Things To Do
in St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg, located in the state of Florida, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant arts scene, and warm climate. The city boasts a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its diverse population and history. Visitors can explore numerous parks, museums, and waterfront attractions, making it a popular destination for relaxation and recreation. With a lively downtown area and a friendly atmosphere, St.

Petersburg offers something for everyone.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown and the Waterfront
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café followed by a stroll along the beautiful St. Pete Pier, enjoying views of Tampa Bay.

afternoon
:

Visit the Salvador Dalí Museum to admire world-class art, and then head to the Museum of Fine Arts for a dose of culture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant before catching a sunset at Fort De Soto Park.

day 2
Day 2: Beaches and Nature
morning
:

Spend the morning at St. Pete Beach, relaxing or engaging in water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing.

afternoon
:

Take a hike at the nearby Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, where you can encounter local wildlife and scenic trails.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a lively evening at a local bar or music venue featuring live performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-30
Coffee$3-5
🏨Hotel Night$100-200
🚍Public Transport Ticket$2
🛍️Groceries (weekly)$50-100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and parks.
  • Vibrant arts and culture scene.
  • Pleasant weather year-round.
  • High humidity in summer.
  • Traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons.
  • Limited public transport options compared to larger cities.

Places to Visit in St. Petersburg

Visit one of these nice places.

The St. Pete Pier

A picturesque spot with stunning views of the bay, perfect for capturing sunsets and cityscapes.

Fort De Soto Park

Known for its beautiful beaches and nature trails, it's ideal for nature photography.

The Salvador Dalí Museum

The museum's unique architecture and art installations provide an artistic backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg offers a unique culinary scene that combines fresh seafood with international flavors, making it a food lover's paradise.

St. Petersburg Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grouper Sandwich

A must-try local dish, the grouper sandwich features fresh fish, often fried or grilled, served on a bun with tartar sauce.

Must-Try!

Cuban Sandwich

A delicious blend of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread, pressed to perfection.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

St. Petersburg Saturday Morning Market

A vibrant gathering of local farmers and artisans, offering fresh produce, baked goods, and street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

St. Petersburg enjoys a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F (32°C), while winter temperatures typically range from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). Rainfall is common in the summer months, with afternoon thunderstorms being frequent. Overall, the city experiences abundant sunshine year-round, making it a popular destination for beachgoers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Friendly Greetings

Residents appreciate a friendly 'hello' or smile when passing by, fostering a welcoming atmosphere.

Beach Etiquette

Respect the beach rules, such as cleaning up after yourself and observing posted regulations.

Dress Code

Casual attire is acceptable in most places, but some fine dining restaurants may have a dress code.

Safety Guide

Safety

St. Petersburg is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in your vehicle and be cautious in less populated areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911, and it’s wise to have a list of local emergency contacts.

Tipping in St. Petersburg

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service workers 15-20% in restaurants; bars typically expect $1-2 per drink.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit/debit cards, and mobile payment options are widely available.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Expect hot and humid weather with afternoon thunderstorms; stay hydrated and plan for indoor activities.

Fall

Temperatures start to cool down, making it a great time for beach visits and outdoor events.

Winter

Winter is pleasantly mild, attracting many visitors looking to escape colder climates.

Nightlife Guide

St. Petersburg at Night

St. Petersburg boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. The downtown area is particularly lively, featuring a mix of laid-back bars and energetic dance clubs. Many venues host live music, ranging from jazz to rock, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Additionally, the waterfront bars provide a beautiful backdrop for an enjoyable evening out.

Hiking in St. Petersburg

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

Offers several miles of trails through diverse ecosystems, perfect for hiking and birdwatching.

Caladesi Island State Park

Accessible by ferry, this island features trails along the beach and through mangroves, offering a peaceful hiking experience.

Airports

How to reach St. Petersburg by plane.

St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE)

Located just 10 miles away, this airport offers domestic flights and is a convenient option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

St. Petersburg is quite walkable, particularly in the downtown area where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within easy reach. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are clearly marked. The city also offers bike-sharing programs, making it easy to explore on two wheels as well. However, some neighborhoods may be less pedestrian-friendly, so planning your route is advisable.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Retirees

St. Petersburg has a significant population of retirees drawn by the warm climate and recreational opportunities.

Young Professionals

The city also attracts young professionals looking for a vibrant community with access to arts, dining, and outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Home to the Tampa Bay Rays, baseball is a significant part of the local sports culture, especially during the MLB season.

Football

American football is popular, with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers being the regional NFL team, attracting a passionate fan base.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in St. Petersburg can be congested, particularly during rush hours and tourist seasons. Public transportation options include buses, which are affordable but may have limited routes. Ridesharing services are widely available and provide a convenient way to navigate the city. Parking is available but can be limited in busy areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting St. Petersburg.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many restaurants in St. Petersburg offer vegetarian and vegan options, but it's advisable to check menus or call ahead.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free dishes are becoming more common; however, always inquire about cross-contamination.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

St. Petersburg has several healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics that provide comprehensive medical care. Emergency services are available, and most hospitals are equipped to handle urgent care needs. It's advisable for visitors to have travel insurance that covers healthcare expenses. Pharmacies are also widely available for minor health needs.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide