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Take a Field Trip to Liven Up Your Book Club

If your group is like most others, you tend to have a set schedule of meeting once a month or so at someone’s home for snacks or a meal and book discussion. As a rule, this is a great way to make sure that everyone can easily mark a date on a calendar and plan to be at each event. But if you’ve been meeting for a while, you may also find yourself a bit bored with the routine. What you may need to liven things up is a field trip.

Field trips are mostly associated with students, and if you have kids you may have even volunteered at your child’s outings a time or two. While a field trip for your book club most likely won’t involve taking a ride on a noisy, bumpy bus, it can accomplish for your group what it’s meant to accomplish for students: enhanced learning in an environment outside the classroom, or in this case outside your home.

What kind of outing could you go on with your book club? The possibilities are truly endless. You can start by looking for any kind of tie in to the book you are reading. You can also do just the opposite: find something your group may have fun doing, and look for a book that offers a tie in. Here are a few ideas for places to look for these tie ins:

Is there a new release movie coming up you think your group would enjoy seeing? If the movie is adapted from a novel, you can read the book first, see the movie, then go for dinner or dessert and coffee after to discuss what you read and how it differed from what you saw.

Is there a restaurant in your area that matches the theme of a book you’re reading? Many ethnic restaurants feature waiters in traditional clothing, photos of the homeland on the wall, and ethnic music, as well as food that gives you a taste of what’s on the menu for characters in a book.

Are there stage productions you would like to see that are based on a novel? Some of my favorite stage adaptations of books have been Huckleberry Finn , The Secret Garden and Peter Pan . Your local theater groups usually post what’s coming up for a whole season, so you can choose a play and plan ahead to read the book.

Is your local art museum featuring a special or regular exhibit that ties into the theme of a book you’d like to read? What other museums are in your area? In my hometown of Portland, for instance, I can find museums dedicated to advertising, Japanese and Chinese immigrants to the area, sports, architecture, art and more. There’s even a 24 hour Church of Elvis!

Can you travel to a nearby historical site? Look for Civil War battlefields, pioneer homesteads, homes of famous authors and so much more.

One of my favorite field trips I went on with my book club came when we read Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver, which focuses on eating locally. Our book club members organized a wine tasting day with a pot-luck lunch focused on ingredients we bought at a local farmers market. We talked to the winegrowers, sipped a bit of their wine and ate incredible food. Over lunch we talked about the book and what we had learned about eating locally as well as ideas we had for changing our food habits going forward. The pictures from that day show all of us with big smiles. The event was such a hit we knew that we’d be looking at other opportunities to take our group on the road at least once a year.

With just a little thought and creativity you’re bound to come up with lots of ideas with appeal to your book club members. Then you can file them away and pull out one or two each year for your group to focus on. Not only will you be keeping boredom at bay, you’ll be creating special memories that you will remember for a long time to come.

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5 Book Club Ideas For Awesome Book Clubs

Book lovers generally agree that book clubs are pretty awesome. I’ve been a part of a ton of them, and almost always get a lot out of the experience. That said, it takes dedication from many members to keep one going.

So, if you’re looking for ideas of how to inject some life into your book club, trying to keep it from fizzling out or just want to take your already-amazing book club to the next level, then this post is for you.

Screenshot from The Jane Austen Book Club

Have a fancy book club meeting

I’m all about low key activities (as you might expect from someone who writes a book blog for fun), but occasionally planning a meeting where you go out for something like a fancy (or even boozy) brunch can be a lot of fun.

Just make sure to pick a place that’s not too loud and has seating so your whole crew can sit together. Places with long tables are good, or just call ahead and ask if they can stick some tables together for you! If you live near wineries, planning your next book club meeting there (make sure they have seating first) can be really fun as well!

Play a literary board game at your next meeting

Come up with an official book club name and make t-shirts!

Try an audiobook for your next book club pick

This is great for book clubs where people don’t know each other as well. In addition to dissecting the book itself, find out about how your members chose to listen to their audiobooks to get a sense of their daily lives! Books like Becoming by Michelle Obama or Stay Sexy & Don’t Get Murdered are great on audio and timely book club picks.

Plan a book club field trip!

826’s Tenderloin Center

Volunteer for a local literacy organization!

What better way to celebrate your love of books than by helping to spread the cheer to future book lovers? Libraries or organizations like the Dave Eggers-founded 826 National have branches in a lot of major cities ( 826 Valencia in SF, 826Chi in Chicago, 826DC in Washington D.C. and so on). I know 826 often has groups of corporate teams come in to volunteer together, so they’re well set up for accommodating group volunteering.

I volunteered with them for years and I can vouch for them being really well run and easy to work with. Plus, they have fun programs and they operate a lot of really important services, which as free after school tutoring, free college essay help for kids, free in-school programs for low-income schools, etc.

Hope this list helps to inspire your book club to new heights! If you have more ideas or examples of great activities or ways to bring new energy to a book club, please drop a comment below!

Happy book clubbing!

P.S. Also see the best book club picks for 2019 and great summer reads + wine pairings .

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Love your ideas and suggestions! T-shirts and trip sound so much fun! I’ve never been to a book club meeting before. Will try to one day :)

thanks Jee! I can’t believe you’ve never been to a book club meeting! You should try meetup.com to find some locally or just form a book club with some friends/coworkers! It’s definitely worth trying at least!

I definitely will when my little ones are older :)

Hi or have a literary book salon/swap night. Talk about favorite authors, books you are reading have read/loved/not really loved and swap books. Full disclosure this is what my book club does on a regular basis!

Oh that’s a great idea — thank you for sharing!

Nice post! I’m not a part of a book club, but that does sound like a great idea and these are awesome suggestions that, no lie, actually make me want to join a book club.

Thank you! Haha I hope you do find a book club, they can be a lot of fun. It’s worth trying at least!

It would definitely be interesting to say the least. I’d have to find a monthly one. Maybe even a digital one, though the experience would be better in person locally.

Yeah, I’d say the in-person ones are more fun. Sometimes local bookstores will host monthly bookclubs or if you’re in/near a bigger city, meetup.com can help you find a book club!

Oh yeah, I almost forgot about Meetup. Lol, I’ve got to go find one now! Lucky me, I live in Kansas City, so there should be something for me.

We have a book club meeting on the 27th — good suggestions!

Thank you! Happy book clubbing!

This is a great list, will share it with my book club thank you

Thank you Denise!

I love these ideas and think our Book Babes need a t-shirt! These suggestions highlight how a shared interest can really help you expand your activities and meet a wide variety of new people. Great ideas!

Book Club Field Trips

Once a book club is well-established and members have gotten to know each other, organising a field trip can be a wonderful way of enhancing relationships within the book club and adding another dimension to the discussions.

If you are the person organising the field trip and planning to take a large number of people, it may be a good idea to visit the place first yourself or at least familiarise yourself with the relevant information such as opening times, admission, food, transport, any special regulations, disability access if any members need it, weather and environmental conditions, if the place is outdoors. For example, if planning a trip to walk along the coast or beaches of a famous setting, it may be wise to check tide tables so that you can coincide your visit with low tide. Make sure that you advise members of any special clothing or equipment they may need to prepare, particularly if they will be outdoors or doing anything particularly dirty or strenuous. If members are cold and miserable or suffering in uncomfortable shoes, it can spoil an otherwise enjoyable outing.

Time management is very important – always plan more time than you think you need, particularly with a large group of people, and plan for the unexpected – for example, what happens if you miss the last bus? Who is in charge of checking for any stray members? What should the group do if bad weather makes the excursion impossible?

It is best to discuss and agree on all points – such as time of meeting, length of visit, time of return, means of transport, venue for any food and refreshments – BEFORE starting the trip as one of the biggest and most common problems when dealing with a group of people is the time wasted while everyone debates what to do next. It is best to elect a leader of a group, even if temporary, just to keep things on track and take charge of group decisions, as well as speak for the group if necessary. If bookings are needed then be strict with members and make sure they confirm ahead of time whether they will be attending and that they will honour this commitment unless in extenuating circumstances.

The key to having an enjoyable book club field trip is planning well, having all members in agreement about important aspects of the trip and then being flexible once in the field as your carefully planned activities may not be suitable once members are in location and enjoying themselves. Remember also to extend the experience and use the trip to enhance your future discussions once you are back to your regular meetings. A visit to one place may give members ideas for other, future books for the club to read.

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10 Fun and Innovative Ideas to Shake Up Your Book Club

Updated: Jul 26, 2024

Zoe Epstein

Is your book club in a rut? Life getting too hectic and need a shorter read or a break from reading altogether? Don’t worry! Whatever the reason you want to try something new, we’ve got you covered.

Earlier in our How to Book Club series , we shared what to look for in book club books , and how clubs actually choose their next read . But what about when the same old books are taking the pep out of your club? Here are our top ten book club suggestions to shake up your club’s reading and meetings.

CHANGE UP WHAT YOU READ

For when you just need to mix things up a little bit

Try a new genre:

Does your club mostly read contemporary fiction? Try a biography or memoir for a change! Read a lot of non-fiction ? How about a sci-fi book? Pick a new genre together, or shake things up even further by spinning a wheel or picking a genre from a hat! In addition to general and literary fiction, the Bookclubs newsletter provides monthly recommendations for historical fiction , fantasy and mystery / thriller books.

Pick a theme:

Choose a book from another country or culture. Read a book that goes deep on a topic in current events (my club, which mostly reads contemporary fiction, is currently reading Empire of Pain , a fascinating read that explores the role of the Sackler family in the modern opioid epidemic). Read and prepare a few dishes from a cookbook - many modern cookbooks are part memoir and part cultural exploration in addition to recipes. The possibilities are endless.

Take it back to a classic:

Instead of reading something new, try re-reading a classic from your youth. My club was transported back to our childhood while reading A Tree Grows in Brooklyn , by Betty Smith.

Read something seasonal:

Consider reading a book that centers on an upcoming holiday. Or take advantage of the many holidays and months celebrating different people and heritages to check out a new author. Pride month is coming up in June; consider reading a book by an LGBTQ+ author or centering an LBGTQ+ character.

READ SOMETHING SHORTER

For when you want to spend less time reading while still experiencing some amazing writing

Read short stories:

The great thing about reading short stories with your book club is that even members who haven’t finished the book can fully participate in the discussion. As an extra discussion question for short story collections, discuss any themes that unite or connect the stories in the collection. My club enjoyed Dear Life , by Nobel Prize winner Alice Munro.

Read poetry:

There are many ways to read poetry with your book club ! One month, my club read Devotions , a collection of poems by Mary Oliver. Each member could read as many or as few poems as they liked, but they had to pick at least one to read aloud to the group and then explain why they had chosen it. I loved hearing why each poem had struck a chord with people. Your book club could also participate in the annual Sealey Challenge to read a book of poetry every day for the month of August.

Read an article:

There’s so much excellent long-form journalism out there, including true life stories that are wilder than fiction. Did you know that you can easily attach an article link to a meeting when you use Bookclubs? Just click the checkmark next to “Add link for article, film, podcast episode, or other meeting material” and then paste your link. (If your club isn’t using Bookclubs to organize your meetings, sign up for free today )

DON’T READ ANYTHING AT ALL

For when you really need a break and don’t want to do any reading between meetings at all!

Watch a movie:

Whether you’re watching a book adaptation or any other movie that piques your interest, why not make your next book club meeting a movie night? Watch ahead of time and discuss together, or bust out the popcorn at your meeting. Our Bookclubs team recently replaced our usual monthly book club meeting with a Barbie movie field trip !

screen shot of scheduled book club meeting to see Barbie

Listen to a podcast:

We all love podcasts for giving us a laugh or allowing us to learn something new while on the go. Next meeting, try discussing one of your favorite podcast episodes together. You can link directly to the podcast episode of your choice while scheduling a new book club meeting. See screenshot below.

screen shot of how to add a podcast link to your book club meeting

Do a table reading:

Our team member, Carrie, recently did a table read with her book club. She reports, “ My book club tried something different last month. Instead of reading a book and discussing, we decided to do a table read of the screenplay for the 1950 film, All About Eve. Initially, we narrowed down 4 screenplays of movies or television episodes and then voted. For the meeting, I put all the characters in a hat and we drew our parts. I printed out the scripts and we sat around the table and read/performed the movie. It was a lot of fun! ” Your club could do this with a movie, or with a play. Depending on the length, you may need to split it into more than one meeting.

group of people reading a screen play script

Has your book club ever switched up what you read or discuss? What did you do? Share in the comments below!

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Your current subscription allows you to be actively logged in on up to three (3) devices simultaneously. click on continue below to log out of other sessions and log in on this device., field trip fun: middle school book club goes to the public library.

School librarian Angie Manfredi took her Los Alamos (NM) Middle School Book Club members to the local public library for a private tour and day of books and fun at the branch.

When Angie Manfredi became the librarian at Los Alamos (NM) Middle School two years ago, there were no regular or organized book programs at the school. Seeing a need, she started a book club.

Once a week, seventh and eighth graders gather at lunch to discuss what they’re reading, learn about publishing, and do book-related crafts. A few times a year, members select a book to read together. And, when she can, Manfredi arranges virtual author visits.

The kids enjoy book club so much that when Manfredi suggested they meet less frequently, the students demanded it stay weekly.

And while they love their regular get-togethers, one day each year stands out above all. The book club activities culminate in May with a field trip to the nearby Mesa Public Library, where Manfredi worked for 11 years.

This year, 16 students hopped aboard a public bus to the library and had access to the building for a tour before it opened to the public.

“It was like they were at Disneyland,” says Manfredi.

For so many of these kids, who Manfredi says are quieter and can feel "unseen" at school, book club and the trip to the library offer not just activities but a sense of belonging and a time to feel special.

“They really get treated like VIPs at the library,” she says.

Phones were out for many photo opportunities: A cart full of books; a rarely used dumb waiter; the internal book return.

Mesa Library staff shared details of the summer reading program as well as opportunities to volunteer at the library. There was instant interest. After the first trip in 2023, students volunteered and participated in the summer reading program.

Following the tour and talk, as the library opened to the public, the staff gave the book club a room for the day and free reign of the library to explore as they wanted.

“I didn't really structure it,” Manfredi says. There was no timeslot for sustained silent reading, no mandatory activities. “Because of that, the creativity exploded.”

While some students settled in with books, others explored the stacks. A group of kids cast and shot a movie about the library being haunted, and some learned calligraphy from Jacob Wadlington, a teacher at the school who chaperoned with Manfredi. The library staff let book club members use the branch's button maker and gave them journals left over from a library program. The students were allowed to take free books from those being discarded from the collection, and those with money could go to the Friends of Library store and purchase items.

Manfredi used funds from a grant to pay for a pizza lunch. That and public transportation made the entire day free.

While students ate, Manfredi read them the picture book, Pizza!: A Slice of History by Greg Pizzoli. Later, the kids spent time browsing more picture books in the library’s collection, enjoying finding ones they remembered from when they were younger.

Because Manfredi had worked at Mesa, she already had a relationship with the branch and its staff. But she encourages any school librarian to reach out to their local public libraries about such a trip.

“It’s worth the ask,” she says. “It was a time for them to pitch their teen programs, pitch the volunteer program. And it also gave them a chance to say, ‘We did this cool partnership with the schools.’”

Not only will such a trip build relationships between the school and public library, as well as students and their local branch, it may also be unexpectedly exciting for the kids—even middle schoolers.

“Things you and I take for granted, the kids don’t,” says Manfredi.

Before the day ended, the students were excitedly planning for next year and suggesting it become a monthly excursion.

But the best part for Manfredi came many days later. During the last week of school, the one student on the trip who didn’t have a public library card previously stopped in to show Manfredi their new one.

“They'd talked their parents into getting them a card because they wanted to access everything they'd seen and heard about,” says Manfredi. “We immediately sat down so I could show them Libby and Hoopla, and it felt very magical indeed.”

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The Colorful Apple

Engage Your Readers with a Library Field Trip

You’ve worked hard with your students all year – putting books in their hands, reading aloud and talking with them about books. They are engaged and reading more than ever! But, what happens when summer hits? They no longer have constant access to books and a strong reading model. Take your students on a library field trip!

Why a library field trip?

The benefits of going on a field trip to the library can be huge! Many students don’t even know that a local library exists. By taking them to visit, they can learn all that the library has to offer.

Taking students on a library field trip can have huge benefits, especially at the end of the school year.

Many libraries have summer programs that students of all ages can participate in. They have fun (and often free) events that entice students to come into the library each week.

Why should we go at the end of the year?

Any time of the year is good for a library field trip! And the end of the year is an especially good time to visit. It lets students know that they can still access hundreds of books (for free!) all summer long. By building on the reading culture that you have created all year long, you can show students that they can continue to be avid readers throughout the summer.

What are some of the goals?

show students how to use the library
acquaint them with the librarians
introduce them to the summer program
have them sign up for a library card
create a summer reading list for themselves

Taking your students to the library at the end of the school year can make a huge difference in their reading life. And by encouraging your students to read all summer long , they will be more invested in making it a daily habit.

Reader Interactions

Literary Field Trips in New Orleans

Why did we create two New Orleans literary field trips?

New Orleans has a rich literary history that rivals New York and Paris. Writers have come here for 300 years to be inspired, accepted, and creative.

Lucky Bean Tours has created two original literature-centered walking tours for student groups – one of the Garden District, and one of the French Quarter – focusing on the writers and works of literature created in and inspired by our beautiful city. Most of our guides are former teachers.

When you book a literary field trip, we reach out to plan your experience and find out what your class has been reading, and even make suggestions for pre-reading if you wish.

Your students are given the opportunity to appreciate our rich history and to associate locations with works of literature. However, we do NOT go to Bourbon Street, even though William Faulkner celebrated the publication of his first novel at Galatoire’s with friends. We think Faulkner would understand.

We can accommodate groups of all sizes. Please contact us for more information.

113+ Thought-Provoking Book Club Discussion Questions

These conversation starters that will spark interesting debates and deepen your understanding of the books you read.

Looking to elevate your book club meetings? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of 113+ thought-provoking book club discussion questions that are sure to spark lively conversations and deepen your understanding of the books you read. Whether you’re a seasoned book club enthusiast or just starting out, these questions will help you delve deeper into the themes, characters, and messages of your chosen books. From classics to contemporary bestsellers, we’ve got you covered with a diverse range of questions that will challenge your perspectives and encourage fascinating debates. Get ready to explore the hidden layers of your favorite novels, connect with fellow book lovers on a deeper level, and take your book club meetings to the next level. So let’s dive in and embark on a journey of literary exploration together!

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Why book club discussion questions are important

Book club discussion questions play a crucial role in elevating the overall experience of your book club meetings. They go beyond simple plot summaries and encourage participants to engage with the book’s themes, characters, and underlying messages. These questions provide a framework for deeper analysis and interpretation, helping you and your fellow book club members develop a richer understanding of the books you read. By discussing these thought-provoking questions, you can uncover hidden layers, explore different perspectives, and gain new insights that you might have missed on your own.

Discussion questions also foster a sense of community and connection within your book club. They encourage lively debates and allow participants to share their unique interpretations and personal experiences related to the book. Through these discussions, you’ll develop a deeper bond with your fellow book lovers as you explore the literary world together and gain a better understanding of each other’s perspectives.

How to create book club discussion questions?

Creating thought-provoking book club discussion questions is an art form that takes practice and experience. When crafting questions, think of topics that will encourage participants to engage with the book’s themes and characters. Consider what made you connect to the text personally and why certain scenes or messages resonated with you. These are great starting points for finding meaningful topics for discussion. Additionally, you can try asking questions that explore different perspectives or invite people to share their personal experiences related to the book. Once you have a few questions written down, go back and refine them to make sure they are open-ended and engaging. With these tips in mind, you’ll be ready to create book club discussion questions that will bring your meetings to life!

What are good book club discussion questions?

Good book club discussion questions should be open-ended and thought-provoking. They should allow participants to engage with the themes, characters, and ideas of the book at a deeper level. Here are some examples of good book club discussion questions:

What was your initial impression of the protagonist? How did this opinion evolve as you read through the book?
How did the author use symbolism to communicate underlying themes throughout the story?
Did any particular scenes or lines stand out to you? Why do you think they were included in the text?
What aspects of the book made you feel connected to its characters and messages?
In what ways do you think this relates to present-day or modern society?

General discussion questions for any book

What was your initial reaction to the book’s title, cover, or blurb?
Did the book meet your expectations? Why or why not?
How did the book make you feel? Did it evoke any specific emotions?
Were there any particular passages or quotes that stood out to you? Why?
Did the book change your perspective on any topic or issue? If so, how?
Did the author effectively convey the book’s themes? Why or why not?
How did the book’s pacing and structure impact your reading experience?
Did the characters feel realistic and relatable? Why or why not?
Were there any unresolved plot points or loose ends that bothered you?
Would you recommend this book to others? Why or why not?

These general discussion questions provide a starting point for any book club meeting. They allow participants to share their overall impressions and engage in a broad discussion about the book’s impact. Feel free to adapt and expand upon these questions to suit the specific book you’re discussing.

Discussion questions for fiction books

Fiction books offer rich opportunities for exploration and analysis. Use these discussion questions to delve into the intricacies of the story, characters, and themes.

How did the author use language and imagery to create the setting and atmosphere?
Which character did you relate to the most? Why?
Were there any characters you found particularly intriguing or compelling? Why?
How did the protagonist’s journey or transformation impact the story?
Did the book challenge any preconceived notions or stereotypes? How?
Were there any plot twists or surprises that caught you off guard? How did they change your understanding of the story?
Did the book explore any social or political issues? If so, what were they and how were they portrayed?
How did the book’s ending resonate with you? Were you satisfied or left wanting more?
Did the author effectively use symbolism or metaphors? If so, how did they enhance your reading experience?
How did the book’s narrative style contribute to your engagement with the story?

Discussion questions for non-fiction books

Non-fiction books offer unique opportunities for learning and discussion. Use these questions to explore the author’s arguments, research, and real-world implications.

What is the main thesis or central argument of the book? Were you convinced by it?
Did the author provide sufficient evidence to support their claims? Why or why not?
How did the book challenge or expand your knowledge on the topic?
Were there any sections of the book that you found particularly thought-provoking or eye-opening? Why?
Did the author present different perspectives on the topic? How did they handle conflicting viewpoints?
Did the book change your opinion on the subject matter? If so, how?
How did the author’s writing style impact your understanding and engagement with the book?
Did the book inspire you to take any action or explore further research on the topic? Why or why not?
Did the book raise any questions or issues that you would like to discuss further?
How did the book compare to other books or sources you’ve read on the same topic?

Discussion questions for classic literature

Classic literature provides a treasure trove of timeless themes and complex characters. Use these questions to delve into the depths of the classics.

How does this classic work resonate with contemporary issues or concerns?
What makes this book a classic? Why do you think it has stood the test of time?
How does the author’s writing style reflect the time period in which the book was written?
Were there any cultural or historical aspects of the book that you found difficult to understand or relate to?
How does the book explore universal human experiences or emotions?
Did the book challenge any societal norms or conventions of its time? If so, how?
How does the book’s language and imagery contribute to its overall impact?
Did the book’s ending leave room for interpretation or closure? How did it affect your reading experience?
How do the characters in this classic work compare to those found in contemporary literature?
How does this classic work relate to other books or authors from the same time period?

113 Thought-Provoking Book Club Discussion Questions

What was the central message or moral of the story?
What were some of the key themes explored in the text?
How did you feel about the characters and their development throughout the book?
Was there a particular scene that really stood out to you?
Who was your favorite character, and why?
What did you think about the way the author handled difficult topics or controversial themes?
How would you rate this book on a scale of 1-10, and why?
Was there any symbolism or recurring motifs in the text that resonated with you?
How does this book connect to current events or popular culture?
What did you learn from reading this book?
Is there anything you would change about the story or its characters?
In what ways was the ending satisfying or unsatisfying?
Did any of the quotes stick with you after finishing the book?
What were your thoughts on the author’s writing style or narrative choices?
How would you describe the overall mood of the book and why?
Are there any universal truths explored in this book that have meaning for other people as well?
In what ways did this text challenge or confirm expectations?
What did you think of the book’s setting, and why was it important for the story?
How do you think this book compares to other works in the same genre?
Did any particular scenes make you laugh, cry, or feel empathy?
If you could ask the author one question about this book, what would it be?
What were your impressions of the antagonists, and did they have any redeeming qualities?
Were there any moral or ethical dilemmas that resonated with you during the reading?
What themes do you think will stay relevant for years to come?
How did the book’s title relate to the story? Was it a fitting choice?
Which characters resonated with you the most, and why?
If you could rewrite a part of the story, which part would it be and why?
Did the book alter your perspective on a certain topic or issue?
How has the book influenced your thoughts or emotions?
Did the book end the way you expected it to?
Can you relate to any of the characters or situations in the book?
What emotions did the first and last pages of the book evoke?
How did the book’s pace affect your reading experience?
Would you recommend this book to someone else? Why or why not?
How would you envision a sequel or prequel to this book?
What contemporary issues did the book bring to light?
Did the book’s resolution feel authentic and satisfying?
If you had the chance to interview the author, what would you ask?
How did the book’s genre influence its overarching themes?
What insights did the book provide into human nature?

Could the events in the book occur in real life?
Would you classify the book as a “page-turner”? Why or why not?
How did the author create suspense or tension in the book?
Do you think the book would be different if it was written from another character’s perspective?
Can you identify any symbols in the book, and what do they signify?
If you could ask a character in the book a question, what would it be?
How do the book’s themes relate to your own life experiences?
Would the book’s impact be different if it was set in a different time or place?
What emotions did the book stir up in you as you were reading?
What are your final thoughts on the book?
How did the author’s background or personal experiences influence the narrative?
Did you find the book’s premise original and captivating?
Does the book contain any subplots? If so, how do they contribute to the main story?
How did the book’s structure influence its narrative flow?
Can you identify a turning point in the book? How did it affect the story?
Do you think the title gives away too much or too little about the book?
How has the book changed or enhanced your understanding of a particular era or culture?
Do you think the book would translate well into a movie or TV series?
What kind of emotions did you experience while reading the climax of the book?
Was the protagonist’s journey and transformation believable to you?
Did the book’s pace enhance or detract from your reading experience?
If you could spend a day with one of the characters, who would it be and why?
How does the book explore the complexity of human relationships?
Did the author effectively use foreshadowing to hint at future events in the book?
To whom in your life would you recommend this book, and why?
Do you think the protagonist made the right decisions throughout the book?
What passage from the book would you quote to entice someone to read it?
How did the setting contribute to the overall mood of the book?
If you could change one thing about the book, what would it be and why?
How has this book challenged or reinforced your pre-existing beliefs or values?
Which character underwent the most compelling transformation and why?
Can you identify any strong imagery used in the book, and how did it contribute to the story?
How do you think the book will be remembered decades from now?
How did the author’s tone contribute to the mood of the book?
If the book were to be adapted into a film, who would you cast as the main characters?
Did the author’s choice of words enhance your reading experience?
Did the book evoke a strong sense of place? How did it add to the story?
Did you find any aspect of the book predictable?
What is your favorite dialogue or quote from the book and why?
Did the book leave you with any unanswered questions?

Did the characters and their actions feel credible within the world the author created?
How did the relationships between characters evolve throughout the book?
Were there any unexpected plot twists? How did they impact your reading experience?
Was there a specific event or moment that you found most impactful in the book? Why?
If you could ask the author to expand on a particular aspect or scene in the book, what would it be?
Was there a character with whom you shared a personal connection? If so, who was it and why did you feel connected?
Did the climax of the book meet your expectations? Why or why not?
If a sequel were to be written, what elements or characters would you like to see explored further?
Did the narrative style impact your connection with the characters or your understanding of the plot?
Were there any sections of the book you found confusing or difficult to understand? How did this affect your overall impression of the book?
How does the author handle the element of time in the book? Did it enhance or detract from the narrative?
How does this book compare to the other books you’ve read recently?
If you were the author, what is one thing you would have done differently when writing this book?
Did you feel the characters’ actions drove the plot, or did the plot drive the characters’ actions?
How does the book’s ending compare to its beginning, and how do they fit together as a whole?
What specific techniques did the author use to keep you engaged throughout the book?
Are there any connections between this book and other books by the same author?
Did anything about the book surprise or disappoint you? If so, what was it and why?
How do the characters develop or regress throughout the book’s plot?
Did the book draw any comparisons between real life and its fictional world?
What themes did this book explore that are outdated?
How effectively did the author utilize different points of view techniques to tell their story?
Do you think this book will still resonate in fifty years, or do you think it is more suited for this present time?
How did the book’s resolution affect your reading experience?
In what ways could the book have been improved upon?
Are there any elements of the story that felt unresolved at the end of the book?
What would you say are the main themes of this book?
How does the book provide insight into different aspects of human life?
Do you think the author’s chosen styles of writing was effective? Why or why not?
Looking back on your experience reading the book, can you identify any lessons you learned from it?
Were there any thematic elements that were introduced but not fully explored?
What elements of the story were most impactful when considering its overall message?
Do you think any additional characters could have enhanced the narrative of the book?

How do you run a successful book club discussion?

Running a successful book club discussion involves more than just having great questions. It also requires thoughtful facilitation and an understanding of group dynamics. Here are some tips for running a successful book club discussion:

Start off with an icebreaker question that invites everyone to share their initial thoughts on the book or any favorite moments they experienced while reading it. This helps start the conversation and makes everyone feel more comfortable.
Choose questions that are open-ended and thought-provoking but not too long or convoluted. Make sure they’re things that participants can easily answer or discuss in a few minutes.
During the discussion, be mindful of each participant’s contribution. Some members will be more chatty than others, so make sure everyone has an equal chance to share their thoughts. Also, try to keep conversations on track, but don’t be afraid to let people explore tangential topics if they’re related to the book.
Give each participant space to express themselves freely and come up with their own interpretations of the book. Avoid jumping in with your opinion too often or dictating how others should feel about it.
Finally, have fun! Book club discussions are a great way to connect with fellow book lovers and learn more about each other. Enjoy the journey of exploration together!

How do you make a book club interesting?

Making a book club interesting lies in the unique blend of the books you choose, the discussions you foster, and the atmosphere you create. Start by selecting a diverse range of books across different genres, cultures, and authors to keep the reading list fresh and exciting. Encourage lively and open-ended discussions, not just about the book’s plot and characters, but about its themes, relevance to current events, and its impact on readers. Engage in creative activities related to the book, like themed meetings or author Q&As, to add an extra layer of fun and interactiveness. You can also bring the book to life by organizing related field trips or movie nights. Above all, create an inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone’s opinion is valued and respected, fostering a sense of community among members. Remember, the ultimate goal is for each member to enrich their understanding of literature, enjoy riveting discussions, and create lasting friendships.

How do I make my book club more interactive?

Making your book club more interactive is all about fostering a sense of engagement and interactivity among members. Here are some tips to help make your virtual (or in-person) meetings more engaging:

Utilize polls or other survey tools to engage with participants before the meeting begins, allowing them to share their thoughts while also getting a better sense of the group’s opinion.
Play games that encourage members to think more deeply about the book, like asking participants to come up with their own creative discussion questions or plot twists based on the text.
Create smaller breakout groups for deeper conversations and personal reflections, which can then be shared in the main meeting afterwards.
Encourage members to share quotes from the book that resonated with them or guided their interpretation of it.
Set aside an allotted amount of time for each person to talk and express their thoughts on the book, allowing everyone a fair chance to participate.
Have fun! Don’t be afraid to do something unexpected or out-of-the-box that will make the book come alive for your members.

Where to find more book club discussion questions?

Fortunately, there are plenty of resources available online to help you find exciting book club discussion questions. Additionally, many authors and publishers provide official discussion guides with suggested topics and questions for their books. Finally, if you’re stuck or looking for inspiration, you can also check out our list of book club discussion questions above. This curated list includes a diverse range of topics and ideas to help you take your meetings to the next level.

What are your thoughts on these book club discussion questions?

Do you answer or ask questions after you’ve finished reading? Do you prepare questions ahead of your book club discussion? Are book club discussion questions used as part of your book club meeting? What book club discussion questions would you add to this list? Let us talk about it in the comments below!

Explore the World of Book Clubs

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Get The List 113+ Thought-Provoking Book Club Discussion Questions

JoinThe BiblioLifestyle Community & Online Book Club

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St Petersburg-Clearwater Field Trips

The FieldTripDirectory.com is a resource of St. Petersburg-Clearwater, Florida field trips for elementary school students thru high school students, camp groups, homeschool groups and scout troops for day field trips, overnight field trips and youth retreats. Learn about St. Petersburg-Clearwater’s museums, zoos and aquariums, botanic gardens, nature centers, historic sites, amusement parks, recreation, performing arts and more, CLICK on the ACTIVITY FILTER below for further field trip information. For those unable to travel to these locations, check out our Virtual Field Trips section or Outreach Field Trips & School Assembly Programs section.

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Children's Museums & Indoor Fun
History Museums, Exhibits & Sites
Multicultural & Heritage
Team Building
Adventure Parks, Climbing, Ninja & Ropes Course, Ziplines
Indoor Amusement & Recreation Centers
Laser Tag/Laser Maze
Botanical Gardens & Arboreta
Environmental Studies, Outdoor Education, Conservation, Sustainability
Science Museums & Exhibits
STEM/STEAM Enrichment
Art Museums, Design, Exhibits, Architecture, Photography & Films
Theater, Dance, Music, Movies, Shows
Early Childhood
Elementary School
Middle School
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Laser Ops Gaming Arcade

Learn about the inner workings of a Family Friendly Arcade and Laser Tag Center on this fun and educational Field Trip. Laser Ops is a 25,000 sf Indoor Amusement Center in Tampa Bay.

Pathfinder Outdoor Education St. Petersburg

Pathfinder’s mission is to deliver fun, challenging adventures that help people learn about themselves, others and the environment.

American Stage Theatre Company

Join the American Stage Theatre Company for live performances that will introduce your group to the theatre. Pair your trip to the theater with an in-class workshop.

Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

The Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, on 245 acre, features an environmental center, living history museum, 6 miles of trail and boardwalks, unique ecosystems, sand pine scrub, pine flatwoods, willow marsh, swamp woodlands, and more.

Chihuly Collection by the Morean Arts Center

Admire the permanent Chihuly Collection at the Morean Arts Center in St. Petersburg, FL. This collection, filled with works by Dale Chihuly, merges art and architecture.

Dali Museum

The Dali Museum celebrates the life and work of Salvador Dali, featuring works spanning his entire career. The collection holds over 2,000 works in every medium of his artistic activity including 96 oil paintings, many original drawings, book illustrations, prints, sculpture and more.

Florida Holocaust Museum

The Florida Holocaust Museum honors the memory of millions who suffered or died in the Holocaust with emphasis on teaching tolerance.

Great Explorations Children's Museum

Great Explorations Children’s Museum provides learning and play with hands-on exhibits and programs. Choose between self-exploration, an interactive show, and a Learning Lab.

Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts’ exhibits spans 4,000 yrs of art from antiquity to the present, including African art, European paintings & also as well as sculpture garden, photography and a glass gallery.

Saint Petersburg Museum of History

The St. Petersburg Museum of History has shared stories of the Sunshine City for nearly a century, presenting exhibits depicting the birth of the City and its history.

Science Center of Pinellas

The Science Center of Pinellas is dedicated to providing innovative, dynamic learning experiences for curious young minds, while laying a foundation in STEM for future career options.

Sunken Gardens

The historic Sunken Gardens features meandering paths, exotic plants from around the world, waterfalls, demonstration gardens, and more than 50,000 tropical plants, and flowers.

FieldTripDirectory.com offers field trip ideas for class trips, scout group trips, camp group field trips, and homeschool group field trips in St. Petersburg—for early childhood through college. Search for class trips in St. Petersburg/Clearwater by group type, cost, activity/curriculum type, grade level, distance, and venue name or keyword. Day class trips are divided by curriculum and subject area:

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Find St. Petersburg art museums, theater, dance, and music concert field trips.
EARLY CHILDHOOD Find class trips to St. Petersburg children’s museums, petting zoos, and kids’ shows.
HISTORY/SOCIAL STUDIES View St. Petersburg history museums, government & civics, historic sites, living history museums, and multicultural field trip ideas.
LIFE SKILLS Find St. Petersburg team building field trips, health & safety exhibits, and character education experiences.
SCIENCE & NATURE Find St. Petersburg aquariums, botanical gardens, environmental studies & nature centers, farms & mazes, planetariums, science museums, STEAM & STEM field trips, dinosaur exhibits, and zoos.
RECREATION Find St. Petersburg field trip ideas for adventure parks, ropes courses, ziplines, boat excursions, amusement parks, waterparks, kayaking, rafting, tubing, laser tag paintball, roller skating rinks, ice-skating rinks, mini-golf attractions, indoor amusement & recreation centers, and outdoor amusement & recreation centers.

Overnight field trips & retreats are available for environmental education, team building, and recreation. We created field trip lesson plans to help teachers, scout leaders, camp counselors, and homeschool parents provide an enriching experience for their groups. We know funds for class trips are limited, so we’ve included grants for field trips that cover admission, transportation, and more. It’s important that students and youth explore new environments, learn about other cultures, and develop an understanding of inclusivity as part of the educational process. People learn in different ways—through hearing, seeing, touching, talking, or doing. Class trips can provide a multi-dimensional learning experience. FieldTripDirectory.com can help you find the right trip for your group. A world of experiences is just a click away at FieldTripDirectory.com.

35+ Best Things to Do in Downtown St. Petersburg, Florida

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Welcome to downtown St. Pete, also known as the Sunshine City and one of the most vibrant and exciting neighborhoods in Florida! Located in the heart of Tampa Bay, this thriving district is a hub of culture, entertainment, and recreation. From world-class museums and galleries to trendy restaurants and bars, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in downtown St. Pete!

Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor from out of town, this guide will show you the best of what Downtown St. Pete has to offer. So grab your sunscreen and your walking shoes, and let’s explore this eclectic and energetic city together!

Table of Contents

Quick links for your St. Pete trip

🏨 Accommodation

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🎟️ Tours and tickets

Discover your next adventure with ease by using Viator which allows you to explore a multitude of local tours, ensuring you find the best experiences at the best prices.

🚘 Car rental

Rentalcars is the best tool for comparing prices for your date amongst the most popular rental car companies!

Things to do in Downtown St. Pete

Brewery hop.

Downtown St. Pete has some of THE BEST bars and breweries . Each one brings something different to the table, and most are super dog-friendly! While I don’t have a furry friend myself, this is a bonus for me because I get to see and pet all of the cutie pups that are out and about.

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Let Bailey Bjugan be your go-to realtor for navigating the vibrant neighborhoods of St. Petersburg! Reach out to [email protected] or 727-355-1771 to find your perfect home sweet home.

3 Daughters is my favorite brewery in St. Pete. It’s dog friendly, has a huge venue, games, live music, and offers a good variety of beers, hard seltzers, and ciders. Their ciders are the best in town— if the blueberry peppercorn is on tap, make sure you try that one! There are always so many delicious flavors, your best bet is to do a flight!

Cider flight held up in front of the stage located in 3 Daughters

If I Brewed the World is also a great one, especially if beer isn’t usually your thing. The last time we went they had the most unique flavors with a nice outdoor patio area. Our bartender was extremely knowledgeable about the brewing process, and we learned a lot about how exactly the owners made their Spicy BBQ Sauce Smoke Sour legit smell, and taste like BBQ!

They also had a Green Apple Jolly Rancher sour and Grape Laffy Taffy Sour (among several other interesting concoctions) that were super delicious and unique.

Overflow , Cage Brewing , Right Around the Corner , and Pinellas Ale Works are a few of our other favorites, but honestly I have yet to check out a St. Pete brewery I wasn’t fond of!

If you are into the brewery scene, you may also be interested in checking out breweries in Dunedin , the best breweries in Tampa , and 5 fun breweries in Clearwater too!

Trolley Pub

If you want to take your brewery hopping game to the next level book a ride with Trolley Pub ! You can rent the whole bike or just a seat and make your way from brewery to brewery. The tours last two hours and allow you to bring your own coolers with drinks and snacks (no hard liquor or glass). You will pop between 4 of St. Pete’s best bars and breweries.

Related read: Ultimate St. Pete Bach Party Guide & Best Florida Bachelorette Party Destinations

Support some local restaurants

The foodie scene is ON POINT in St. Pete. So many awesome spots to choose from, regardless of what cuisine you are craving. Some of my go-to’s are The Library (for brunch), Grattzi (for Italian and the best limoncello cake you’ll ever have), Red Mesa Mercado (Mexican eats), Fresco’s (for waterfront views and yummy seafood), The Lure (for sushi), and Parkshore Grill (for a nice date night dinner ).

There are so many bomb restaurants in St. Pete that I’m really just skimming the surface here, read my full list of downtown St. Pete’s best restaurants for more!

🥗Treat yourself to new flavors

During this walking tour try unique foods hand-picked by state-of-the-art chefs and experience the beauty of local culture and cuisine!

Have a picnic

COVID really made me fall in love with the idea of picnics again. In a time when we couldn’t enjoy eating at our favorite restaurants, I really enjoyed getting to-go food from my favorite spots and setting up a cute little picnic area (check out this awesome picnic backpack equipped with all of your picnic needs).

But even now, if you want a fun twist for your meal and just want to enjoy the outdoors, a picnic is your answer.

Vinoy Park gives you park and ocean views, and maybe even a show— sometimes people are showcasing their talents in the area (singing, juggling, tightrope walking, etc.).

Enjoying a picnic at Vinoy Park in downtown St. Pete

If you don’t feel like setting up your own picnic but want to have one, The Picnic Babe has set up the most lovely setup for Remi and me in the past, and I absolutely love her work! She provides games, blankets, a speaker, and whatever else you may think you need for a fun date night , birthday celebration , or just a regular girls’ day.

Escape room

Escape rooms are the perfect thing to do in downtown St. Pete on a rainy day. If you aren’t familiar with escape rooms, they are challenges where you are put in a room with clues and puzzles to solve in order to reach an end goal in a certain amount of time.

Reservations are required, so if you’re expecting a rainy day during your visit, get ahead of the crowd and schedule a slot before all of the other vacationers have the same idea. There are a number of different themed adventures you can choose from including “ SCORCHED ” and “ DISARM “.

Candle Pour

One of the more unique things to do in downtown St. Pete is offered by Candle Pour , where creativity and scent blend seamlessly to create a truly personalized candle-making adventure.

The process is both engaging and gratifying as you begin by perusing the scent wall, selecting your favorite fragrances from an array of options. Next, you will collaborate with an expert who will assist you in combining 3-4 of your chosen scents to craft the perfect candle that reflects your individual taste.

The tactile engagement of pouring the scents into the container, watching as they meld into a harmonious blend, and ultimately creating a custom-made candle to take home is an experience that is fun and fulfilling!

As I mentioned, Vinoy Park is the perfect place for a picnic, but it’s also a great spot for Rollerblading or a bike ride. Even if you don’t have your own bike, St. Pete has bikes you can rent! You can rent through Coast Bike Share’s website or app. There are different plans depending on how frequently you plan to bike as well as discounted student plans, and you can pay per hour/month/year.

🛴 An unusual way to explore St. Petersburg – hop on a segway and visit the best spots in the city

You can also blow the dust off your Rollerblades (OK, maybe that’s just me) and give it the old college try. My legs were screaming, but it really was a fun workout. Vinoy Park is one of my favorite places with scenic views for Rollerblading!

Rollerblading through Vinoy Park on a sunny day

If you’re wanting a more relaxing park day, there are plenty of good places (including plenty of shady areas to escape the Florida sun) to put up a hammock in Vinoy Park. You can find hammocks pretty cheap on Amazon! Need a new book? I’ve got you covered with my next suggestion.

Toast the Hostess

Elevating the art of shopping to a delightful new level, Toast the Hostess stands as a charming haven in St. Pete where every visit feels like a celebration! This adorable shop offers a curated selection of unique home items that capture both style and personality.

What makes the experience truly special is the opportunity to sip champagne as you explore the store’s exquisite offerings. Whether you’re searching for the perfect statement piece for your living room or a thoughtful gift for a loved one, Toast the Hostess combines the joy of discovery with the pleasure of indulgence.

Check out some of the adorable bookstores

I have quite the obsession with cute bookshops, and I’m used to them serving coffee, but Book + Bottle takes things next level and pairs an array of literary works with a glass (or bottle) of wine. Why didn’t I think of that? (Peep my top wine bars in St. Pete .)

They also have coffee though, if that’s what you prefer! Make sure to check out all of their fun events or their online book club as well!

Located right next to Black Crow Coffee (one of my favorite coffee shops in St. Pete ) is another super cute bookshop, Tombolo Books . It has this indie, bungalow vibe that totally drew me in. A reservation is needed, however, we got lucky and were able to get in without one. They have your typical genres along with an amazing local selection. They have Florida fiction and Florida nonfiction sections which I found to be so interesting!

Glass of book + bottle's pinot grigio in front of some of their book selection

Get your game on

Breweries like 3 Daughters, Around the Corner, and Overflow Brewing all have plenty of games where you can get a little competitive while you enjoy drinks. If you are wanting more of a bar vibe, hit up Park and Rec ! Here you can find Skee-Ball, air hockey, basketball, corn hole, and more. They have fun retro-themed drink concoctions and fun music. For other fun game spots in Tampa Bay, check out this post .

If you’re looking for something a little bit different, but still want to show your competitive side, there are actually a few axe-throwing spots downtown! Check out Axe and Ale at Fergs or Hatchet Hangout next to Grand Central Brewhouse.

Outside Park and Rec setup with numerous cornhole games on the lawn

See a show at Jannus Live

Speaking of fun music, you will absolutely love Jannus Live. It is definitely one of my favorite venues. It’s an outdoor courtyard venue that’s close to all of St. Pete’s best nightlife spots. Obviously, shows are limited right now due to COVID, but definitely keep an eye on Jannus’s calendar for the future! They host such a wide array of music genres! I saw Gryffin here and it was one of the best shows of my life.

Fairgrounds St. Pete

Fairgrounds St. Pete is a hub of artistic exploration that offers an immersive experience that transcends traditional gallery spaces. Here, art becomes an interactive journey, with a series of experiential rooms that are created by local artists.

Expect to be transported into a world of creativity, where contemporary art takes on new dimensions and ignites conversations and connections. The innovative approach of Fairgrounds St. Pete redefines how we experience art and is an essential stop if you’re seeking a unique and transformative encounter with creativity.

Sing your heart out in a karaoke room

Unleash your inner superstar in the private karaoke room at Good Fortune. Whether you’re a closet diva or a casual crooner, this lively venue provides a perfect stage to belt out your favorite tunes with friends. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with a wide selection of songs, promises a memorable night of musical entertainment.

The drinks are also delicious, which was great because I definitely needed some liquid courage!

Have a beach day

Sink your toes into the sugar-white sands of St. Pete Beach , where the options for relaxation and adventure are as vast as the ocean. Whether you’re hopping around beach bars , savoring the culinary delights of Pass-a-Grille’s finest restaurants , or embarking on an epic boat tour to explore the turquoise waters, St. Pete Beach offers a beach day tailored to every preference.

Enjoying St Pete Beach with the Cabana Club

Check out a local festival

Downtown St. Pete is a cultural melting pot of events and activities for just about any and every interest! From art festivals and food fairs to live music and craft markets, there’s always something exciting happening. Keep an eye on social media or local event listings to stay updated.

One of my personal favorite events, Savor St. Pete , celebrated in November, encapsulates the city’s vibrant culinary scene, offering a delectable taste of the local flavors and a chance to mingle with fellow food enthusiasts in a festive and lively setting.

Your admission includes unlimited tastings! Beer, wine, and food sampling are all-inclusive in the ticket price. And did I mention a portion of ticket sales from the event benefits the Children’s Cancer Center? So you’re also supporting a great cause!

Visit Mazzaro’s Italian Market

Mazzaro’s Italian Market is one of St. Pete’s gems and an absolute must-add to your list of things to do in downtown St. Pete. Whether you’re craving freshly roasted coffee or handmade pasta, that’s just a few of the offerings that Mazzaro’s brings to the table.

I couldn’t believe how large this place was. They have a huge assortment of wine, beer, cheeses, fresh meat and seafood, gourmet baked goods, deli sandwiches, and so much more!

Check out the bakery for fresh Tuscan, Ciabatta, Pugliese, Focaccia, and Rosemary bread, or get your sweet tooth fix with some tiramisu, cannolis, or sfogliatelle (to name a few of their desserts). The deli offers soups, sandwiches, antipasta, and salads.

Their cheese selection includes over 300 varieties, the majority produced on tiny farms and are not sold in grocers or big-box retailers. Their cheese department hand makes their fresh mozzarella each day, and they offer hundreds of varieties of pasta including fresh pasta prepared by hand daily.

Mazzaro’s wine cellar is one of Pinellas County’s largest! It contains thousands of bottles from both old and new world wineries. If that sounds overwhelming, check out one of their free wine tastings which are held weekly on Fridays from 12 pm to 3 pm and Saturdays from 11 am to 2 pm.

Enjoy one of the many cute coffee shops in St. Pete

It is unreal how many adorable coffee shops you stumble upon in St. Pete. When I lived in the area, I used to love checking out a different one each week and just getting my computer work done there. Here is a list of my favorite coffee shops in downtown St. Pete !

Cruisin Tikis

This is one of the best things to do on Clearwater Beach , so I was especially pumped when downtown St. Pete got their own Cruisin Tiki ! This downtown St. Pete boat tour is more suited for 21+ and is your own personal floating bar.

Cruise around St. Pete on this 2-hour cruise; see the pier from a different perspective, and even go to a sandbar. You bring your own booze and snacks, and the tiki provides the views, and typically even some dolphin sightings! Sometimes you can even come across baby sharks by the sandbar!

You can do the tour in the morning, afternoon, or around sunset. We went around sunset and it was so beautiful. Check out my reel for the experience here .

Make sure you book your tour in advance!

Woman looking out at St. Pete skyline while steering Cruisin Tikis

Take Scoot Scoot Rentals for a spin

Okay, we had TOO MUCH FUN with Scoot Scoot Rentals ! We rented their Polaris Slingshot, which seats two people and rode it to St. Pete Beach for the day .

You can rent anywhere from 2 hours to several days, and they have golf carts, Jeep Wranglers, scooters, and everything in between!

Check here to see how we spent our day on St. Pete Beach! And check out these other AMAZING day trips !

Scoot Scoot Rental Polaris Slingshot in front of the Don Cesar in St. Pete Beach

Grab a cocktail and enjoy a performance at the Floridian Social Club

This place just recently reopened, and WOW. The work and effort put into the renovations really shows, and it is truly a sight to see. You get that old-timey theatre vibe with a modern twist.

The Floridian Social Club is currently showcasing local talents but in the future plans to have bigger names. They have jazz, cover bands, and even aerial performances! The bartenders are amazing and offer a great selection of craft cocktails as well as customized requests!

Outside entrance to the Floridian Social Club

One thing I love about St. Pete is how artsy the area is— almost everywhere you look there’s a beautiful, unique mural! Each year St. Pete hosts Shine On which is a mural painting festival where several new murals go up! So even if you think you’ve seen them all, you probably haven’t 😉

Curious about the artist or what the mural means, or even how to locate them all? Don’t worry, you’re covered! There’s a complete list of the murals as well as a map and details about the mural and artist! You can walk, bike, or Rollerblade along your own personal art tour!

If you opt for a guided tour, I recommend this one !

Jumping in a cheetah dress in front of a mural that says

Sunken Gardens

You can see 50,000 tropical plants and flowers, including some of the oldest tropical plants in the region, at Sunken Gardens ! Stroll around little trails while viewing beautiful lush, exotic plants. They even have flamingos and a walk-through butterfly encounter!

Another fun option is joining an eco segway tour to explore the gardens. Check out some other amazing botanical gardens in Tampa Bay .

If you’re enjoying this guide, be sure to check out my ULTIMATE guide for Tampa including the best things to do, coffee shops, restaurants, bars, hotels, and more!

The Saint owners went ALL OUT on this speakeasy. I mean EVERYTHING is on brand— a confessional to enter, the menu, the artwork, the lighting, the glassware, the uniforms. I could go on and on. This is by far one of my favorite speakeasies in the Tampa Bay area .

Each week, a new confession is posted that must be confessed prior to entering. Once you enter you will appreciate every detail that creates this sinners and saints aesthetic.

I usually choose drinks from the Seven Deadly Sins menu and have tried Lust, Gluttony, and Sloth— all were fabulous!

Note: They don’t take reservations, and it is a smaller venue, so if you go on the weekend there may be a long wait. I have always gone during the week and never had to wait, so I would definitely recommend checking them out then. Tuesday through Friday from 5-7 PM they have a holy happy hour with some specials if prices are too steep for you otherwise!

Check out the best bars in St. Pete if you’re wanting to pop around after The Saint!

There’s also a new kid on the block! Dirty Laundry is St. Pete’s newest speakeasy, and it does not disappoint!

It appears to be a trendy laundromat, but you’ll be transported to a Havana-inspired cocktail lounge with live music and delicious cocktails once you find out how to get in. I’ll give ya a hint…it may require some dirty talk 😉

Woman holding up a cocktail at Dirty Laundry bar in St Pete with

Dali Museum

The Dali is really a must if you’re in St. Pete. Aside from Europe, St. Pete houses the largest collection of Salvador Dali’s work. Art museums aren’t usually my thing, but there is something about Dali’s work that I think can appeal to anyone. He focuses on Surrealism, and his paintings are often dreamlike, making it really fun to attempt to interpret. It’s truly a unique experience, and there are always new exhibits for those who have already visited before!

Visit another St. Pete museum

While the Dali is probably the most popular and well-known museum in downtown St. Pete, there are a number of other interesting museums in the area as well.

If you are into art, there is the Museum of Fine Arts with exhibits that include African art, European paintings, and American photography; Imagine Museum , which showcases contemporary glass art; and Chihuly Collection , which has unique sculptures created by glass artist Dale Chihuly as well as glass-blowing demonstrations.

If you want more history, you can check out the St. Petersburg Museum of History . It is the oldest museum in Pinellas County and aims to collect, preserve, and showcase the history and heritage of Florida with a focus on St. Petersburg. There is also the Florida Holocaust Museum .

This is one of three Holocaust museums accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, and one of the largest Holocaust museums in the country.

If you go to the Museum of Fine Arts in downtown St. Pete be sure to stop at Clementine Cafe for one of their famous baby cakes! The flavor changes frequently, but they are equally as delicious as they are beautiful!

Museum of Fine Arts in Downtown St. Petersburg

Check out a Rays game

Sports fan or not, who doesn’t love a good tailgate? Ferg’s is the place to be before a game (or during a game if you don’t have tickets). You can walk from Ferg’s to Tropicana Field and get hyped up.

The Rays used to fly under the radar, but after last 2020’s World Series appearance, I have a feeling fans may be a little more amped up for the games these following years. Check out the schedule to see if there are any upcoming home games !

If you get bored with the game, you can always play your own games at Ballpark & Rec located inside Tropicana Field!

Posing at a Rays Baseball game at Tropicana Field in downtown St Pete

St. Pete Pier

The St. Pete Pier has finally opened, and it is absolutely stunning! Go during the day and catch some people fishing, or head there in the evening to enjoy the sunset! You can find a mix of art , history , and a nice selection of food and drink spots here. There are also a number of good spots at the pier to set up a picnic.

Spend some time at one of St. Pete’s adorable markets

St. Pete has a couple of markets that occur on the weekends. Not only are they fun and unique, but they’re also a great way to support our lovely community.

There’s the Indie Flea Market , which is a large collection of local vendors who sell handmade crafts, jewelry, fashion, art, food, and more! It is something that I look forward to on the weekends that they have it. It’s located in the Coastal Creative warehouse in St. Pete’s Grand Central District.

Another market, held every Saturday is the Saturday Morning Market . It’s the largest weekly fresh market in the Southeast U.S.! How freaking cool is St. Pete? I mean seriously. There are over 125 vendors here each Saturday. You can enjoy live music, fresh local produce, artisan-made goodies, and handmade crafts.

Shop at amazing boutiques

Fellow shopaholics unite! Downtown St. Pete is a paradise for boutique lovers, and two of my absolute favorites are Shoreline Sugars and Vogue Society.

Both of these St. Pete boutiques have a curated selection of fun and trendy clothing and accessories. From flowy sundresses to statement jewelry, there’s always something fabulous to discover. Trust me, with such irresistible finds, you’ll never leave empty-handed!

Visit a kombucha tasting room

Thirsty for something refreshing? Add Beech Kombucha to your list of things to do in downtown St. Pete! It’s St. Pete’s first and only kombucha tasting room.

Whether you’re a kombucha connoisseur or new to the fizzy fermented goodness, Beech Kombucha has something for everyone. They have a large variety of flavors, from classic kombucha to innovative blends that will excite your taste buds. Plus, it’s the perfect alternative if you’re taking a break from alcohol, but fear not— they also offer boozy options for those who fancy a little extra kick!

Get creative

As I mentioned, St. Pete is a super artsy district. It may inspire you to explore your own creativity a bit. There are so many options for fun art experiences. You can create your own pottery at Sugar Cream Clay (we had the best time here! Pics below), paint some pottery at Practically Pikasso , do a glass workshop at Zen Glass Studio (make your own wine glass!), or do a classic favorite, Painting with a Twist !

Sugar Cream Clay pottery studio in downtown st pete

💲SAVE MONEY ON THIS TAMPA DATE NIGHT IDEA💲

You can often find Zen Glass Studio in St. Pete on Groupon!

Helicopter ride

At The Hangar , you can do a helicopter ride through Tampa Bay Aviation and get an aerial view of this beautiful area we call home! There are different options from the length of ride, the area you want to see, and what time you want to go. Afterward, grab a drink at The Hangar!

Get out on the water

If you thought you had to drive all the way to St. Pete Beach to do fun cruises or water activities, think again! Do a dolphin or sunset cruise with Pier Dolphin Cruises — seeing a dolphin is guaranteed! If you don’t see one, your next ride is free.

Weedon Island Preserve

If you’re in the mood for some nature, check out Weedon Island Preserve ! It has miles of boardwalks and trails, a Cultural and Natural History Center, as well as kayak and SUP rentals in case you get bored of exploring by foot!

Getting Around in Downtown St. Petersburg

The downtown area is very walkable, but you can also bike or utilize downtown St. Pete’s new e-scooters ! Or, check out the new SunRunner . It’s currently free for the first 6 months. It’s fast and frequent (every 15 minutes), taking 35 minutes to get from downtown to St. Pete Beach and make several stops along the way.

If you are driving, depending on the time and day you may be able to find metered parking. We usually avoid downtown during busy times so it isn’t usually a problem for us, but if all else fails we head to the Sundial Parking Garage where it’s only $1 for the first four hours! For other parking lots and garages, check here .

If you’re visiting from out of town check out Discover Cars for your car rental needs. They compare prices from 500+ trusted providers, have 24/7 support, and free cancellation!

Scooter parking area in downtown St. Pete

Where to Stay in Downtown St. Petersburg

If you are wanting to stay right downtown, downtown St. Pete is full of hotel options. From boutiques to luxury stays, see what’s available during your stay by checking the booking.com map widget below!

My personal favorite places to stay in downtown St. Pete:

The Vinoy — A historic landmark in downtown St. Pete that recently got some exciting renovations! It offers luxurious accommodations and stunning waterfront views.
The Birchwood — A stylish boutique hotel with elegant rooms, a rooftop lounge with Gulf views, and a popular restaurant offering a diverse menu.
AC Hotel by Marriott — Situated in the heart of downtown St. Pete, this modern hotel has a prime location that allows easy access to nearby attractions, and you can enjoy amenities such as a rooftop bar, contemporary rooms, and a stylish ambiance.
Hollander Hotel — Renowned for its vibrant and eclectic decor, this boutique hotel in downtown St. Pete offers a lively pool area and a charming courtyard. With its unique character and central location, you can enjoy a blend of modern comfort and historic charm.

Cane and Barrel rooftop bar in downtown St. Pete

Let me help you pack with ease! Check out my Amazon storefront for some of the beach essentials you should have on your Florida packing list !

Which downtown St. Pete activity is your favorite?! Follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny for more St. Pete and Florida fun!

Be sure to check out some of my other Florida posts like:

Ultimate Guide to Dunedin

Free Things to do in Tampa Bay

Best Rooftop Bars in St. Pete

best things to do in downtown St. Petersburg, FL

Destiny Snyder is a passionate travel blogger and content creator based in the Tampa Bay area. Originally from a small town near Toledo, Ohio, Destiny's love for exploring new places began when she moved to Florida in 2017. She enjoys uncovering hidden gems, sharing insider tips on the best things to do, places to eat, and coffee shops to visit in every destination. With her blog Guided by Destiny and niche sites Sunkissed in Tampa and Sunkissed in St. Pete, Destiny aims to make trip planning stress-free and fun for her readers.

16 Comments

Wow! So much to do over there (I am in Texas lol)! What a beautiful area, I will have to add it to my bucket list!

You will totally be in love! There is SO MUCH to do in this area!

What a great overview of things to do. Saving for my future visit of Florida.

I love St. Pete! I can’t wait to visit again to check out the new St. Pete Pier!

You’re going to love it! They did such an amazing job!

What a great and fun list of things to do. I love that Parkshore picnic spot, so beautiful. I’m also a big fan of finding cute bookshops so thanks for the tips 🙂

Count me in!! Coffee, book stores, beaches, murals, gardens are all things I love. I don’t think I could go wrong in St Pete.

You are exactly right haha! An endless supply of variety and fun 🙂

such a great list. It’s the foodie scene and brewery hopping for me.

So many incredible things to do — I especially love the picnic on the beach! So fun and romantic!

It was definitely the most romantic date I’ve ever had! So fun!

This is one city in Florida that I haven’t had the chance to visit yet, so thank you for sharing all of these great tips and things to do!

It’s definitely one of the best! Can’t wait for you to fall in love with it here 🙂

Hi Destiny,

Thanks for the awesome write up! Do you have any recommendations for condo/apartment recommendations or a page devoted to that? Thanks!

I unfortunately don’t, I’m sorry! You’re not the first person to ask me that though, so I really should get around to doing a round-up!

I love visiting downtown St. Petersburg! There are so many great things to do here, and it’s always so fun to explore. I especially love the art galleries and the restaurants.

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61 Best Things to Do in St Petersburg FL [Local’s Guide]

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best things to do in st petersburg fl is to see these views of downtown. Located next to Alfred Whitted Park you'll see sailboats and park views of the water.

Table of Contents

Looking for the best things to do in St Petersburg FL? As a local expert, this ultimate guide shares top attractions as well as some hidden gems.

Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, St Petersburg is a vibrant city that boasts plenty of activities and attractions for people of all ages.

From white sandy beaches to a colorful artsy atmosphere, you’ll find lots of little details that make it special.

biking in st petersburg - rows of bikes you can rent

With year-round sunshine and warm temperatures, it’s no wonder why it was nicknamed years ago, The Sunshine City. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed weekend or a relaxing getaway, you’ll no doubt fall in love with this city. It is also a great city to bike to either downtown or on the Pinellas Trail .

For those new to the area, here are some fun facts about St Pete FL:

The city of St Petersburg was named after St Petersburg, Russia
The first commercial flight occurred in St Petersburg on New Year’s Day in 1914
St Petersburg has the largest collection of Salvador Dali’s artwork.
St Petersburg has the world’s largest shuffleboard club
The St Petersburg Museum of History has the world’s largest collection of autographed baseballs.

Even as a local, I am constantly finding new adventures and fun places to check out. So, here are the current top things to do in St Petersburg FL in 2023!

Where to Stay in St Petersburg, Florida

Photo of Hampton Inn on Beach Drive in St Petersburg, Florida

🏆 Affordable Downtown St Pete Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites

My favorite hotel in mid-priced hotel in downtown St Petersburg is the Hampton Inn & Suites . It has excellent water views, and it’s in an ideal location on Beach Drive. You can walk to most places when staying here, such as the St Pete Pier, The Dali, and more!

If you’re looking for a luxury or budget-friendly hotel, check out my list of the best hotels in downtown St Pete . The splurge-worthy hotel is definitely The Vinoy ! But, if you don’t mind a little drive then you should consider either The DonCesar or The Sand Pearl Resort .

VRBO rentals in St Petersburg are another popular option, especially with larger family gatherings. For some rentals, you can literally walk out your door into the action. This top-rated 2-bedroom VRBO rental is a favorite in the area for its walkability to all the St Pete shops and restaurants.

🏝 Pro Tip: If you can’t afford a splurge-worthy hotel but want a relaxing 5-star experience, I highly recommend booking a spa day at The DonCesar or The Sand Pearl! You’ll get to use some of the amenities without staying the night.

Visit the Best Beaches in Florida

St Pete Beach with turquoise waters and white sandy beaches

No trip to St. Petersburg would be complete without a visit to its pristine beaches! If you want to read about two of my favorite beaches you’ll want to check out my St Pete Beach or Clearwater Beach article.

If you like hidden gems, you’ll need to read about Pass-a-Grille Beach , Upham Beach , and Gulfport Beach .

Don’t forget your sunscreen—the Sunshine City lives up to its nickname!

Downtown St Pete Pier

View from the St Pete Pier of downtown showing some of the most fun things to do in St. Petersburg - strolling by the water.

A visit to St Petersburg is only complete with spending some time at the iconic St Pete Pier. Close to the water’s edge of Tampa Bay, St Pete Pier is a bustling place thanks to its abundance of shops, restaurants, parks, and museums.

If you have the time and opportunity, you should visit the stunning waterfront because there are lots of events and activities to do there.

This glittering new facility on the city’s waterfront promises endless entertainment from frequent travelers to locals. The 26 gorgeous acres effortlessly blend Tampa Bay’s calm waters with the vivid greenery of the city’s parks to create the ideal location for strolling, biking, dining, jungle gyms, shopping, swimming, attending concerts, and more.

While the St Pete Pier has free admission, there is a fee to see the museums, as well as metered parking.

Visit the World Class Museums

I love museums and have spent countless hours in them. If you’re a museum fan, you definitely need to make this a priority on your St Pete vacation.

You’ll also want to check out my article about the best museums in St Petersburg , which offers information on how to get free tickets.

Here is a short guide to some of my top favorite museums in the area.

Great Explorations Children’s Museum

The Great Explorations Children’s Museum is an excellent place for kids to explore, learn and have fun. With its interactive exhibits, exciting activities, and engaging educational programs, it’s the perfect spot for younger visitors to get curious and engaged with the world around them.

The museum offers a broad range of topics that can be explored through hands-on learning. This is one of our favorite places to take to my toddler. Great Explorations Children’s Museum also has a separate area for babies and toddlers to play safely. Check out my article below on how locals can get free admission .

Read Next: Ultimate Guide to Great Explorations Children’s Museum

The Salvador Dali Museum

The Salvador Dali Museum is a must-see when visiting St Petersburg. Not only does it boast an impressive permanent collection of Salvador Dali’s works, but it also offers visitors the chance to experience the surreal world of the artist. It features masterpieces from every stage of Dali’s career, allowing guests to gain a comprehensive understanding of his unique talent.

The Salvador Dali Museum itself is a work of art. Drive around back along the waterfront, and you’ll see what I mean. There is a beautiful garden and sitting area you can enjoy. Don’t miss the gift shop, where you can find unique gifts to take home. The Mahaffey Theater is located next door if you decide to stay for a show.

Plus, you are traveling with young children, one of the hidden gems in St Petersburg is Albe rt W hitted Park , directly behind the Dali Museum. It has beautiful views of the waterfront and it overlooks the airport. Kids can climb on the playground equipment designed to look like airplanes, while you enjoy watching the sailboats. There are also shaded gazebos for a picnic.

🤑 Pro Tip: There is metered parking along the water and sometimes easier to find rather than Central Avenue or Beach Drive.

James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art

The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art is perhaps one of the most beautiful western art museums I’ve ever been to. From the time you enter the museum, you’ll be awed by the flawless layout with massive bronze sculptures of Native Americans and depictions of the old west.

Visitors can take part in many educational programs or even arrange guided excursions. I was surprised at how kid-friendly this museum was, offering classes and other things to do.

I also found some unique items in their gift shop, such as beautiful jewelry and kid’s trains, etc. It’s definitely well worth a visit to see this permanent collection of the old west.

Museum of the Arts & Crafts Movement

One of the newer museums in St Petersburg is the Museum of the Arts & Crafts Moment. This massive 40,000 square feet of gallery space has a retail store, an upscale café and restaurant, a children’s gallery, a theater, a graphic studio, and more!

Here you will see fine arts examples by Gustav Stickley, Frank Lloyd Wright, William Grueby, Newcomb Pottery, Charles Rohlfs, Margaret Patterson, Louis Sullivan, plus many other gifted women and craftsmen.

Beyond the artists, you will see a variety of original pieces from handmade furniture, pottery, tiles, lighting, photography, fine arts, textiles, metalwork, room installations, and other artwork.

Chihuly Collection at Morean Arts Center

The Chihuly Collection is a unique exhibition at the Morean Arts Center that houses a long-term collection of the unique glass works of Dale Chihuly, an internationally renowned artist.

Dale Chihuly’s artwork has been seen throughout Paris and London, along with Seattle’s spectacular Chihuly Garden. Here you can see his sculptures, plus glass-blowing demonstrations.

One of his most famous pieces is the ruby red icicle chandelier at the Morean Arts Center. The Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier is a spectacular studio glass piece that truly stands out with its pointy red droplets.

The Florida Holocaust Museum

Located in downtown St Pete, The Florida Holocaust Museum has been providing education for over 30+ years on the travesty that occurred during World War II.

Here you will find one of the best museums on the Holocaust, with many authentic artifacts such as clothing, photography, eating utensils, handwritten notes, etc. This permanent collection really leaves you with a deeper understanding and appreciation for our freedom today.

The Florida Holocaust Museum also has a small, but reasonably priced gift shop with donations that support the museum.

The Museum of Fine Arts

For art lovers, you’ll want to make a stop at the Museum of Fine Arts in the heart downtown on Beach Drive.

The museum features an extensive permanent collection of decorative arts along with folk arts artwork from African Art, American photography, and European paintings.

Imagine Museum

While I could keep going with the amazing art museums, The Imagine Museum is my last one for this article. If you are into contemporary glass art you’ll have to visit the Imagine Museum.

Just a few years ago, the Imagine Museum was not yet opened, but within a short time has gained popularity. It is the first museum in the US to focus solely on contemporary glass art and shares vital details about the movement and studio glass artists.

You’ll be blown away by what magnificent glass masterpieces. Plus, if you’re needing a little motivation, there are inspirational quotes throughout the 2-story building. The Imagine Museum has a little scavenger hunt that makes it a lot of fun for the whole family.

St Pete Boat Tours: Make Time on the Water!

There are many different tour types available, depending on what type of adventure you are looking for. If you really want to see dolphins, you can sign up for one of the dolphin boat tours . These tours are very reasonably priced for a day out on the water.

In Tampa Bay there are beautiful sunset cruises , tiki tours , night kayak tours , which are great activities for couples. They also have family snorkeling tours to Egmont Key or Shell Key, which are ideal for families with children.

⛵️ Read Next: The 11 Best Boat Tours in St Petersburg

Take the Cross Bay Ferry to Tampa

Taking the downtown ferry to Tampa is a fun way to explore Tampa especially if you’re staying at downtown St Pete hotel. You can easily walk from Straub Park and jump aboard. Avoid the traffic and enjoy some time on the water!

Tampa has so much to offer! From fun things to do for couples or families , you won’t run out of interesting sights. If you only have a day to explore, I highly recommend the ferry. Otherwise, Tampa really deserves more time and stay the night in downtown Tampa hotel .

🌴 Read Next: Tampa vs Orlando: Which is Best For You?

Explore Historic Landmarks in St Pete

Bike rentals or scooter rentals are available. Photo at Straub Park of bikes to rent.

St. Petersburg is home to several historic landmarks and buildings that are worth exploring. Downtown St Pete is super easy to navigate whether you go for a bike ride or stroll. From the breathtaking Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club located right by the waterfront (which was built in 1925). In recent years, they have been doing a lot of construction to bring it back to its glory.

Whether you book a hotel night stay here or visit for a drink, it’s one of the most iconic hotels similar to the glorious pink palace in St Pete Beach, The Don CeSar .

St Petersburg offers self-guided audio tours if you have interest in seeing the Historic Outdoor Museum of Roser Park, African American Heritage Trails, and Downtown Waterfront Walking Tours.

Eat at the Best Restaurants in Downtown St Petersburg

Try out some of the numerous cafés, restaurants, and bistros while in St. Petersburg. You will surely get hungry in downtown St Petersburg whether your favorite meal is an American sandwich or a Swiss dessert.

Parkshore Grill

The Parkshore Grill is one of my long-time favorite restaurants for consistent quality meals with a gorgeous setting. I recommend booking in advance on OpenTable.

It’s also no surprise that this restaurant is always busy, given the wonderful scenery just outside the restaurant. You can choose to eat al fresco while overlooking the city’s waterfront.

It also has a great weekend brunch menu in addition to lunch and dinner.

Steaks, fresh fish, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and paninis are just some of the options. Some of my favorites: the scallops, salmon, parkshore salad, and the decadent mac and cheese.

The Ceviche St Petersburg has a luxurious and grand feel to it, and it’s a great place to relax and spend time with friends and family. Brussels, fresh salmon, oxtail, and churros are just a few delicious things you can order from its menu. Don’t pass on their red sangria (I prefer it the standard way).

For a fun date night, order a variety of tapas for your table to share. If you like the outdoors or people-watching, ask for a table outside. This is a prime location on Beach Drive just to enjoy the scenery.

On less than desirable weather conditions, they have a gorgeous interior with bright colors and beautiful tiles that make you want to stay longer.

Urban Stillhouse

The Urban Stillhouse is a great place to eat an expensive steak and drink whiskey (sounds like Yellowstone!). This 2-story restaurant has a dark interior with a high-end industrial vibe.

The Urban Stillhouse offers novel and traditional American foods that are grilled to order. It’s best to book a table in advance on OpenTable.

The Library Restaurant

The Library Restaurant is one of my favorite brunch locations. While it’s not near the heart of downtown, it’s just a short drive away.

The Library provides an escape from daily stresses with a unique atmosphere and delicious entrees.

Casita Taqueria

Casita is orange building on Central Avenue with bikes out front.

Casita Taqueria on Central Avenue is a go-to casual spot for locals who like a wide range of tasty tacos! If you’re craving Shrimp, Carnitas, or Slow Roasted Pork, you’ll be delighted by their savory options.

All of their corn tortillas are prepared in-house, and they only use the freshest available local produce. They also have delicious chips and queso, and a cute patio outback for guests to utilize.

Pub Trolley Tour

You need the trolley pub tour when you want to go from bar to bar in a city. Why not get a tour and drinks while on vacation? It’s truly a win-win.

With this tour, you can go to different breweries and drink their incredible, one-of-a-kind drinks without a care in the world. Along the way, you can also meet new people who like the same things you do and take pictures going to and from each checkpoint.

Read Next: The Best Tours in St Petersburg Florida

Grand Central District

As a local, I’ve seen the Grand Central District really take off in the last 10 years. It’s gone from bland to fabulous as more local restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, and artsy boutiques continue to flock here.

Take time for a stroll, and enjoy the scene! Anyone that travels with dogs, must make time at one of my favorites, The Dog Bar . Plus, you have the Hatchet Hangout Axe Throwing , antique shops , and more. Three Daughters Brewing is located in this district.

Visit Local St Pete Breweries & Distilleries

Green Bench brewing, best breweries in St Petersburg FL

If you enjoy drinking, St. Petersburg won’t let you down. Here are a few in the downtown area that are excellent choices.

3 Daughters Brewing

A couple of my personal favorite breweries are the 3 Daughters Brewing and Green Bench Brewing. Both have a lot to offer and are good for the entire family.

At the 3 Daughters Brewing, you could stay most of the day since they have other things to do, such as live music events, food, games, and local vendors selling their handmade items.

Green Bench Brewing Company

Green Bench Brewing Company specializes in a family-friendly beer garden serving IPAs, ales, and ciders. From dogs to children, everyone is welcome! It has a spacious interior and friendly staff. If you like good beer, this is one of the best breweries in St Petersburg.

Kozuba and Sons Distillery

As far as distilleries, Kozuba and Sons Distillery is a fun place to stop and sample (try the lemon vodka). The distillery has a great atmosphere, like a speakeasy during the prohibition era.

St Pete Distillery

St Pete Distillery has a delicious coconut rum, and the orange liqueur is particularly good. While it’s at the end of town, it’s a good take-home gift idea to remember your time in the area.

Stopping at these places for a while will give you and your friends new things to do. Visiting these places will not only allow you to have unique and fine wine but also find out how they brew their alcohol. Who knows, you might even start your brewery one day.

Beautiful Outdoor Parks & Gardens in Downtown St Pete

Beautiful parks and gardens in the center of St. Pete St. Petersburg, Florida, are surrounded by trees and plants that are very healthy and full of life. This means that people can enjoy the peace and greenery that the area.

You can unwind as you spend hours touring the many parks in the city. So, here are my top favorite parks in downtown St Petersburg.

Sunken Gardens

The Sunken Gardens are home to the region’s oldest tropical plants, some of which are over a century old. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful display gardens, horticultural programs, flowing waterfalls, flamingos, and a live collection of more than 6,000 plant species.

The gardens are attached to the Great Explorations Children’s Museum , which makes it an ideal stop for families. You can easily see both on the same day. While I like Sunken Gardens, I seem to spend more time in the local parks.

Since it is one of Florida’s last remaining roadside attractions, Sunken Gardens visitors should be prepared to stay on the paved trails and avoid touching the plants. There is also an admission fee to tour Sunken Gardens.

Glazer Family Playground at St Pete Pier

At St Pete Pier, you’ll find a large playground for the kids (toddlers to older children), concessions, and a splash pad. They also have Spa Beach, which is a nice place to cool off on a hot day. This is a popular spot, and best to come early if you want to avoid crowds.

Vinoy Park has gorgeous views of the waterfront in st pete. Showing boats and tall buildings.

Looking for that perfect photo to take of downtown St Petersburg? Make a quick stop in Vinoy Park.

Vinoy Park, a two-mile stretch of shoreline in the heart of St. Petersburg, provides picturesque views of the city, the breathtaking waterfront, and the nearby historic Vinoy Renaissance Resort . The park is a nice spot to unwind in the shade while reading a book or to spend time with friends and family in the open green areas. Many of the top events held in the city each year take place there as well, like Florida’s Largest Pride Parade .

It’s one of the hidden gems in St Petersburg since it’s not something most still know about.

North Shore Park & Aquatic Complex

North Shore Aquatic Complex with lots of swimmers in the pool.

North Shore Park is a 30-acre waterfront park with a North Shore Aquatic Complex , a kid’s playground, a dog park, beach volleyball courts, softball fields, and more!

It is located next to Vinoy Park and offers an array of activities, low-cost or free things to do. While in North Shore Park, visit the free gardens and enjoy a walk along the waterfront.

Dell Holmes Park

Dell Holmes Park is one of my new favorite parks in St. Petersburg, Florida. If I’m honest – finding a park that checks all my family’s boxes is challenging, especially if you want to avoid crowds like at the St Pete Pier. In fact, I would drive all the way up to Tarpon Springs Waterpark to find something similiar.

Dell Holmes Park is just south of downtown St. Petersburg and is free to use. The park is situated on Lake Maggiore which is ideal for boating, fishing, and walking trails. My husband especially appreciates the driving range and putting green. At the same time, my son loves the massive playground area and waterpark. You’ll find plenty of picnic areas and covered space so you can enjoy the park year round.

Crescent Lake Park

Crescent Lake Park stands out from the rest of St. Petersburg’s parks because of its stunning scenery. People are calmed by the trees, plants, and water as they walk around the perimeter of the pond.

Crescent Lake Park is surrounded by lovely banyan trees and is a popular spot for a range of activities. Bring a blanket or sit on the grass and participate in Healthy St. Pete’s Free Yoga in the Park program.

Additionally, The Huggins-Stengel Sports Complex, TASCO’s Center for Teen Technology, a playground, a dog park, and recreation paths are all located in this park.

👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 Pro Tip: If you have young children, Crescent Lake has a nice shaded playground that’s close to downtown and less busy than the St Pete Pier (with free parking).

Check Out the Adorable Boutiques & Bookstores

Unique souvenirs are simple to find in downtown St. Petersburg, thanks to the abundance of boutiques and unique bookstores downtown.

Check out Jackie Z Style Co. in the Sundial Mall for unique high-end clothing. Afterwards, you can grab dinner or a movie, since AMC Movie Theater entrance is steps away.

Tombolo Books, off 1st Avenue S, is a cute shop full of delightful reads. Or if you like a book with your wine (or a coffee), you must stop in at Book + Bottle .

Best Coffee Shops in Downtown St Pete

A cup of steaming coffee is ideal for waking up and preparing for the day ahead. There are numerous cafés in downtown St Petersburg where you may purchase their best coffee. The best coffee businesses have inviting décor and delectable beverages, like Bandit Coffee Co. and Black Crow Coffee Shop. My personal favoirte is Bandit Coffee Company, and it’s next to Wild Child (another one of my secret hidden gems for Sunday brunch)!

Tampa Bay Rays Game

The Tampa Bay Rays, a major league baseball team from St. Petersburg, are worth checking out if you enjoy a ball game. Check out the schedule for the Tropicana Field prior to your visit.

During the off-season or away games, they have other events at Tropicana Field, such as Enchant ( Christmas Lights ), Boat Shows, and more! For years, Tampa Bay Rays talked about moving their stadium to Tampa or even out of state! Locals like myself are glad to see they are staying put while they build a brand new stadium on the property!

Helicopter Tours of Downtown St Pete

Helicopter flying over sunset with waterfront

Is there anything more exciting than helicopter travel? Enjoy an invigorating thrill in high-over the city.

This helicopter tour experience will give you the most amazing views of downtown St Petersburg. You will soar above some of the most beautiful sights in the area, including the award-winning beaches.

🌴 Read Next: 9 Highest Rated Tours in St Pete

Spend Time at Unique & Local Markets in St Petersburg

Florida’s St. Petersburg is home to numerous unique and local markets. Flea markets, farmer’s markets, and Saturday morning markets are important locations where you can easily buy household goods, food, and souvenirs.

Mazzaro’s Italian Market

Customers and tourists can purchase a variety of delectable items at Mazzaro’s Italian Market. For those that love fresh coffee beans, cheese, homemade pasta, meat, and wine, you’ll have to make a stopover on 22nd Avenue North.

My personal favorite is getting their fresh homemade to-go lasagne and caesar salad. The portion is large enough for sharing, and it’s delicious! Plus, don’t miss the dessert area – I have had so many amazing things here.

Saturday Morning Market: Downtown St Pete Farmer’s Market

Downtown St Pete Farmer's Market showing green beans and fresh produce.

Travel is sometimes exhausting and enjoyable. A great chance to breathe in the air while preserving the local culture is to visit the Saturday morning market.

With more than 100 vendors that sell everything from fresh food to artisan desserts made at local farms. They also sell outstanding handmade crafts, goods, and other products.

The Saturday morning market is the best place to go when planning a picnic – pick up a few things and then stroll over to Vinoy Park or the St Pete Pier.

Corey Avenue Sunday Market on St. Pete Beach

St. Petersburg has a boatload of fantastic markets, but another one of my top things to do in St. Petersburg is visit the Corey Avenue Sunday Market. The whole street is shut down as live music, fresh produce, locally made crafts, and 75+ unique vendors come together every Sunday. We usually like to walk around and then pop over to Upham Beach and grab a pasterie and coffee at CocoAddiction .

Enjoy the Performing Arts & Live Music in St Petersburg

Elle King on stage in St Pete at Jannus Live. Jannus has a beautiful outdoor patio, and it's one of my favorite things to do in St. Petersburg at night.

You’ll be amazed as to why music is such a significant component of the events planned in St. Petersburg, Florida. Well, it’s because the locals love music, and they enjoy listening to rock, jazz, and other genres of music, resulting in numerous live music performances.

Mahaffey Theater

The Mahaffey Theater (Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts) is a sophisticated performing arts and concert hall located in the same complex as The Dali. It has over 2,000 seats with beautiful views of Tampa Bay.

The Mahaffey Theater is where you will see headliners or see a ballet or other large-scale event. I’ve seen a variety of performances over the years, from Lorretta Lynn to performing arts shows. The Mahaffey Theater often has shows for the whole family – such as the popular, Big Red Dog Musical.

See a Show at Jannus Live

Located in downtown St Pete, Jannus Live is one of the premier outdoor music venues in St. Petersburg. With a variety of genres spanning rock, pop, hip-hop, and jazz, there’s an eclectic offering of musical talents. Get ready for an unforgettable night of live music!

Floridian Social Club

Because of its well-known, distinctive exteriors and interiors, this area stands out from other places. It hosts public concerts, private events, and open-to-the-public social gatherings. Additionally, there is an open lounge where food and drinks will be served to attendees of a certain event. Check out their upcoming events page to hopefully catch their performing arts while you’re in town.

Unique Bars in Downtown St Pete

Stillwaters Tavern is a nice option for a beer with lighter fare. Showing outdoor seating and beautiful views of highrises.

There are numerous bars in St. Petersburg’s downtown where visitors may have a good time. Going to the local taverns is a great opportunity to learn about the history of the community and how hospitable the people are. Additionally, you have a variety of options to select from, allowing you to try something new.

Canopy Rooftop Lounge

Located far above the streets, The Canopy is a rooftop bar where you can have a drink and take in the amazing view. The stylish lounge is situated on the roof of the Birchwood Hotel and offers private cabanas, cozy fire pits, and comfortable lounge seats with unobstructed views of the downtown St Petersburg waterfront.

The Full-Service Bar offers patrons a choice of handcrafted cocktails, fine wines, and an assortment of spirits, while birchwood’s upper-level cuisine serves a seasonal menu for casual dishes, including sandwiches, flatbreads, and appetizers all prepared in-house.

This is my favorite rooftop bar in downtown St Petersburg. Come at happy hour, which runs from 4-7 pm, and take in the sunset. Enjoy the drink specials(such as red or white sangria for 5 bucks). They have a very nice charcuterie board with a great mix of meats, cheese, fruits, and nuts. Late night hours, this becomes more like a nightclub with a DJ or live music.

If you are looking for a unique atmosphere and fun cocktails, check out The Saint. This speakeasy requires a password to get in (it’s on their website and Instagram), so you’re bound to have a great time. It is located in St. Petersburg’s Grand Central neighborhood. Keep in mind, the drinks are expensive.

Bacchus Wine Bistro

If you like charcuterie and small plates with wine, check out Bacchus Wine Bistro . While it’s not as unique as some of the other bars, its quaint atmosphere is nice for conversational seating with friends or couples.

For those that enjoy wine, they have an extensive list. I prefer their outdoor seating when it’s available for a carefree hour or two!

🥂 Read Next: A Local’s Guide: The 16 Best St Pete Beach Bars & Nightlife!

See the Historic Neighborhoods of St Petersburg

I’ve often seen Historic Kenwood listed as the most charming neighborhood because of its bungalows designed in the 1920s.

While I enjoy seeing Historic Kenwood, my preferred historic sites include the Historic Old Northeast, Coffee Pot Boulevard NE and Snell Isle.

If you want to see some of the finest houses where local politicians such as Charlie Christ live. Then you’ll want to drive along N. Shore Drive NE to Coffee Pot Boulevard to Snell Isle. This short drive from downtown won’t take you more than an hour roundtrip, so you could possibly fit in Historic Kenwood too!

Watch the Tampa Bay Rowdies Play

If you enjoy soccer, you should watch the St Petersburg squad, the Tampa Bay Rowdies.

This professional soccer team goes under the radar for most people on vacation, but it’s definitely a lot of fun to watch. Check out their schedule for a full list of upcoming games.

Check Out the Beautiful Murals

St. Petersburg, Florida, is also known for the murals you can see all over the city, especially on walls in public places. There is also the Grand Central Arts District, which is filled with murals.

In St. Petersburg, there probably is a daring and magnificent piece of art covering any outdoor surface. The murals that decorate the city’s walls are renowned (in fact, there are more than 150). There is even an annual mural festival called SHINE that takes place in St Petersburg in October and invites artists from all over the world.

Beyond Downtown | Other Amazing Things to Do in St Petersburg FL

Bellwether Beach Resort has amazing views of the gulf of Mexico being directly on the beach, St Pete Beach.

While I listed a lot of amazing places in downtown St Petersburg. St Petersburg is more than just a city of fascinating exhibits.

There are many things to see, especially outdoors in Pinellas County in St Pete Beach , Madeira Beach , Treasure Island, Indian Rocks Beach , Gulfport , and more!

🏝 Read Next: 13+ Best Things to Do in Madeira Beach

Fort De Soto Park

If you’re looking for one of the best things to do in St Petersburg FL, for nature lovers, you have found it.

Fort De Soto Park was built on Mullet Key under the direction of Robert E. Lee. It is now largely known for having some of the best award-winning beaches, boating, fishing, and wildlife, with over 1,100 acres to explore. Make sure to spend some at the picturesque white sand beaches (I especially like North Beach).

There are miles of paved nature trails, camping and picnic spots, two fishing piers, bird watching, ferry rides to Egmont and Shell Keys, and a dog area. Of course, you can’t leave without seeing the historic fort and museum.

Camping at Fort De Soto Park is truly the best way to experience all that this park has to offer. There are a total of 236 campsites with facilities that also include access to electricity, washers and dryers, restrooms, playgrounds, and campsite stores.

You can also bring your dog. Fort De Soto Park has one of the best dog beaches in Florida.

Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge

Egmont Key State Park is a secluded private island only accessible by boat. Since there’s no admission fee (only transportation cost).

Island Ferry of St Pete Beach is one ferry option, or you can visit through For De Soto Park. Keep in mind, you’ll need to bring your own beach or snorkel equipment.

One of the best ways to see Egmont Key State Park is on a boat tour. They provide the equipment and you can relax and enjoy the island! This 4-Hour Egmont Key Boat Tour provides snorkel equipment, bottled waters, and an indoor cabin with air-conditioning when it gets hot. Plus, they take you by the Sunshine Skyway Bridge for gorgeous photo opportunities.

You can spend time at the white sand beach, go snorkeling or swimming in crystal clear waters, or enjoy the nature trails. The blue-green water is shallow and clear at Egmont Key, so it’s easy to see the beautiful shells and fish swimming around you.

Keep your eyes open for old structures that have since been submerged in the Gulf of Mexico. You can also see (and we often do) manatees, dolphins, and other marine life while snorkeling around this island.

Take a break from snorkeling and see some of Egmont Key by walking the nature trail. The brick paths will lead you to several structures and a lighthouse that are historic ruins of Fort Dade that date back to 1858.

Before you visit, make sure you have good weather. Egmont Key State Park is a distance by boat and you don’t want to be out there in a storm.

Enjoy a Round of Golf in Pinellas County

Isla Del Sol Yacht & Country Club in St Petersburg

With gulf coast breezes and sunny weather, a day on the golf course is another one of the fun things to do in St Petersburg FL. Check out our article on the best golf courses in Pinellas County .

If you prefer a miniature golf course, Smugglers Cove has a couple of locations in Tampa Bay. Some even have live alligators and pirate ships!

Weedon Island Preserve

If you’re not yet oversaturated by beaches and parks, Weedon Island Preserve is another beautiful spot in Tampa Bay. With 3,1900 acres of nature trails and green spaces, you have plenty of bird watching opportunities. Plus, you can enjoy a paddling trail with canoe or kayak rentals available to rent.

Weedon Island Preserve offers guided tours which are great for the whole family. One of the most interesting nature hikes is an active archaeological dig site on Weeden Island Preserve. Here you can learn about the early inhabitants of Weedon Island thousands of years ago.

Observation towers are another great way to see wildlife. At Wheedon Island Preserve, their observation tower provides visitors with an excellent view of Tampa Bay and the cities of St Petersburg and Tampa .

Make Time for Day Trips in St Petersburg Area

Sunset photo was taken on the water of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge

Tampa Bay really has a boatload of places to see! You’ll definitely want to make time for some day trips. I have an extensive list of favorite places, but here are a few to mention:

Head over the beautiful Sunshine Skyway Bridge to the city of Bradenton, Florida. Before you get there, some people like to stop at the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park for beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico. The fishing piers are the location of the old bridge which has great fishing, such as Spanish mackerel, tarpon, and sea trout.

In Bradenton, you’ll find a nice laid-back waterfront town with a beautiful riverwalk. One of my favorite science museums, The Bishop Museum of Science & Nature , is located downtown with manatees in their aquarium. Check out my full list of fun things to do in Bradenton .

Clearwater & Clearwater Beach

Beyond the Church of Scientology, Clearwater is famous for the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of suffering marine animals. They provide public education, including dolphin boat tours and conservation efforts in a hands-on experience.

The aquarium gained worldwide recognition for being where the Bottlenose Dolphin, “Winter” lived. Winter was the main character in the 2009 book Winter’s Tale and, more notably, became the 2011 film, Dolphin Tale .

Downtown Clearwater Beach is also worth visiting, and one of my favorite staycations! Read more about deciding between St Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach for vacation here !

💰 Local Tip: If you are here on vacation get a Tampa Bay CityPass to save 53% off! The CityPass includes Busch Gardens, The Florida Aquarium, Zoo Tampa at Lowry Park, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, The Tropic Boats Tour, and the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI).

If you love quaint towns on the waterfront, Dun edin has a lot to offer! Some of the best local breweries in Pinellas County are in the charming city. You’ll be impressed by the many restaurants , shops, and the parking is usually free. However, it is a drive from downtown St Petersburg, so you’ll definitely want to plan for being there all day.

Madeira Beach

Come to the land of the pirates! As legend has it, Madeira Beach’s first resident was a pirate which helped shape its unique history.

It is widely known for its 2.5 mile long white sandy beaches and the historical John’s Pass Village. This beautiful shopping district has over 100 unique shops and many restaurants, bars, and watersports equipment available to rent.

John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk has been ranked the #1 attraction in Pinellas County.

If you’re looking for world-class thrill rides, zoos, concerts, and a big-city feel, you can’t miss Tampa . As I mentioned earlier, you’ll definitely want to make time for this fantastic city on your trip itinerary.

Read Next: The 25+ Fun Date Things to Do in Tampa for Couples

Tarpon Springs

Tarpon Springs is a city located on the Gulf of Mexico. Known for its Greek eateries that line the waterfront of Dodecanese Boulevard, it has a rich Greek heritage. In the early 1900s, Greek sponge divers settled here and the town was famous for selling sponges.

Enjoy a leisurely walk to see the Historic Sponge Docks are a reminder of the once booming industry. If you get time for a meal, try Hellas Restaurant (they also have a delicious bakery on the property).

Safety Harbor

Safety Harbor wasn’t one of the first cities in St. Petersburg to attract my attention. However, it’s been one of my more frequent places to visit in the last year. This quaint town is also located on the water with a super laid-back vibe, with local breweries, antique shops, and golf carts replacing cars for locals. While the city is most known for it’s famous healing springs, there’s plenty to do here on a day trip from St Pete.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in St Petersburg FL

I hope my favorite things to do in St. Petersburg list are helpful to you! Whatever you do, make sure to spend some time on a boat or near the water. Our gorgeous white sand beaches and crystal clear water are one of a kind. I always feel rejuvenated after spending a couple of hours walking the beach or on a boat.

As I mentioned, I continue to find new things I adore about the Sunshine City. Please feel free to message me anytime if you see new things I need to add to my list!

Before You Go…

Make sure you take full advantage of everything this incredible city has to offer. You’ll definitely want to book a hotel and check out the related articles below.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i spend a day in st. petersburg.

Explore Downtown St Petersburg with world-class museums, art galleries, restaurants, and amazing views from St Pete Pier. You are a stone’s throw from some of the best beaches in Florida, including Spa Beach, St Pete Beach, and Fort Desoto Beach.

Is St. Petersburg, Florida worth visiting?

In addition to its gorgeous white sandy beaches, Saint Petersburg also offers the world-renowned Salvador Dali Museum, top-rated restaurants, and beautiful Fort DeSoto Park. This city is ideal for those that want a beautiful beach location with interesting places to explore!

Did You Find This Post Helpful? Share It!

If so, I would love to hear about your favorite things to do in St Petersburg FL. You can follow me on Instagram , and tag your images to @erinstraveltips and hashtag #erinstraveltips. I look forward to seeing you there!

4 thoughts on “61 Best Things to Do in St Petersburg FL [Local’s Guide]”

So much to do and see. I had no idea there was a holocaust museum there. I would definitely want to visit it.

Oooh nice! I had no idea there was so much art in St Petersburg! The Salvador Dali Museum (and the others) sound really fun to explore.

It may be named after the city in Russia, but this couldn’t look much more different!! So much sunshine!

The Dali Museum is awesome. Next time I need to do a boat tour and also visit some breweries.

Wow, Erin! This is an awesome list of things to do in St. Petersburg. I can’t believe that we have yet to visit. I would love to check out some of the restaurants you mentioned. I mean, you had me at tacos!!

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Laser Ops is a 25,000 sf Indoor Amusement Center in Tampa Bay. GRADE LEVEL - Elementary School, Middle School, High School, College PROGRAM TYPE - Day Trips, Self-Guided Activities, Guided Activities COST - Fee GROUP TYPE - School, Scout, Camp, Homeschool, Family FLORIDA. St Petersburg-Clearwater. Tampa TEL - 813-443-6509 Read More.
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61 Best Things to Do in St Petersburg FL [Local's Guide]
The first commercial flight occurred in St Petersburg on New Year's Day in 1914. St Petersburg has the largest collection of Salvador Dali's artwork. St Petersburg has the world's largest shuffleboard club. The St Petersburg Museum of History has the world's largest collection of autographed baseballs.

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Monthly Contest: What's Your Book Group Reading This Month?

Take a Field Trip to Liven Up Your Book Club

5 Book Club Ideas For Awesome Book Clubs

Have a fancy book club meeting

Play a literary board game at your next meeting

Come up with an official book club name and make t-shirts!

Try an audiobook for your next book club pick

Plan a book club field trip!

Volunteer for a local literacy organization!

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Book Club Field Trips

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10 Fun and Innovative Ideas to Shake Up Your Book Club

CHANGE UP WHAT YOU READ

Try a new genre:

Pick a theme:

Take it back to a classic:

Read something seasonal:

READ SOMETHING SHORTER

Read short stories:

Read poetry:

Read an article:

DON’T READ ANYTHING AT ALL

Watch a movie:

Listen to a podcast:

Do a table reading:

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Dali Museum