An Insider’s Guide to Coachman Park in Clearwater, Florida
Since its opening in June 2023, Coachman Park has quickly become a centerpiece of Clearwater’s cultural and recreational scene. Here’s everything you need to know about getting there, staying up to date on the latest events, and insider tips for maximizing your visit.
All Coachman Park photos: courtesy of City of Clearwater
Located along the downtown Clearwater waterfront, set in view of the marina and the Memorial Causeway Bridge, Coachman Park is a 19-acre waterfront oasis that is a product of a recent $84 million makeover. What used to be an asphalt parking lot and lawn is now a lush public space and outdoor venue that features a state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue, expansive green spaces, playgrounds, and walking paths. The park hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including music festivals, food and wine events, cultural celebrations, and more.
WHAT TO DO AT COACHMAN PARK
Coachman Park offers a variety of amenities, all of which make up a perfect way to spend your day.
The Sound at Coachman Park
The centerpiece of the park, The BayCare Sound is a state-of-the-art outdoor music venue, offering world-class acoustics and a stunning backdrop for live performances. While the venue accommodates up to 9,000 people – 4,000 in the covered seating area, 5,000 more on the lawn – it’s designed to feel intimate with a layout that ensures good sightlines to the performers. In fact, after just a year of being opened, it was awarded the fourth-highest-grossing boutique concert venue (right behind Red Rocks). In the first year alone, it attracted such high-profile artists such as Gavin DeGraw, Ringo Starr, and Colbie Callait.
The Lake
This 320-foot-long picturesque body of water features two impressive fountains and is spanned by an overhead pedestrian bridge for a birds-eye view of the water. It’s flanked by two beloved family attractions: a pirate-themed playground and a year-round splash pad with four vertical fountains.
The Green
Located adjacent to The Sound is an open, rolling four-acre grassy space – simply known as The Green – that is the place for picnics, pick-up games, and local events. On the second Saturday of each month, it’s also the hub of The Market Marie, an outdoor market to shop local handmade goods from 125 area vendors. Edging the eastern edge of The Green, Coachman Gardens is a lush strolling area with walking paths peppered with palms and classic Florida vegetation.
The Baywalk Promenade
Overlooking the Clearwater Harbor Marina, this wide pedestrian area is home to public art and one of the best views of the sunset staining the sky over the Intracoastal.
Check Out the Roster of Events at Coachman Park
From live concerts featuring big-name artists to local cultural festivals and free fitness classes, there’s always something happening at the park. To stay in the loop, sign up for email or text updates through the park’s official website.
GETTING TO COACHMAN PARK
Driving and Parking at Coachman Park
If you’re going to Coachman Park for a concert or other big event, like a movie on the lawn or festival, we definitely recommend planning ahead for parking and traffic. There are plenty of nearby parking options within a five-minute walk, but a good place to try is “Lot 11” at 224 Pierce Street. Just steps from the park and with 153 spaces, it’s only $2 per hour to park between the hours 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. (after, it’s free) and there are also EV charging stations here. Additionally, street parking is available, but it can fill up quickly during events.
Take the Clearwater Ferry
If you’re staying in Clearwater Beach, for a more scenic and stress-free option, consider taking the Clearwater Ferry. The ferry operates to and from Coachman Park, Clearwater Beach, and Dunedin. The boat drops passengers off steps away from the main entrance to The BayCare Sound. Reservations are encouraged.
Take the Jolley Trolley
For that added “I’m on vacation” feeling, take the public trolley to Coachman Park. You can disembark at either the Osceola Cleveland Street stop or the Park Street Terminal, both of which are within walking distance of the park.
INSIDER TIPS FOR A PERFECT VISIT TO COACHMAN PARK
To make the most of your time at Coachman Park, here are a few insider tips:
Get There Early for Events
Popular events can draw large crowds, so arriving early not only secures you a good spot but also gives you time to explore the park’s amenities before the festivities begin.
Bring a Blanket or Lawn Chair
While there is seating available in the amphitheater itself, bring your own blanket or lawn chair for the lawn. Make sure your chairs are low-lying and don’t exceed 30 by 60 inches.
Check the weather
Floridians know: the weather can be unpredictable during summer evenings. We recommend checking the weather and packing a compact poncho or raincoat if there’s a chance of rain.
Coachman Park is Cashless
Save your cash for another day. Coachman Park operates as a cashless venue, meaning that all transactions for food, beverages, and other purchases must be made using credit or debit cards, or mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Stay Hydrated
Despite the nice bay breeze coming off of Clearwater Harbor, it can still get pretty hot, especially during summer events. Be sure to bring water or refillable bottles – there are hydration stations available throughout the park.
WHERE TO STAY NEAR COACHMAN PARK
Sandpearl Resort
With recently renovated guest rooms and suites, this Clearwater beachfront icon is perched along 700 feet of exquisite shoreline with signature amenities like elevated dining at Caretta on the Gulf, an Opal Spa, and a lagoon-style zero-entry pool that is the heart of the resort.
Opal Sands Resort
Featuring panoramic Gulf views and standing as a beacon of modern design, this contemporary Clearwater Beach retreat features generously-sized guest rooms and suites and restaurants and event venues overlooking stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Opal Sol
Coming in 2025, Clearwater Beach’s most exciting new hotel is an airy and inviting sanctuary offering several restaurant outlets, a full–service luxury Opal Spa, three pools, and direct access to the white sand beach that has been rated by USA Today as the “Best Beach in Florida.
Belleview Inn
Located in beautiful Belleair minutes from Clearwater, this thoughtfully restored inn features timeless design and world-class amenities – and once served as a vacation spot to royalty, former presidents, celebrities and more.
