St. Petersburg Florida: Ultimate Weekend Guide (2025)

No one does laid-back, hipster beach vibes in the US like St. Petersburg in Florida. St. Pete has an uber-cool downtown area with boutique shops, street art, hip restaurants, and award-winning beaches. It’s one of my favourite Florida cities, and I love it a bit more with each visit.

St. Petersburg, [known as St. Pete to locals], is located between the Gulf of Mexico and beautiful Tampa Bay.

The city is well-known for its warm weather and beaches and for having the accolade of “most consecutive days with sunshine” at 768 days.

If you’re short on time, a weekend in St. Petersburg, Florida, is perfect for exploring the city’s highlights and hitting the sandy beaches.

st petersburg florida Weekend Guide

Part of Florida’s Pinellas County, St. Pete is part of an array of unique communities and coastal neighbourhoods, each with a distinct character.

These offer an authentic and beachy lifestyle experience for travellers who want to explore beyond Florida’s famed theme parks.

It’s also just an 18-minute drive from Clearwater‘s beautiful sugar sand beaches and lively waterfront.

things to do in st petersburg fl

Thanks to responsible beach management and strict visitor rules—including no alcohol and no dogs—St. Petersburg has some of the best beaches in Florida, perfect for dreamy beach vacations.

Here, you can relax on sugar-white sand, swim in warm Gulf waters, and photograph its famous fiery sunsets.

There’s also a lively downtown area packed with boutique shops, bars, restaurants, museums, and local markets.

St Pete things to do

This bumper guide contains many activities, so you can pick your favourites and plan a weekend in St. Petersburg, FL.

Here are some of the top things to do in my St. Pete, Florida travel guide to pick and choose what you want to see when you have 48 hours in St. Peterburg, FL.

• St Pete Beach
• St Pete Pier
• Street art tour
• Sunken Gardens
• Dali Museum
• Downtown shopping
• Bar hopping
• Live music

Catch some rays on St. Pete Beach

Ranked as one of the best beaches in the USA, St. Pete Beach, located on the beautiful Gulf Coast of Florida, is a popular beach destination.

Known for its white shores, warm turquoise waters, and vibrant atmosphere, St. Pete Beach is a popular choice for a perfect Florida vacation for the whole family.

Each beach has unique charm and character, from Pass-a-Grille Beach at the southernmost tip to Upham Beach on the northern end.

Water sports lovers can enjoy thrilling activities such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, parasailing, and dolphin-watching tours.

St. Petersburg Florida beaches

On St Pete Beach, you can try stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, kiteboarding and parasailing.

Why not book your beach Parasail Flight in advance online? This way, you can be sure you are going with a reputable company and cancel up to 24 hours before if your plans change.

I recommend taking a flight and getting cool aerial snaps of the sandy beaches. It’s totally one of the most fun things to do in St. Pete Beach.

If you are just looking for beach relaxation, I think the best time to experience the beach is sunset. You can watch the most dreamy sunset and see the sky explode with colour; it is a fantastic sight.

Experience a Sunset Cruise Tour in St. Petersburg

Experience the fiery sunsets along Florida’s Gulf Coast, a sight locals rave about. According to their recommendations, one of the finest ways to witness the colourful is by taking to the water.

Embark on a memorable sunset cruise from St. Pete Pier, where you can revel in an extraordinary showcase of colours as the sun descends.

As you sail towards the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, a magnificent architectural feat, you’ll be greeted with a lush backdrop for your sunset snaps.

Enjoy the unique perspective of watching the sunset beneath the bridge before returning to land and bar hopping downtown.

St Pete Pier

St. Pete Pier is a vibrant, multi-purpose waterfront district sprawling across 26 acres. Since its 2020 reopening, it has offered a mix of recreational, cultural, and dining experiences along Tampa Bay.

Starting at the Gateway, the pier unfolds with artwork and lush landscapes leading into a promenade lined with benches—perfect for a stroll by the bay.

The Grove offers a shaded retreat with native flora and a modern playground, ideal for family picnics.

Further along, the Marketplace features local crafts and casual eats, while fine dining options towards the pier’s end provide sweeping bay views with diverse culinary offerings.

Pier activities

At Pier Point, the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center engages visitors with exhibits on marine life and conservation.

The area also supports various activities at the adjacent Spa Beach Park, from fishing to paddleboarding. St. Pete Pier regularly hosts community events like concerts and festivals, enhancing its role as a lively community hub.

Dedicated to sustainability, the pier incorporates solar panels, promotes native landscaping, and encourages eco-friendly transportation options, reflecting St. Petersburg’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Sunken Gardens

In the heart of downtown St. Pete, Sunken Gardens is the oldest living museum in the area, a beautiful botanical garden, and one of the last remaining Florida roadside attractions.

Along with bountiful tropical plants, sustainable landscaping practices and diverse educational, horticultural, and cultural activities are focused on protecting this historic preservation.

With a century-long history, the gardens feature a remarkable collection of lush plants and foliage, some of which are among the oldest in the region.

Stroll through this sub-tropical oasis and see a living collection of plants, flowers, and trees. Wander amongst the demonstration gardens, cascading waterfalls, parrots, and flock of flamingos.  

downtown St. Pete things to do

Downtown St. Petersburg has plenty of boutique shopping, restaurants, bars and cultural attractions and is one of my favorite spots.

One of Downtown St. Pete’s defining features is its vibrant arts scene. Art enthusiasts will love the numerous galleries, studios, and colourful street art murals.

Downtown St. Pete also offers plenty of options for outdoor adventures. Stroll along Vinoy Park’s scenic waterfront or enjoy a bike ride along picturesque Bayshore Drive.

Here are some of my favourite things to do in Downtown St Pete.

Go on a street art tour with Florida CraftArt

The streets of St. Petersburg are full of creativity and colour; the hipster vibe is strong downtown.

Sunshine City has many urban murals and craft beer joints that are waiting to be discovered. Make sure to wear your best flannel shirt, darlings.

Many of the newest street art additions downtown come from the annual mural festival, SHINE St. Pete, in October each year.

This annual festival celebrates the power and influence of street art in communities and provides critical operating support to artists and non-profit arts organizations.

St Pete’s Walking Mural Tours

If you want to learn more about St. Petersburg’s street art, why not take a guided tour of the Central Arts District in downtown St. Petersburg?

Florida CraftArt offers signature Walking Mural Tours every Saturday from 10-11:30 a.m. and mural tours by bike on the first Saturday of every month.

Local artists lead the informative short walk tour, which includes stories about the making of over 30 murals and their talented creators.

There’s something delightfully bourgeois about spending your vacation discovering street art; it sure beats just hanging out at your boutique hotel right? It’s one of the more hipster things to do in St Petersburg.

Popular murals around downtown St Pete include: 

• Eye of the Storm by Ricky Watts
• You Are My Sunshine by Jeffrey Sincich and Josh Stover
• Time to Think by Derek Donnelly and Sebastian Coolidge
• Common Ground by Cecilia Lueza

The best part is that murals constantly change downtown due to the very nature of street art, so you never know what art you might get when you visit St Pete.

Go shopping on Central Avenue

Shops, cafes and craft beer bars – Central Avenue is where it’s at in St Pete.

The ‘600 Block’ has retained its 1920’s brick facade buildings and has repurposed them to contain boutique shops, breweries, cafes, record shops, and restaurants.

The block was supposed to be demolished to make way for redevelopment just before the real estate bubble burst in 2008.

A St. Petersburg city councilwoman had the idea to offer affordable rents to local artists to revitalise the area and open up previously shuttered buildings.

St Pete Central Avenue shops

Central Avenue has now become an epicentre for hip shops, great eats and impressive art murals.

I’m not a huge fan of shopping normally, but even I found the off-beat charm of this area utterly charming.

Sign me up for a flat white and a spot of vintage vinal browsing; I am the new queen of the hipsters.

You can spend a whole morning shopping here for unusual gifts, clothes and records and then stop for a coffee or have lunch in a happening spot like Bodega.

Some of the best shops on Central Avenue include:

• The Rock Shop
• Brutique
• Ashe Couture
• Retrograde Goods
• Baum Avenue Market
• Milagros Soap
• ZaZoo’d

Where to eat in downtown St. Pete

Downtown St. Petersburg is a food lover’s paradise, offering various culinary delights to suit every palate and preference.

From innovative farm-to-table bistros to traditional seafood joints, the area teems with restaurants that showcase local flavours, fresh produce and global cuisine. Here are some of my fave places in the downtown area and beyond.

Best Restaurants in St Petersburg

• Locale Market
  Part gourmet marketplace, part upscale dining, Locale Market features a collection of culinary stations serving everything from freshly rolled sushi to custom-grilled burgers. This spot is perfect for those who enjoy a variety of flavours or can’t decide what to eat.
• Brick & Mortar
  This intimate restaurant prides itself on its creative dishes and quality ingredients. The changing menu reflects the seasons and features inventive twists on classic dishes, such as truffle-infused deviled eggs or locally sourced snapper.
• BellaBrava
  BellaBrava hits the mark with its hand-crafted pasta and wood-fired pizzas if you crave Italian cuisine. Located on Beach Drive, the restaurant offers a scenic view paired with vibrant flavours, making it ideal for lunch and dinner.
• Red Mesa Cantina
  Dive into a fusion of traditional Mexican flavours and modern culinary techniques at Red Mesa Cantina. With a lush courtyard that enhances its sprawling urban vibe, this eatery is famous for its tacos, extensive tequila selection, and inventive margaritas.
• Parkshore Grill
  Offering a fine dining experience with views of Straub Park, Parkshore Grill specializes in steak and seafood prepared with precision. Their outdoor seating is perfect for a romantic evening, complete with St. Pete’s picturesque waterfront setting.
• The Mill Restaurant
  Known for its rustic yet stylish décor, The Mill offers a unique menu that includes southern-inspired dishes with an upscale twist. Favourites include pepper jelly-glazed pork belly and cedar plank salmon. The ambience is just as impressive as the food, providing an all-around memorable dining experience.

Have a Latin lunch at Bodega on Central

Enjoy delicious Latin-inspired market dishes at Bodega on Central on Central Avenue. The line outside for takeaway is huge, which is always a great sign for a local restaurant. Always follow the locals when looking for restaurants in a new destination.

This rustic spot prepares fresh, made-to-order food and is famous for its delicious Cuban sandwich, a local favourite.

It has a relaxed ambience, a fresh juice bar, and Latin American platters and smoothies.

You can always take away your Cuban sandwich and enjoy it at one of the local breweries. Cuban sandwiches and craft beer go hand in hand, right?

Grab a beer at Green Bench Brewing

Green Bench Brewing is an innovative craft beer microbrewery housed within a large, 6,000-square-foot Waterhouse.

The 15-barrel brewhouse is popular with locals and visitors and is headed by craft beer connoisseur and Green Bench founder Khris Johnson.

Bring a banging Bodega sandwich and settle in for an afternoon of craft beers and bants with your buddies.

Check out their speciality IPAs and ales and explore the taproom and large beer garden.

Have a relaxing dinner at The Rowe Bar at The Don CeSar

Treat yourself to dinner at The Rowe Bar at The Don CeSar.  Elevate your beach bar game with some time at The Don’s stunning gulffront bar.

Grab a hand-crafted cocktail or craft beer before dinner and kick back on the expansive deck, which overlooks the dunes. You’ve earned it, darlings.

Named after Thomas Rowe, the legendary founder of the Pink Palace, The Rowe Bar features incredible cocktails, vibrant coastal cuisine and cosy fire pits.

Typical menu items at The Rowe Bar include:

• West Coast Oyster
• New York Strip Steak
• Gulf Snapper
• Red Grouper
• Grilled Lamb Chops

These come with a fabulous choice of accompaniments, including tater tots, asparagus and truffle mac and cheese.

Being British, I had no idea what a ‘tater tot’ was. I’m still not entirely sure, but I think they are tasty.

Learn how to play shuffleboard at the St. Pete Shuffleboard Club

If you are looking for unusual things to do in St Petersburg, Florida, then I recommend visiting the St Pete Shuffleboard Club.

Founded in 1924, the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club is the world’s oldest and largest (80 courts) shuffleboard club.

Now, you might well be thinking, ‘are you seriously suggesting I spend my vacation at a shuffleboard club full of oldies?’

Let me sell it to you; you can bring your booze to the club and have a hilarious, wine-filled evening of learning shuffleboard rules surrounded by people of all ages.

St Pete Shuffleboard

The club is actually growing in popularity, especially with younger people. The ‘St Pete Shuffle’ is a free event for non-members from 7 to 10 p.m. every week.

During this event, volunteers will teach you how to play and give you all the information about the rules and regs.

What began with a small group of hipsters out for some ironic fun on a Friday night has turned into a scene so lively and cool it has been replicated in hipster Brooklyn.

These Friday nights regularly draw up to 200 locals, many with coolers full of booze, ready to shuffle and swig wine.

Go bar hopping in downtown St Pete

Nighttime is when downtown St Pete comes to life. If you want cool beats, giant fishbowl drinks and the chance to shake your thing, you must head downtown, kids.

The gorgeous Florida weather means plenty of uber-cool beach bars, rooftop lounges and hip bars with outdoor seating where it’s happy hour every hour!

Downtown St. Pete, Florida, is renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene, and it’s no surprise that it boasts many fantastic bars.

Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply looking for a great spot to unwind with friends, downtown St. Pete has the bar for you.

Best bars in St. Petersburg Florida

Here are some of the best bars in St Pete:

1. The Canopy Rooftop Lounge: Located atop The Birchwood Hotel, The Canopy offers panoramic views of downtown and Tampa Bay.
2. The Ale and the Witch: A popular spot for craft beer lovers, this cosy bar features an extensive selection of beers on tap, including various local brews.
3. The Mandarin Hide: Step into this stylish speakeasy-inspired bar and be transported back in time. The Mandarin Hide offers a wide range of innovative cocktails crafted with precision and creativity.
4. Park & Rec: This lively bar combines a retro arcade with a modern bar setting. Play classic arcade games while sipping on craft cocktails or enjoying local beers. The energetic atmosphere and nostalgic vibes make Park & Rec a hit among locals and visitors alike.
5. Tryst Gastro Lounge: Offering a sophisticated and chic ambience, Tryst is known for its handcrafted cocktails and extensive wine selection.
6. The Independent Bar: A haven for beer enthusiasts, The Independent Bar is known for its impressive selection of craft beers worldwide.

Live Music in St. Petersburg, Florida

For music lovers, St. Petersburg offers a lively music scene that caters to every taste, from jazz enthusiasts to rock aficionados. 

The city’s dedication to the arts is evident in its eclectic range of venues, each providing a unique atmosphere for live performances. 

Top Venues for Live Music:

• Jannus Live
  An outdoor, open-air music venue is in downtown St. Pete’s heart. This iconic spot has hosted a variety of musicians from diverse genres, making it a go-to for anyone looking to catch a major act in a uniquely intimate setting. The venue’s courtyard set-up, surrounded by historic buildings, creates an immersive experience with great acoustics.
• The Palladium at St. Petersburg College
  Known for its excellent acoustics and intimate setting, The Palladium specializes in jazz, blues, and classical concerts. Housed in a beautifully restored church, this venue offers a mix of seating options from cabaret tables to traditional theatre style, providing a perfect backdrop for each musical style.
• The Hideaway Cafe
  Celebrating the best of local and independent artists, this cosy venue is a favourite for its studio-like sound quality and welcoming atmosphere. Music lovers can enjoy original music over a good meal in a setting that feels like a personal concert.
• Ruby’s Elixir
  An old-school speakeasy vibe dominates this popular spot, where live jazz and blues spill out into the streets of downtown St. Pete every night. Ruby’s Elixir offers a dynamic lineup of local talent, touring bands, and a fine selection of craft cocktails.
• Green Bench Brewing Co.
  Combining craft brews with live music, Green Bench Brewing Co. hosts everything from rock bands to reggae Sundays in their expansive beer garden. The casual, laid-back environment, with picnic tables and food trucks, makes it a stellar choice for an evening out enjoying St. Pete’s vibrant local music and craft beer scene.

Explore St Pete’s waterfront area

If you are spending a long weekend in St. Pete, you should have enough time to stroll in Downtown St. Pete’s impressive waterfront area.

This super modern area is located from Beach Drive to 3rd St, between 7th Ave N and 7th Ave S.

The Waterfront Arts District is also home to many impressive museums, including The Dalí Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts and the St Petersburg Museum of History.

This beautiful district also has shopping, galleries, restaurants, bars and lovely green spaces.

The city uses the waterfront area for concerts, festivals and open-air events and welcomes some of the biggest names in music.

The Tampa Bay Blues Festival has been held at the waterfront Vinoy Park since 1995.

Learn about surrealism at the Salvador dalí Museum

The Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, Florida, is a unique and captivating institution dedicated to the life and work of one of the most renowned artists of the 20th century, Salvador Dali.

With its iconic architecture and an extensive collection of Dalí’s masterpieces, the museum offers visitors a fascinating journey into the surrealist artist’s mind.

The building is a work of art designed to pay homage to Dalí’s artistic style. The museum’s striking glass structure features a geodesic glass bubble known as the “Enigma,”

It stands as an architectural marvel and serves as the main entrance. This distinctive design sets the stage for the incredible art that awaits inside.

What’s inside the Dal Museum St. Pete

The Salvador Dalí Museum houses the largest collection of Dalí’s works outside of Europe, comprising over 2,400 pieces that span his entire artistic career.

The extensive collection includes paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs, and other multimedia artworks that showcase Dalí’s innovative and imaginative approach.

One of the museum’s highlights is Dalí’s iconic masterpiece, “The Persistence of Memory,” which depicts melting clocks and has become an enduring symbol of surrealism.

This painting alone is worth the visit and allows visitors to experience the intricate details and dreamlike quality for which Dalí is renowned.

Dali Lives Exhibition

Dali Museum also incorporates mobile phone apps and cutting-edge artificial intelligence in exhibitions such as ‘Dalí Lives’.

This technology provides visitors with a modern and interactive way of learning more about Salvador Dalí’s life from the person who knew him best – the artist himself.

The museum’s interior is also like a piece of artwork, thoroughly captivating with clean lines and swirling staircases.

A pretty outdoor area is also known as the ‘Avant-garden’ alongside the Tampa Bay waterfront.

It’s a tranquil and mathematical Garden with fabulous plants, buses, dripping, pooling water, and sculptures.

Dali Museum tour

The Dali Museum offers a range of free Gallery Public Tours that are included with the admission price.

Learn more about this impressive collection of Salvador Dalí works under the guidance of one of the expert tour guides.

There is a range of tours available throughout the day, including:

• Gallery tour
• Architecture tour
• Garden tour
• Private tour (additional fee)

Have a boozy lunch at Trophy Fish

Have a chilled-out cocktail and lunch stop at Trophy Fish. This cool “bait shop chic” restaurant has incredible, nautical-inspired island cocktails that will transport you to the waters off Cape Cod.

It’s a curious mix of no-nonsense fish dishes and high-end cocktails where you can get some pretty rad Instagram shots.

The owners of Trophy Fish are also committed to supporting local fishermen by offering the freshest fish as part of their daily menu.

Because of this, the changes daily, so you never know what delicious fish dish you can order until you rock up.

You can have your fresh fish in various ways, including in a taco, salad, sandwich or as a plate.

Shop at the St Pete Saturday Market

For your weekend break in St. Petersburg, Florida, shop at the Saturday morning Market.

Located downtown in the Al Lang Stadium parking lot, [100 1st St. SE], the market is open Saturdays from 9 am – 2 pm from October to May.

At this bohemian street market, over 125 vendors offer everything from farmer’s market items to coastal decor items, handmade soaps, painted signs, and various unique gifts.

It’s one of the best places to shop in St. Pete if you want to find boutique stalls selling gifts and trinkets.

There is a range of items to suit every budget, from $1 soaps, $3-5 ornaments, $10-40 art pieces, and a range of foodie items to sample.

Make sure to swing by and treat yourself; you are bound to find something you love.

Where to stay in St Pete Florida

Many hotels in the St Pete beach area suit your budget and accommodation needs. There’s a huge range of luxury resorts, boutique hotels, budget hotels and villas.

You can find a hotel that suits your budget and length of time by using travel resources such as Booking.com to find the best St Pete hotel deals.

Some of the best hotels in St Pete include:

• Treasure Island Ocean Club
• Residence Inn by Marriott 
• Coconut Inn
• St. Pete Beach Suites

The Don CeSar St. Pete

I stayed at the big daddio of hotels in St Pete, The Don CeSar. This huge hotel is affectionately known as ‘the pink palace’ and is an Instagrammers dream.

The hotel is listed among the Historic Hotels of North America, and it really looks like you have somehow wandered onto the set of The Great Gatsby.

Here, old-world charm meets nautical sophistication. Every part of this hotel is photogenic, from the sea views to the fire pits, modern bars, and a pristine outdoor pool.

The Don CeSar rooms

The Don CeSar has 277 luxurious rooms, including 40 suites. Each room includes a flat-screen cable TV, desk, coffee-making facilities and an ensuite bathroom.

Selected rooms also offer a swish, private balcony or patio with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico or the city.

Amenities at The Don CeSar include:

• Beachfront location
• Two heated pools
• Three lounges
• Spa
• Concierge service
• Restaurants
• Bars
• Boutique shops
• 24-hour fitness centre

I would highly recommend a stay at this fantastic hotel if you are visiting St Pete for the weekend. It’s a perfect hotel for a romantic getaway, a weekend with the girls, or a luxury spa weekend away.

St Pete Pride: Florida’s Largest Pride Celebration

St Pete Pride is a huge draw for locals and travellers. During the St. Pete Pride, Florida’s largest LGBTQ+ pride celebration, the city bursts into a colourful display of unity and support yearly.

This multi-day event draws over 100,000 attendees from across the globe, making it not only a cornerstone of St. Petersburg’s annual cultural calendar but also a powerful symbol of community solidarity.

Pride Festivities

• Pride Parade
  The highlight of St Pete Pride is the vibrant parade that weaves through the heart of downtown St. Petersburg. Featuring multiple organizations and floats, this spectacular procession is known for its lively atmosphere, dazzling costumes, and the enthusiastic crowds that line up along the parade route, offering waves of support and celebration.
• Pride Festival
  Following the parade, the Pride Festival starts with various activities and entertainment. Vendors sell arts, crafts, and food in the festival area. Multiple stages feature live music and performances from local and national acts, ensuring the celebration continues well into the evening.

• Pride Events
  Beyond the parade and festival, St Pete Pride includes a week of events leading up to the main festivities. These include:
  • Pride on Edge: A waterfront block party with DJs, food trucks, and fireworks.
  • Pride Night Market: Offering a unique shopping experience with various local artists and businesses.
  • Queer Art Showcase: Highlighting the talents of LGBTQ+ artists within the community.

Community Impact

St Pete Pride celebrates diversity and freedom and is an important platform for activism and advocacy within the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for equality, with numerous booths and speeches dedicated to education and outreach.

The event also raises significant funds each year, which are reinvested into local LGBTQ+ programs and initiatives, further cementing its role in nurturing a supportive community environment.

Travel tips for St Petersburg Florida

• Best Time to Visit:
  • If you’re looking to visit Florida for sunshine, St. Pete experiences a subtropical climate, making it a year-round destination.
  • The best time to visit is typically during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer.
  • Summers can be hot and humid, while mild winters attract more visitors escaping colder climates.
• What to Pack:
  • Light, breathable clothing for warm weather.
  • Comfortable walking shoes, as St. Pete is known for its walkable neighbourhoods and waterfront.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against the sun.
  • Swimwear and beach essentials if you visit the beautiful Gulf Coast beaches.
  • Lightweight layers for cooler evenings during the winter months.
• ESTA Visas:
  • If you’re travelling to St. Pete from a visa waiver country, such as the UK or most European nations, you must apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before your trip.
  • Ensure your ESTA is approved before booking your travel arrangements.
• Weather:
  • St. Pete enjoys a warm climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from around 70°F (21°C) in the winter to 90°F (32°C) in the summer.
  • Be prepared for sudden rain showers, especially during the summer months.
  • Hurricane season in Florida runs from June to November, so if you travel during this time, stay informed about weather forecasts.
• Safety:
  • St. Pete is generally a safe destination for travellers, but exercise normal precautions.
  • Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach or in your car.
  • Be cautious when swimming in the Gulf of Mexico, paying attention to warning flags indicating dangerous conditions.
• Transportation:
  • Renting a car is a convenient way to explore St. Pete and its surrounding areas, including Tampa and Clearwater.
  • The area also has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and trolleys, which can be useful for getting around the city and nearby beaches.
  • Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available.
  • If you’re staying in downtown St. Pete, many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, so you may not need a car for your entire stay.

Getting to St Pete Florida

If you are flying to St Pete, Florida, the major airports near St Pete are:

• 10 miles to St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport (PIE / KPIE)
• 18 miles to Tampa International Airport (TPA / KTPA)
• 55 miles to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ / KSRQ)

If you fly to St Pete from the UK, there are daily, direct flights between London Airports and Tampa International Airport.

Expedia allows you to compare and book flights to St Pete and Tampa. You can search for discounted flight tickets from over 400 standard and budget airlines.

You can book a hire car in advance if you need to hire a car from Tampa Airport. They have great deals on hiring cars for your Florida vacation.

weekend in St Petersburg fl

St. Pete is the perfect place for a weekend beach break in Florida with a touch of hipster cool.

The city has a cool buzz about it with craft breweries, exciting restaurants, art murals and boutique shopping.

This means you can do so much more than lie on the beach here; there is a whole city to discover beyond the white sands.

What do you think of my guide to having a fun weekend in St. Petersburg, Florida? Will you be visiting? Let me know in the comments below.

St. Petersburg Florida FAQ

Q: What is St. Petersburg, Florida, known for?

St. Petersburg, often called St. Pete, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant arts scene, excellent dining options, and abundant sunshine. It’s also home to renowned museums like The Dali Museum and the Chihuly Collection.

Q: What are the best beaches in St. Petersburg, Florida?

St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, and Fort De Soto Park are among the most popular beaches in St. Petersburg. Each offers beautiful sandy shores, warm waters, and a variety of activities.

Q: What can I do in St. Petersburg, Florida, over the weekend?

There’s plenty to do in St. Petersburg over the weekend. You can explore the city’s art scene, relax on the beach, dine at local restaurants, enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking or biking, and experience the vibrant nightlife.

Q: What are some must-visit attractions in St. Petersburg, Florida?

Must-visit attractions include The Dali Museum, Chihuly Collection, Morean Arts Center, Sunken Gardens, and the historic downtown district. Also, visit the local beaches and try water sports activities.

Q: What is the food scene like in St. Petersburg, Florida?

St. Petersburg has a diverse food scene, with options ranging from fresh seafood to international cuisine. There are many local restaurants, cafes, and food markets to explore. The city is also known for its craft beer scene.

Q: Is St. Petersburg, Florida, a good place for a weekend break?

Absolutely! With its mix of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, excellent food, and beautiful beaches, St. Petersburg makes for a perfect weekend getaway.

Q7: What is the best time to visit St. Petersburg, Florida?

While St. Petersburg is a year-round destination, the best time to visit depends on your preferences. If you enjoy warm, sunny beach weather, consider visiting between March and May. For fewer crowds, consider the fall months.

Q: How do I get around St. Petersburg, Florida?

St. Petersburg has various transportation options, including public buses, trolleys, ride-share services, and bike rentals. The city is also very walkable, especially the downtown area.

Q: Is St. Petersburg, Florida, safe for tourists?

Yes, St. Petersburg is generally safe for tourists. However, like any city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and keep your belongings secure. Always follow local advice and regulations.

Recommended travel resources

Flights: To find flight deals, check out sites such as Skyscanner and Google Flights to compare flight costs and book.

Accommodation: I use Booking.com for hotel bookings as they have fantastic flexibility and cancellation.

Airport Parking and Lounges: With Holiday Extras, you can save money on airport and travel extras, including airport parking, airport hotels, and airport lounges.

Travel Insurance: I highly recommend you always get travel insurance – I use the Post Office Travel Insurance for single trip coverage and Safety Wing for comprehensive travel medical insurance.

Car Hire: I use Discover Cars to hire cars abroad as they have free cancellation, free mileage and no card fees.

Travel Money: I recommend Post Office Travel Money as you can get competitive rates and 0% commission for your holiday cash.

E-sim Cards: Use Airalo’s eSIM app to buy an eSIM for 200+ countries and stay connected when you travel abroad.

For more travel tools, head to my bumper travel resources page now!

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