If you've stumbled across this blog post, it likely means you're planning a trip to St. Petersburg, Florida. St. Petersburg, nicknamed Sunshine City, is between beautiful Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. To its west, the city is bordered by popular cities, small towns, and barrier islands, which make it an idyllic travel destination. Tampa and Clearwater are just a stone's throw away.
No destination in the US has laid-back, hippie beach vibes like St. Pete, Florida. Its groovy downtown is brimming with street art, boutique shops, award-winning beaches, museums, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. So, whether you're planning a solo trip, a family vacation, a bachelorette trip, or just want a great time, St. Pete has exciting things to add to your itinerary.
Read on to find 16 amazing things to do in St. Petersburg, Florida, for your trip in 2024!
St. Petersburg at a Glance
Here is a pint-size overview of everything you need to know to plan your St. Petersburg, Florida trip.
- When to Visit: The best time to visit St. Pete is from March to May. Summer (June-August) is very hot, with temperatures above 90 Fahrenheit.
- Popular Airports: For flights in Pinellas County, Tampa International Airport is the tourists' favorite. St Pete-Clearwater International Airport is another option with fewer flights.
- How to Get Around: The best ways to get around St. Pete are by car, bus, or private taxi. The city's main locations are connected through trolleys and ferries such as the Looper Trolley, Suncoast Beach Trolley, and Cross Bay Ferry.
- Where to Stay: From stellar hotels and luxurious resorts to laid-back bungalows, you're sure to find the perfect accommodation for your vacation. Sirata Beach Resort, Hollander Hotel, Hyatt Place St. Petersburg/Downtown, and The Cordova Inn are the best options.
- What to Pack: Not sure what to pack for your St. Petersburg trip? Essentials for your St. Pete packing list include swimsuits, sunscreen, hats, accessories, going-out tops, pool floats, sunglasses, beach towels, and comfortable walking shoes.
16 Amazing Things to Do in St. Petersburg, Florida
Below are some of the must-do activities in St. Petersburg, Florida!
1. Visit the St. Pete Pier
Start your St. Petersburg trip with a stroll along the St. Pete Pier! The all-new St. Pete Pier is the city's latest recreation area, with plenty to see and do. This 26-acre Pier stretches into Tampa Bay from downtown St. Petersburg and provides beautiful views of the bay and the city's skyline.
You can shop, dine, enjoy entertainment, picnic, or play sports along the Pier. There are activities for the whole family, such as walking around Benoist Centennial Plaza, unwinding on the Bayfront Health Tilted Lawn, or cooling off at the Splash Pad.
Other notable spots are the Bending Arc, a stunning net sculpture; Olnetopia, a water-inspired sculpture; and the Morning Star Mosaic. The best part about the Pier is its proximity to the beaches, which makes it a perfect stop before or after swimming or tanning. Get a quick bite at Driftwood Cafe or head to the rooftop Pier Teaki for a special dining experience.
Location: 800 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg. FL
Open Hours: 30 minutes before sunshine to 11 pm
2. Discover History at the St. Petersburg Museum of History
For those who want to learn about the history and heritage of St. Pete, look no further than the St. Petersburg Museum of History, the oldest museum in Pinellas County. The museum showcases the rich history of Sunshine City through photos, documents, and over 30,000 artifacts in its collection. It features the world's largest compilation of autographed baseballs, almost 4,999, including balls autographed by Fidel Castro and four US Presidents.
Its popular exhibits are Pathway to Eternity: Life, Death & Afterlife; The American Soldier: Conflicts, Shipwrecks, and the Homefront; and Sunshine City Gallery. The museum also hosts walking group tours and school field trips to learn more about the history on display.
For families, kids under six can enjoy free entry. This history museum is a great place to spend an afternoon and then enjoy a stroll on St. Pete Pier, which is located just nearby.
Location: 335 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, Florida
Open Hours: Mon-Sat: 10 am – 5 pm, Sun: 12 – 5 pm
3. Go To The Beach in St. Petersburg
Beachgoers, gear up! St. Pete Beach is named among the best beaches in Florida. This award-winning beach is located on Treasure Island, a barrier island down the coast of St. Pete. The pure white sands, gentle gulf waters, fantastic seafood, breathtaking views, and fun water sports make St. Pete Beach a must-go destination in St. Pete. The beach is easily accessible from downtown St. Petersburg, just 10 minutes away.
There are plenty of water-based activities for families, couples, and solo adventurers, including kayaking, parasailing, kiteboarding, windsurfing, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and boat tours. For more fun, head to Treasure Island Water Slide, the world's largest inflatable water slide.
On land, visit the beachfront restaurants and bars to try out the best seafood, or stroll along the waterfront to see the best sunset views. The barrier island that houses St. Pete Beach has various other beaches worth checking out on your trip. Pass-a-Grille Beach is a beautiful, untouched beach with powdery white sand and aquamarine waters.
Other popular areas around St. Pete Beach are Upham Beach, Madeira Beach, Redington Shores, Indian Shores, and North Shore Park Beach. If you want to extend your stay, this low-key beach town is home to several beachy hotels, like Don CeSar.
Location: St. Pete Beach, Florida
4. Explore the Sunken Gardens
For nature lovers, Sunken Gardens is a tropical paradise in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg, just a 20-minute drive from St. Pete Beach. Originally a 6-acre lake bed, this botanical hideaway was created by a local plumber as a hobby garden in the early 1900s. The fertile soil of the lake bed provides an ideal habitat for the botanical collection of The Sunken Gardens.
These scenic gardens have been vowing tourists for more than 100 years. Today, they are home to more than 50,000 tropic plants, flowers, and grasses. The garden is divided into different sections, like a cactus garden, a Japanese garden, a garden with Chilean flamingos, and a walk-through butterfly garden. You can visit its landscaped flowing ponds and miniature waterfalls and see the pink Florida flamingos. These gardens are perfect for destination weddings and family picnics.
Location: 1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL
Open Hours: Mon-Sat: 10 am – 4:30 pm, Sun: 12 – 4:30 pm
5. Wander Around Fort de Soto Park
St. Petersburg is home to an abundance of green spaces in which to relax or have a picnic. Fort de Soto Park, the largest public park in Pinellas County, is one of these green areas. This 1,100-acre park stretches over five islands (offshore keys) in front of the Mexican Gulf, Tampa Bay, or inland lakes.
Once used for military purposes, the park now has a historic fort, the Quartermaster Museum, and artifacts from its past. It also features wetlands, mangroves, meadows, forests, coastal areas, and abundant wildlife.
Moreover, this green space has over 7 miles of waterfront, two beaches, East Beach and North Beach, and two fishing piers. For outdoor lovers, there is a canoe trail for exploring water, nature trails for hiking, and a campground with high-end amenities. There's lots to explore here. You'll definitely love the place!
Location: 3500 Pinellas Bayway South Tierra Verde, FL
Open Hours: Daily, 7 am – sunset
6. Get Up Early for Saturday Morning Market
The best way to meet or support the locals in a new city is by visiting a market. Every Saturday, St. Petersburg hosts a open air market from 9 am to 2 pm. This is more than just shopping. Visitors can start their weekend with home-cooked meals, locally sourced produce, and live music.
The market comprises over 120 vendors selling various items, including handmade vegan popsicles, teas, coffees, fresh veggies, meats, and cheeses. In addition, there are food trucks and stalls serving freshly prepared international cuisine.
Buy locally made chocolates or jewelry from any artisan craft stall to take souvenirs of your visit to St. Petersburg. Street performers stroll along the walkways, entertaining children with giant bubble blowers or playing live music. This is an enjoyable, wholesome weekend activity in the town.
Locations:
- Summer (June-Sep)
350 2nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL
- Winter (Oct-May)
100 1st Ave SE, St. Petersburg, FL
7. Take a Tour of the Salvador Dali Museum
St. Petersburg is home to some amazing museums, almost 31, Salvador Dali Museum being one of them. Visit the Dali Museum to learn about the artistic history of Spanish artist Salvador Dali. The Spanish artist revolutionized the artistic world with his vivid style and surreal paintings.
The building's design, with its glass atrium known as the “Enigma,” is as creative as Dali's art.
The James Family Wing houses the museum's permanent collection of Dalí works, which includes 96 oil paintings, original drawings, book works, sculptures, holograms, prints, photos, manuscripts, and numerous documents. The museum also has exhibition areas, a center for avant-garde, gardens, and a cafe. Don't miss the Dali Alive 360°, a multi-sensory art experience with 360 degrees of light and sound.
Before you go, download the Dali Museum guide on Bloomberg Connect apps for a self-guided tour!
Location: 1 Dali Boulevard, St. Petersburg, Florida
Open Hours: Daily 10 am – 6 pm, Thursday: 10 am – 8 pm
8. Visit the Great Explorations Children's Museum
If you're in St. Petersburg for a family vacation, you shouldn't skip the Great Explorations Children's Museum. The museum offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities to engage and educate kids. Let your kids meet their inner architects as they design crazy contraptions.
They can experiment with the augmented reality sandbox, get their hands dirty at art stations, and play in a grocery store or vet's office. The popular exhibits are Steam Station, Morris' Busy Burg, Live On the Air, and My First Check-up. In addition, there are physical activities like jungle gyms and climbing nets. The museum also hosts fun events throughout the year. Your kids are sure to leave this place!
Location: 1925 4th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL
Open Hours: Mon-Sat: 10:30 am – 4 pm, Sun: 12 – 4 pm
9. Take a Bike Tour of Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
If you want to enjoy St. Petersburg's natural beauty, Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is a great place to visit. Located on the shores of Lake Maggiore, this nature preserve is a habitat for various plants and animals, including sand pines, native wildflowers, and turkey oaks. The preserve has different ecosystems, such as wetlands, pine flatwoods, swamp woodlands, and upland sand scrub habitats.
One of the most beautiful areas is the willow marshes, where you can see viceroy butterflies. Guided tours are available to help you learn more about this unique landscape. Being part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, Boyd Hill is a great spot for bird watchers. There are picnic tables for a lovely outdoor meal, overnight camping facilities, a playground for kids, and a gift shop.
We recommend taking the 2-hour bike tour to explore Boyd Hill. You'll see the most beautiful parts of the preserve and encounter wildlife like alligators and native birds. Mountain bikes are provided for the tour.
Location: 1101 Country Club Way S. St. Petersburg, FL
Open Hours: Mon: Closed, Tue-Sun: 9 am – 7 pm
10. Go to the Florida Holocaust Museum
Take your kids to the Florida Holocaust Museum, one of the largest Holocaust museums in the country. It is an important place to learn about the tragic events of World War II, including the horrors of the Holocaust and the persecution of European Jews.
The museum was founded in 1992 by Walter P. Loebenberg, a philanthropist and local businessman who escaped Nazi Germany, moved to Florida, and later joined the US Armed Forces during WWII.
It houses one of the last Nazi boxcars, providing an in-depth look at this dark chapter in history. The main exhibit, “History, Heritage, and Hope,” explains the events leading up to the Holocaust and the historical context that allowed it to happen.
The museum features artifacts, photos, and discussions about life before the war and the rise of Hitler. The Florida Holocaust Museum honors survivors who stand against hate and injustice and inspires hope for a better future.
Location: 55 Fifth Street South, St. Petersburg, FL
Open Hours: Mon: Closed, Tue-Sun: 10 am – 5 pm
11. Go Fishing at Skyway Fishing Pier State Park
Skyway Fishing Pier State Park is the longest fishing pier in the world. When the new Sunshine Skyway Bridge was constructed over Tampa Bay in the mid-1980s, the Old Bay Bridge was left for local anglers. Anglers from around the globe come here for great catches and a memorable pier experience. The Pier connects St. Petersburg with Sarasota, a city south of Tampa on Florida's Gulf Coast.
Here, you'll enjoy great views and can catch fish like snook, tarpon, Spanish mackerel, red snapper, grouper, cobia, and spotted sea trout. You can buy bait at the Pier or bring your own. The Pier is open 24/7 and is lit up at night, making nighttime fishing popular. When hunger strikes, get some snacks and drinks along the Pier. It is a perfect place for a family outing.
Location: 4905 34th St. South #5000, St. Petersburg, FL
12. See the Chihuly Collection at Morean Arts Center
The Morean Arts Center is a contemporary art space on Central Avenue in St. Petersburg. It is open daily and hosts an artist-in-residence program, art classes, events, and parties.
The Chihuly Collection is a popular exhibit at the center. Here, you'll find the first permanent collection of works by American artist Dale Chihuly, known for his colorful glass creations. The gallery features a special 20-foot sculpture made just for this place.
The center also features the Glass Studio, the Hot Shop, and the Bank of America Children's Learning Center. Admission is free, so it's a great idea to take a class or explore the artwork while you're in the city. It is one of the best cultural activities you can do in St. Petersburg.
Location: 719 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, Florida
Open Hours: Sun: Closed, Mon-Sat: 10 am – 5 pm
13. Visit Vinoy Park
Located next to the Vinoy Park Hotel, Vinoy Park is perfect for morning walks, picnics, rollerblading, or biking. Even if you don't have your own bike, you can rent one in St. Pete! If biking isn't your thing, consider taking a Segway tour through the park.
This waterfront park hosts big outdoor events like the Tampa Bay Blues Festival, St. Petersburg's Ribfest, Reggae Rise Up, Speed Car Show festivals, food festivals, concerts, and triathlons all year round. The park has a swimming area, playgrounds, picnic tables, and trails for walking or biking. You might even see dolphins swimming in the water!
The refreshing breezes from the bay and the breathtaking sea views are sure to inspire you to spend some hours here.
Location: 701 Bayshore Dr. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Open Hours: Mon-Sun: 6 am – 11 pm
14. Catch a Game at Tropicana Field
For sports fans looking to catch a baseball game in St. Pete, there is no other place than Tropicana Field. The stadium is home to the Tampa Bay Rays, a Major League Baseball team.
Tropicana Field is a multi-use sports arena in the city with everything you need, like parking, drinks, food, and souvenirs. Its indoor dome also lets fans escape the summer heat and humidity, which can be uncomfortable in outdoor stadiums.
In addition to baseball games, it has hosted college football, basketball, and professional hockey tournaments. When you get bored of the game, you can play your own sports at Ballpark & Rec, located inside The Trop.
Check out the schedule to see what events are happening at Tropicana Field while you're in St. Petersburg!
Location: 1 Tropicana Dr, St. Petersburg, FL
15. Shop Till You Drop
When you're ready to take a break from the beach, go shopping in St. Pete. Stroll along streets, browse shops, and find the best options for that perfect souvenir. St. Pete is full of local vendors, artists, and lively markets. Here are some of the best shopping spots in St. Pete:
- Corey Avenue: Known as the shopping hub of Saint Pete Beach, Corey Avenue features older stores with beach decor, knick-knacks, and souvenirs. It is a charming spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
- John's Pass: John's Pass Village and Boardwalk is a lively outdoor shopping area with great dining options. You can find everything here, from clothing and jewelry to collectibles, sweets, and more. You can take a free beach ride from St. Pete or Clearwater to get there.
- Central Avenue: Downtown Central Avenue is famous for its food and shopping scene. After a day at the beach, unwind with retail therapy at shops like Brutique, The Rock Shop, Ashe Couture, and more. Explore local boutiques and galleries while enjoying food from nearby bars and restaurants throughout the year.
16. Go Bar Hopping in St. Petersburg
At night, downtown St. Pete comes to life. Head downtown if you want cool music, big drinks, and a place to dance. The great Florida weather means there are plenty of cool beach bars, rooftop lounges, and hip bars with outdoor seating, where it's always happy hour! Whether you love craft beer and cocktails or just want to relax with friends, there's a bar for you.
Here are some of the best bars in St. Pete:
- The Canopy Rooftop Lounge: Located on top of The Birchwood Hotel, The Canopy offers amazing views of downtown and Tampa Bay.
- The Mandarin Hide: This stylish, speakeasy-inspired bar offers a wide range of creative cocktails.
- Park & Rec: A lively bar with a retro arcade. Play classic games while enjoying craft cocktails or local beers. It's a hit with both locals and visitors.
- The Ale and the Witch: A cozy spot for craft beer lovers, with many beers on tap, including local brews.
- Tryst Gastro Lounge: Known for its chic atmosphere, Tryst offers handcrafted cocktails and a large selection of wines.
Where to Eat in St. Petersburg
From traditional seafood joints to trendy farm-to-table bistros, St. Pete is brimming with Florida's best restaurants. These eateries serve local flavors, international cuisine, and fresh produce.
Located on Beach Drive, this trattoria offers scenic waterfront views paired with delicious Italian cuisine. The restaurant is a good choice for lunch and dinner. Must-try dishes include Bella Bruschetta, Stuffed Gnocchi alla Vodka, Ravioli Genovese, and Cacio e Pepe. You'll also love their pistachio cannolis and sangria.
For those craving Mexican flavors in St. Pete, Grand Hacienda is a popular breakfast, lunch, and dinner option. They have different locations in the town; we suggest the one on the beach strip. Their popular dishes are queso, guacamole, Los Cabos nachos. In sweets, churros with ice cream are amazing.
This French cafe, located adjacent to Beach Drive, has the vibe of a classic brasserie on the French Riviera. Dine al fresco and enjoy a croissant sandwich, a pitcher of mimosas, orange mini muffins, and chicken cordon bleu. The cafe is open for lunch and dinner.
Final Words
There you go! St. Petersburg is a fantastic destination to create some unforgettable memories. This Floridian slice of paradise welcomes all history buffs, nature lovers, art aficionados, adventure-seekers, sports fans, anglers, or anyone looking to have a good time.
We hope our list of amazing things to do in St. Petersburg has helped you plan your travel itinerary. Which one is your favorite? Did we miss any activity? Whichever it is, let us know! Happy Travels!
I’m Steve. I’m an English Teacher, traveler, and an avid outdoorsman. If you’d like to comment, ask a question, or simply say hi, leave me a message here, on Twitter (@thefrugalexpat1). Many of my posts have been written to help those in their journey to financial independence. I am on my journey, and as I learn more I hope to share more. And as always, thanks for reading The Frugal Expat.
