The St. Pete Pier is one of the most visited attractions for things to do in St. Petersburg, FL. The Pier has restaurants, gift shops, family activities, and even an aquarium!
The Pier in St. Petersburg is a major tourist attraction here in downtown St. Petersburg because it encompasses some of the most fun activities you can do by the water such as boat rides, sunset and dolphin cruises and tours, fishing, dining, and of course some of the best shopping in town.
The events and activities held on The Pier in St. Pete are constantly changing and include a weekly FREE music concert held every Sunday afternoon in the Courtyard by the Bay. Nights along the waterfront are especially magical with the custom LED system that lights up the inverted pyramid at night.
Things to Do in St. Pete
If you own a boat or a home near The Pier, it is very hard to not notice its interesting shape overlooking beautiful Tampa Bay. If you are looking for things to do in St. Petersburg, you can visit the amazing aquarium on the second floor that has fish tanks and exhibits on marine life in Tampa Bay that will educate the entire family!
The Pier contains many well-known restaurants such as The Columbia, Cha Cha Coconuts, Jonny Reno’s and Fresco’s. Fresco’s Water front Bar and Grill is located on the corner of 2nd Avenue and Bay shore and is part of The Pier’s family of restaurants. There are also a few dockside eateries for that old-time Florida feel.
Events and Activities Held at St. Pete Pier throughout the Year
St. Pete Pier hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, providing visitors with a range of entertainment options. Some of the events and activities held at St. Pete Pier include:
- Live Music and Performances: St. Pete Pier features a variety of live music and performances throughout the year, including concerts, dance performances, and theater productions.
- Art Exhibits and Installations: The pier is home to several art exhibits and installations, featuring works by local and international artists. These exhibits change regularly, providing visitors with new and exciting displays to explore.
- Fitness and Wellness Activities: The pier offers a variety of fitness and wellness activities, including yoga and meditation classes, outdoor fitness equipment, and walking and running trails.
- Outdoor Movies: St. Pete Pier occasionally hosts outdoor movie nights, featuring classic films and family-friendly favorites.
- Fireworks Shows: The pier hosts several fireworks shows throughout the year, including Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve celebrations.
- Festivals and Celebrations: St. Pete Pier hosts several festivals and celebrations throughout the year, including the St. Pete Pier Seafood and Music Festival, the St. Pete Pier Oktoberfest, and the St. Pete Pride Festival.
Overall, the events and activities held at St. Pete Pier provide visitors with a variety of entertainment options throughout the year. Visitors are encouraged to check the pier’s website or contact the pier directly for information on upcoming events and activities.
How Can Visitors Get to St. Pete Pier?
Visitors can reach St. Pete Pier in several ways, including:
- Car: St. Pete Pier is located at 800 2nd Ave NE in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. Visitors can use GPS navigation or follow directional signs to reach the pier. There is a designated parking lot on site, as well as several nearby parking garages and metered parking spaces.
- Public Transportation: Visitors can also reach St. Pete Pier using public transportation. The PSTA (Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority) operates several bus routes that stop near the pier, including the Central Avenue Trolley and the St. Pete Beach Bus.
- Bicycle: St. Pete Pier is accessible by bicycle, with several bike racks available for visitors to use.
- Water Taxi: Visitors can also reach St. Pete Pier by water taxi. The Cross-Bay Ferry operates a water taxi service between St. Petersburg and Tampa, with stops at St. Pete Pier.
As for parking, there is a designated parking lot on site, as well as several nearby parking garages and metered parking spaces. However, parking can be limited during peak hours and events, so visitors are encouraged to arrive early or consider using alternative transportation options.
Dining Options Available at St. Pete Pier
St. Pete Pier offers a variety of dining options, with something to suit every taste and budget. Some of the dining options available at St. Pete Pier include:
- The Pier Teaki: A rooftop bar and lounge that offers a variety of craft cocktails, sake, and Asian-inspired small plates.
- Teak Restaurant: A casual eatery that serves a variety of American classics, including burgers, sandwiches, and seafood dishes.
- Driftwood Cafe: A seafood-focused restaurant that offers fresh seafood dishes, salads, sandwiches, and more.
- Spa Beach Bistro: A beachside cafe that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a menu featuring sandwiches, salads, wraps, and smoothies.
- North Straub Park Cafe: A cafe that offers a variety of coffee drinks, pastries, and light breakfast and lunch fare.
- Happy Fish: A grab-and-go sushi restaurant that offers a variety of sushi rolls and bowls.
- Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille: A casual restaurant and bar that offers Caribbean-inspired cuisine and a variety of rum cocktails.
The dining options at St. Pete Pier provide visitors with a variety of choices, ranging from casual grab-and-go spots to upscale rooftop lounges. Visitors are encouraged to explore the pier’s various restaurants and cafes to find the dining experience that best suits their tastes and preferences.
Summary St. Pete Pier is an iconic landmark and popular attraction located in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. The pier offers visitors a variety of activities and experiences, including live music and performances, art exhibits, fitness and wellness activities, outdoor movies, festivals and celebrations, and more. Additionally, the pier provides visitors with a range of dining options, with something to suit every taste and budget. Visitors can reach the pier by car, public transportation, bicycle, or water taxi, and there are several parking options available on site and nearby. Overall, St. Pete Pier is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the vibrant culture, stunning views, and exciting attractions of downtown St. Petersburg.