Summer Activities in St. Pete
📍 Vinoy Hotel, St. Pete
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This may not be new information, but Florida can get unbearably hot in the summertime. Even on a seemingly cooler day, we’re still over the 90-degree mark. Luckily, St. Pete benefits from a lovely sea breeze, so at least we have that. When it comes to staying cool during the summer, I think it’s all about location, location, location. Here’s a list of some of my favorite activities for even the hottest day in the Sunshine City.
Go Brewery Hopping
St. Pete is known as a beer lover’s paradise. Within city limits alone, there are at least 15 amazing breweries to choose from, with even more a short drive away. Many of these breweries are within walking distance from one another. Pick a starting destination and Uber from one location to the next. Some of my top favorites are St. Pete Brewing, Bayboro, and Cage, but the list goes on and on. For a complete list, check out this article on the Gulf Coast from Visit St. Pete-Clearwater.
Visit an Art Museum
With so many museums to choose from, you could take a whole weekend to explore and still not visit each one. It also makes the ideal escape from the heat and inevitable inclement weather. One of the most notable museums in the city is the Salvador Dali Museum. Outside his hometown in Spain, this museum hosts the largest collection of Dali pieces in the world. For something a little less surreal, I adore visiting the Museum of Fine Arts right in the heart of Beach Drive.
Get a Birds Eye View at the Pier
One of St. Pete’s newest additions is also the focal point. Just over a year old, the new and improved St. Pete Pier isn’t to be missed. On a hot day, take the tram to the end for rooftop cocktails and bites at Pier Teaki. Here you’ll get a full view of the city’s skyline in front of you and a pristine look at Tampa Bay behind you. Because this rooftop bar is several stories up and almost a mile out, it’s also the breeziest spot in town.
Take a Drive to the Beach
Going to the beach in the summer? Groundbreaking, right? Well, on a hot day, it may be the best reprieve. There are so many beaches to choose from that are a quick drive away, but my favorite is always Pass-a-Grille. To beat the crowds and the hottest time of the day, I recommend getting there in the morning. Make a pit stop at Grove Surf and Coffee for a refreshing cold brew lemonade and pastry. Here you can also stock up on any beach essentials you may have left at home. Don’t forget the sunscreen!
Enjoy a Cocktail at the Vinoy
While there are countless places to visit for a great cocktail in St. Pete, the Vinoy Hotel always tops the list. There’s such great energy at this historic, pink hotel. On any given weekend, there’s a good chance you’ll find me at Paul’s Landing. This poolside spot gives you the feeling of sitting outside without compromising on the blissful air-conditioning. What do I order? The Congelado. Always the Congelado! If you’re visiting from out-of-town, this is also my top hotel recommendation. You’ll be able to take full advantage of the resort pool, and I’ll be just the touch jealous.
Dine Along Central Avenue
While Beach Drive has the glitz and glamour of St. Pete, my favorite restaurants are located in the Central Business District. Whenever David and I want a date night with good food, we always try and grab a spot at Baba on Central. Typically, we are happy to eat at the bar, but last weekend they were packed and couldn’t seat us. I learned my lesson and will be making reservations from here on out. Another great option that is just across the street is Wild Child. At either destination, you can expect an incredible meal and even better cocktails.
Get Tickets to a Baseball Game
If you’re searching for AC and entertainment, then look no further than Tropicana Field. Centrally located in the heart of downtown, it’s kind of hard to miss. St. Pete is so proud to be home to the Tampa Bay Rays. Here the stadium is permanently at a comfortable 72 degrees. Grab even the cheapest of tickets and enjoy an afternoon of America’s favorite pastime.
Kayak Through Weedon Island
For the more outdoorsy inclined, kayaking is the perfect activity for you! Weedon Island Preserve is just north of downtown St. Pete, offering over 3,000 acres to explore. The highlight of the park is a 4-mile loop exclusive for kayaking and paddleboarding. If you don’t own a kayak, have no fear! There’s a spot for you to rent or buy all of your outdoor needs.
Just because it’s too hot to handle doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the day. Enjoy the sunny day in St. Pete, wear your sunscreen, and don’t forget to stay hydrated with lots of water!
Love from Florida,
Katie
As always, thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.
