Sims Park is a beloved riverside green space in New Port Richey, Florida, offering waterfront scenery, community events, and shaded walking paths.
Sims Park has served as the civic heart of New Port Richey for generations. Established in the early twentieth century, the park grew alongside the city itself, becoming a gathering place for residents during both everyday afternoons and milestone community celebrations. Its location at Grand Boulevard and Bank Street places it at the natural crossroads of downtown life.
The park's waterfront pier is one of its most appealing features, offering an unhurried spot to watch herons and egrets work the shallows of the Cotee River. The open lawn hosts the city's popular Chasco Fiesta festival each spring, a tradition that draws visitors from across the region to New Port Richey for parades and live entertainment. The bandshell stages concerts throughout the year, keeping the park lively after dark.
Families appreciate the well-maintained playground, while walkers and joggers trace the paved paths along the riverbank. For those who want to extend their outdoor day, Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park lies just a short drive away and offers miles of trails through natural Florida scrub.
Sims Park earns its place as a local favorite through its rare combination of natural beauty, community spirit, and easy downtown access, making it a rewarding stop for any visitor passing through Pasco County.
Visit on a weekend morning to catch the park at its most peaceful, before the afternoon heat sets in.
Check the city calendar before you go, as Sims Park hosts regular outdoor concerts and community festivals throughout the year.
Bring a fishing rod and try your luck from the pier, where redfish and snook are commonly spotted in the Cotee River.
Pack a picnic and claim a shaded spot under the live oaks for a leisurely lunch with a river view.
Pair your visit with a short walk through downtown New Port Richey, where local cafes and shops line the nearby streets.
Choose your bike and explore Pasco County trails at your own pace
Ride Pasco County trails and waterfront routes at your own pace
Pedal scenic Pasco County routes with a rental suited to your pace
Choose your ride and explore Brooksville’s scenic paved trails
Pedal Brooksville’s paved trails on the bike that fits your ride
Ride Brooksville's scenic paved trails on a bike or e-bike rental