St. Petersburg Pier Florida is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the state. The pier features a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, making it a perfect place to spend a day or two.
Whether you’re looking to soak up some sun, take a walk on the Boardwalk, or simply enjoy some of the best views in town, the St. Petersburg Pier is definitely worth a visit.
- Can you drink on St. Pete Pier?
- You’re in luck. You can find plenty of restaurants, pubs and other places to drink in the area. If you’re visiting from out of town, St. Petersburg Pier is also convenient. You can walk to nearby attractions like Vinoy Park, Beach Drive, and Central Ave. You can even enjoy a nice drink while people-watching.
- Does St. Pete have a boardwalk?
- The city is home to a picturesque waterfront, complete with a boardwalk and showers. The perfect place to walk, eat, and swim, the boardwalk offers something for everyone. If you are looking for a fun place to spend your day, visit the new St. Pete Pier. The city’s newest boardwalk is the perfect combination of downtown parks and peaceful waters of Tampa Bay.
For many years, the St. Petersburg Pier Florida has been a topic of conversation.
However, in 2004, the city realized that upkeep was becoming too expensive to maintain and no longer had the funds to construct a replacement structure. In the past, the old, inverted pyramid pier was closed for renovation.
Today, the new pier is an active feature of the city’s waterfront. It is located in the heart of downtown St. Pete, but there are also many things to do on the pier.
In 2009, the St. Petersburg Pier Task Force held a design competition. One firm, Michael Maltzan Architecture, was selected from 29 submissions.
However, not everyone liked the design and started petitions to prevent its implementation. Many residents in the city even planted yard signs to protest the design.
Finally, in August 2013, citizens voted to reject the design and keep the pier as it is.
The pier will also hosts Market Place, featuring more than a dozen local vendors. Similar to the Saturday Morning Market in St. Petersburg, the Pier Marketplace features a sundry shop and Gator Jim’s Tackle.
Some of the businesses are on short-term leases, while others may rotate. There are restaurants on the pier, along with quick-serve kiosks.
It is a 26-acre pier that is part of the largest protected waterfront in the Southeast. In the past, the pier has had several structures built at the same location.
A five-story pyramid-shaped building will be an even bigger attraction than the original.
The new pier will serve as a vital element of the downtown St. Petersburg area, connecting the various parts of the city, from Demen’s Landing to Vinoy Park.
It will also connect the existing commercial and cultural axis and Mirror Lake.
This will link the two areas and make it possible to continue the development along the waterfront. The new pier will also promote growth throughout the entire City.
St. Petersburg Pier is the city’s seventh pier and is one of its main attractions.
The project team prioritized sustainability during construction and developed stormwater pollution prevention plans. The team also developed procedures for erosion control, as well as protected various species of fish and wildlife.
They hope to make the new pier a more attractive option for locals and tourists alike.
The pier also includes parklands along Tampa Bay’s shoreline.
How much does it cost to go to St. Pete Pier?
Getting there and back is a relatively inexpensive option.
While the Pier is free, you can park your car in the Sundial Parking Garage for $2-$2.50 per hour for the first four hours.
The Pier is also dog-friendly and bike-friendly. Hours of operation are 30 minutes before sunset until 11 p.m.
What’s fun about this waterfront area?
There’s a large parking lot, public art, green spaces, and an outdoor waterpark area. There are also lots of activities for children to enjoy, and a splash pad is located just off the pier’s beach.
And if you’re into fishing, you can rent equipment from Gator Jim’s Bait & Tackle.
What’s not free?
Some of the city’s best-known attractions are nearby.
There’s a beautiful, historic building with a pier. And the city’s waterfront is also home to a wide range of art, from photography to modern glass sculpture.
There’s even a nightlife scene here.
The pier’s entrance is home to a playground for children. The Pier’s Spa Beach has been part of the structure since its early days.
While it’s not the largest beach in St. Pete, it does offer a decent swimming area and a kayak launch point.
A fountain, splash pad, shaded seating, and a playground for kids of all ages can be found here.
What happened to St. Pete Pier?
Since the late 20th century, the St. Petersburg Pier has been in the news. After closing for 19 months in 1986, it reopened in 1988.
Despite its long-standing popularity, the pier faced numerous problems and ran a perpetual deficit. A new pier was being planned, replacing an inverted pyramid structure.
However, citizens didn’t seem to like the idea. They started petitions and placed yard signs on front lawns.
Since the last major renovation of the St. Petersburg Pier Florida, thousands of residents and visitors have been looking forward to the rebirth of the waterfront entertainment district.
The Pier is the largest waterfront entertainment district in the Southeastern United States. It has something for everyone, from families to couples to groups of friends.
Visitors will love the rides, games, and shops located on the waterfront. After the renovation, it will also include a rooftop terrace to host summer parties.
The pier is now home to the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center, which connects human activity with marine ecology.
Located midway on the pier, the center has original pilings from the 1926 pier.
You can observe the species that live on these pilings, which feed other marine life.
The entire museum is free to enter and has interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the marine ecosystem.
You’ll want to experience the new Pier Park will include restaurants and shops. St. Petersburg Pier includes a new waterfront playground and you can look forward to a full season of fun, food, and entertainment.
Wrapping Up…
In conclusion, the St. Petersburg Pier Florida is a historic and beloved landmark that has something for everyone. It’s a great place to visit for a fun and affordable day out.
There is plenty to do for everyone, from fishing and swimming to exploring the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center.
Although it has been through some tough times, it is currently undergoing a massive renovation and expansion that promises to bring even more fun and excitement to the area.
Be sure to add it to your list of places to visit on your next trip!
