in one spot. The center regularly hosts family-friendly events, classes, and seasonal programs that bring the community together.

Highlights

  • Full-size basketball courts for pickup games and practice
  • Waterfront boat ramp access for fishing and water activities
  • Spacious picnic grounds perfect for family gatherings
  • Year-round community events and seasonal programs for all ages
  • Meeting rooms that host children's classes and activities

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Check the civic center's event calendar before visiting,they host seasonal festivals, movie nights, and family programs that are often free or low-cost
  2. 2.Arrive early on weekends when basketball courts tend to fill up with local youth leagues and pickup games
  3. 3.Bring a picnic to enjoy at the outdoor grounds, especially if you're planning to use the boat ramp area for fishing or nature watching
  4. 4.Pack sunscreen and water bottles,the Florida sun can be intense, especially during outdoor activities and events
  5. 5.The boat ramp area is great for teaching kids about local wildlife and birds, even if you're not launching a boat

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (8:00-11:00 AM) are ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying cooler temperatures. Fall through spring (October-April) offers the most comfortable weather for outdoor activities, while summer visits are best scheduled for early morning or late afternoon.

What to Know

The facility is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM with free admission, though some classes and programs may have registration fees. Parking is available on-site, and while there's no on-site café, the picnic grounds make it easy to bring your own food.

Seasonal Notes

The civic center hosts special holiday events during Halloween, Christmas, and summer break, including movie nights and festivals. Summer months can be extremely hot and humid, making indoor facilities more appealing. Hurricane season (June-November) may occasionally affect outdoor events and boat ramp access.

Nearby Eats

Big Bend Cafe (about 2 miles away) offers classic American comfort food with a kids' menu in a casual atmosphere. For quick bites, Wawa convenience store nearby has fresh sandwiches and snacks perfect for picnics at the civic center.

More Activities Near Riverview

Park

Summerfield Crossing Boulevard

Free

Summerfield Crossing Boulevard Park is a spacious neighborhood gem perfect for families looking to spend quality outdoor time together. With its impressive playground equipment, shaded pavilions for comfortable picnicking, and open fields ideal for running and playing, this park offers everything needed for a fun-filled family outing in Riverview.

Park

McMullen Loop

Free

McMullen Loop is a versatile community park in Riverview that offers something for every family member. With its combination of playground equipment, sports facilities, and shaded areas, it's an ideal spot for everything from active play to relaxed family picnics. The walking paths make it easy to bring strollers, and the variety of activities means kids of different ages can all find something they enjoy.

Ice Cream

Krazy Kup

4.6$$

Krazy Kup is a beloved local ice cream parlor where families gather for hand-dipped ice cream, frozen yogurt, and over-the-top sundae creations. With a welcoming atmosphere and occasional live music events, it's more than just a sweet treat stop,it's a community gathering spot that makes every visit feel special for kids and parents alike.

Nature

Bell Creek Nature Preserve

4.5Free

Bell Creek Nature Preserve offers 600 acres of Florida wilderness perfect for introducing kids to the outdoors. The well-maintained boardwalks and trails make it accessible for little legs, while wildlife viewing platforms give families front-row seats to spot turtles, birds, wading herons, and maybe even alligators from a safe distance.