Where is the best getaway spot on the southeast coast of Florida? The coastal town of Saint Pete is hard to beat! From Museums to art festivals, unique bars, and some A+ seafood, Saint Pete will never disappoint!
Top Notch Local Eats
While not technically food, the Candy Kitchen in Madeira Beach is a mom-and-pop shop that sells candy from all decades. From the “Bean Boozled” Jelly beans to the original Whatchamacallit, you are bound to find something you remember from childhood.
For outstanding drinks with flair and flavor, try Saigon Blonde! This 60s-inspired restaurant and bar exudes an inviting atmosphere with its tropical décor, including flickering tiki totems and murals. The tiki bar gives way to a tropical lounge with lanterns, plush furniture, and eclectic paintings. At the very back of the room, you can find the military bar. With two separate and unique bars, tropical seating areas, and a beautiful second-floor lounge, Saigon Blonde is a prime spot for any occasion.
The menu is full of delicious fresh cocktails that reflect the flavors and feel of the Pacific Rim. Many of the cocktails are made with fresh ingredients from their garden and Asian liquors. Saigon Blonde has a diverse food selection, including Vietnamese dishes to modern street food flavors. They also offer many vegan options.
Saigon Blonde also has a legend to the name! During the Vietnam War, Saigon Lounge was a bar in the capital of Vietnam. The owner was a beautiful blonde Vietnamese and French woman. Locals and soldiers loved her bar! She had two rules: no weapons allowed, and have fun! In a time of war, anyone was welcome. The bar disappeared toward the end of the war, but its legacy lives on in Saint Pete! Escape the Florida heat and your busy day with some pals at Saigon Blonde!
Explore the Entertainment
If you are looking for a good time, stop at the Saint Pete Fair Grounds! Here you can find an immersive explorable art and technology exhibition that is a collaboration of 60 artists. Let your mind wander while you explore each exhibit and find the hidden details they share.
Saint Pete has some of the freshest food. To find it, look no further than the Saint Pete Saturday Morning Market. The Saturday Morning Market is the best place to find freshly cooked food, locally farmed groceries, and live music. With 120 vendors, you are bound to fall in love with at least a couple of tents while you are there. If you are a local, you may even find a shop that has been under your nose the whole time!
An iconic staple of Saint Pete is the St. Pete Pier, jetting out into Tampa Bay. A favorite destination of locals and tourists alike, the St. Pete Pier offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Mexico and downtown Saint Petersburg. From it, you can see cruise ships, harbor seals, and various wildlife. The Pier is particularly special for those who like to shop. Its shops and restaurants offer something for everyone- art, clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, and food- local favorites like crab cakes and other seafood. Be sure to check out the Pier Aquarium, where you can see live fish, turtles, and rays up close and personal! And, of course, everyone should explore the Pier’s landmark inverted pyramid. The Pier also provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as walking, running, and biking. There’s even a beach boardwalk for those who want to take a leisurely stroll. The Pier Park is great for a picnic or just relaxing in the sun. From beautiful views of the Gulf to all the attractions the Pier has to offer, the Saint Pete Pier is a must-see when you are in Saint Pete.
“Must-Sea” Museums
St. Pete is full of spectacular Museums. Its most renowned art museum in St. Pete is the Salvador Dali Museum. The Dali Museum is a great way to become inspired by the great works of Salvador Dali. Located nearby will inspire and captivate art lovers with its comprehensive, expansive collection of the immense and transcendent artwork of the luminary Spanish surrealist. From oils and sculptures to engravings, visitors are given an intimate and detailed overview of Dalí’s masterpieces. Watching his works come to life as you explore the galleries is truly unparalleled. The Salvador Dalí Museum is a must-see in Saint Petersburg. Take the time to learn about each piece and the emotions that went into each of his creations. The museum also has an app for interactive observation. Just remember, the week of September 17 is Art Week in Saint Pete. Though it is a special week to visit art museums, it is abnormally busy!
Another must-visit art museum is the Museum of Fine Art. The Museum of Fine Art is one of the most beloved cultural attractions in the city and a must-see for visitors. The museum is home to a diverse collection of art and artifacts from around the world and throughout the centuries, providing an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Whether you’re a fan of Impressionist and modern art, African and Asian art, European paintings, or photography, there’s something to be explored at the Museum of Fine Art. The permanent exhibits showcase works from significant artists such as Monet, Picasso, O’Keeffe, and Rembrandt, to name a few. Additionally, there are rotating exhibitions that are often themed to reflect current events. These exhibitions can feature both visiting and permanent works, giving new and exciting ways to experience the museum. The galleries are also frequently updated to stay current with the newest art trends and feature new works, adding a layer of continuity that is truly unique. The Museum of Fine Art also provides a range of programming and events that make your visit truly interactive. From lectures and classes to art workshops and concerts, there’s always something exciting to be experienced. Whether you’re a long-time art enthusiast or someone looking to explore something new, a visit to the Museum of Fine Art in St. Pete is an essential part of any itinerary.
The most moving museum to see when in Saint Pete is the Holocaust Museum. This museum is a memorable space dedicated to preserving the stories and lives of those lost during one of the most horrific periods in history. Built in 1992, it serves as a memorial to Holocaust survivors and their families, highlighting their experiences and showcasing both personal artifacts and informative displays. As one of the largest Holocaust museums in the nation, the Florida Holocaust Museum is also a reminder that such tragic events should never be forgotten. The museum features several galleries, filling visitors with an understanding of how discrimination and prejudice can have devastating outcomes. Some exhibits feature the stories of Holocaust survivors and their families, as well as sections dedicated to exploring the history of antisemitism and racism during World War II. There is also a Hall of Remembrance, which is designed as a place to remember and honor those lives taken in the Holocaust. For visitors from outside of Florida, there is also a special section about Florida’s response to the Holocaust, including stories from survivors who settled in the Sunshine State after the war.
Additionally, the museum regularly hosts programs and events, such as lectures and panel discussions, which further provide insight into this part of history. Whether you’re planning a visit to the Florida Holocaust Museum for educational purposes or a memorial service, there is nothing else quite like it. From the inspiring displays, interactive media, and artifacts, to the unique stories, this is one of the most moving cultural destinations in the country.
