Things To Do in St. Petersburg, Florida: Art, Beaches, and Sunshine All Year Long

St. Petersburg—affectionately called St. Pete—is one of Florida’s most dynamic destinations. With its award-winning beaches, world-class museums, and thriving downtown scene, St. Pete offers the perfect balance of culture and coastal charm.

Whether you're visiting for a weekend or staying longer, this Gulf Coast gem has plenty to explore. Here's your full guide to the top things to do in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Explore the Best Beaches in St. Petersburg

St. Pete Beach

Named the #1 Beach in the U.S. by TripAdvisor, St. Pete Beach is:

• Family-friendly and clean

• Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and paddleboarding

• Home to the historic Don CeSar Hotel

Water sports rentals and beach bars line the shore, giving it a vibrant, yet laid-back atmosphere.

Pass-a-Grille Beach

A charming old Florida beach town vibe with:

• Boutique shops and ice cream parlors

• Stunning sunsets

• Quiet stretches of sand perfect for couples and solo travelers

Dive into St. Pete’s Art & Culture Scene

The Dalí Museum

Home to the largest collection of Salvador Dalí’s surrealist works outside of Spain.

Must-sees:

• “The Hallucinogenic Toreador”

• Augmented reality art experiences

• The avant-garde architecture of the building itself

The Museum of Fine Arts

Features a mix of classical and contemporary art, including:

• Monet, O’Keeffe, and African masks

• Rotating exhibitions

• Waterfront views and sculpture gardens

St. Pete Mural Tour

The city is famous for its outdoor murals and street art. Take a walking or bike tour through the Warehouse Arts District or Central Avenue.

Top Outdoor Activities and Nature Spots

Sunken Gardens

A hidden tropical oasis in the middle of the city, offering:

• Exotic plants and waterfalls

• Flamingos and parrots

• 100-year-old gardens

Fort De Soto Park

Located just south of St. Pete Beach, this sprawling park features:

• Kayaking through mangrove tunnels

• White-sand beaches and tidal pools

• A historic Spanish-American War fort to explore

Weedon Island Preserve

A top spot for:

• Hiking and boardwalk trails

• Kayak trails through estuaries

• Birdwatching and wildlife sightings

Food & Drink in St. Petersburg

Iconic Eats

• Grouper Sandwiches – Fresh from the Gulf, found almost everywhere

• Craft Beer – Over 35 breweries in the St. Pete/Clearwater area

• Key Lime Everything – Pies, cocktails, ice cream, and more

Top Restaurants in St. Pete

The Birch & Vine – Upscale dining with a rooftop lounge overlooking the bay
Bodega on Central – Latin street food with must-try Cuban sandwiches
Sea Salt – Coastal cuisine with an oyster bar and 130+ sea salts from around the world

Family-Friendly Activities in St. Pete

Great Explorations Children’s Museum

Perfect for younger kids, featuring:

• Interactive science exhibits

• Art and role-play stations

• A separate area for toddlers

Clearwater Marine Aquarium (Short Drive)

Just a 30-minute drive, this is where Winter the Dolphin lived—an inspiring visit for all ages.

St. Pete Nightlife & Live Entertainment

Jannus Live

An outdoor music venue downtown hosting national touring acts and local bands.

The Ale and the Witch

A craft beer bar with live music and rotating taps—no TVs, just community vibes.

First Friday St. Pete

Downtown comes alive every first Friday with:

• Live music

• Food vendors

• Outdoor dancing and drinks

Where to Shop in St. Petersburg

Central Avenue

A walkable, artsy district packed with:

• Indie boutiques

• Vintage shops

• Record stores and cafés

Saturday Morning Market

Florida’s largest open-air market features:

• Local produce and prepared foods

• Artisan goods and gifts

• Live music and community energy

Top Day Trips from St. Pete

Egmont Key

Reachable by ferry or private boat, this island features:

• Snorkeling and shelling

• Civil War-era ruins

• Nature trails and gopher tortoises

Tampa (Just 30-40 minutes)

Hop over the bridge for:

• Busch Gardens

• The Florida Aquarium

• Ybor City nightlife

Annual Events in St. Petersburg

• St. Pete Pride (June): One of the largest LGBTQ+ celebrations in the Southeast

• SHINE Mural Festival (Fall): Live painting and public art installations

• Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg (Spring): IndyCar racing in the streets

Tips for Visiting St. Pete

• Best time to go: November to May for ideal weather and fewer storms

• Parking: Public lots and metered street parking are available downtown and at beaches

• Transportation: The SunRunner bus offers fast service between downtown and the beaches

From stunning Gulf Coast beaches to cutting-edge art museums, St. Pete is where sunshine meets sophistication. Whether you’re sunbathing, mural-hopping, or sipping local brews, there’s always something amazing to do in St. Petersburg, Florida.