Explore the Beach
St. Petersburg is home to some of the best beaches in the United States. From the iconic white sand of St. Pete Beach to the family friendly Pass-a-Grille Beach, there is something for everyone. Spend the day sunbathing, building sandcastles, and looking for shells. St. Petersburg also has some of the best fishing spots in the area, so bring your pole and bait and try your luck.
Take a Self-Guided Tour
Experience the city’s unique architecture and culture by taking a walking tour. St. Petersburg is home to many historical sites and landmarks, including the Pier and the Sunken Gardens. The self-guided tours are free, so you can learn more about the history of this charming city without spending a dime.
Visit the Chihuly Collection
The Chihuly Collection is a remarkable collection of the works of world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly. His sculptures and installations are spread throughout the city, from the Salvador Dali Museum to the Museum of Fine Arts. Most of the pieces are housed in the Chihuly Collection, a 15,000-square-foot facility in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg. There is no charge to visit the collection, so you can enjoy some of the world's best modern art for free.
Explore the Local Parks
St. Petersburg is home to a variety of parks and green spaces, so take advantage of the great outdoors. There are numerous trails and paths to explore, as well as playgrounds and recreational areas. Grab a bike and take a leisurely ride around town, or pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day in the park. Of course, Florida is also known for its wildlife, so keep an eye out for native birds, reptiles, and other local creatures.
Visit the Local Farmers Market
The Saturday Morning Market is a great place to find fresh, local produce and products. The market is held every Saturday from 9am to 2pm in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg. You’ll find an array of local vendors offering everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade soaps and jewelry.
Watch a Performance at the Mahaffey Theater
The Mahaffey Theater, located in picturesque downtown St. Petersburg, is a 2,000-seat, multi-use venue that hosts all kinds of performances, ranging from Broadway shows to concerts. The theater often hosts free events, such as open mic nights, so check their website for the latest schedule.
Attend a Festival
Throughout the year, St. Petersburg hosts a variety of festivals and special events. From the renowned Sunscreen Film Festival to the popular Mainsail Arts Festival, there’s always something fun and free to do in St. Petersburg. Check the city’s event calendar to find out what’s going on.
Explore the Historic Downtown
St. Petersburg’s downtown area is full of history and charm. From the bustling Central Avenue to the quaint boutiques and restaurants of Beach Drive, there is plenty to explore. Make sure to visit some of the city’s oldest buildings, including the Spanish-style Bank of St. Petersburg building and the Moorish-inspired American Bank building.
Go Kayaking
Take advantage of the great Florida weather and get out on the water. With more than 30 miles of coastline, St. Petersburg is a great destination for kayaking and paddling. You can rent a kayak from local outfitters, and explore the many waterways and islands of Tampa Bay. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for wildlife!
Catch a Sporting Event
The Tampa Bay Rays and the Tampa Bay Rowdies are two of the city’s most popular sports teams. Catch a game at Tropicana Field or Al Lang Stadium and cheer on your favorite team. Best of all, there are usually plenty of promotional offers and discounts available, so you can enjoy all the action without breaking the bank.
Discover the Best of St. Petersburg, Florida
From relaxing days on the beach to exploring the city’s vibrant culture, there are plenty of free things to do in St. Petersburg, Florida. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or staying for a while, you’ll never run out of things to do in this city. So get out there and start exploring!