Situated on the west coast of Florida on the waters of Tampa Bay, downtown St. Petersburg, Florida, is a thriving area of food, drinks and plenty of sunshine. It is the perfect location for a long weekend for anyone ready to relax while enjoying the world-renowned art museums and venues in this compact downtown area. The art, food, and drink in downtown St. Petersburg makes for the perfect getaway trip.
Street mural in St. Petersburg (Photo by Marcea Cazel)
Getting There
Two international airports are close by, making flying into the area easy. Tampa International Airport (TPA), the larger of the two, is 21 miles northwest of downtown St. Petersburg, while St. Pete/Clearwater International Airport (PIE) is 13 miles north. A car is handy while in the area, but those staying downtown can take an Uber or Lyft from the airport and anywhere they don’t find walkable. The city also has bike and scooter share rental programs throughout downtown.
Day 1: Arrival and Evening Discoveries
3:00 PM – Check-in at The Hollander Hotel
Start your weekend by checking into The Hollander Hotel, a boutique hotel on the north edge of downtown. This charming hotel combines modern amenities with a welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal base for your St. Pete adventure. The hotel’s lobby area has plenty of seating and seating outside on the front porch if you need to relax. There’s also a pool, bar and restaurant.
Room at the Hollander Hotel (Photo by Marcea Cazel)
During the warm months there is a pool party on the weekends that’s open to the public, but anyone out exploring during the day wouldn’t know anything about it if they returned later in the day. Another plus is that The Hollander offers free parking and no resort fees, which are big deals and money savers in this popular city. They also have a free shuttle Monday through Saturday that will take guests within a 10-block radius of the hotel.
The pool at Hollander Hotel (Photo by Marcea Cazel)
5:30 PM – Dinner at Good Fortune
Kick off your culinary journey with dinner at Good Fortune. This modern spot offers bold Asian-inspired dishes and a fun, innovative cocktail menu. Don’t miss out on their creative sushi rolls, flavorful bao buns or filling spicy Thai sea bass. In addition to their signature cocktails, there’s also a unique Japanese whisky menu with more than 15 options to choose from.
8:00 PM – Nightcap at Mandarin Hide
Wrap up the evening at Mandarin Hide, a stylish cocktail lounge known for craft concoctions. The city’s oldest cocktail bar has been at its current location since 2010 and has a steady customer base. Don’t let that hold you back from entering. Those who aren’t there regularly are welcomed with open arms. Looking for a little time alone with your travel partner? Take one of the seats against the wall. Not sure what to drink and need suggestions? Stand at the bar and chat with the bartenders and regulars who can help you decide on something that includes one of the 450 spirits they keep on hand.
A cocktail at Mandarin Hide (Photo by Marcea Cazel)
Day 2: Arts and Brewery Hopping
9:00 AM – Breakfast at Bandit Coffee Co.
Start your first full day in downtown St. Petersburg with a freshly brewed cup of coffee and a bit to eat at Bandit Coffee Co. A local favorite that uses freshly roasted beans and offers delicious breakfast options like vegan breakfast burritos and spicy chicken biscuits, Bandit Coffee Co. is a great way to fuel up for the day.
10:00 AM – Explore The Dalí
Wake up your senses with a visit to the world-renowned Dalí Museum. The largest collection of Salvador Dalí’s pieces outside of his home country of Spain, The Dalí provides visitors with a full view of sculptures, drawings and paintings, including seven of the artist’s 18 masterworks, which are more than 5’ high or wide. Take your time exploring, and don’t forget to download the audio tour on your phone to learn more details step-by-step.
1:00 PM – Lunch at Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria
For lunch, enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza at Bavaro’s. Known for its wood-fired crusts and fresh ingredients, this cozy spot serves up classic Italian flavors in the heart of downtown. The Margherita pizza is a must-try.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Exploring the Chihuly Collection and Morean Arts Center
Dive into St. Pete’s art scene with a visit to the Chihuly Collection. Home to a variety of glasswork by Dale Chihuly, the collection shows how versatile glass can be. Afterward, head across the street to the Morean Glass Studio, where live glass-blowing demonstrations are given Wednesday through Sunday. Then, walk around the corner to the Morean Arts Center to view their free rotating contemporary art collection and shop in their gift store.
At Chihuly Museum (Photo by Marcea Cazel)
5:00 PM – Brewery Stop at Green Bench Brewery
Take a break and relax with a craft beer at Green Bench Brewery, one of St. Pete’s many breweries. Their spacious outdoor beer garden is perfect for a refreshing pint while enjoying the Florida sun. Green Bench Brewery is also one of the 1% of breweries in the United States owned or co-owned by African Americans.
6:30 PM – Dinner at Trophy Fish
Cap off the day with a seafood dinner at Trophy Fish. Known for its fresh, locally sourced seafood, this casual spot serves dishes like blackened grouper and crispy fish tacos. Pair your meal with one of their tropical cocktails for the ultimate coastal experience.
At Trophy Fish (Photo by Marcea Cazel)
9:00 PM – Nightcap at The Hollander’s Bar
Head back to The Hollander Hotel and enjoy a nightcap at their bar. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great way to wind down after a full day of exploring.
The Tap Room at Hollander Hotel (Photo by Marcea Cazel)
Day 3: Arts, Brunch, and More Drinks
8:30 AM – Breakfast at The Hollander
Start your third day with breakfast at The Hollander’s on-site restaurant, The Tap Room. From hearty omelets to fluffy pancakes, there’s something to please every palate. Don’t forget to try one of their signature Bloody Marys.
10:00 AM – Visit The James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art
Exploring The James Museum takes visitors to the American West through paintings, sculptures and other art forms created in the 20th and 21st centuries. Founded by Tom and Mary James as a gift to the city of St. Petersburg, a large majority of the pieces in the collection were created by a diverse selection of living artists. With about 540 paintings on display at any time, the James Museum offers eight distinct galleries and areas to explore and learn.
At the James Museum (Photo by Marcea Cazel)
12:00 PM – Lunch at Red Mesa Cantina
After leaving The James Museum, walk 6 minutes down the street to enjoy lunch at Red Mesa Cantina. With a mix of Latin and Caribbean fusion-inspired dishes. Try the many ceviche options, loaded queso or mofongo while sipping a handcrafted tequila drink. And if the weather’s nice, request to be seated on their outdoor patio.
Ceviche at Red Mesa Cantina (Photo by Marcea Cazel)
2:00 PM – Explore Downtown
Head down Central Avenue and explore the shops that line the main drag of downtown St. Petersburg. Visit locations like local bookstore Tombolo Books, multiple breweries and thrift shops that line the street. Also, watch for the murals you’ll see all over town. The city of St. Petersburg has over 500 of them!
4:30 PM – Stop at St. Pete Distillery
Take a rideshare to St. Pete Distillery to sip their locally crafted small-batch gin, vodka and other liquors. Head inside for some samples and to purchase a bottle to take home. Check their calendar on the website to see if a behind-the-scenes tour is available while visiting. When the weather is nice, there’s space to sit and enjoy the outdoor patio area.
At St. Pete Distillery (Photo by Marcea Cazel)
6:30 PM – Dinner at Hawthorne Bottle Shop
For your final dinner, visit Hawthorne Bottle Shop. With a curated selection of wines and beers, along with a menu of small plates, it’s a relaxing place to end the day. Maybe you’ll be visiting when they’re hosting Music Bingo!
Day 4: The Fine Arts, St. Pete Pier and Departure
9:00 AM – Breakfast at Cafe Clementine
Start your final breakfast in St. Petersburg at Cafe Clementine. Located in the Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg, it’s a charming spot owned by local bakers that’s known for its freshly made pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and excellent coffee. It’s a cozy and delicious way to begin your morning.
10:00 AM – Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg
After breakfast, spend the morning exploring the Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg. This museum boasts an impressive collection of over 20,000 pieces spanning over 5,000 years, from classical antiquities to modern masterpieces. Plan to spend at least two hours exploring the galleries and enjoying the museum’s beautiful waterfront location.
12:30 PM – Lunch at Perry’s Porch and Explore the St. Pete Pier
After leaving the museum, take a few steps around the corner and head to Perry’s Porch on the St. Pete Pier for lunch. This casual spot offers a menu featuring fresh, locally inspired dishes and drinks right on the water. Afterward, stroll down the pier for the beautiful views and works of public art to help end your last day in the Sunshine City.
2:30 PM – Depart
With bags packed and memories made, it’s time to head home. Downtown St. Petersburg’s variety of food, drinks, and art ensures there’s always more to explore, so you’ll leave already planning your next visit.
For More:
- Visit Florida
- On our site: We’ve got plenty more articles on Florida to help you plan your trip!
– All photos by Marcea Cazel. Cover photo by Marcea Cazel.
