St. Petersburg FloridaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near St. Petersburg, Florida.
1. The Dalí Museum
SURREALIST ART LANDMARK
The Dalí Museum showcases one of the world's most comprehensive collections of works by Salvador Dalí, featuring surrealist paintings, sculptures, and avant-garde installations. The striking waterfront building, with its glass 'Enigma' structure, is itself a piece of architectural wonder. Interactive exhibits and a tranquil garden make this museum an essential cultural highlight for art lovers and curious travelers alike.
2. St. Pete Pier
VIBRANT WATERFRONT DESTINATION
St. Pete Pier spans 26 acres along Tampa Bay, offering visitors attractions such as waterfront parks, interactive public art, and multiple restaurants. Its long pier is perfect for strolling, fishing, and soaking up scenic views, while a tram service ensures easy access for everyone. Family-friendly features like a splash pad, playground, and the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center deliver a complete urban coastal experience.
3. Sunken Gardens
HISTORIC TROPICAL OASIS
Sunken Gardens is a lush, century-old botanical paradise featuring winding paths through more than 50,000 tropical plants, flowers, and cascading waterfalls. This historic garden provides a tranquil retreat with exotic flora, shaded seating, and vibrant birdlife. Educational programs and special events enhance the appeal, making it a favorite for nature enthusiasts and families.
4. Chihuly Collection
DAZZLING GLASS ART
The Chihuly Collection displays an impressive array of Dale Chihuly's large-scale, colorful glass sculptures in a modern gallery setting. Visitors are captivated by the vibrant installations, each thoughtfully presented to highlight the artistry and innovation of contemporary glass. The on-site glass studio also offers live demonstrations, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process.
5. Fort De Soto Park
EXPANSIVE BEACHFRONT PARK
Fort De Soto Park encompasses over 1,000 acres of pristine beaches, nature trails, and historic fort ruins along the Gulf of Mexico. Renowned for its calm swimming areas, birdwatching, and kayaking opportunities, the park is a haven for outdoor recreation. Historic sites, a fishing pier, and panoramic views of the surrounding waters make it a standout destination for nature lovers and history buffs.
6. Museum of Fine Arts
ART THROUGH THE AGES
The Museum of Fine Arts in downtown St. Petersburg features a diverse collection spanning 5,000 years, including European masterpieces, ancient artifacts, and contemporary pieces. Elegant galleries, rotating exhibitions, and a scenic waterfront location enhance its cultural appeal. Visitors also enjoy a tranquil sculpture garden and an inviting café for a complete artistic outing.
7. Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
WILDLIFE AND WILDERNESS
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve offers a natural escape within the city, featuring over 245 acres of trails through pine flatwoods, marshes, and lakeshore environments. The preserve is home to diverse wildlife, including birds of prey, alligators, and turtles, which can be observed on guided tram tours or from boardwalks. Educational programs and a hands-on Nature Center make it ideal for families and eco-enthusiasts.
8. Sunshine Skyway Bridge
ICONIC SUSPENSION BRIDGE
The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is a breathtaking, cable-stayed span stretching across Tampa Bay, renowned for its striking architecture and panoramic views. Visitors can admire the bridge from various waterfront parks or drive across its soaring heights for an unforgettable experience. Its scenic overlooks and popular fishing piers make it a favorite photo spot and a gateway to the region.
9. Florida Holocaust Museum
POWERFUL HISTORICAL TRIBUTE
The Florida Holocaust Museum presents poignant, thought-provoking exhibits chronicling the history and lessons of the Holocaust. Its extensive artifact collection, including a boxcar from Poland, immerses visitors in powerful personal stories. The museum's educational programming and permanent installations foster reflection and understanding.
10. Vinoy Park
SCENIC BAYFRONT PARK
Vinoy Park is a spacious, waterfront green space in downtown St. Petersburg offering sweeping views of Tampa Bay, walking paths, and shaded picnic areas. The park regularly hosts festivals and outdoor concerts, drawing both locals and visitors. Its open lawns and palm-lined vistas make it perfect for relaxation, exercise, or social gatherings.
11. Great Explorations Children's Museum
INTERACTIVE LEARNING HUB
Great Explorations Children's Museum inspires young minds with hands-on exhibits focusing on science, creativity, and real-world exploration. From pretend play areas to educational workshops, the museum creates a dynamic environment for curious kids and families. Special programs and rotating exhibits encourage learning through play all year round.
12. Tropicana Field
MAJOR LEAGUE BALLPARK
Tropicana Field is the legendary indoor stadium and home to the Tampa Bay Rays Major League Baseball team. With its distinctive dome, lively fan atmosphere, and unique features like a touch tank with live rays, it offers excitement beyond the ballgame. Visitors appreciate the convenient location near downtown and a full calendar of sports and entertainment events.
13. Weedon Island Preserve
PRISTINE NATURE GETAWAY
Weedon Island Preserve stretches across 3,000 acres of protected coastal ecosystems, featuring boardwalks, observation towers, and ancient archaeological sites. Kayaking through the mangrove tunnels is a highlight, offering a close look at local wildlife and serene waters. An educational center provides insight into the area's history and ecology.
14. Mahaffey Theater
PREMIER PERFORMING ARTS
Mahaffey Theater is the city's top venue for world-class music, dance, and theater, located on the downtown waterfront. The elegant auditorium hosts everything from Broadway tours and ballet to popular music acts and comedy shows. Its striking architecture and excellent acoustics make every performance memorable.
15. Florida Botanical Gardens
BOTANICAL PARADISE NEARBY
Florida Botanical Gardens in nearby Largo features 100 acres of lush gardens, native landscapes, and themed sections like butterfly and cactus gardens. Meandering pathways and seasonal displays create a peaceful retreat for plant lovers and photographers. The gardens host educational workshops and festive events throughout the year.
16. Madeira Beach
SUN, SAND, AND SURF
Madeira Beach, a popular barrier island just west of St. Petersburg, boasts powdery white sands and calm Gulf waters ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and shelling. The beachfront John's Pass Village offers vibrant shops, seafood eateries, and water sports rentals. Frequent dolphin sightings and a lively boardwalk atmosphere make it a favorite getaway for visitors.