Paint the Town Red: What to See When Visiting Downtown St. Petersburg

Located in the heart of the city, downtown St. Petersburg is home to some of the best shopping, breweries, galleries, and cultural attractions in the U.S. Whether you’re moving to St. Petersburg full-time, planning an extended stay, or are just weighing the pros and cons of moving to St. Petersburg, here are some of the best spots to check out while you’re downtown: 

The Salvador Dalí Museum

The Salvador Dalí Museum is one of downtown St. Pete’s hottest attractions. Dalí is best known for his surrealist “melting clock” painting, “The Presence of Memory,” and the building’s architecture reflects his whimsical work. 

At the museum, you’ll find a gallery with seven of his 18 masterworks, along with additional pieces on display. The gallery also features rotating exhibitions, with a Disney and Dalí collection showcasing an unmatched collaboration between the two. 

With its close proximity to the waterfront, the Dalí Museum is also a great place to spend the afternoon after exploring St. Pete’s Saturday Morning Market or relaxing on the beach. 

The Sunken Gardens

Nestled in the middle of downtown St. Petersburg, the Sunken Gardens feature a lush green oasis with hundreds of unique plant species. If you’re looking to escape the big city without leaving St. Petersburg, you can explore the gardens for only $12 a person. 

In addition to exotic plants and trees, you can also take in some beautiful views of roaring waterfalls—and even catch a glimpse of one of the garden’s flamingos! 

Red Mesa Cantina

Red Mesa Cantina is a non-negotiable stop for any foodie. Red Mesa features both a sit-down restaurant and food stand, both serving some of the best Mexican food St. Pete has to offer. 

The restaurant’s menu includes eclectic twists on classic Mexican dishes, with items such as fried sweet plantains, Mexican pizza, and seafood mofongo. Whether you’re in the mood for fajitas or cocktails or are looking to try something new, Red Mesa Cantina should be your go-to spot.

Morean Arts Center

At the city’s famous Morean Arts Center on Central Avenue, you’ll find one-of-a-kind sculptures by legendary glass artist Dale Chihuly, along with daily glass-blowing demonstrations Wednesday through Saturday. Alongside the permanent Chihuly collection, the museum also features an extensive display of artwork from local, national, and international artists. 

If you’re planning to stay in St. Petersburg for an extended vacation, consider signing up for one of the museum’s art classes and workshops. The Morean Arts Center offers affordable, hands-on experiences, allowing locals and visitors to enjoy a unique experience with a professional artist.

Brick & Mortar

For great eats and a lively atmosphere, be sure to plan a night out at Brick & Mortar on Central Avenue. This great St. Petersburg restaurant not only has a curated menu of tapas dishes, but its wine and beer list is equally impressive. 

Brick & Mortar is a true foodie’s paradise, with a rustic-chic vibe, outdoor seating, and seasonal new American fare. If you’re looking to skip the tapas and go straight to the entree, try the restaurant’s signature dish, carpaccio of beef tenderloin and housemade ravioli. 

Discovering St. Petersburg 

If you’re looking to spend some time in St. Petersburg and explore all the incredible neighborhoods this city has to offer, Landing offers furnished apartments in St. Petersburg with flexible lease terms that will let you spend as long as you want in this sunny city. Browse Landing’s available apartments in St. Petersburg here, or contact us to learn more about how Landing works.