Discover Kid-Friendly Adventures: Best Things to Do in St Petersburg FL
By OSLS
On May 2, 2024
St. Petersburg, FL, beckons families with its sunny weather and array of kid-friendly attractions, from the inviting shores of St. Pete Beach to the educational delights of museums and aquariums. This destination stands out with its perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural gems, including Fort De Soto Park, downtown St. Petersburg, and the bustling John's Pass Village.
Exploring the best things to do in St Petersburg FL offers a valuable opportunity to create lasting memories. Whether it's indoor fun at downtown venues or soaking up the sun at Clearwater, this guide will navigate you through the top St Pete attractions, ensuring a trip filled with excitement and discovery.
Outdoor Adventures for the Family
St. Petersburg, affectionately known as St. Pete, is a haven for families seeking outdoor excitement. Here's a guide to the best outdoor activities that are sure to thrill every member of the family:
Explore the Natural Beauty
Paddle Through Mangroves at Fort De Soto Park: Navigate lush mangrove forests where dolphins and manatees play in the waters.
Hike and Bird-Watch at Weedon Island Preserve: Traverse the 3,190-acre preserve on foot or via the extensive boardwalk, perfect for spotting local wildlife.
Island Hopping Adventures: Visit Honeymoon Island, Caladesi Island, and Egmont Key for pristine beaches and natural trails.
Wildlife Encounters
Dolphin and Wildlife Watching Tours: Set sail on the crystal-clear waters of St. Pete to meet marine life up close.
Birding at Boca Ciega Millennium Park: Part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, this park offers exceptional birdwatching opportunities.
Waterfront Fun
Kayaking and Camping at Fort De Soto Park: Paddle in calm waters and camp along the waterfront, enjoying amenities like playgrounds and picnic areas.
Snorkeling at Egmont Key: Dive into the warm waters to explore sunken ruins and vibrant marine habitats.
Educational and Fun
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve: A 245-acre preserve offering trails, a nature center, and a bird of prey exhibit. Ideal for children who love exploring nature.
These activities not only provide fun and excitement but also offer educational experiences that engage young minds in the wonders of nature and wildlife in St. Petersburg, FL.
Educational Yet Fun Destinations
St. Petersburg, FL, is not only a hub for outdoor adventures but also a treasure trove of educational yet fun destinations that cater to curious minds of all ages. Here's a guide to some of the best educational spots in the city:
Museums and Exhibitions
The Imagine Museum - Known for its contemporary glass art, this museum provides creative workshops that are perfect for children, fostering an appreciation for art from a young age.
The Dalí Museum - Not just for art enthusiasts, this museum includes educational programs and unique interactive exhibits that introduce children to the surreal world of Salvador Dalí.
Great Explorations Children's Museum - This museum is a haven of interactive exhibits designed specifically for children, encouraging learning through play.
The Museum of Fine Arts - Offers a wide range of family-friendly programs, including storytime and art-making activities, ideal for sparking an interest in the arts.
St. Petersburg Museum of History - Features engaging exhibits on local history and a special 'Kids Explore History' section with hands-on activities.
Botanical Gardens and Zoos
Sunken Gardens - A century-old botanical garden that offers daily educational programs and guided tours amidst an exotic collection of over 50,000 tropical plants and flowers.
Lowry Park Zoo (Tampa) - Home to a children's zoo and numerous animal encounters, this zoo provides educational fun with a splash ground for cooling off during hot Florida days.
Interactive Learning Centers
The Florida Aquarium (Tampa) - Features a variety of exhibits from wetlands to coral reefs, and a shark tank, all designed to educate and entertain, complete with a splash pad for kids.
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve - Offers trails and educational programs that allow children to learn about local ecosystems and wildlife in a hands-on environment.
These destinations in St. Petersburg not only provide fun-filled activities but also educational experiences that leave lasting impressions on young minds, making every visit both enjoyable and informative.
Arts and Culture Hotspots
St. Petersburg, FL, is a vibrant hub for arts and culture, offering a diverse array of attractions that cater to all ages and interests. From world-renowned museums to lively arts festivals, here's a glimpse into the city's rich cultural landscape:
Museums and Art Exhibitions
The Salvador Dalí Museum: Home to the largest collection of Dalí's works outside Europe, featuring iconic surrealist paintings and offering kid-friendly audio tours.
The James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art: Displays a vast collection of Native American art, Western sculptures, paintings, and jewelry.
The Museum of American Arts & Crafts Movement: Dedicated to the American Arts and Crafts movement, showcasing fine crafts and decorative arts.
The Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art: Features 20th-century modern art, providing a comprehensive look at modern artistic expressions.
Fairgrounds St. Pete: An innovative arts center with rotating exhibitions and installations that inspire creativity and conversation.
Festivals and Community Arts
SHINE Mural Festival: An annual celebration where artists from around the nation transform city walls into a canvas of vibrant murals.
Second Saturday Art Walk: Explore over 40 galleries and studios, immersing in the local art scene with live demonstrations and artist talks.
Performing Arts and Crafts
American Stage Theatre and The Palladium Theater: Offer a variety of performances from traditional plays to modern experimental theater.
Arts & Crafts Activities: Engage in hands-on creativity at venues like Practically Pikasso and Zen Glass, where families can create their own art pieces.
Artistic Shopping and Exploration
Artpool and Florida CraftArt: Shop for unique art pieces, handmade crafts, and souvenirs that reflect St. Pete's artistic flair.
St. Pete Pier: Not just a pier but a cultural venue with art installations, green spaces, and the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center, perfect for a family day out.
These cultural hotspots in St. Petersburg not only entertain but also educate, making them perfect destinations for families looking to enrich their travel experience with art and culture.
Unmissable Indoor Entertainment
St. Petersburg, FL, offers a plethora of indoor entertainment options that promise fun regardless of the weather. Here's a guide to some must-visit spots:
Active Indoor Fun
The Trop: Enjoy America's favorite pastime indoors with a visit to the Tropicana Field.
Vertical Ventures: Challenge yourself with indoor rock climbing, suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Hatchet Hangout: Test your aim in a safe and fun environment with axe throwing.
Sunrise Lanes or Ten Pin Lanes: Strike up some family competition at these local bowling alleys.
Wellness and Relaxation
The Body Electric Yoga and Athletic Companies: Offers a variety of yoga classes that cater to all levels.
St. Pete Salt Works: Experience the therapeutic benefits of salt therapy.
Indoor Activities for Kids
Great Explorations Children’s Museum: Interactive exhibits like a pretend town and a realistic grocery store engage young minds.
SkyZone Clearwater: An indoor trampoline park that lets kids and adults alike bounce off the walls—literally!
Treasure Island Fun Center: Features arcade games and more for a blast from the past.
Creative and Educational Stops
Practically Pikasso: Unleash your family’s creative side with pottery painting.
Morean Glass Studio & Hot Shop: Watch captivating live glassblowing or sign up for a workshop to make your own glass art.
These venues not only provide shelter from the occasional rain but also offer enriching experiences that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages.
Conclusion
Throughout this exploration of St. Petersburg, FL, we've journeyed through the city's lush landscapes, vibrant cultural scenes, and educational treasures. Each attraction, from the serene Fort De Soto Park to the immersive Dali Museum, offers a unique opportunity for families to bond and discover. These adventures not only promise fun and excitement but also foster a deeper appreciation for art, history, and nature, making every moment spent in St. Petersburg a valuable addition to a family's treasure trove of memories.
As families consider their next destination for adventure and learning, St. Petersburg stands out as a beacon of entertainment and enlightenment. The city's blend of educational experiences, cultural richness, and outdoor fun positions it as an ideal location for those seeking to enrich their lives with new experiences and knowledge. While we've covered a wide array of activities and destinations, the true essence of St. Petersburg lies in its ability to bring families closer together, encouraging exploration, creativity, and the joy of discovery.
FAQs
What are some family-friendly activities in Pinellas County?
The top family-friendly activities to enjoy in Pinellas County include:
Visiting Busch Gardens Tampa Bay with various ticket and multi-park options.
Embarking on a Pirate Adventure Cruise with at Madeira Beach.
Joining a Dolphin Exploration Tour in St Pete Beach.
Going on a Guided Dolphin Watching Eco-Friendly Cruise in Madeira Beach.
Experiencing a Sunset Celebration Cruise in Clearwater.
How can I spend a day in St. Petersburg?
To make the most of a day in St. Petersburg, consider the following activities:
Watch the Island Sunset and Skyway Light Show.
Enjoy an Evening Yacht Cruise, with or without dining.
Take a Clear Kayak Tour of Shell Key Preserve and the Tampa Bay Area.
Relax on a 2-Hour Sunset Cruise Tour.
Experience the thrill of a St. Petersburg Speed Boat Adventure.
Are there many things to do in St. Petersburg?
Yes, St. Petersburg offers a plethora of activities, especially with its extensive coastline and waterfront attractions. The new St. Pete Pier is a hub of entertainment with a splash pad, playground, walking paths, an open-air market, a nature discovery center, Spa Beach Park, and numerous dining choices, providing hours of fun for visitors of all ages.
Where are the best places to walk in St. Petersburg, FL?
The best walking trails in St. Petersburg include:
