Exploring St. Petersburg: Top Outdoor and Indoor Attractions and Their 2025 Costs
- My Wandering Soul
- Nov 19, 2025
- 5 min read
St. Petersburg, Florida, offers a rich mix of outdoor adventures and indoor cultural experiences that make it a top destination for travelers. Whether you want to soak up the sun on pristine beaches, explore nature trails, or dive into art and history, St. Petersburg has something for you. This guide breaks down the best attractions around the area, including current costs for 2025, so you can plan your visit with confidence.
Top Outdoor Attractions in St. Petersburg
Fort De Soto Park
Fort De Soto Park is a must-visit for outdoor lovers. This expansive park features five miles of white sandy beaches, kayaking trails, picnic areas, and a historic fort. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards for about $25 per hour, or simply enjoy the free beach access. Parking costs $6 per vehicle, making it an affordable day trip. This is our personal favorite. There is a concession stand as well as a gift shop. There are picnic tables and shelters as well if you'd like grill out. And always remember to pack out what you packed in.
Sunken Gardens
Sunken Gardens is a 100-year-old botanical garden filled with tropical plants, waterfalls, and flamingos. It’s a peaceful escape right in the city. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children under 12 in 2025. The garden is perfect for a relaxing stroll or photography. It's a beautiful relaxing stroll through some beautiful native plants.
Weedon Island Preserve
For a more natural experience, Weedon Island Preserve offers hiking trails, a boardwalk through mangroves, and canoe rentals. The preserve charges a $5 parking fee, and canoe rentals are around $20 per hour. It’s a great spot to observe local wildlife and enjoy Florida’s unique ecosystems. They have been doing restoration work, so make sure to check their website to see which areas are closed.
Things to Do at St. Pete Beach
Enjoy the Beach: Relax on the sandy shores and soak up the sun.
Water Sports: Try activities like paddle boarding, kayaking, or jet skiing.
Beachfront Cafes: Dine at local cafes offering fresh seafood and tropical drinks.
Shopping: Explore nearby shops for beach gear, souvenirs, and local art.
Sunset Viewing: Catch stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico.
Beach Rentals: Rent chairs and umbrellas for comfort (typically $15 to $25 per day).
Walk the Boardwalk: Stroll along the scenic boardwalk for beautiful views.
Visit Historic Sites: Explore nearby landmarks and historical sites.
Participate in Events: Check for local festivals, live music, and community events.
Fishing: Try your luck at fishing from the shore or nearby piers.
Notes
Prices are approximate and may vary based on the season or specific offerings. It's advisable to check directly with the attractions for the most current pricing and availability. Keep in mind, unless you are guest at a hotel or restaurant, you will have to pay for parking.
Attractions on Treasure Island
Treasure Island Beach
Cost: Free
John's Pass Village & Boardwalk
Cost: Free to explore; activities and dining vary in price
Sunset Beach
Cost: Free
Treasure Island Golf, Tennis & Recreation Center
Cost: Mini-golf - approx. $10; Tennis court rentals - approx. $10/hour
Gators Parasail
Cost: Starting at approximately $60 per person
Island Marine Rentals
Cost: Jet ski rentals - approx. $90/hour; Boat rentals vary
Treasure Island Fun Center
Cost: Arcade games and activities vary in price
Blind Pass Beach
Cost: Free
Fishing Charters
Cost: Typically ranges from $400 to $800 for half-day to full-day charters
Notes
Prices are approximate and may vary based on the season or specific offerings. It's advisable to check directly with the attractions for the most current pricing and availability. Keep in mind, unless you are guest at a hotel or restaurant, you will have to pay for parking.
Attractions on Madeira Beach
Madeira Beach Boardwalk
Cost: Free
Description: A scenic boardwalk perfect for walking, jogging, or enjoying the beach views.
Madeira Beach Recreation Center
Cost: Free
Description: Offers various recreational activities, sports facilities, and playgrounds.
Parasailing
Cost: Approximately $60 - $100 per person
Description: Experience breathtaking views of the coastline while being towed behind a boat.
Dolphin Watching Tours
Cost: Approximately $30 - $60 per person
Description: Guided tours to spot dolphins and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat.
Fishing Charters
Cost: Approximately $400 - $800 for a half-day trip (up to 6 people)
Description: Private charters for deep-sea fishing adventures.
Sunset Cruises
Cost: Approximately $30 - $70 per person
Description: Enjoy a relaxing cruise while watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.
Beach Rentals (Kayaks, Paddleboards, Bikes)
Cost: Approximately $20 - $50 per hour
Description: Rent equipment to explore the beach and surrounding waters.
Notes
Prices are approximate and may vary based on the season or specific offerings. It's advisable to check directly with the attractions for the most current pricing and availability. Keep in mind, unless you are guest at a hotel or restaurant, you will have to pay for parking.
Indoor Attractions to Explore
The Dali Museum
The Dali Museum houses the largest collection of Salvador Dalí’s works outside Europe. The building itself is a piece of art, with stunning architecture and interactive exhibits. Tickets cost $30 for adults and $25 for seniors and students in 2025. The museum offers guided tours for an additional fee.
Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts features a diverse collection from classical to contemporary art. Admission is $20 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. The museum also hosts special exhibitions and workshops, which may have separate fees.
St. Petersburg Museum of History
This museum offers insights into the city’s past, including exhibits on local culture, the waterfront, and famous residents. Entry is $12 for adults and $8 for children. It’s a great spot to learn about the area’s heritage and see unique artifacts.
Mahaffey Theater
For performing arts enthusiasts, the Mahaffey Theater hosts concerts, ballets, and Broadway shows. Ticket prices vary widely depending on the event but generally range from $30 to $100. Check the schedule ahead of time to catch a show during your visit.
And there are many more local attracgtions!!!
Planning Your Visit: Costs and Tips
Transportation: Renting a car is common for exploring St. Petersburg. Daily rental rates start around $40. Alternatively, the city offers a trolley service for $2 per ride.
Food and Dining: Outdoor dining is popular, with many beachside cafes offering meals between $10 and $25. Indoor restaurants range from casual to upscale.
Seasonal Considerations: Prices for accommodations and some activities may rise during peak tourist seasons (spring and winter). Booking in advance can save money.
Combo Tickets: Some museums offer combo tickets or discounts if you visit multiple locations. Check official websites for deals.
Check for Coupon books and Groupon: Be sure to check Groupon for discounts in and around the area! Check hotels and other businesses along the beach for local area discounts and attractions.
What to Pack and Prepare
Comfortable walking shoes for outdoor trails and city exploration.
Sun protection including hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Light clothing for warm weather, plus a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during outdoor activities.
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