Last Updated on February 11, 2024
Looking for things to do in St. Petersburg? No matter what time of the year it is, it’s always fun to check out things to do in St. Petersburg or as we call it, savvy St. Pete!
One of the greatest luxuries of living in Florida is the ability to jump in the car and visit a part of the state that feels like a world away from your daily life.
St. Pete Weekend Getaway
In just a few hours, you can travel to the Oldest City (St. Augustine) or the Southernmost Point (Key West) in the USA.
You can visit 175 incredibly diverse Florida State Parks or one of the many remaining roadside attractions.
With 67 counties and 663 miles of beaches throughout the state all offering unique experiences, there is never an opportunity to be bored in Florida.
Authentic Florida was invited to experience a night at the Alden Suites in St. Pete Beach as part of a blogger conference.
We enjoyed a mini adventure on the Gulf Coast and hope our experience inspires you to put St. Pete on your travel list.
Places to Stay
The historic Don Cesar is always a favorite as is the the updated, funky Postcard Inn.
The Alden Suites – A Beachfront Resort quickly became another favorite. It was founded in 1955 as the Alden Motel. This family-owned resort has an authentic Florida vibe.
Although it’s reminiscent of old Florida, the rooms are all updated and very clean. They even have seven newly renovated beach cottages that transport you to a bygone era.
Plus, they have great Florida Resident specials, so make sure you inquire about their offers.
The oceanfront suite boasts balconies with stunning views. It’s a great place to start your day with a cup of coffee.
The west coast of Florida is home to simply spectacular sunsets. Being out on the water can make the sunset extra special.
Things To Do in St Petersburg
Start your morning out looking for a variety of adventures you aren’t going to want to miss out on.
Drive south of St. Pete Beach through the charming community of Pass-a-Grille Beach and you can admire the colorful beach bungalows.
Stop for a quick game of mini golf at Polynesian Putter, home to a vintage Tiki statue, tiger, colorful snake, and tropical hazards.
The 18-hole course is located across the street from the gulf and is a great thing to do in St Petersburg!
On your way to Downtown St. Pete, take a detour and drive down Beach Boulevard in the eclectic, artsy community of Gulfport.
If you are in search of Florida kitsch, this town won’t disappoint. It’s full of casual, fun restaurants, one-of-a-kind shops, and art galleries.
St. Petersburg Murals
Don’t miss out on visiting the downtown St. Pete area and checking out the captivating, urban murals that have made “Sunshine City” an open-air art destination.
Currently, over 500 murals of all sizes, shapes, and styles have popped up all around St. Pete.
If you like to take creative selfies, look no further.
There are unique wall murals everywhere you look and each one also makes an amazing backdrop for your personal photo collection.
History of the St. Petersburg Murals
According to Visit Florida, the growth of the central business district murals dates back to 2010, when major redevelopment plans for the entire 600 block of Central collapsed.
Instead, the block became an artists’ colony of sorts, packed with independent galleries, boutiques, and restaurants brought on at deeply discounted rents.
Behind the stores, in the alley, the murals started appearing, each one more colorful, clever, and sometimes funnier than the last.
You can see this mural at China Finders (2823 Central). Artist Sarah Sheppard combined images of the plates and cups found in their store with Johnny Depp from the 2010 movie “Alice in Wonderland.” It’s whimsical and truly a work of art!
A variety of local artists have designed these murals. They have worked with different shop owners to add a new fresh look to the area.
Learn even more about the murals
Each October artists from all over the world take over St. Pete for an annual event called SHINE.
Artists from around the world (including national and also local muralists) paint a story in colorful, bright colors on barren walls of various exterior buildings throughout the city.
Sunken Gardens
Make time to drive by Sunken Gardens. The Gardens have existed for more than a century, and are one of the oldest roadside tourist attractions in the United States.
The Sunken Gardens are home to a variety of beautiful experiences you don’t want to miss out on. Enjoy some of the oldest plants in the region on this roadside attraction.
Sit by the water or enjoy capturing photos of the beautiful gardens and all they have to offer.
Location: 1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704
St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club
You can also visit the St Petersburg Shuffleboard Club. Founded in 1924, the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club is the oldest and largest shuffleboard club in the world.
Friday nights are free and artists and history buffs alike have banded together to revive this nostalgic game. This could be a fun place to connect with friends while playing a classic game.
Fourth Street Shrimp Store
Getting a bit hungry? Stop for a bite to eat at Fourth Street Shrimp Store.
Established in 1984, it’s a funky casual seafood restaurant a few blocks from Sunken Gardens.
The atmosphere screams Old Florida (and their website is also really fun!).
There are so many things to do in St Petersburg.
Looking to visit a fun museum in the St. Pete area? Check it out in our Guide to the Museum of Motherhood!
Here are some other things to do not far from savvy St. Pete: