Sunken Gardens
Our first destination of the day was to a botanical garden that is midst the center of the city. The Sunken Gardens are 4 acres of some of the oldest tropical plants in the area. The garden began in 1903 by avid gardener George Turner (no relation) who purchased the land below sea level that included a shallow lake. He drained the lake to create the “sunken” garden.
The admission to the garden was $8, but the sweet lady working the tickets gave us a BOGO (buy one get one free) coupon. What a birthday deal! We spent approximately two hours strolling the pathways taking in the sights of flamingos, small waterfalls, flowers, and butterflies.
Bee on Sunflower
This would be an excellent location for a wedding, and on the day of our visit they were setting up a late afternoon ceremony.
The Pier
The Pier at St. Pete is known as a popular tourist attraction that offers a miniature aquarium, fishing restaurants, and retail shopping. Our favorite part of the pier itself is the architecture of the five-story introverted pyramid building.
Walking up to the St. Pete Pier
Also, at the end of the pier we were able to have ideal photo opportunities with the pelicans.
Pelican (oil-free)
The other offerings at the pier left a lot to be desired and seemed rather “ghetto” overall. The pier’s location gives it the potential of being phenomenal; however, they need a rehab that should have already been in the works. The restaurants offered could be compared to a below average food court.
If you are looking for another cheesy tourist shop you have found the right place for buying a cheap t-shirt or a shark tooth necklace.
Hurricane
Our evening wrapped up with a delectable meal at Hurricane Seafood Resturant located in historic Pass-a-Grille. Hurricane offers a casual dining experience (1st floor), fine dining (2nd floor), and a bar location (top floor). They offer a broad array of seafood, which are delicious, but the best component of the restaurant is the view itself. It has breathtaking views of the beach on the second and third floor, especially for the sunset.
Around Hurricane, there are quaint shops that sells specialty items and artwork. It's a good area for a leisurely stroll. Occasionally, they would also have vendors set up at the beach selling original artwork, jewelry, and other unique items.
Our Recommendation
Go to Sunken Gardens, but simply pass by the Pier for a photo op. Sunset at Pass-a-Grille Beach is recommended.
Addresses
Sunken Gardens: 1825 4th Street North, St Petersburg, FL 33704
St. Pete Pier: 800 2nd Avenue Northeast, St Petersburg, FL 33701
Hurricane: 807 Gulf Way, St Pete Beach, FL 33706
Travel Time from Orlando
1.5 - 2 hrs
Exploration Time
Sunken Gardens: Approximately 2 hours
St. Pete Pier: 7.5 minutes (unless you actually stay to look at the shops, and eat)
What's Nearby?
- The Dali Museum
- Grand Central District
- The Holocaust Museum
Additional Info
Sunken Gardens
St. Pete Pier
Hurricane Seafood Restaurant
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