St. Petersburg, Florida, is often celebrated for its sun-soaked beaches and vibrant arts scene. But this coastal city holds a wealth of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re considering a move or planning a visit, venture beyond the well-known attractions to uncover St. Petersburg’s hidden gems and its true charms.
- Lisa Wells from Coastal Wandering shares that “the city of St. Petersburg has over 600 street murals, and more are added every year. You can explore many of them on a walking tour or bike ride through the Central Arts District. Every October, the SHINE St. Pete Mural Festival brings artists from all over the world to create new works.” Lisa also recommends not to miss the “Greetings from St. Pete” mural in the downtown waterfront area — ”it’s a great spot for selfies.”
- If you’re looking to score unique, one-of-a-kind thrift finds while giving back, look no further than the CASA Thrift Boutique. Located in downtown St. Pete, the store offers vintage and new items, including art, home goods, apparel, shoes, and more. If the amazing selection of new and used items isn’t enough, every dollar spent at the CASA Thrift Boutique directly supports CASA Pinellas, an organization dedicated to ending domestic violence and providing safety for survivors, their children, and their pets.
- Kate Jacobsen with Remote Lifestyle Guide blog recommends The St. Pete Pier as a St. Petersburg hidden gem. She shares that it is more than just a pier — it’s a hub of activities that showcases the best of downtown St. Petersburg’s waterfront. The St. Pete Pier is a go-to spot for both locals and visitors in St. Petersburg. It’s easy to spend several hours on the pier and not do everything. It’s a great spot for an evening out or spending the day with your family. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely walk along the water, grabbing a bite at one of the many eateries, or exploring the local marketplace, the pier offers an all-encompassing experience that locals and visitors alike can’t get enough of.
- Julie Andrews, co-founder of Beach Boutique Rentals says, “When you dine in St. Pete, you must head straight to Madfish in St. Pete Beach.” From the outside, this St. Petersburg hidden gem looks like a polished retro diner; the restaurant is actually inside a refurbished train dining car. The interior is coastal, nautical, and elegant. The staff is attentive and welcoming, creating a relaxed yet polished dining experience. Madfish is intimate with limited seating, so reservations are a must. If you’re looking for something special, the Chateaubriand for two is a dish worth trying.
- Belle Young with Travel Tech recommends Willy’s Burgers and Booze as a hidden gem in St. Petersburg, FL. Willy’s Burger and Booze is tucked away in a beach shack on Corey Avenue. This laid-back, unassuming spot is renowned among locals for having the most juicy, delectable burgers. Willy’s serves up some of the best burgers in town, crafted with high-quality, fresh ingredients that ensure exceptional flavor. The relaxed atmosphere and standout food make it a must-visit for anyone seeking a delicious meal off the beaten path.
- Colony Grill, a St. Petersburg hotspot on bustling Central Avenue, brings the iconic thin-crust bar pie from the Northeast to Florida’s sunshine coast. Known for its signature hot oil topping—a fiery flavor sensation since 1935—Colony Grill offers a unique pizza experience. Open daily from 11:30 a.m. until late.
- Stephanie Lafleur, CEO and author of the Fleurty Girl Travels blog, shares that a hidden gem in Saint Petersburg is the Dalí Museum. Located along the downtown waterfront in St. Pete, the Dalí offers a unique outdoor space to hang out with friends and a world renowned art collection inside. Locals and visitors alike enjoy spending time on the grounds of this one-of-a kind museum.
Discovering St. Petersburg’s essence
St. Petersburg is a city full of surprises, and its hidden gems are just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, exploring these off-the-beaten-path spots will enrich your experience. So, ditch the crowds and embrace the unexpected.