In a town that offers a never-ending plethora of things to do, from the beaches and local galleries to the hikes at the local nature preserves, to exploring the historic downtown area, Saint Pete is a town I can’t get enough of. Even though I’ve been there at least 5 times since I moved to Cape Coral 2 years ago from the East Coast of South Florida, every time I go back it feels like I’m visiting for the first time all over again. It’s truly a beautiful old town reveling in history and culture. During my travels there, I had the pleasure of beholding the sheer beauty, craftsmanship, and artistry these unique Saint Pete museums had to offer, and hope you feel inspired to check them out too!
1. Florida Botanical Gardens-Heritage Village
I was completely blown away by this botanical garden. Not only does the garden host 100+ acres of succulent gardens, herb gardens, a wedding garden, a vegetable garden display, different fruit fauna abound, a butterfly garden, AND a natural area trail predominantly untouched by man, where you can listen to the natural sounds of gators grunting and the serene serenades of the many bird species you can find inhabiting this oasis. But the property also has a little piece of interactive history called Heritage Village.
Take a walk back in time as you stroll through a town of individual museums, each boasting a backstory from the actual families that once occupied their dwellings. Step into the Walsingham House, whose home was also the local dentist and doctor’s office, and marvel at the vintage medical instruments including one of the first ECG machines and an original 1930s birthing chair. Or take a stroll around the local H.C. Smith Store and grab a $2 glass bottle of coke from their 1923 working refrigerator. There are over 25 structures to explore ranging from cabins from the 1800s, to a 1920s boat shop, each ready and waiting for you to walk the corridors as you get an up-close look into the lives of some of the first settlers in Florida.
You’re going to want to set the whole day aside if you want to see the whole park in a day and be sure to wear comfortable shoes because there is A LOT of walking to be had. I highly suggest bringing an umbrella as there is a good portion in certain areas of the park that are not shaded. Additionally, bring water, sunscreen, and snacks as the park’s eWelcome Center isn’t always open, so the water dispenser and their small selection of snacks may not be accessible. Be advised that overall park hours are 7 a.m. – 5 p.m., however, Heritage Village’s gates are locked at 4 p.m., so plan your visit accordingly. I almost forgot to mention, this place is completely FREE! That’s right, the entire park is free to enter, but all donations are welcome and can be placed in the donations at the Welcome Center entrance.
For more information, visit Heritagevillagefl.org
2. Fairgrounds St. Pete
Just 5 minutes from Downtown St. Pete and Tropicana Field, in the heart of the Warehouse Arts district, along the Pinellas Bike Trail you’ll find Fairgrounds in Saint Pete, a building that looks unassuming on the outside but it has so much happening on the inside.
Fairgrounds St. Pete is not your typical art museum. It’s more of an art playground, a whimsical wonderland where imagination knows no bounds. This innovative space showcases the work of emerging and established artists from around the world, with a focus on immersive and experiential art installations.
One of the defining features of Fairgrounds St. Pete is its commitment to interactivity. Visitors are encouraged to touch, play, and even become a part of the art. The exhibits here are designed to engage all of your senses, making it a truly immersive experience. It’s a place where you’re not just a passive observer but an active participant in the artistic process.
Fairgrounds St. Pete is a testament to the power of creativity, innovation, and community. It’s a place where art comes to life, where you’re not just a spectator but an integral part of the artistic experience. If you find yourself in St. Petersburg, Florida, make sure to carve out some time to explore this captivating and transformative space.
For more information, visit Fairgrounds.art
3. Imagine Museum
The Imagine Museum is an extraordinary tribute to the art of glass. As you step into this breathtaking museum, you’re immediately greeted by a dazzling array of glass sculptures that challenge the boundaries of imagination.
The Imagine Museum showcases an extensive collection of contemporary glass art. From intricate glass sculptures to mind-bending installations, the museum pays homage to the incredible versatility of this medium. You’ll find yourself immersed in a world of color, form, and light.
What sets this museum apart is its interactive exhibits. Visitors have the chance to watch live glassblowing demonstrations, gaining insight into the meticulous craftsmanship behind these works of art.
The museum’s commitment to education is evident through its workshops and tours, making it an ideal destination for both art enthusiasts and novices.
For more information, visit Imaginemuseum.com
4. The Dali Museum
The museum houses the most comprehensive collection of Dali’s work outside of Europe. You’ll encounter iconic pieces like “The Persistence of Memory” and “The Elephants,” along with lesser-known treasures that reveal the depths of Dali’s creativity.
As you approach the Dali Museum, you’ll be captivated by its architectural brilliance. Designed by architect Yann Weymouth, the building itself is a work of art, an homage to the surrealism that defines Dali’s creations. The striking glass bubble known as the “Enigma” stands as a testament to the museum’s dedication to showcasing Dali’s unique vision.
The Dali Museum frequently hosts special exhibitions that offer fresh perspectives on Dali’s art and the broader world of surrealism. These exhibitions provide returning visitors with something new to explore and inspire first-time visitors to delve deeper into the realm of surrealism.
Before or after your artistic journey, be sure to stop by Cafe Gala, named after Dali’s wife and muse, Gala. It offers a delightful selection of Spanish-inspired dishes and beverages, making it the perfect spot to savor the flavors of Dali’s homeland.
Don’t forget to visit the museum store, where you can find a unique collection of art-inspired gifts, books, and memorabilia to commemorate your visit.
For more information, visit thedali.org
5. Museum of Modern Art
As the day winds down, we head to the Museum of Fine Arts, a dynamic space that celebrates modern and contemporary art. From classical and ancient works to modern and contemporary masterpieces, the museum’s collection spans centuries and continents, showcasing the richness of human creativity.
As you approach the Museum of Fine Arts, you’ll be greeted by an architectural gem that blends seamlessly with the city’s charming atmosphere. The museum’s neoclassical façade hints at the treasures of art and culture within. The MFA continuously offers a dynamic rotation of exhibitions, ensuring that every visit brings fresh insights and inspiration. These exhibitions often feature works by renowned artists and introduce visitors to new artistic perspectives.
Be sure to explore the museum’s lush gardens, which provide a serene oasis amid the hustle and bustle of the city. The outdoor sculptures and beautifully landscaped grounds offer a tranquil space for reflection.
A visit to the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg, Florida, is a journey into the rich tapestry of human creativity and expression. Whether you’re an avid art enthusiast or simply seeking a cultural escape, the MFA offers a space to explore, discover, and appreciate the timeless beauty of fine art. When exploring the vibrant arts scene of St. Petersburg, the Museum of Fine Arts should absolutely be on your list.
For more information, visit mfastpete.org
The End of our Tour…
St. Petersburg, Florida, is a treasure trove of artistic experiences, and these museums offer a diverse and enriching exploration of the art world in such a unique way. A day spent exploring these cultural gems will leave you inspired, enlightened, and with a deeper appreciation for the boundless creativity that defines this charming city.
I would love to know your feedback on any of these places, have you visited them recently? Are you going to be in the Saint Petersburg area and are adding these to your hit lists? Is there an awesome spot you can recommend? I’d love to hear your thoughts and comments below!
