Much of Florida gets a bad rap, conjuring images of pastel-wearing retirees (not that there’s anything wrong with that!). But there’s much more to it than that. On my last big Florida trip, I fell hard for Tampa, but this time around it was its sister across the bay: St. Petersburg. Considered by many to be a part of greater Tampa, it doesn’t always get the credit it deserves. But my recent visit had me changing my mind and ready to change yours too.
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What to Do in St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg has a rich arts history, surrounded by brick and mortar museums spanning all eras of art history as well as modern murals thanks to the annual Shine Festival. But the area around St. Pete is also known for its award-winning beaches and nature preserves, so don’t hesitate to get outside of the city.
The Dali Museum– Did you know that the largest collection of Salvador Dali’s work outside Spain is actually in Florida? It started as a private collection of an Ohio couple that turned into personal friends of the artist. They host fantastic exhibits from his contemporaries as well as events.
Chihuly Collection– While I found it to be on the expensive side, if you have a CityPass, this is a must. Admire the artist’s blown glass pieces at this gallery within the Morean Arts Center, which also offers classes.
Museum of Fine Arts– Traditional works from famous artists like Cezanne, Renoir, and Monet can be found alongside decorative arts, photos, and religious artifacts ancient cultures as well as rotating exhibits.
The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art– The newest addition to St. Pete’s museum scene is this museum that focuses on artwork and items connected to the American West. Native pottery, jewelry, and modern Western art are a few highlights of the collection.
Street art– It’s easy to do your own self-guided street art tour using this post from the visitor’s center, but the organization that coordinated many of these murals offers weekly tours for under $20.
Saint Petersburg Museum of History– Interested in learning more about the area, including its ties to baseball, aviation, and tourism? This museum has a 3,000 year-old mummy, signed baseballs, and photographs in its collection.
Weedon Island Preserve– Birding enthusiasts can explore this 3,000 acre preserve that was once inhabited by Native tribes. The cultural and national history center educates visitors with exhibits before hitting the boardwalks.
Fort De Soto Park– Voted one of America’s most beautiful beaches, made up of a few small islands. Take the opportunity to admire wildlife or relax on the white sand. Over 300 species of birds can be found in the park alone.
Tropicana Field– You can’t miss the unique design of the stadium that the Tampa Bay Rays call home. Catch a game if they’re in town, grabbing dinner nearby before you go.
Beaches– Every local has their own favorite beach, but Pass-A-Grille was my favorite on my last trip. But since it was a weekend, the streets were full of cars and instead we opted for St. Pete Beach, where we found a spot in the city lot. Madeira Beach and Treasure Island are also popular spots.
Where to Eat in St. Petersburg
There are so many trendy places to eat around St. Petersburg that you’ll struggle to decide where to go! The EDGE District in particular is full of them.
Bodega on Central– I’d heard this Cuban spot recommended by a few places and when I saw the crowd around the small seating area, I understood why. My mom had an authentic Cuban sandwich, while I had a pork sandwich topped with avocado and potato sticks.
Café Soleil– Our Airbnb host recommended this one, which was in a strip mall on the way to the beach. We planned on having a breakfast sandwich and saving our croissants for later, but they were so good we ate them all. Grab something to go and eat on the beach!
Locale Market– I ended up at this food hall type restaurant on my first visit to St. Pete after hangrily searching for something quick. I can’t remember what I had, but the restaurant was close to all the museums downtown.
Hawkers Asian Street Fare– While it is a local chain, the menu of this Asian food spot seems super authentic. I didn’t make it over there, but I could have easily eaten my weight in wontons, dumplings, and laksa.
URBAN Comfort– Did you know that Florida has Southern food? Fried chicken, pulled pork, and macaroni and cheese are among the favorites. They also have an excellent craft beer lineup and outdoor patio games.
Karma Juice Bar & Eatery– If you need to clean out the system, grab a juice from this downtown cafe. They also have salads, smoothies, and acai bowls.
Red Mesa Mercado– Also in EDGE, this spot has fast casual options all day including breakfast burritos, tamales, and empanadas that make tortillas fresh daily. They also serve Kahwa coffee that you can grab to go.
Kings Street Food Counter– Locals love the ping pong tables and games, but stay for the burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and milkshakes, which are the perfect way to cool down from a sweltering St. Pete afternoon.
The Getaway– What’s more Florida than a tiki bar? Located near Weedon Island, seafood dishes are the highlight here, including fish tacos and fried oysters. Tiki drinks are a must, including the painkiller, mai tai, and Hemingway daiquiri.
Where to Drink in St. Petersburg
No matter what beverage you’re into, you’ll likely find it in St. Pete. You’ll find a number of signs around town about a no straw initiative, so bring your own or skip it altogether!
Bandit Coffee Co.– This roaster and coffee shop sells beverages for you to enjoy and also contributes to the relief effort in Puerto Rico, so your purchase is a win-win!
Intermezzo Coffee & Cocktails– By day, it’s a minimalist coffee shop and by night it’s a cool cocktail lounge.
The Bikery Coffee & Bicycle Shop– Coffee lovers can also get their bike worked on while they enjoy a drink. They also carry pastries and, later in the day, beer and wine.
Grassroots Kava House– Kava is a traditional Pacific beverage that has become popular in St. Petersburg. They also have traditional tea if you’re not ready to sample the uniquely flavored drink.
Squeeze Juice Works– Another juice bar, Squeeze is the place to go if you’re avoiding booze or caffeine.
Green Bench Brewing Company– Easily the most well-known brewery on this side of Tampa Bay, the brewery focuses on IPAs and has a beer garden you can sip it in. The taproom is open daily except for Monday and has brewery tours on Saturdays.
3 Daughters Brewing– The massive brewery has plenty of space for you to enjoy your drink in and they also have live music and food trucks. The family-owned brewery has IPAs, pale ales, and even a line of ciders.
St. Pete Brewing Company– The first brewery I visited in town years ago, the downtown spot has IPAs, pale ales, and wheat beers brewed in-house as well as a few guest selections from neighboring breweries like Cigar City.
The Dog Bar– The name tells you all! This bar is a huge fenced yard where dogs are welcome to play. On and off leash areas are perfect for your pooch and multiple bars make it easy to grab a drink with your furry pal.
Right Around the Corner – Arcade Brewery and Craft Beer Bar– This bar combines old-school arcade games with local beer. The patio is also dog friendly.
Where to Shop in St. Petersburg
Browse for local goods and unique souvenirs at St. Pete’s many stores.
Brocante Vintage Market– These curated markets are held every month, so plan your visit accordingly. You might find home goods, furniture, and gifts.
Haslam’s Book Store Inc– The state’s largest book store has both new and used books and frequently hosts author events and signings.
ARTpool Gallery & Vintage Boutique– The eclectic store hosts monthly artisan and vintage markets and sells vintage clothing, comics, records, and handcrafted gifts.
St. Pete Records– Pick up a gently used album from your favorite artist of any genre as well as record players. Also explore Furnish Me Vintage, in the same building.
Where to Stay in St. Petersburg
Don’t limit yourself to downtown when it comes to a place to stay. St. Petersburg has so many neighborhoods to explore.
Postcard Inn– My top choice was this St. Pete Beach area boutique hotel, but in the end I opted for a rental. The decor is inspired by surf culture and is found in king and queen rooms as well as poolside cabanas.
Inn on the Beach– I stayed at this laid-back inn a few years back and loved the efficiency-style rooms with full kitchens and entertaining space. You also can’t beat the location, just across the street from Pass-A-Grille Beach.
Hotel Zamora– This Kimpton hotel is designed like one you might find on the Mediterranean, complete with one of the area’s best rooftop bars. Rooms and suites have walk-in showers and some even have balconies.
Thunderbird Beach Resort– I adore the vintage look of this Treasure Island resort. It has a large pool, tiki bar, and rooms include microwaves, refrigerators, complimentary WiFi, and coffee.
Avalon Hotel St. Petersburg / Downtown– This downtown hotel has also embraced its throwback signage but the interior is decorated brightly with Art Deco style. Guests also have access to the pool at The Hollander, the sister hotel.
Airbnb– My mom and I ended up staying at a super cute guesthouse in Gulfport, a neighborhood between downtown and the beaches. It had a nautical theme with a kitchenette, tv, and outdoor seating where you could hang out with their cats and chickens.
Camping and glamping- Fort Desoto State Park has campgrounds with over 200 sites. If you want something different than a standard tent, locally-owned Hitchtop Tents will deliver them to local campgrounds or you can borrow a vintage VW bus.
Getting Around St. Petersburg
Once you’re in town, it’s easy to park in one place and walk around. Parking is through meters in most parts, but typically end at 6 pm. The city has its own bike share program that helps you get around. Alternatively, use rideshare like Uber and Lyft.
I travel here often and am looking to try 3 Daughters Brewing on my next visit. Don’t forget all the great water sports in the area, my favorite is http://www.floridaadventurecruise.com.