If you like to get the sense of a city by immersing yourself in art and culture, St. Petersburg is the perfect place to do just that – with a myriad of museums, galleries, and shops to choose from. Whether you’re traveling on foot, by car, or hopping on and off the convenient trolley – we offer an unparalleled cultural cluster of overlapping yet distinct arts districts that comprise the most exciting arts destination in the southeast.
It’s no wonder St. Petersburg was voted the #1 arts destination for a city our size for 3 years in a row. The Arts Shine Here! Experience it for yourself! In addition to the famous Dali Museum and Morean Arts Center, there are plenty of opportunities to see the work of talented local artists who have joined in five distinct arts districts.
Don’t miss the Second Saturday Art Walk. It’s Opening Night each month with new shows and exhibitions premiering throughout the city from 5 to 9 p.m. Socialize with the artists, view their work, watch demonstrations from wheel throwing to glass blowing, and immerse yourself in the St. Pete arts scene! Next three ArtWalks are April 12, May 10, June 14.
Gallery-hop with ease by parking in each area and walking around, taking advantage of the Central Ave trolley (fifty cents), or take the ArtWalk Trolley for free that connects the Warehouse Arts District to the Edge and Grand Central Districts.
Waterfront Arts District
Beach Drive to Fourth St. North and 7th Ave. South to 7th Ave North
Start your arts journey where our beautiful harbor and parks form a breathtaking backdrop for world-class art museums, fine art & craft galleries, and a bustling outdoor dining and shopping scene.
Central Arts District
Central Avenue between 4th and MLK (9th) Streets and 1st Avenues North and South
Head west on Central Ave. to meander through this hip selection of galleries, theaters and performance spaces, creative businesses, dining spots and vibrant music scene…. stay late to experience a lively night life!
Edge District
Central Avenue between MLK (9th) and 16th Streets and 1st Avenues North and South.
Continue west to explore this emerging creative enclave, where new boutiques, galleries, and restaurants are opening every day. The Edge: Entertainment, Dining, Galleries, Etc..
Grand Central District
Central Avenue from 16th to 31st Streets
Further west, don’t miss this Florida Main Street community, a thriving hub of antique and home décor stores, art galleries and an eclectic array of lunch and dinner spots.
The Warehouse Arts District
16th to 31st Streets North between 1st Ave. North and 10th Ave. South.
Get an up-close-and-personal view of artists working when you visit this community, zoned for live/work space, where studios and galleries are alive with the sounds of art-in-the-making.
Things To Know:
Beach Drive and Central Avenue are pedestrian friendly. The Warehouse Arts District is accessible by car; a quick five-minute trip from Central Avenue.
Second Saturday ArtWalk maps are available on line at the districts’ Facebook signs and at the St. Petersburg Arts Alliance. Or you can pick them up at participating galleries and studios, and the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce.
For More Information:
www.facebook.com/theEDGEstpete
www.facebook.com/WarehouseArtsDistrictStPete
Article written for Destination Tampa Bay magazine by Marcia Biggs