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St. Pete Travel Guide

World-class art, vibrant food scene, and Gulf Coast beaches minutes away. Local recommendations from Scott and Laura.

Attractions

Must-See Attractions in St. Pete

The Dali Museum geodesic dome and its reflection pool

The Dalí Museum

The largest collection of Salvador Dalí's work outside Europe, housed in a stunning purpose-built museum on the St. Pete waterfront. World-class and genuinely surprising — even if you're not an art person. Plan 2 hours minimum.

The Dalí Museum's glass geodesic dome and gardens in St.

St. Pete Pier

The newly renovated waterfront pier is a destination in itself — restaurants, shops, art installations, an aquarium, and sweeping Tampa Bay views. Free to walk; great at any hour.

The Dali Museum, St.

Sunken Gardens

A century-old botanical garden in the heart of the city. Lush, tranquil, and photogenic — a welcome surprise for visitors expecting only beach and nightlife.

St.

Grand Central & Warehouse Arts

St. Pete's creative neighborhoods, full of galleries, murals, independent restaurants, and boutiques. Worth an afternoon of wandering.

Outdoor Adventures & Activities

Person paddleboarding down a narrow waterway lined with trees

Fort De Soto Park & Beach

Consistently rated one of the best beaches in America. Historic fort, multiple beach areas, kayak rentals, and a campground. About 30 minutes from downtown. Worth every minute of the drive.

Bike on a sandy beach by the ocean and palm trees

Kayaking Tampa Bay

Multiple launch points around St. Pete. Calm, protected water with excellent wildlife viewing — manatees, dolphins, and wading birds are common.

Kayakers paddle through a lush mangrove forest at sunset

Sunset Boat Tours

Dolphin cruises and sunset sails departing from the downtown waterfront. Multiple operators offer 90-minute to 2-hour tours.

Paddleboarder explores tranquil waterway bordered by lush mangrove trees

Tampa Bay Fishing

Tampa Bay is one of Florida's premier inshore fisheries. Charter boats available for redfish, snook, and tarpon. Offshore charters also depart from St. Pete marinas.

Restaurants & Dining

Local Dining Favorites

Grilled fish with rice and black beans at an outdoor restaurant

The Mill

Upscale New American in a beautifully renovated space in the heart of downtown St. Pete. Seasonal menu, excellent craft cocktail program, and a lively dining room that doesn't feel forced. A proper date night.

Fish burger with fries and a drink at a beachside cafe

Bodega on Central

An absolute St. Pete staple in the Edge District. Famous for their legendary Cuban sandwich and relaxed patio vibe. Grab a cafe con leche and enjoy the vibrant, down-to-earth atmosphere.

A whole roasted fish feast on a wooden table

Trophy Fish

An outdoor, boat-strip-chic neighborhood favorite serving incredibly fresh catch-of-the-day seafood and nautical craft cocktails. Perfect for a warm Florida evening under palm trees.

Insider Tips

Scott & Laura's Tips for St. Pete

What the locals know about St. Pete

Explore the Pier Early or Late

Explore the Pier Early or Late

The St. Pete Pier is spectacular, but it gets warm during midday. Go in the morning or around sunset for the best breeze and beautiful views over Tampa Bay.

Saturday Morning Market

Saturday Morning Market

If you're here on a weekend, Al Lang Stadium parking lot hosts the largest green market in the Southeast. Go early for local pastries, fresh-squeezed juice, and live music.

Sunset at Pass-a-Grille

Sunset at Pass-a-Grille

For an incredible sunset, head just south of St. Pete Beach to Pass-a-Grille. It's a quieter, laid-back beach town with local boutiques and gorgeous Gulf views.

Our Stays Near Apollo Beach