While it is hard to pull yourself away from the beach and swimming pool at the Eiko’s Beach House in Treasure Island, our guests often ask about short excursions to nearby places of interest. One of the easiest trips is a 10-15 minute drive to Downtown St. Petersburg. This small city is transforming itself from a retirement community to a trendy destination from hipsters to holidaymakers. New shops, restaurants, bars and museums are popping up and the vibe is infectious. Here are some of our favourite things to do in downtown St. Petersburg:
The Dali Museum
Who likes museums? My two boys asked as we took them into the modern purpose built home to a large collection of Salvador Dali’s masterpieces.
This museum was established by Reynolds and Eleanor Morse in 1982 but moved to this awesome location in 2011. There are almost 100 oil paints and another 100 watercolors painted by the famous Dali. It’s home to 7 of his masterpieces. What hooked the boys on art is the painting “The Ghost of Vermeer Which Can Also Be Used As A Table.” Go ahead, don’t hesitate to take the kids and have fun at this viewer friendly museum.
The Sunken Gardens
Moving from the surreal to the natural, another cool spot to visit is Sunken Gardens.
Located at 1825 4th Street North this hidden gem is a must visit. The gardens are over 100 years old and many of the old Florida trees have been there since this attraction opened in the early 1900’s. Along with Florida flora, visitors can interact with parrots, carp, frogs, turtles and flamingos. While Florida is usually warm and humid during the day, these gardens have an overhead canopy of leaves. This keeps things cool and comfortable, even on the warmest summer day. The gardens are a treat for adults and children alike and can’t be missed during your day trip to St. Petersburg.
Tropicana Field
The home of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays is a must to do for all baseball fans. The field is conveniently located in Downtown St. Petersburg and is a 10 minute drive from your Treasure Island Beach house. Parking is easily available and guests find plenty of reason to go to the game even if they aren’t Devil Ray Fans. The New York Yankees and The Boston Red Sox games attract more visitor fans than the home team!
However, baseball isn’t the only reason to attend the game as there are neighbouring sports bars and a choice of restaurant within walking distance to the field.
Finally, don’t be put off by rain or hot and humid Florida days, Tropicana Field has a dome and it’s air conditioned. So enjoy the Devil Rays, and the game, in comfort.
After an arduous day exploring downtown St. Petersburg, enjoy an evening dip in the Gulf of Mexico and then sit by the pool or build an evening fire while savoring the moment at your own private paradise on Treasure Island, Eiko’s Beach house.
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