{"id":333107,"date":"2026-07-08T13:56:12","date_gmt":"2026-07-08T13:56:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/333107\/"},"modified":"2026-07-08T13:56:12","modified_gmt":"2026-07-08T13:56:12","slug":"the-best-activities-and-things-to-do-in-st-pete-attractions-museums-and-local-favorites","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/333107\/","title":{"rendered":"The best activities and things to do in St. Pete: Attractions, museums, and local favorites"},"content":{"rendered":"

<\/a><\/p>\n

Whether you\u2019re a first-time tourist or a local looking for a fresh way to explore the city, these picks highlight the best of what Tampa Bay has to offer. Explore iconic St. Petersburg attractions, family-friendly activities, cultural institutions, and scenic waterfront experiences that make the Sunshine City one of Florida\u2019s most popular travel destinations.<\/p>\n

Explore the best of St. Pete and Beyond the Burg<\/p>\n

Planning your itinerary? From waterfront strolls and beach days to museums, markets, and outdoor adventures, these are the top things to do while you\u2019re visiting St. Pete. Whether you\u2019re traveling with family, exploring as a couple, or flying solo, St. Pete has something for everyone.<\/p>\n

\"a\"aPhoto via St. Pete Pier<\/p>\n

The St. Pete Pier<\/p>\n

600 2nd Ave NE
No visit to St. Pete is complete without a stroll through the St. Pete Pier. Stretching into Tampa Bay, it offers some of the city\u2019s best sunset views and sweeping skyline scenery. Visitors can enjoy waterfront dining, take the kids to Spa Beach and the splash pad, or explore the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center and St. Petersburg Museum of History. From morning strolls to sunset drinks, the Pier is one of the city\u2019s top attractions.<\/p>\n

Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts \u2013 The Mahaffey Theater<\/p>\n

400 1st St S
For live entertainment in downtown St. Pete, The Mahaffey Theater is one of the city\u2019s premier cultural venues. Overlooking Tampa Bay, the performing arts center hosts Broadway productions, concerts, comedy shows, dance performances, and family-friendly events throughout the year.\u00a0<\/p>\n

\"The\"The<\/p>\n

The Dal\u00ed Museum<\/p>\n

1 Dali Blvd
One of the most iconic St. Pete museums, The Dal\u00ed Museum houses the largest collection of Salvador Dal\u00ed\u2019s work outside of Spain. Located along the downtown waterfront, the striking museum features paintings, sculptures, and immersive exhibits that showcase the surrealist artist\u2019s imaginative world.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Morean Arts Center<\/p>\n

719 Central Ave
A cornerstone of St. Pete\u2019s arts scene, the Morean Arts Center showcases rotating exhibitions, hands-on classes, and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. Guests can watch live glassblowing demonstrations at the Glass Studio or explore galleries featuring works from local and national artists.<\/p>\n

Zubrick Magic Theatre<\/p>\n

1211 1st Ave N
For one of the most unique and fun things to do in St. Pete, catch a show at the Zubrick Magic Theatre. Illusionists Chris and Ryan Zubrick blend sleight-of-hand, family-friendly comedy, and grand-scale illusions in an intimate theater setting that puts audiences close to the action. The 70-minute performance offers an unforgettable night of entertainment for families, couples, and anyone looking for something different in downtown St. Pete.<\/p>\n

\"Flamingos\"Flamingos<\/p>\n

Sunken Gardens<\/p>\n

1825 4th St N
One of St. Pete\u2019s most beloved attractions, Sunken Gardens is a lush tropical oasis filled with exotic plants, winding pathways, and cascading water features. This 100-year-old botanical garden began as an Old Florida roadside attraction and remains an oasis tucked away in the historic Old Northeast neighborhood. Home to thousands of tropical plants, colorful blooms, and its famous flamingo flock, Sunken Gardens offers visitors a chance to slow down and experience one of St. Pete\u2019s most unique natural attractions.<\/p>\n

The Chihuly Collection at the Morean Arts Center<\/p>\n

720 Central Ave
Home to a stunning permanent collection of glass art, the Chihuly Collection showcases the work of renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. The museum features vibrant installations, intricate sculptures, and larger-than-life pieces that highlight Chihuly\u2019s innovative approach to glass.<\/p>\n

Vertical Ventures<\/p>\n

116 18th St S
For active things to do in St. Pete for adults and kids, Vertical Ventures offers indoor rock climbing for all skill levels. The expansive climbing gym features top-rope walls, bouldering areas, lead climbing routes, and classes for beginners and experienced climbers alike. Whether you\u2019re planning a family outing, looking for a unique date idea, or simply wanting to try something new, Vertical Ventures provides a fun experience for visitors of all ages.<\/p>\n

\"An\"An<\/p>\n

Great Explorations Children\u2019s Museum<\/p>\n

1925 4th St N
Great Explorations Children\u2019s Museum is one of the best things to do in St. Pete with kids<\/a>, offering hands-on exhibits designed to spark creativity, curiosity, and learning through play. The museum features interactive science, art, and role-play areas where children can explore, build, and discover at their own pace. With engaging activities for a wide range of ages, it\u2019s a go-to destination for families looking for a fun and educational outing.<\/p>\n

The St. Pete Mural Tour<\/p>\n

501 Central Ave
Florida CraftArt\u2019s St. Pete mural tours<\/a> offer a vibrant way to explore the city\u2019s thriving public art scene, showcasing colorful large-scale works throughout downtown. Available as both walking and bike tours, it gives visitors a way to experience the murals up close while learning the stories behind the artists and the creative movement that shaped them.\u00a0<\/p>\n

Museum of Fine Arts<\/p>\n

255 Beach Dr NE
The Museum of Fine Arts features a diverse collection spanning centuries and continents. Located along the downtown waterfront, it showcases rotating and traveling exhibitions, making it a standout stop for anyone wanting to explore St. Pete\u2019s arts scene. Make sure to check out Caf\u00e9 Clementine in the museum\u2019s beautiful atrium for a coffee and some of the best pastries in town.<\/p>\n

\"a\"aphoto by Andrew Harlan<\/p>\n

Vinoy Park<\/p>\n

701 Bayshore Dr NE
One of St. Pete\u2019s most scenic waterfront green spaces, featuring the historic Vinoy Hotel. Its wide walking paths offer sweeping views of Tampa Bay, with plenty of room for strolling, biking, or relaxing by the water. Start at Vinoy Park and follow the North Bay Trail through North Shore Park and up toward Coffee Pot Bayou for a classic waterfront route. It\u2019s also a great place to spot dolphins and manatees just offshore. Visitors can even book a Segway tour<\/a> to explore the waterfront in a fun, unique way.<\/p>\n

Tropicana Field\u00a0<\/p>\n

1 Tropicana Dr
Tropicana Field has long been home to the Tampa Bay Rays and remains one of the city\u2019s most recognizable landmarks. While the stadium\u2019s future continues to evolve, The Trop is still an iconic part of St. Petersburg\u2019s sports history and a popular stop for fans visiting the area. Located just west of downtown, it\u2019s surrounded by restaurants, breweries, and the vibrant EDGE and Grand Central districts, making it an easy addition to a day of exploring the city.<\/p>\n

Boyd Hill Nature Preserve<\/p>\n

1101 Country Club Way S
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is one of St. Pete\u2019s best spots to experience Florida\u2019s natural landscape, spanning 400 acres of varying habitats. Its shaded trails wind through diverse ecosystems and native wildlife areas, including a bird-of-prey aviary, making it a favorite for nature walks, photography, and quiet outdoor exploration. Just minutes from downtown, it offers a peaceful escape into the wild side of St. Petersburg.<\/p>\n

\"People\"Peoplephoto courtesy City of St. Pete<\/p>\n

The Saturday Morning Market<\/p>\n

212 3rd St N
One of the most popular St. Pete events<\/a>, the Saturday Morning Market is a vibrant weekly gathering celebrating all things local. The market features a wide variety of food vendors, fresh produce, artisan goods, live music, and handmade items. It\u2019s a lively community staple and an easy way to experience the city\u2019s love for its local makers. The market relocates in the summer, so be sure to check the website<\/a> for its seasonal location.<\/p>\n

The Woodson African American Museum of Florida<\/p>\n

2240 9th Ave S
The Woodson African American Museum of Florida is a cultural institution in St. Pete dedicated to preserving and celebrating African American history, art, and heritage. Located in the historic Deuces Live District, the museum features rotating exhibits, educational programs, and community events that highlight both local and national stories. It\u2019s an important stop for anyone looking better to understand the cultural fabric and history of St. Petersburg.
temporarily closed from January 2026 \u2013 July 2026<\/p>\n

\"The\"Thephoto courtesy City of St. Pete<\/p>\n

St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club<\/p>\n

559 Mirror Lake Dr N
As the world\u2019s oldest and largest shuffleboard club, this historic venue welcomes visitors for daily open play and its popular Friday Night Shuffle, where you can bring your own food and drinks while enjoying a few friendly games. Whether you\u2019re a first-time player or a seasoned pro, it\u2019s a uniquely St. Pete experience that\u2019s perfect for groups, couples, and families.<\/p>\n

ECOmersion Kayak & SUP Rentals<\/p>\n

1800 Weedon Dr NE
ECOmersion offers kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals<\/a> and guided tours through Weedon Island Preserve, giving visitors a unique way to explore one of St. Pete\u2019s most beautiful natural areas. Paddle through calm mangrove tunnels and open waterways while spotting local wildlife like birds, fish, and manatees.<\/p>\n

\"Bay\"BayBay Pier at Fort De Soto<\/p>\n

Fort De Soto Park<\/p>\n

3500 Pinellas Bayway S.
One of the most beautiful outdoor destinations near St. Pete, the park is known for its white sand beaches, calm turquoise waters, and serene natural setting. Spanning more than 1,000 acres across multiple connected islands, the park offers swimming, kayaking, biking trails, fishing piers, campgrounds, and historic fort ruins to explore. It\u2019s also a prime spot for wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of shorebirds, dolphins, and other coastal species. Just a short drive from downtown St. Pete, Fort De Soto is a favorite for beach days and outdoor adventures.<\/p>\n

The James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art<\/p>\n

150 Central Ave
The James Museum showcases an impressive collection of Western and Native American art, along with striking wildlife-inspired pieces. The museum features immersive galleries filled with paintings, sculptures, and artifacts that bring the American West to life. With its dramatic architecture and thoughtfully curated exhibits, it offers a compelling cultural experience and a standout stop among St. Pete\u2019s museums.<\/p>\n

The Pelican Cruises<\/p>\n

Pelican St. Pete<\/a> offers scenic boat excursions through Tampa Bay, giving visitors a relaxing way to experience St. Pete from the water. Along the way, guests can often see dolphins and take in views of the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge. With narrated tours highlighting local landmarks and wildlife, it\u2019s a great way to enjoy the beauty of St. Pete\u2019s waterfront.<\/p>\n

\"People\"People<\/p>\n

FloridaRAMA<\/p>\n

2606 Fairfield Ave S Building 5
FloridaRAMA is an immersive art experience that blends interactive installations, vibrant visuals, and playful storytelling. Featuring a mix of local and contemporary artists, the space invites visitors to explore colorful, surreal environments designed for engagement and creativity. It\u2019s one of the most unique indoor activities St. Pete has to offer, delivering a fun, photo-worthy escape.<\/p>\n

The Florida Holocaust Museum<\/p>\n

55 5th St S
The Florida Holocaust Museum is one of the largest Holocaust museums in the United States, dedicated to honoring survivors and preserving the history of the Holocaust through powerful exhibits and personal stories. The museum features artifacts, photographs, and immersive displays that educate visitors on this critical period in history.<\/p>\n

Florida Botanical Gardens<\/p>\n

12520 Ulmerton Rd, Largo
The Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo, located north of St. Petersburg, showcases a wide variety of native and tropical plants across beautifully maintained themed gardens. Visitors can stroll winding paths through orchid collections, butterfly gardens, and natural landscapes filled with Florida wildlife. Free to the public year-round, it\u2019s a relaxing spot for nature walks, photography, and enjoying the region\u2019s natural beauty.<\/p>\n

\"A\"Aphoto courtesy Clearwater Marine Aquarium<\/p>\n

Clearwater Marine Aquarium<\/p>\n

249 Windward Passage, Clearwater
The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a working marine rescue and rehabilitation center focused on the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of marine life along Florida\u2019s Gulf Coast. Visitors can learn about sea turtles, dolphins, and other local wildlife through interactive exhibits and educational programs that highlight ongoing conservation efforts.\u00a0<\/p>\n

John\u2019s Pass Village & Boardwalk<\/p>\n

12945 Village Blvd, Madeira Beach
John\u2019s Pass is a lively waterfront tourist destination known for its mix of restaurants, shopping, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can book pirate ship cruises, fishing charters, and water sports excursions, or simply stroll the boardwalk and watch the boats come and go. With dozens of shops selling beach gear, gifts, and classic Florida souvenirs, it\u2019s the perfect place to pick up a keepsake.<\/p>\n

ZooTampa<\/p>\n

1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa
One of the most popular Tampa attractions, ZooTampa at Lowry Park is home to hundreds of animals from around the world, along with interactive exhibits, wildlife encounters, and family-friendly rides. Known for its conservation efforts and immersive habitats, the zoo offers experiences ranging from African wildlife to Florida native species. Just a short drive from St. Pete, it makes a great day trip for families and animal lovers alike.<\/p>\n

Did we miss any of your favorite St Pete tourist attractions?<\/p>\n

Hit us on Facebook<\/a> or on Instagram<\/a> to let us know what you think are the best St. Petersburg tourist attractions, or shoot an email to info@ilovetheburg.com. We want to hear your favorites.<\/p>\n

\"Beyond\"Beyond<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n