St. Pete Pier

After eating at Fresco's, I took the tram up the pier and visited the observation deck with their homemade ice cream for dessert. It was sunset and absolutely gorgeous! When the talented DJ started his set, it was impossible to sit still. The sunset was especially gorgeous this night and everyone was soaking it in. Evidently including the MacDill pilots who were adding their contrails to the awesome skyscape!

It's a nice place to take a walk as long as you don't get run over by the serious walkers, runners, bicycles, e-bikes and the trolly. Parking is $2 power hour, not bad but still have to pay. I hope you're not thirsty when you get to the end of the pier because drinks will drain your wallet faster than the candy and pop corn counter at the movies. The views are nice and I liked watching the small planes flying out of the airport just south of the pier.

The St Pete Pier has so much to offer, for crowds of all ages, all throughout the day! First, you can really get your steps in here- the entirety of the Pier has to be at least 1 mile long. But they also have a tram you can take if you don’t or can’t do the walking. There’s a splash park for the kids and a playground, vendor booths with a fun and unique variety of knick knacks, and even an aquatic museum. Of course, there’s eats too for all the goodies. Perry’s Porch is a new edition at the start of the Pier- you need a reservation a few weeks in advance for that one. At the end of the pier Teak and Pier Teaki. Teak is a sit down restaurant on the second floor and Pier Teaki is the rooftop bar- that place is so cool and also serves food but it fills up real fast. It offers a stunning view of the St Pete skyline, especially at night. And in between there’s also a concessions. There’s tons of seating all around, and even a tiny beach right along the water. There is water so you don’t get dehydrated and even free sunscreen. They host many events & festivals in the area too and it’s a great place to hang out.

Amazing views, truly wondrous from the restaurant at the top. The photo I included does not do the experience justice. The food was great there as well. I like the native plants on the walkway. A great, positive atmosphere overall. Highly recommend.

Great spot to walk around and relax. The pier is really clean, modern, and has amazing views of the water and skyline. Plenty of places to sit, take photos, or just chill, and it’s especially nice around sunset. Good food options nearby and a great vibe overall. Definitely worth visiting if you’re in St. Pete.

The St. Pete Pier is far more than just a boardwalk; it is a 26-acre "waterfront district" that has redefined downtown St. Petersburg. Unlike the old "Inverted Pyramid" pier that preceded it, the new Pier (opened in 2020) is a sprawling, modern park designed for both high-energy family fun and quiet relaxation. ​The Vibe & Atmosphere ​The Pier feels like a futuristic urban park floating over the water. It’s clean, airy, and very pedestrian-friendly. The layout is a mile-long stroll from the entrance to the "Pier Point" at the very end. If you aren't up for the walk, there is a free tram that loops constantly, which is a lifesaver in the Florida humidity. ​Top Highlights & Activities ​The Pier Point ​Spa Beach ​Janet Echelman’s "Bending Arc" ​Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center There are good ​Dining Options ​ ​Know Before You Go ​Parking: On-site parking can be pricey ($2.00–$4.00/hour) and fills up fast on weekends. Try the Sundial Garage a few blocks away for a cheaper, easier walk. ​Cost: Entry to the pier itself is free, making it one of the best budget-friendly activities in the Tampa Bay area. ​Pets: It is very dog-friendly, with water stations and bag dispensers located throughout the district. ​Fishing: There is a dedicated fishing deck at the very end of the pier (separate from the dining areas) where you can rent gear and buy bait.

The views are breathtaking—so much open space! I highly recommend trying the Cream Ale paired with the Lobster Empanadas; it's a fantastic combination. Watching the sunset from this height is an unforgettable experience. A must-visit spot!

Lovely walk, shuttle available. It's a long walk so be prepared. It's modern, concrete walkway with snack shops along the way and at the end of the pier. Great ocean views, plus restaurants.