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

St. Petersburg Adventure: Beaches, Art, and Family Fun!

St. Petersburg, located in Florida, offers a picturesque getaway for families seeking a memorable and family-friendly vacation. Known for its stunning beaches, visitors can enjoy sun-soaked days building sandcastles and playing in the gentle waves. The city also boasts vibrant art and cultural scenes, with attractions like The Dali Museum and Great Explorations Children's Museum providing fun and educational experiences for all.

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Experience romantic bliss in St. Petersburg, Florida, where white sandy beaches and stunning sunsets await. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit the Salvador Dali Museum, and indulge in delicious local cuisine. With its charming atmosphere and numerous attractions, St. Petersburg offers a perfect getaway for couples looking for a romantic adventure.

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A family-friendly trip to St. Petersburg, United States offers a blend of culture, history, and outdoor activities. Families can explore the stunning Salvador Dali Museum, visit the Great Explorations Children's Museum, and enjoy a boat tour along the beautiful Tampa Bay. With its pleasant weather and numerous parks, St. Petersburg also provides ample opportunities for biking, hiking, and relaxing on sandy beaches.

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For budget travelers looking to explore the east coast of the United States, St. Petersburg is a great destination with plenty to see and do. Visitors can enjoy the city's beautiful beaches, take a stroll in the downtown area, or take in a show at the Mahaffey Theater. While accommodations can be expensive, there are several affordable options available, such as hostels or budget hotels.