St. Pete on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun & Sun

Discover the charm of St. Petersburg, even on a penny-pinching adventure.

21 June 2023

A trip to St. Petersburg on a limited budget is possible by seeking out affordable accommodations outside the downtown area, utilizing public transportation to explore the city, and taking advantage of free attractions such as the city's many parks and museums. Some must-see sights include the Salvador Dali Museum, St. Pete Beach, and the Chihuly Collection.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploring

  • Check into La Quinta Inn & Suites for a comfortable stay on a budget.
  • Grab a coffee and pastry at Black Crow Coffee Co., a cozy indie spot with great vibes.
  • Visit the Dalí Museum to admire the surrealist master's works.
  • Stroll through the Sunken Gardens, a serene oasis in the bustling downtown area.
  • Have lunch at Bodega on Central, a trendy spot serving up delicious Cuban sandwiches.
Day 2

Beach Day

  • Drive to nearby St. Pete Beach for a day of sun and sand.
  • Rent a paddleboard or jet ski at Suncoast Watersports for a thrilling time on the water.
  • Grab lunch at The Wharf at Pass-a-Grille, a laid-back seafood joint with great views.
  • Take a sunset sail on a catamaran with Sunset Sailing Charters.
  • Have dinner at Grace, a farm-to-table restaurant with a sleek and modern ambiance.
Day 3

Cultural Attractions

  • Visit the Museum of Fine Arts, with an impressive collection of European and American art.
  • Grab lunch at Locale Market, a high-end food hall with delicious options from around the globe.
  • Explore the Chihuly Collection, showcasing the breathtaking glass sculptures of Dale Chihuly.
  • Take a stroll through the Historic Old Northeast neighborhood, known for its picturesque architecture.
  • Dine at The Mill, a rustic-chic eatery serving up creative dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients.
Day 4

Outdoor Adventures

  • Rent a bike from Coast Bike Share and cruise along the scenic Pinellas Trail.
  • Have lunch at Green Bench Brewing Co., a local craft brewery with a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Visit Weedon Island Preserve for hiking and kayaking adventures.
  • Take a dolphin watching tour with Dolphin Racer Speedboat Adventure.
  • Have dinner at The Avenue Eat + Drink, a local favorite with live music and outdoor seating.
Day 5

Shopping and Farewell

  • Visit the trendy boutiques and galleries of the Grand Central District.
  • Grab brunch at The Wooden Rooster, a charming cafe with a farm-to-table menu.
  • Visit the Morean Arts Center for glassblowing demonstrations and other art exhibits.
  • Have lunch at Hawkers Asian Street Fare for delicious and affordable fusion cuisine.
  • Depart La Quinta Inn & Suites and bid farewell to beautiful St. Petersburg.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to St. Petersburg in the United States is to fly into Tampa International Airport (TPA) and then take a 30-minute drive to St. Petersburg. There are several major airlines that fly into TPA such as Delta, United, and American Airlines.

Car

If driving, take Interstate-275 to get to St. Petersburg in the United States. The drive from Tampa takes around 30 minutes, 2 hours from Orlando, and 5 hours from Miami.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to St. Petersburg in the United States. The closest Amtrak station is in Tampa which is about a 30-minute drive to St. Petersburg.

Boat

There are no regular passenger ferry services to St. Petersburg in the United States, but private boat charters are available from marinas in nearby Tampa Bay and Clearwater. A popular option is to take a sunset or dolphin watching cruise which also stops at St. Petersburg's marina.

Bus

Taking a bus to St. Petersburg in the United States is convenient as there are several daily services from cities such as Miami, Orlando, and Tampa. Greyhound and Megabus are two major providers. The closest bus station is the St. Petersburg Greyhound Station.

More travel plans

3-Day St. Pete Adventure: Beach, Art, and Beer.

St. Petersburg is a vibrant city located on Florida's picturesque Gulf Coast. As a tourist, there is plenty to do in the area, from relaxing on the beautiful beaches to exploring the city's rich history and culture. Highlights include the Salvador Dali Museum, the historic Vinoy Hotel, and the charming downtown area with its many shops and restaurants.

St. Pete Family Fun: Sun, Art, Adventure, and Farewell

St. Petersburg, located on the west coast of Florida, is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. The city offers a range of activities suitable for all ages, from beautiful beaches to explore and enjoy water sports, to the fascinating Salvador Dali Museum, where kids can appreciate surreal art. With its vibrant downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and parks, St. Petersburg ensures a memorable and entertaining experience for the entire family.

A Romantic Rendezvous in St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg is a charming coastal city in Florida, perfect for a romantic getaway for couples. Explore the picturesque beaches, take a sunset cruise, and visit the world-renowned Salvador Dali Museum, which houses the largest collection of his works outside of Europe. With its unique blend of culture and natural beauty, St. Petersburg is an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic retreat.

St. Petersburg, United States: From Art to Adventure

A family trip to St. Petersburg, United States promises a perfect blend of sunny beaches, rich history, and vibrant arts. Visit the famous Dali Museum to explore surreal artwork or take a leisurely stroll along the charming downtown waterfront, lined with shops and restaurants. With its family-friendly attractions like the Great Explorations Children's Museum and the Sunken Gardens, this coastal city ensures an unforgettable vacation for all ages.