Hidden Gems In St. Petersburg Florida (By A Local) 2024

Wondering where the hidden gems in St. Petersburg are? While the list could go on and on, here is my curated list of must-see gems.

St. Petersburg, Florida, is known for its award-winning beaches, outdoor recreation, art and culture scene. There are also several off-the-beaten-path, secret spots, that are equally amazing.

Keep reading for an in-depth look into some of the hidden gems of St. Petersburg. From serene kayaking spots to delicious, fresh seafood, here are 25 hidden gems in St. Petersburg that you don’t want to miss!

Hidden Gems In St. Petersburg Florida (By A Local) 2024

Let’s dive into the 25 secret spots and hidden gems in St. Petersburg that are just waiting for you to visit and discover. From amazing museums to tranquil parks, this list of hidden gems in St. Petersburg is sure to blow your mind!

1. Demens Landing Park

First up, is a downtown park that is near and dear to my heart, for a number of reasons. Mostly because it’s a hidden gem in St. Petersburg that is on the edge of the hustle and bustle of the city.

There are several public parking spots in the park, if you don’t mind a short, scenic walk into town, this is one of my favorite places to leave my car when I’m downtown for an event.

Find a sheltered picnic table to enjoy visiting with friends, having a picnic, baiting your fishing hooks, or just watching the world go by.

The Albert Whited airport is just across the harbor and is very active with small airplanes and helicopters. It’s fun to watch them take off and land so close to the water.

During the spring, American Stage sets up and delivers off-Broadway quality theater shows in the middle of the park. Complete with a full stage, sound, and lighting, to reserved seat options, or just bring a blanket and watch from the grass.

Demens Landing Park has a playground for the kids and a seawall to walk along to see fish, crabs, and other wildlife. There is plenty of space to relax, read a book, and admire Tampa Bay from this hidden gem in St. Petersburg.

💡ProTip: CityPASS Tampa Bay is the best deal for the top attractions. You pay one low price and get admission to 5 top, local, attractions including Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, The Florida Aquarium, and ZooTampa. Then, you pick 2 more attractions to round out the pass!

2. St. Petersburg Museum of History

As you enter the pier district, the St. Petersburg Museum of History is one of the first buildings you will see, adjacent to the splash pad. Your love for the Sunshine City will grow by learning its history so do not miss visiting this hidden gem in St. Petersburg.

The museum has been showcasing artifacts and historical information for over 100 years and is open 7 days a week. Some of the exhibits include a Guinness World Record autographed baseball collection, the world’s first airliner, The Benoist, which carried the first commercial airline passenger, and an ancient 3,000-year-old Egyptian mummy.

3. The Club at Treasure Island

The Club at Treasure Island is no longer a member’s only club and is open to the public. Come and enjoy the pool, have an amazing lunch or dinner, and just relax with the waterside views that this location has to offer.

Back in my days of owning a custom cake shop, this was a popular place for wedding receptions to deliver cakes to. Several years ago, we attended a Dueling Piano event and it was very well organized and executed.

The Club at Treasure Island is closed on Monday and Tuesday. Use of the pool is complimentary for patrons of the restaurant and tiki, but if you’re just looking for a great place to take a refreshing swim in the pool, a $20 per person, per day, fee applies.

4. Weedon Island Preserve

Are you a nature lover? If so, a visit to Weedon Island Preserve is a must! Located on Tampa Bay, this 3,100+ acre preserve boasts an aquatic and upland ecosystem, many hiking and kayaking trails, and educational facilities. Part of the Pinellas County park system, Weedon Island is well known for birding and fishing.

For hiking and kayaking activities, here, or at any of my suggested hidden gems in St. Petersburg, please come prepared with the following:

• A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Plenty of drinking water and snacks
• Bug spray. Have you heard about our mosquitos and noseeums? Ouch!
• Sturdy shoes designed for the activity you are doing.
• If kayaking, tell a friend/family member your intended route
• Apps to check weather, tides, and wind

5. Dead Bob’s Bar & Restaurant

I’ve eaten here a couple of times and absolutely love it. I would consider this a hidden gem in St. Petersburg, as it’s just a hole-in-the-wall burger joint. The difference is, the burgers are Ah-Mazing! It’s just the kind of place I enjoy hanging out, having a meal, and catching a Tampa Bay Ray’s game on the tube.

Dead Bob’s Bar & Restaurant is located near the beaches, and about 15 minutes from the downtown area, on Central Avenue.

6. Williams Pier of Gulfport

Extending over 500 feet into Boca Ciega Bay is the Williams Pier of Gulfport. This hidden gem is on my list because of its location on Shore Boulevard, near several restaurants and bars, and its accessibility to deeper waters for fishing.

The very first pier was built back in 1907 and was recently refurbished in 2001. The pier offers a quiet place to view the sunsets, throw a fishing line in, and when you catch the ‘Big One’, they have added a fish cleaning table to make it easy to filet your catch.

Have a seat on one of the many benches on the pier, look for dolphins swimming in the bay, and enjoy the fresh, sea air that accompanies any visit to this hidden gem in St. Petersburg.

7. Maximo Park

I visited Maximo Park many times when my daughter was in Middle School, on the south side of Pinellas County. This was a great area for me to take a walk, look at the water, and kind of escape for an hour or two. The park is hidden away but offers a lot of amenities to enjoy.

The dog-friendly park offers a covered playground, boat ramp, disc golf course, walking trails, and views of Tampa Bay that are hard to find anywhere else. Pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon at Maximo Park.

8. Dirty Laundry

Getting dressed up to go to the laundromat? You bet! This hidden gem in St. Petersburg hasn’t been around all that long, but it’s a very popular stop for a cocktail and coffee. Dirty Laundry has a few items on the food menu, but their focus is craft cocktails and coffees and live music on certain nights. Think speakeasy, think fun!

9. Dolphin Landings Charter Boat Center

Once upon a time, back in 2008, I was a first mate for Dolphin Landings. It was the most exciting little job I ever had and wish I could have done it longer, but I couldn’t be a salty crew forever. I mean, I probably could, but another time.

The Dolphin Landings Charter Boat Center has been a staple in St. Pete Beach for over 50 years! They offer dolphin watch sails, sunset sails, Island trips to Shell Key and Egmont Key, and fishing charters. The crew is very experienced and knowledgeable and offers a comfortable experience, even if you’ve never sailed before! Their 50-year reputation speaks volumes and I encourage you to check them out!

Also from my “Hidden Gems” series:
Hidden Gems in Crystal River
Hidden Gems in Safety Harbor

10. Abercrombie Park

This little park is such a hidden gem in St. Petersburg, I am reluctant to share, BUT, I just couldn’t keep it a secret. Tucked off of Park Street in the Tyrone area is this lush, well-maintained park that leads down to the waterfront. Leashed dogs are welcome.

If you’re looking for a special, quiet place to sit and relax or to read a book, meditate, or forget about life for a moment, Abercrombie Park is the place!

11. The Hollander

Several years ago, our friends got married and had an after-party at The Hollander. It was so much fun, sitting on the large porch, having drinks, and watching the world go by. On another occasion, I took a ghost walking tour and the guide led us through the lobby of The Hollander as a point of interest for ‘hauntings’. You decide…

The Hollander is a hidden gem in St. Petersburg because of its uniqueness and being located in the heart of downtown. The property offers a pool with cabanas, the Tap Room restaurant, and a coffee shop. So, if you’re not booking this hotel to stay, come by and have a dip in the pool or a cocktail on the deck!

12. Historic Roser Park

There’s a neighborhood in St. Petersburg that is worth a visit. The tree-lined, brick streets, showcase Craftsman Bungalows, Colonial Revival, and Prairie Homes. The Historic Roser Park and Greenwood Cemetary have monuments to Civil War soldiers and graves for early pioneers. Walk along Booker Creek for a scenic walk.

13. Shell Key Preserve

Shell Key Preserve is an uninhabited island and is a great place to swim and collect shells on the beach. If you’re into camping, permits are available for roughin’ it out on the preserve. The wildlife and birding is great on this little sliver of paradise, so go out and enjoy!

14. Zubrick Magic Theater

It wasn’t until recently that I was introduced to this adorable show in St. Petersburg. A friend invited me to go with her family and I had no idea what she was talking about! But, alas, just west of downtown, hidden back on 1st Ave N, was the Zubrick Magic Theater. The 70-minute, interactive magic show was fantastic and great for all ages.

15. 360 Rooftop

There are a couple of rooftop bars in the St. Petersburg area, but none that will have the views like 360 Rooftop. From here, you will have a 360-degree view of the entire area. The Gulf of Mexico, Intercoastal Waterway, and Downtown St. Pete are all visible from up here. The rooftop is a part of Hotel Zamora, no reservations, first come, first served. The rooftop bar specializes in craft cocktails and the view!

16. Sawgrass Lake Park

When Lee and I first started dating, we met at Sawgrass Lake Park to walk and talk. It was so peaceful, relaxing, and comfortable. There is a mile-long boardwalk that meanders through the wilderness.

The boardwalk has benches to sit and observe nature. Listen to all of the bugs and birds that fill the air with their sounds. It’s amazing to have such a wilderness right along the interstate and the hustle and bustle.

17. Duncan McClellan Gallery

I visited the Duncan McClellan Gallery when I owned the custom cake shop, one of my staff was friends with Duncan, and she and I would go to evening events hosted at the gallery. Oftentimes, we’d bring sweet treats to share with the guests.

The gallery is truly an amazing display of glass and artwork from very talented, world-renowned artists. You will enjoy a walk through this gallery and through the lush sculpture garden, outside. When you visit, you may see artists working on their projects in the hot shop. So cool!

18. Florida Orange Groves and Winery

If you like wine or want a unique gift to send back home, stop at the Florida Orange Groves and Winery. Since the 1970s, they have been a staple in the St. Petersburg community, first, as shippers of fresh citrus, then started to make fruit wine, and now specializing in 43 varieties of fruit wines. There’s a great little sitting area in the back to enjoy a glass or tasting. Their shop has a lot of cute gifts, too!

19. Mazzarro’s Italian Market

Oh. My. Goodness. If you are looking for something to give yourself sensory overload, stop by Mazzarro’s Italian Market. This place is amazing and I have been visiting it for years! It’s one of the largest Italian markets around and offers a wide array of cheeses, beer and wine, and fresh pasta in every shape and size. The bakery and coffee bar is impressive as is the fresh meat counter. Take some pantry items home with you for your next Italian feast.

20. The Ale and the Witch

There is a hidden courtyard in downtown St. Petersburg that hosts live music every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. There’s never a cover charge, so grab one of the many craft beers and chill on the outdoor patio. We visited The Ale and the Witch on Father’s Day, there were about 10 of us, and we had such a great time! There are plenty of tables and chairs to use, but to ensure a seat, get there early to claim yours.

21. Seaside Seabird Sanctuary

I have been visiting the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary since I was in high school, back in the early 90s. I was on the sea turtle patrol and occasionally had to assist with injured birds that we came across. It’s a great little gem, on the beach, to stop in and see how they are positively impacting the wildlife in this area.

This non-profit has been an integral part of our community for decades and can always use donations and support that can be tax deductible!

22. Paradeco Coffee Roasters

Like most folks, I love to start my day with a great cup of coffee. Heck, I even like stopping mid-afternoon for a great cup of coffee. I don’t care that the temperature outside is a blazing 95 degrees, I just love coffee!

Paradeco Coffee Roasters is not your typical coffee shop, so if you’re looking for one of those familiar coffee shops, keep walking. Otherwise, here, you will find a peaceful, friendly staffed shop that offers freshly roasted coffee drinks and delicious, healthy foods. On the menu are various gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, along with sweet and savory. It’s a great way to start your day!

23. Candy Kitchen

Another favorite, hidden gem in St. Petersburg, is the Candy Kitchen. Well, okay, this is actually in Madeira Beach, close enough. It does hold some nostalgia for me, as I lived a few blocks away in my younger years and would get ice cream here after school, or when I had friends over.

We recently took our grandson for a treat and it just brought back a lot of good memories! If you have a hankering for old, vintage candy, homemade fudge, or hand-dipped ice cream, this is your place! They seriously have everything in this tiny store, including bacon and cheddar crickets!

24. 3 Daughters Brewing

St. Petersburg has exploded with craft breweries, in recent years. So much so, there are craft beer events happening all over town, year-round. It’s hard to pick just one for a hidden gem, however, 3 Daughters Brewing is one of my favorites.

Live music and trivia fill the event calendar at this South St. Pete location. You’ll find a long list of beers and seltzers on their menu. The Bleach Blonde Ale is a crowd favorite!

This is a large brewery, offering tours of the brewing process. You can dine in or outside, there are plenty of seating options, here. Board games are available to play while you eat and drink. I attended a musical bingo event a while back, it was tons of fun and a unique night out.

25. Sunken Gardens

Along Fourth Street in St. Petersburg is one of Florida’s original attractions, Sunken Gardens. Take an afternoon and stroll through this beautiful sanctuary and view the birds, butterflies, and lots of different plant varieties. The pathway is wheelchair accessible and has a great gift shop with lots of unique finds.

Where To Stay In St. Petersburg

There are a variety of accommodations in St. Petersburg and along the Gulf Beaches that come in all shapes and sizes and for any price point.

📍 Budget Hotel: Quality Inn St. Petersburg North Tampa Bay This property is budget-priced, includes breakfast, and has an outdoor pool. It’s located along I-275 which means you can be on your way to your excursions in no time!

📍Mid-Range Hotel: Sirata Beach Resort is on the beautiful beaches of the Gulf Of Mexico. This moderately priced beach resort has a variety of room types, activities for the whole family, a beachfront pool, and a variety of restaurants and bars.

📍Luxury Hotel: The Don CeSar , also known as the Pink Palace, is an elegant luxury hotel with a spa, fine dining, and cabanas.

Use this map to find other hotel accommodations in the St. Petersburg area

Visiting St. Petersburg, Florida: FAQs

Q. When is the best time to visit St. Petersburg, Florida?

A. The Tampa Bay Region is great to visit any time of year, depending on the activities you are looking to do, November – March offers more moderate temperatures. The summer months can get very hot and humid.

Q. Is it better to stay in Tampa or St. Petersburg?

A. It depends on the activities you are looking to do. If relaxing on the beach and catching the sunsets are your cup of tea, then definitely stay in St. Petersburg. If you’re a theme park junkie and will be visiting the area theme parks, Tampa is a better option. You will be near Busch Gardens and about an hour, or so, from Kissimmee.

Q. What is unique about St. Petersburg, Florida?

A. St. Petersburg has been named the best place to live in Florida, among small and mid-size cities. It’s no wonder, it is like paradise, here! The area offers plenty of outdoor recreation, arts and culture, top entertainment, delicious cuisine, and much more. Back in the 20’s, if the sun didn’t shine, you could get your newspaper for FREE, hence the nickname The Sunshine City.

Breakin’ It Down: Hidden Gems In St. Petersburg, FL,

As you can see, there are many hidden gems in St. Petersburg and many more, but to keep the list manageable… I’ve called this area HOME for over 20 years and I believe that your vacation to the Tampa Bay Region is not complete without spending some time in St. Petersburg.

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