How to Spend 3 Days in St. Pete, Florida (From a Local)
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Planning a trip to Florida’s west coast and looking for how to spend the perfect 3 days in St. Pete, Florida? I’ve got you covered!
I moved to the area back in 2017, and honestly, I’ve loved watching it grow. There’s always something happening here—whether it’s a local market, an art walk, a foodie pop-up, or some cool new mural that just appeared overnight. Between the fun events, local shops, awesome museums, and all the cute coffee spots and restaurants, it feels like I’m constantly discovering something new. The area is booming, and in the best way—I can hardly keep up!
St. Pete is known for its sunshine (it holds a Guinness World Record for the most consecutive days of sunshine—768 days in a row!) and its mix of beachy, artsy, and laid-back city vibes. You’ll find world-class museums, a thriving craft beer scene, and some of the prettiest waterfront parks in the state.
This 3-day St. Pete itinerary is perfect if it’s your first time visiting and you want a little taste of everything that makes this city so special. Let’s dive in!
3-Day St. Pete Itinerary
Day 1 – Arts, Views, + Eats
Morning: Coffee, Brunch, + Museums
Start your first day in St. Pete the right way—with brunch and a killer cup of coffee. Head to The Library for an artsy vibe and an amazing selection of breakfast dishes. It’s the perfect spot to fuel up for a day of exploring!
After brunch, it’s time to dive into some art! If you’re in the mood for something intricate, check out the Imagine Museum for stunning glass pieces. Or, if you’re into vibrant colors and jaw-dropping sculptures, make your way over to the Chihuly Collection—it’s a total feast for the eyes. Both spots will leave you in awe of the delicate beauty of glass art.
Then, head over to The Dalí Museum, where you’ll be surrounded by some of the most mind-bending, surrealist masterpieces ever created. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting the area, and honestly, it’s like walking into a dream.
Afternoon: Murals + Local Brews
Once you’ve soaked up all that culture, take a stroll (or grab a bike) through the Central Arts District. This area is home to over 500 outdoor murals that add some serious color to the streets. There’s so much to see, you could wander around for hours.
And while you’re at it, why not check out some of the local breweries nearby? If you’re getting a little peckish, don’t worry—many of them have small bites to keep you fueled. Grab a local brew and enjoy the laid-back vibe.
Some of my favorite St. Pete breweries are:
- 3 Daughters
- Cage Brewing
- Right Around the Corner
Evening: St. Pete Pier + Dinner
After all that exploring, it’s time to unwind. Head over to Vinoy Park for some peaceful waterfront views—the perfect place to relax and take in the scene. Or, if you’re more of a shopper, cruise down Beach Drive to browse some cute local shops.
For a sunset view, don’t miss the St. Pete Pier. The pier is a great spot to enjoy the ocean breeze and catch the sunset, all while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Wrap up your day with a delicious dinner at Perry’s Porch at the Pier, Allelo, or Juno and the Peacock on Beach Drive. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, classic dishes, or something with a bit of flair, these spots are perfect for a cozy dinner after an action-packed day.
Day 2 – Beach Day, Good Eats, + a Night Out
Morning: Coffee + Breakfast
Start your day at Grove, Surf, and Coffee, a local favorite that’s perfect for a laid-back breakfast. Grab a cup of their heavenly coffee—it’s the kind of place where you can just sit back and enjoy the vibe!
If you’re craving something to eat, they’ve got light bites that pair perfectly with your coffee, I always love their coffee cake. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick grab-and-go or doing a little shopping, this spot is the perfect way to kick off your day.
* They are currently closed due to hurricane damage, unfortunately. Another favorite of mine near the beach is The Blend!
Afternoon: Beach Day
Once you’ve had your coffee and bite, it’s time to head to St. Pete Beach. This beach is famous for its soft sand and crystal-clear waters (keeping it real thought this is weather dependent), making it an absolute must-visit. Before hitting the sand, make a quick stop at Gateway Subs to grab a Cool Ranch Rider, one of the best sandwiches around!
For the perfect spot to settle in, head over to Coconut Charlie’s. It’s my favorite spot on the beach—super laid-back, but fun vibe! You’ll have plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the beautiful weather. And if you want to be extra, check out The Cabana Club for the literal cutest beach setups.
After spending some time on the beach, it’s time to head back to your place to freshen up and take a quick break. Relax for a bit before getting ready for the evening ahead—it’s going to be a fun night!
Evening: Dinner + Bars
For dinner, I’m giving you two spots to choose from! Both spots are great for getting you into the mood to go out!
Wild Child has a funky, eclectic atmosphere. The menu is unique, offering a mix of creative dishes that bring together local ingredients and global flavors. It’s one of those places where you can try something new and exciting, and their cocktails are on another level. Strong, inventive, and perfectly crafted, these drinks are the perfect way to kick off your night out!
On the other hand, if you’re craving some amazing sushi and Asian-inspired dishes, Good Fortune is the place to be. The sushi here is fresh, beautifully presented, and packed with flavor. The atmosphere is great too!
Now that you’ve had a delicious dinner, it’s time to hit up some of the best bars in St. Pete.
If you’re looking for a chill spot to unwind, Good Night John Boy is the place to go. It’s a 70s-themed nightclub that feels like stepping straight into a disco fever dream. Think glittering disco balls, funky patterns, and a dance floor made for dancing to classic throwbacks!
It’s a little walk from the main strip of bars, but if you want to visit one of the best speakeasies in Tampa Bay, Dirty Laundry needs to be on your list! By day, it looks like a cute laundromat serving coffee and pastries, but at night, just pick up the payphone—you’ll get instructions on how to enter. Inside, it’s a Havana-inspired cocktail lounge with neon signs, live music or a DJ, and some killer Cuban-themed drinks.
If you’re in the mood for a high-energy night, head to The Estate. Known for its EDM nights, this place is the go-to spot for dancing and enjoying an electric atmosphere!
Day 3 – Tropical Gardens, Boat Day, + Relax
Morning: Coffee, Breakfast, + Sunken Gardens
Kick off the last of your 3 days in St. Pete with coffee from one of St. Pete’s best spots. If you’re on the go, grab a quick coffee from Daycation, and for a bite to eat, Pete’s Bagels is a STAPLE!
But, if you’ve got a little time to spare, Patrona is the perfect spot to sit back and enjoy your morning cup. This adorable coffee shop sits right on the water and has the most laid-back, Florida-vibes atmosphere you can imagine. And, if you’re lucky, you might even spot some dolphins playing in the water nearby!
Next up—Sunken Gardens! This spot feels like you’ve stepped right into a secret little jungle in the middle of St. Pete. It’s over 100 years old and packed with the prettiest tropical plants, flowers, and even a few flamingos. It’s such a chill place to wander around, take a breather, and snap a few cute pics!
Get a major discount on your tickets from Groupon here!
Afternoon: Lunch + Adventure
For lunch, head over to Fresco’s—it’s right on the water and the views of the bay are so good. It’s one of those spots where you can just chill, soak up the sunshine, and enjoy a laid-back meal. Their seafood is super fresh, and they’ve got great salads and sandwiches, too!
If the weather’s nice (which, let’s be real, it probably is), definitely try to grab a seat on the patio—it’s such a vibe.
Once you’ve refueled, it’s time to hit the water! There are a bunch of fun boat tour options around St. Pete, so it really depends on what you’re in the mood for. If you’re feeling like a little adventure, the Shell Key Clear Kayak Tour is amazing—you’ll paddle in a clear kayak and hopefully get to spot some cool marine life.
Want something a little more chill? The Cruisin’ Tiki Boat Tour is such a good time. Picture this: you’re floating along the coastline on a tiki boat, drink in hand, music playing, breeze in your hair—it’s the definition of laid-back fun.
Evening: Dinner
Alright, dinner time—and again, I’ve got a couple of solid options for you depending on what kind of night you’re going for.
First up: Lolita’s Wine Bar. This spot is Mediterranean-inspired and seriously cute. The food? So good. I’m still dreaming about their Fire and Ice Ceviche. Their charcuterie boards are stacked, and the entrees are super satisfying too.
But the real star? The wine. I’m not even being dramatic when I say the best glass of wine I’ve ever had was from here. If wine is your love language, this place is non-negotiable!
Or if you’re in the mood for something totally different, hit up In Between Days. It’s this tiny, Tokyo-style listening room that feels like a secret little hideaway. Super moody, super chill, and the cocktails are chef’s kiss.
My ride-or-die drink here is the Ube Piña Colada—I’m obsessed. It’s tropical, it’s creamy, and it’s honestly one of the best drinks in town!
And hey, if somehow neither of these are hitting the spot, I’ve got you covered with a full list of awesome St. Pete restaurants!
Where to Stay in St. Pete
Let’s talk where to stay in St. Pete—because where you stay totally sets the vibe for your trip. Here are some of my fave options, no matter your budget or style:
- Budget — The Hollander Hotel: Super cute with a vintage vibe, laid-back atmosphere, on-site brewery, and a short walk to downtown.
- Mid-range — Moxy St. Petersburg Downtown: Playful, modern, and right in the middle of the action with a fun, energetic lobby and rooftop bar.
- Mid-range — AC Hotel St. Petersburg Downtown: Sleek and stylish with a rooftop bar that’s perfect for sunset drinks and excellent location!
- Mid-range — The Birchwood: Cozy boutique feel with gorgeous decor, marina views, and a rooftop bar just steps from downtown.
- Luxury — The Vinoy: Historic charm meets modern luxury—waterfront views, dreamy pool, and total resort vibes.
- Luxury — The Don CeSar: The iconic Pink Palace! Glamorous, beachfront, and totally Instagram-worthy for a bougie getaway. This is my honest number one pick!
If none of these sound good to you, check out all available options in the area for your dates here.
Are you ready for an epic 3 days in St. Pete, Florida?!
Spending 3 days in St. Pete is such a fun way to soak up the sunshine, explore the artsy corners of the city, and fully dive into all the good food and chill vibes this place brings.
From chasing colorful murals and sipping beachy cocktails to kayaking through clear water and wandering cute local shops, this 3-day St. Pete itinerary gives you a little taste of everything that makes this city so special. I hope it helps you plan the perfect trip—let me know what you’re most excited to check out!
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Florida blog posts:
Things to do on Anna Maria Island
Awesome rooftop bars in Clearwater Beach
