Welcome to the St. Pete Pier
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This blog post is actually several years in the making! A pier is as synonymous with the city of St. Pete as sunshine and pelicans. One has been part of our city’s skyline in some way or another since the very beginning. Growing up, the upside-down pyramid was simply iconic, and still cherished in terms of nostalgia. When it was ultimately closed in 2013, there were so many questions on what would be next for our small city. Today, I’m so happy to give you a first look at those visions realized with the new St. Pete Pier and Pier District, opening today!
Discover
Sitting on 26 acres of Tampa Bay waterfront property, next to buzzing Beach Drive, there is no better real estate in all of the Sunshine City. The main focus of this new space is discovery. From end to end, there is so much to take in and explore for all ages groups. No where is that more true than in the Tampa Bay Watch Discover Center. This space provides visitors an opportunity to learn about the underwater ecosystem right next to us. Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, you’ll walk away with some new knowledge.
Dine
My favorite thing to discover are new restaurants and places to eat. The Pier District has several new options for gourmet delights. Both Spa Beach Bistro and Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille will be amazing choices for laidback fare and in the middle of all the action. For something a bit more upscale, than your appetite will lead you to the Point, the grand gem of the Pier. Here, you will find The Driftwood Cafe, which I’m sure will be my next go-to coffee spot, and Teak for a modern, Florida inspired menu. Me being me, I am most excited about Pier Teaki. Rooftop cocktails are always the best options, but here you’ll find 360 degree views of Tampa Bay and downtown St. Pete. The sunset views will be the best in the city.
Distance
In today’s modern times, the number one question I’m sure will come up is how to properly follow CDC guidelines and stay safe! With so much outdoor space, and room to roam, staying 6 feet apart couldn’t be easier. Once indoors, you will be required to wear a mask, with reminders and hand sanitizing stations strategically placed. Since St. Pete is so focused on keeping its citizens and visitors safe, reservations will also be required for the time being. Once this time is past us, the St. Pete Pier will really be able to shine!
Designate
The St. Pete Pier also has several areas with the future in mind. One thing I love about living here is the planning and optimism we locals tend to have. Even though the Pier is just beginning to open, there are already visions on what it could grow into. The first in that journey is a fantastic marketplace that will allow local artisans and small businesses to really blossom. With so much green space, there’s even talk about holding concerts and festivals. Trust me, we love our music here!
The new St. Pete Pier serves as a waterfront oasis for when you need to slow down and relax. Spend an afternoon on newly refurbished Spa Beach or bring the rod and reel to the shaded Fishing Deck. Enjoy the best that St. Pete has to offer and know that I’ll see you there soon!
Love from Florida,
Katie
Thanks for stopping by! To keep up with all things about the Sunshine State, be sure to visit my exclusive Florida page, here.