St. Petersburg, Florida, is not only famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant arts scene, and lively downtown but also for being a fantastic destination for family-friendly adventures. Whether you’re planning a vacation or just looking for fun things to do with your kids, St. Petersburg has an abundance of activities that will keep children entertained, engaged, and even educated. From hands-on science museums to beautiful parks and beaches, this city offers a wide range of experiences. In this post, we’ll explore some of the best things to do with kids in St. Petersburg, along with tips for making the most of your visit.
1. Great Explorations Children’s Museum
No family trip to St. Petersburg is complete without a visit to the Great Explorations Children’s Museum, a hands-on museum designed to spark creativity and curiosity in children of all ages. This interactive museum features exhibits that encourage kids to learn through play, from building forts to pretending to be veterinarians or firefighters. It’s not only fun but also a great way for kids to develop important skills.
One of the most popular exhibits is “My First Market,” where kids can pretend to shop for groceries or run their own store, complete with shopping carts and cash registers. Another favorite is the Imagination Playground, where they can construct their own buildings and forts. Check their official website for current exhibits and ticket prices. The museum also hosts special events and activities, making each visit a unique experience.
2. Sunken Gardens
For families looking to get outdoors, Sunken Gardens is a botanical paradise that offers both beauty and educational opportunities. This 100-year-old garden is home to over 50,000 tropical plants and flowers, waterfalls, and even flamingos. While the serene environment is perfect for parents, kids will enjoy exploring the winding paths, spotting koi fish in the ponds, and learning about different plant species. The garden also provides special events and educational programs for children, including gardening workshops and wildlife encounters.
It’s a peaceful yet engaging spot that allows kids to appreciate nature and gives them space to roam. For more details about hours and admission, visit the Sunken Gardens website.
3. The St. Pete Pier
The St. Pete Pier is one of the city’s most iconic attractions and an excellent destination for families. Recently revamped, the pier features a mix of shops, restaurants, and green spaces, perfect for a full day of family fun. Kids can enjoy a splash pad to cool off in the Florida heat, an eco-friendly playground called the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center, and wide-open spaces for picnics or kite flying.
One of the highlights for children is the Discovery Center, an educational facility that teaches visitors about Tampa Bay’s unique ecosystem. Here, kids can engage with interactive exhibits, view aquariums filled with local marine life, and even participate in hands-on workshops to learn more about ocean conservation. You can learn more about the pier’s offerings on their official website.
4. Weedon Island Preserve
For families who love nature and adventure, Weedon Island Preserve is a must-visit. This 3,000-acre preserve offers plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty of Florida’s Gulf Coast. The site features several trails, boardwalks, and observation towers where you can spot wildlife like birds, manatees, and dolphins.
If your kids love kayaking or canoeing, the preserve has a paddling trail that winds through mangroves and shallow waters, offering a peaceful and educational experience. The Weedon Island Cultural and Natural History Center is also a great stop, where kids can learn about the indigenous cultures that once inhabited the area through interactive exhibits and displays. Admission to the preserve is free, and you can find more details about activities and trails on the Weedon Island Preserve website.
5. The Florida Holocaust Museum
While this museum may not immediately come to mind as a place for kids, it can be an excellent educational opportunity for older children and teenagers. The Florida Holocaust Museum in downtown St. Petersburg provides insightful exhibits that explore the history of the Holocaust and its impact on the world. The museum also features educational programs that encourage young visitors to reflect on themes of tolerance, justice, and humanity.
Exhibits like the “History, Heritage, and Hope” gallery are designed to help children learn about historical events in an age-appropriate manner, making this a meaningful and educational stop. To plan your visit, check out the museum’s website.
6. Fort De Soto Park
If you’re searching for a day of outdoor adventure with a dose of history, head to Fort De Soto Park, located just a short drive from St. Petersburg. This expansive park offers five interconnected islands where families can swim, bike, hike, and even explore the historic remains of a Spanish-American War-era fort. The park’s beaches are consistently rated among the best in the U.S., making it a perfect spot for kids to build sandcastles, swim, and collect seashells.
For families with pets, Fort De Soto also offers one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Florida. Kids can enjoy watching or playing with dogs on the beach, adding an extra layer of fun to their day. You can learn more about the park’s facilities, including kayaking and fishing opportunities, on the Fort De Soto Park website.
7. The Dalí Museum
While you might not think of a surrealist art museum as a kid-friendly activity, The Dalí Museum in St. Petersburg has a variety of programs that engage younger visitors. The museum’s Junior Docent Art Camp and family-friendly tours allow children to explore the whimsical world of Salvador Dalí’s artwork. The interactive exhibits and outdoor labyrinth give kids a chance to express their creativity while learning about one of the world’s most famous artists.
The museum also offers family-themed events throughout the year, such as Family Saturdays, where children can participate in hands-on art activities inspired by Dalí’s work. Visit their official site for more information on special programs for kids.
8. Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
Located near downtown St. Petersburg, the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is another excellent place for families who love outdoor activities. With over 245 acres of natural habitats, including forests, wetlands, and lakes, it’s a great spot for wildlife viewing, hiking, and environmental education. The preserve has a dedicated Environmental Education Center that offers interactive exhibits for kids and hosts various nature-themed events and workshops throughout the year.
If your kids are interested in animals, they’ll love the Birds of Prey program, which features rehabilitated birds like hawks and owls. For more information, check out their website.
St. Petersburg, Florida, is filled with exciting, family-friendly activities that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you’re visiting museums, spending a day at the beach, or hiking through nature preserves, the city provides endless opportunities for children to learn, play, and explore. Be sure to check the official websites of each attraction for up-to-date information on hours, pricing, and special events to plan your ideal family adventure.
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