Things to do in St Petersburg

Andres

From Andres's guidebook

Catch a Tampa Bay Rays baseball game! The tickets are not too expensive and it's a great time. Make sure you get there a little early, hang out with the locals at Ferg's Bar and Grill for a snack, and make sure to check out the sting-ray tank on the second story inside the stadium.

Emily

From Emily's guidebook

Catch a baseball game at Tropicana field. Be sure to check out the stingray touch tank in right field! After the game, head to Fergs across the street for more game festivities.

Nicole

From Nicole's guidebook

Tampa Bay Rays during the summer, Enchant lights display during the holidays

Ryan

From Ryan's guidebook

St. Pete’s oldest living museum is a botanical paradise in the midst of the bustling city. The 100-year-old Sunken Gardens is home to some of the oldest tropical plants in the region. Meandering paths guide visitors through a living collection of more than thousands of plant species, tropical plants and flowers with lush demonstration gardens, cascading waterfalls, and a flock of flamingos.

Cheryl

From Cheryl's guidebook

Sunken Gardens is a beautiful, peaceful botanical oasis in St. Pete, featuring winding paths, waterfalls, tropical plants, and vibrant flamingos. It’s one of the oldest roadside attractions in Florida and a great spot for a relaxing morning walk, photos, or a quiet break from the beach. Easy to explore in about an hour, and perfect for all ages.

Hen

From Hen's guidebook

The Sunken Gardens are 4 acres of well-established botanical gardens, located in the Historic Old Northeast neighborhood of St. Petersburg, Florida, at 1825 4th Street North. The Gardens have existed for more than a century, and are one of the oldest roadside tourist attractions in the United States. The Gardens are now operated by the City of St. Petersburg, and maintained with the help of volunteers. Sunken Gardens are open to the public every day of the week. An admission fee is charged for entrance into the gardens and a yearly membership is also available. Sunken Gardens retains their historical interest as an important example of a 1930s Florida roadside commercial attraction, and is probably the oldest commercial tourist attraction on Florida's west coast. The Gardens are open to the public for educational programs, tours, and special events, particularly weddings which have taken place for decades on the Wedding Lawn, and in the banquet facilities in the Garden Room overlooking the unique garden setting.

Dirk & Erika

From Dirk & Erika's guidebook

Open 9-2 every Saturday from October through May. You'll find everything from handmade crafts to organic cheese and fun live music. There are a ton of food vendors as well, so you can wander and try out different things like local empanadas (I suggest the blue crab) and artisan popsicles. If you're in town on a weekend, DO NOT skip this!

Kourtney

From Kourtney's guidebook

Saturday morning market from 9-1pm. Incredible organic produce, plants, live music, & specialty items. Our must-buys: sourdough bread, kombucha, kraut, veggie chips, fresh hummus, salsa, guacamole, pickled jalapeños (mango is the best on tacos!!), & the home made vegan cheese is the best on the planet. We once changed our flight to be able to get some at the market!

Andrea

From Andrea's guidebook

The largest Farmers Market in the southeast United States, with over 170 vendors rotating through 135 spaces. An extraordinary selection of prepared food, great crafts, plants, flowers, and more.

Nexthome Beach Time Realty

From Nexthome Beach Time Realty's guidebook

The Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center is located upstairs at John’s Pass Village in Madeira Beach.Home to exotic pet surrenders and rescues, including 50 crocodilians, lizards, frogs, Sid the sloth, small mammals including 5 pigs, and aquatic life from around the world, plus more. It is your chance to feed and hold a gator!

Bridgit

From Bridgit's guidebook

Looking to check out some of Florida's scariest reptiles while they're still babies? This is the place for you. This center houses all sorts of rescued animals from alligators to tortoises.

Leah

From Leah's guidebook

14805 Gulf Blvd Madeira Beach, FL 33708 Mon-Sat-10am-6pm Sun-12pm-6pm “Another amazing feature of this cute little rescue reptarium was the ability to actually handle and smooch a gator!

Barbara

From Barbara's guidebook

The CHIHULY COLLECTION is a stunning, permanent collection of world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly’s unique artwork. This presentation is unique as it is the first installation of Chihuly art in a building designed specifically for that purpose. Designed so that the art and architecture work together to create a visitor experience unlike any other exhibition of Chihuly’s art. The Collection is marked at the entrance by an iconic 20 foot sculpture created especially for the site. The Collection includes Chihuly’s spectacular large-scale installations such as Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier created specifically for the Collection along with several popular series works including Macchia, Ikebana, Ni

Erin

From Erin's guidebook

Dale Chihuly's vibrant glass sculptures shine in this intimate gallery. Walk Central Avenue for all it's dining and shopping!

Shannon

From Shannon's guidebook

When it's ugly outside, set your eyes on The CHIHULY COLLECTION. A stunning, permanent collection of world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly’s unique artwork.

Adrienne

From Adrienne's guidebook

Exceptional collection of mostly modern Native American art and jewelry.

Nicole

From Nicole's guidebook

A newer museum to downtown, cool architecture, cafe. I believe Tuesdays offer a discounted rate, check the website for details.

Kristen

From Kristen's guidebook

A striking museum dedicated to the art of the American West and wildlife, featuring paintings, sculptures, and Native American jewelry.

Robert

From Robert's guidebook

Honoring the memory of millions of innocent men, women, and children who suffered or died in the Holocaust, the museum is dedicated to teaching members of all races and cultures to recognize the inherent worth and dignity of human life in order to prevent future genocides.

Brett

From Brett's guidebook

One of the largest Holocaust museums in the country--excellent immersive exhibits.

Kathleen

From Kathleen's guidebook

Family-friendly, with caution. Some displays may be emotionally intense for children.

Andrew

From Andrew's guidebook

The Dog Bar is a combination of an off-leash dog park and a full-service bar. Pups can enjoy over 4,500 square feet of fenced off-leash fun. The ground is covered with Astroturf for a cleaner and more comfortable play surface. A “Wooferee” will supervise the off-leash area during peak times to ensure that all our members have a safe, fun experience! A membership is required as well as proof of rabies and vaccinations. Ages 21 and up only.

Jennifer

From Jennifer's guidebook

The dog bar is so great for getting some love from your 4 legged friends. Drinks are reasonable and it is fun to be around other dog lovers! Bring your shots card and sign up to be a regular!

Andrea

From Andrea's guidebook

They have weekly events and a fun space to bring your dogs. Make sure to bring documentation of shots.

Jon

From Jon's guidebook

Located on the waterfront in St. Petersburg, Vinoy Park is a great spot to stay active during your trip. • 🏐 Beach volleyball courts • 🎾 Nearby tennis & pickleball courts • 🏊‍♂️ Public swimming pool close by • 🚶‍♂️ Waterfront walking & biking paths Perfect for getting outside, staying active, and enjoying the Florida sunshine by the bay. 🌞

Amber

From Amber's guidebook

This is our favorite park in St. Pete - just a 40 minute drive. Beautiful views with a great area for hammocks. Just relax and listen to music or even go for a bike ride (they have some you can rent along with scooters). Vinoy Park is close to the pier (about a 20 minute walk). We always see wildlife from Blue Crabs to dolphins and manta ray! There are usually ice cream trucks and stands along with a public restroom and playground.

James

From James's guidebook

Dolphins & pelicans! This and north shore beside it are great parks for tennis, volleyball, calisthenics, yoga, rollerblading and most importantly dolphin live here and chase fish up and down the seawall all day. Have a seat and soak it all in while dolphins, sting rays, manatee, sharks and fish swim by, birds dive and skim for food and the occasional small airplane takes off from Albert Whitted.

Joe

From Joe's guidebook

The St. Pete Pier was recently named the #2 new attraction in theThe St. Pete Pier was recently named the #2 new attraction in the country by USA Today. Come explore its 26 acres of sparkling Tampa Bay waterfront! Visitors will find waterfront restaurants, interactive areas for families, a marketplace of local artisans and vendors, a fishing deck, stunning public art and much more. Even more exciting: You can exPIERience almost all of it for free. country by USA Today. Come explore its 26 acres of sparkling Tampa Bay waterfront! Visitors will find waterfront restaurants, interactive areas for families, a marketplace of local artisans and vendors, a fishing deck, stunning public art and much more. Even more exciting: You can exPIERience almost all of it for free.

Matt

From Matt's guidebook

The St. Petersburg Pier, often simply referred to as "The Pier," is an iconic landmark in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. Overlooking the sparkling waters of Tampa Bay, this modern architectural gem serves as both a popular attraction and a functional public space. The Pier features a variety of dining options, shops, an interactive marine discovery center, and multiple recreational areas. With its panoramic views, art installations, and myriad of activities, The Pier is a testament to St. Petersburg's commitment to combining art, nature, and community engagement.

Michael

From Michael's guidebook

An absolute must if you are in St. Pete for your stay! The newly redesigned pier cost $100 million dollars and in our opinion was worth every dollar. With a beach, walking space, on-site museum, food, vendors, and roof top tiki bar the pier has everything you can ask for! Trust us, it is worth the walk to the top floor at the end of the pier, the view of the St. Pete skyline is breath taking!

Robert

From Robert's guidebook

Ft. DeSoto Beach, located off of St. Petersburg's southern tip, has been named the number one beach in the United States. Named after the historic fort located on the 900-acre county park, visitors can tour the five interconnected islands that comprise the park.

Shomari

From Shomari's guidebook

Located in Tierra Verde, Florida, is a stunning, often quieter section of the park known for its white sandy shores and clear waters. It's perfect for swimming, picnicking, and sunbathing, with scenic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and exploring nearby trails. North Beach is a peaceful and natural retreat within the larger Fort De Soto Park.

Kathleen

From Kathleen's guidebook

Beautiful natural beach, fishing pier, historic forts, some private beach spots, and a spectacular view of sunsets and the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

Carol

From Carol's guidebook

The Weedon Island Preserve has walking trails, boardwalks, a 45 ft observation tower and canoe rentals.

Rayna

From Rayna's guidebook

The Preserve encompasses 4.7 miles of natural and paved trails, boardwalks, and a 45ft. tall Observation Tower. Visitors may also experience the Preserve by renting kayaks or canoes on-site and paddling a 4-mile loop trail. Weedon Island Preserve is a well-known birding site and is included in the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.

Andres

From Andres's guidebook

(ATTN KAYAK HIDDEN GEM) The preserve offers a total of 4.7 miles of nature trails for hiking with 2 miles out of the total as boardwalks and paved trails that are ADA accessible, and the remaining 2.7 miles as natural trail loops. The 3,000 foot Tower Boardwalk trail leads visitors to a 45-foot tall observation tower, the tallest of its kind in Pinellas County. In addition to hiking, the preserve maintains a 4-mile, self-guided canoeing/kayaking loop called the South Paddling Trail. The path weaves through mangrove tunnels within the preserve and has access points to the bay. Visitors interested in exploring the paddling trail may bring their own vessels or take a tour through Ecomersion

Renee

From Renee's guidebook

Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is a serene slice of wild Florida right in St. Pete, offering miles of shaded trails through pine forests, lakes, and wetlands. It’s the perfect spot to see native wildlife while enjoying a peaceful walk or a scenic tram tour. There is a small donation fee to enter the park. Dogs aren’t allowed.

Hen

From Hen's guidebook

Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is a 245-acre protected area in St. Petersburg, Florida, Pinellas County, Florida. Boyd Hill Park was originally a zoo and botanical garden for the city of St. Petersburg. It has since come to include natural habitats and tropical landscapes along the shores of Lake Maggiore. The preserve is located on the shores of Lake Maggiore in south St. Petersburg. It is operated by St. Petersburg Parks and Recreation and includes the Boyd Hill Environmental Center, a bird-of-prey aviary, and more than three miles of trails through a variety of ecosystems. Facilities include a playground and picnic areas. The preserve is used for school field trips and hosts environmental education programs. It is located at 1101 Country Club Way South. The park is open 9-5, with longer hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the summer. It has strategically placed cold water stations around the park. There is a paved bike path that makes a loop through the park and just inside the park entrance, there is a wild bird aviary. There is also picnic area available for use, outside the park gates.

Lindsay

From Lindsay's guidebook

Protected nature preserve in South St Pete. Hike the nature trails. Look out for eagles, gopher tortoises, and gator in the spacious nature park. Hint, $3 admission per adult. Closed Mondays

Valentina

From Valentina's guidebook

(5 minute walk) Crescent Lake Park is a serene oasis perfect for relaxation, recreation, and connection with nature. The park features a 56-acre lake surrounded by a walking/jogging trail, shaded by oak trees and dotted with benches to soak in the views. Families and friends can enjoy a modern playground, new tennis/pickleball courts, and an open green grass for picnics. Whether you’re birdwatching, exercising, or simply unwinding by the water, Crescent Lake Park offers a peaceful escape just minutes from the heart of the city.

Andrew

From Andrew's guidebook

For more of a neighborhood dog park vibe, Crescent Lake is the spot to be. The dog park itself has awesome views of the lake and beautiful banyan trees. We recommend taking a long walk around Crescent Lake before or after the dog park for a relaxing and scenic view of ducks, otters, frogs, and an array of Florida birds all around. The dog park conveniently has designated small and large dog areas so your little fluff doesn’t have to worry about getting stomped on by your friends’ mini horse! Crescent Lake Park also has tennis courts, a baseball field, and a playground. Hours & Location Daily | 30 minutes before sunrise and closes 30 minutes after sunset

C B

From C B's guidebook

Many freshwater lakes in Florida are beautiful but dangerous for dogs. Assume there is an alligator in any freshwater lake, and do not allow your dog to swim in. Alligators consider dogs easy prey.

Dirk & Erika

From Dirk & Erika's guidebook

Best place to go for a run. Head out of the apartment and go right down 7th Ave until you hit the water. You can go north or south for several miles without having to worry about cars. Great views the entire way. Stay alert - this is the best place to see dolphins... although you're likely to hear them before you see them. Their blowholes make a distinctive pfft sound when they come up for air!

Zayden + Joah

From Zayden + Joah's guidebook

1 mile walk. This is the place to go. We recommend that you sit on the seawall and watch dolphins. Has a paved path all along the bay that goes to the main stretch of restaurants downtown. Great for walkers, bikers, runners, rollerbladers, etc. Also has the following: Beach volleyball nets, free outdoor fitness gym, a small beach (great close place to lay out if don't want to go out to the Gulf), open greens to read a book or throw a ball around, playground, city pool (for fee), picnic tables, benches...

Andrew

From Andrew's guidebook

If you’re all about the views, North Shore is your place for St. Pete dog parks. Not only can your pooch run around in the small or large dog area, but you can also soak up some beautiful scenery of Tampa Bay. The dog park at North Shore is a poppin’ place where a lot of the Downtown St. Pete apartment dogs are able to run freely. If your pup is up for it, after playing catch at the dog park, head down to the path along the Bay and you might even spot a dolphin or two!

Kim & Kurt

From Kim & Kurt's guidebook

Lovely and well-marked walking trails. This hidden gem is a wonderful shady park that’s worth multiple visits. The 2 miles of boardwalks are well maintained, and I always see turtles and alligators. There are plenty of armadillos on the back side, and even a dog run area. All free.

Carmen

From Carmen's guidebook

Half and hour from Avalon, a place to recharge in the nature. You may see alligators (depending on temperatures).

Jennie

From Jennie's guidebook

A great place to get out in nature. Boardwalks take you into the forest. Lots of wildlife and if you are lucky you will see alligators.

Ryan

From Ryan's guidebook

Local, intimate concert venue in the heart of downtown St. Pete.

Libby C

From Libby C's guidebook

Live Music- good national acts! BUT NO seating! So rest those ankles, knees, and hips pre-concert! Joey Brooklyns Pizza Slice FTW!

Nicole

From Nicole's guidebook

Check out Jannus Live concert venue while you are here. Some great bands come through this place and it is a small concert venue so it is more intimate than going to a big amphitheater.