12 Exciting Things To Do In St Pete With Kids

With an abundance of exciting activities and attractions, St. Pete is a perfect destination for a family vacation. From exploring the city's rich history to enjoying a day at the beach, there are endless opportunities for families to create unforgettable memories together. If you're planning a trip to St. Pete with your little ones, here are twelve exciting things to do that should be on your itinerary. Get ready to sail on pirate ships, meet rescued animals, explore hands-on museums, and so much more!

Visit the Great Explorations Children's Museum

Characteristic	Description
Name	Great Explorations Children's Museum
Type	Children's museum in St. Petersburg, Florida
Website	Go to website
Address	1925 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704
Phone	(727) 821-8992
Hours	Sunday - opens at 12 and closes at 4 PM Monday - opens at 10:30 AM and closes at 4 PM Tuesday - opens at 10:30 AM and closes at 4 PM Wednesday - opens at 10:30 AM and closes at 4 PM Thursday - opens at 10:30 AM and closes at 4 PM Friday - opens at 10:30 AM and closes at 4 PM Saturday - opens at 10:30 AM and closes at 4 PM
Profiles

St. Petersburg, Florida is a great destination for families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy some quality time together. With countless attractions and kid-friendly activities, St. Pete is the perfect place for a family vacation. One of the must-visit attractions in St. Petersburg is the Great Explorations Childrens Museum.

Located in the heart of downtown St. Pete, the Great Explorations Childrens Museum is a hands-on museum where kids can learn through play. With a focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) education, this museum offers a variety of exhibits and activities that promote learning and creativity.

One of the most popular exhibits at the Great Explorations Childrens Museum is the Critter Cave. Here, kids can get up close and personal with a variety of animals, including turtles, snakes, and lizards. They can learn about the animals’ habitats and behaviors, as well as the importance of conservation.

Another favorite exhibit is the Engineering lab, where kids can design and build structures using materials like Legos, magnets, and K’NEX. They can test their creations with wind and water and see how well they hold up. This exhibit encourages kids to use their imaginations and problem-solving skills to create something amazing.

For younger children, there is a dedicated area called the Tot Spot. This area is designed for kids ages 4 and under and features a variety of hands-on activities, including a ball pit, a mini grocery store, and a dress-up area. This area is perfect for little ones who need a break from the bigger exhibits.

In addition to the exhibits, the Great Explorations Childrens Museum also offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year. From summer camps to homeschool classes, there is something for kids of all ages and interests.

Overall, visiting the Great Explorations Childrens Museum is a must-do activity for families visiting St. Pete with kids. With its engaging exhibits and hands-on activities, this museum is sure to provide hours of educational fun for the whole family.

Check out the animals at the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

Characteristic	Description
Name	Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
Type	Nature preserve in St. Petersburg, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 1,667
Address	1101 Country Club Way S, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Phone	(727) 893-7326
Hours	Sunday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 7 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 7 PM Wednesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 7 PM Thursday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 7 PM Friday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 7 PM Saturday - opens at 7 AM and closes at 7 PM
Profiles

St. Petersburg, Florida offers a variety of activities for families with kids. One hidden gem of the city is the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, which is a great place for kids to connect with nature and see some amazing animals.

Located on the shores of Lake Maggiore, the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is a 245-acre park that offers plenty of opportunities for nature exploration. Visitors can walk along the nature trails, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax and take in the beautiful scenery. But the real highlight of the park is the animals.

The Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors can see bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and other birds of prey soaring overhead, while turtles and alligators sunbathe in the park's lakes. For those interested in reptiles, the preserve offers a snake exhibit and a reptile house where kids can learn about and get up close to various species of snakes and lizards.

In addition to the animals, the park also features an interpretive center, where visitors can learn more about the local ecosystem and the preserve's history. There are also regularly scheduled talks and demonstrations by park rangers, who are available to answer any questions visitors may have.

For families with young children, the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve also offers a playground area, making it a great destination for a day trip. Admission prices are very reasonable, and kids under 3 get in for free.

Overall, the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve offers a unique and educational experience for families with kids. It's a great way to engage children in nature, and to help them learn about the wildlife and ecosystem of St. Petersburg. If you're looking for a fun and educational day out with the family, be sure to check out the animals at the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve.

Play at the playgrounds in Vinoy Park

St. Pete is a great place to take your kids for a vacation. With its beautiful beaches, a world-class aquarium, and plenty of parks, you’re sure to have a great time in this charming city on Florida’s Gulf Coast. One of the best things to do with your kids in St. Pete is to explore the playgrounds in Vinoy Park.

Vinoy Park is located in downtown St. Petersburg, right on the waterfront. The park is known for its beautiful views of Tampa Bay, and it’s a great place to spend a day exploring with your kids. There are several playgrounds in the park, each with its own unique features.

The playgrounds in Vinoy Park are designed for children of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. The equipment is safe and well-maintained, and it’s a great place for kids to burn off some energy while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. Here are some of the best playgrounds to check out in Vinoy Park:

• Pirate Playground: This playground is perfect for kids who love adventure and pirates. The equipment is designed to look like a pirate ship, with plenty of ropes, tunnels, and slides to explore. There are also swings and climbing structures, so your kids can stay active and engaged.
• Dolphin Playground: This playground is geared towards younger children, with equipment designed to look like dolphins and other sea creatures. The vibrant colors and fun design are sure to capture your child’s imagination and keep them entertained for hours.
• Rocket Playground: This playground is perfect for kids who love space and science. The equipment is designed to look like rockets and other space vehicles, with plenty of interactive features to explore. Your kids will love pretending to blast off into space, and they’ll learn a few things about science along the way.
• Fitness Playground: This playground is designed for older kids and teenagers, with equipment that allows them to exercise and stay active. There are pull-up bars, push-up bars, and other fitness equipment that will challenge your child’s strength and endurance. It’s a great place to encourage healthy habits and keep your kids fit and active.

Overall, the playgrounds in Vinoy Park are a great place to enjoy some outdoor playtime with your kids. Whether you’re looking for adventure, imagination, or fitness, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful park. So grab your sunscreen, pack some snacks, and head on over to Vinoy Park for a day of fun and adventure with your family!

Ride the St. Petersburg Pier Ferris Wheel

St. Petersburg, Florida is a wonderful destination for families with children. The city is full of exciting activities and attractions that will keep kids entertained for days. One of the must-visit attractions for families with kids in St. Pete is the St. Petersburg Pier Ferris Wheel.

The St. Petersburg Pier Ferris Wheel is a giant observation wheel that offers incredible views of the city and its surroundings. It stands 197 feet high and has 30 climate-controlled gondolas that can hold up to six passengers each. The ride takes approximately 15 minutes, and during that time, the Ferris wheel makes three full revolutions, giving you a chance to see the city from every angle.

The ride is suitable for kids of all ages, but younger kids might need some company from their parents or guardians. The gondolas are equipped with safety bars, and the ride is slow and smooth, so there's no need to worry about sudden movements or jolts. The staff at the attraction is also trained to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers.

Apart from the ride itself, there are plenty of other things to do at the St. Petersburg Pier. The Pier is a bustling waterfront district that offers great dining options, shopping, and entertainment for families. There are also several interactive exhibits and activities to keep kids entertained, such as a splash pad, a mini-golf course, and a fishing deck.

If you're planning a visit to St. Pete with kids, make sure to add the St. Petersburg Pier Ferris Wheel to your itinerary. The ride offers an unforgettable experience, and there's plenty to do in the area to make it a full-day outing. The Pier opens at 11 a.m. daily, and the Ferris wheel operates until 10 p.m. on weekdays and 11 p.m. on weekends. Admission to the Pier is free, but there's a fee for the Ferris wheel ride.

In conclusion, St. Petersburg, Florida is a great destination for families with kids, and the St. Petersburg Pier Ferris Wheel is an attraction that should not be missed. The ride offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings, and there's plenty to do in the area to make it a full-day outing. So, pack your bags, and head to St. Pete for a fun-filled family vacation.

Explore the interactive exhibits at the St. Petersburg Science Center

St. Petersburg, Florida is a vibrant city that offers plenty of activities and attractions for families with kids. However, if you're looking to engage your little ones in educational yet exciting experiences, then the St. Petersburg Science Center is one of the best places to visit.

Located in the heart of the city's waterfront district, the St. Petersburg Science Center is a state-of-the-art facility that features a wide range of interactive exhibits that are designed to inspire curiosity, engage the senses, and spark interest in science and technology.

One of the most popular and engaging exhibits at the center is the "Lightning Experience." Kids and adults alike are fascinated by the power and beauty of lightning, and this exhibit offers a unique opportunity to see it up close. Visitors can watch as bolts of lightning are generated in a huge tesla coil, and they can also learn about the science behind this natural phenomenon.

Another must-see exhibit is the "Virtual Aquarium." Here, guests can step into a virtual underwater world and explore reef ecosystems, watch marine life up close, and even have the chance to touch stingrays and other sea creatures. The exhibit is not only entertaining, but it also teaches kids about the importance of protecting our oceans and marine life.

For younger children, the "Kids' Corner" is a fun and educational area where they can play and learn at the same time. It's filled with interactive exhibits that encourage hands-on exploration and creativity, from building structures with giant foam blocks to experimenting with water and bubbles.

In addition to these exhibits, there are also plenty of other attractions at the St. Petersburg Science Center, including a planetarium, a weather station, and a section dedicated to the history of flight. All of these exhibits are designed to inspire kids to learn more about science and technology in a fun and engaging way.

If you're planning a trip to St. Petersburg with kids, the St. Petersburg Science Center is definitely one destination that should be on your itinerary. It's a great way to spend a day exploring and learning, and it's sure to create lasting memories for the whole family.

Take a boat tour of the Tampa Bay

St. Petersburg, Florida is a great place to visit with kids. The city has a variety of attractions and activities that are perfect for families, one of which is taking a boat tour of the Tampa Bay. Not only does the tour offer breathtaking views of the city from a different angle, but it also provides a unique learning experience for the children.

There are a number of boat tour companies that operate in St. Pete, including The Tropics Boat Tours, Dolphin Landings Charter Boat Center, and Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise. Each of these tours provides a different experience, so it is important to choose the one that best fits your family's interests.

The Tropics Boat Tours, for example, offers a Sunset Celebration Cruise that is perfect for families with older kids. The two-hour cruise takes passengers on a tour of the bay as they watch the sun set over the water. During the cruise, the captain shares interesting facts about the city's history and points out famous landmarks and homes.

Dolphin Landings Charter Boat Center, on the other hand, offers a variety of tours, including a Shell Key Shuttle that takes passengers to a secluded island where they can collect shells, swim, and relax. The company also hosts a Dolphin Watching Tour that takes passengers on a search for wild dolphins in their natural habitat.

Captain Memo's Pirate Cruise is a hit with younger kids who love adventure and cheesy pirate jokes. The two-hour cruise includes pirate games, face painting, and a treasure hunt. The cruise offers a great opportunity for kids to let loose and have a blast on the high seas.

No matter which tour you choose for your family, taking a boat tour of the Tampa Bay is a great way to see St. Pete from a different perspective. Your kids will love the adventure and learning opportunities that come along with the ride, and you'll appreciate the chance to relax and soak up the beautiful scenery.

Walk through the Sunken Gardens

St. Petersburg, Florida is a great place for a family vacation, and with so much to do, it can be hard to decide where to start. One attraction that should not be missed is the Sunken Gardens. This historic botanical garden is a picturesque oasis right in the heart of the city, and is sure to delight visitors of all ages.

The Sunken Gardens are home to over 50,000 tropical plants and flowers, as well as a number of exotic birds and animals. Children will love exploring the lush paths, and discovering the many hidden nooks and crannies. The gardens are also a great place for a family picnic, with plenty of shaded areas to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

One of the highlights of the Sunken Gardens is the tranquil Japanese garden, complete with a koi pond and traditional bonsai trees. This is a great spot to sit and meditate, or just admire the peaceful surroundings. Children can also enjoy playing among the bamboo and exploring the winding paths.

Another must-see attraction at the Sunken Gardens is the Butterfly Garden. This enclosed space is home to a variety of colorful butterflies, and children can watch them flit from flower to flower. There are also educational displays that explain the life cycle of a butterfly, and how to attract them to your own backyard.

In addition to the gardens themselves, there are often special events and programs for children at the Sunken Gardens. These may include guided tours, storytime, or even animal encounters. Check the website for a calendar of events during your visit.

Overall, a walk through the Sunken Gardens is a great way to spend a peaceful afternoon in St. Petersburg with kids. The gardens are beautiful, educational, and offer plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the memories!

Visit the Imagine Museum for glass art

Characteristic	Description
Name	Imagine Museum
Type	Art museum in St. Petersburg, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.9 / 1,530
Address	1901 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33713
Phone	(727) 300-1700
Hours	Sunday - opens at 12 and closes at 5 PM Monday - Closed Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 8 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 8 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM
Profiles

St. Petersburg, Florida is an excellent destination for families traveling with kids. The city recently became a popular tourist location ranking as the best beach city for families in the U.S. The good news is that there is much more to offer apart from fun-filled days in the sun. The city has a few hidden gems, including the Imagine Museum for glass art.

Visiting the Imagine Museum with kids is a fun and educational way to discover the beauty of glass art. The museum showcases contemporary glass artworks, featuring the finest examples of glass art from across the globe. Here, kids will get to see a wide range of works created by well-renowned artists from around the world.

One of the best exhibits to explore when visiting the Imagine Museum with kids is the Journeys in Glass exhibit. In this exhibit, kids will get to follow the evolution of glass tools and techniques throughout history. They will also learn how the art form has developed from ancient times to the contemporary pieces of today. Kids can then create their glass artworks in the Hot Shop, where they will have an opportunity to work with hot glass using different tools.

The Imagine Museum also offers family-friendly events that allow kids to explore the art form further. The museum's events, such as Make and Take Saturdays, Family Day Out, and Glass Studio Workshops, are perfectly designed for kids. Here, children can learn more about the glass art and create their own masterpieces.

In addition to these activities, the Imagine Museum has an excellent gift shop that sells handcrafted glass artworks and souvenirs, perfect for those looking to take a piece of the museum home with them. Kids will love the unique pieces on offer, and parents will appreciate the quality of the artwork on display.

Bottom Line

The Imagine Museum for glass art is an incredible destination for families traveling with kids in St. Petersburg. It is a place where children can get up close and personal with glass art, learn about its history, and even create their glass masterpieces. The museum is a perfect family-friendly destination that provides an accessible and enjoyable education on contemporary glass artwork. It is a must-visit location when in St. Petersburg with kids.

Watch a movie at the Cobb Luxury Theatres

St. Petersburg, Florida is not only a great place for adults to visit, but it also has plenty of activities and attractions for kids as well. One of the best things to do with kids in St. Pete is to watch a movie at the Cobb Luxury Theatres.

The Cobb Luxury Theatres are located in the heart of St. Pete and offer a world-class movie experience that kids are sure to love. The theatres have a variety of amenities, such as comfortable seating, digital sound, and state-of-the-art projection systems that provide the ultimate cinematic experience.

One of the best things about the Cobb Luxury Theatres is that they offer a wide selection of films that are appropriate for kids, including the latest family-friendly Hollywood releases. Whether the kids prefer action-packed superhero movies, animated comedies, or heartwarming dramas, there is always something playing at the Cobb Luxury Theatres to suit their tastes.

In addition to the movies, the theatres also offer a wide range of snacks and drinks, including freshly popped popcorn, candy, soda, and much more. Better yet, visitors can order food and drinks from their seats, so they don't have to miss any part of the movie while getting their snacks.

Moreover, the Cobb Luxury Theatres also have special events for kids every now and then, usually on occasion of a new movie, which can add to the excitement and fun. One such event is a mascot appearance or face painting for the children, and maybe even goodies to go with the movie.

A visit to the Cobb Luxury Theatres is not just about watching a movie, but also exploring the prime locality and its nearby attractions. After finishing the movie, you can go for a walk around the block and explore the city streets to make for a great family outing.

In conclusion, watching a movie at the Cobb Luxury Theatres in St. Petersburg, Florida is an excellent activity to enjoy with kids. The state-of-the-art technology, comfortable seating, snacks, and drinks, and selection of family-friendly movies are sure to provide an experience they won't forget. Therefore, the Cobb Theatres is something every family should look forward to visiting while spending time in St. Pete.

Enjoy the splash pad at North Straub Park

St. Petersburg is a great destination for families with kids of all ages, offering many exciting things to see and do. One of the top activities, especially during the hot summer months, is spending time at the splash pad in North Straub Park.

Located in the heart of downtown, North Straub Park is a beautiful waterfront park with a variety of amenities, including a sandy beach area, playground, and picnic pavilions. However, the highlight for most families is the splash pad, which offers hours of fun and entertainment for kids of all ages.

The splash pad is equipped with various water features, such as sprays, fountains, and water guns, which are activated by stepping on the sensors located around the perimeter. The water is not too deep, so parents can relax and watch their little ones play safely. There are shaded areas nearby for those who want to relax and enjoy the scenery while their children are having a great time.

Another great thing about spending time at the splash pad is that it is free of charge and open to the public. It is also located near many other popular attractions in St. Pete, such as the Dali Museum and the Vinoy Renaissance Resort & Golf Club, so families can easily make a whole day out of their visit.

If you plan on visiting the North Straub Park splash pad, be sure to bring sun protection, towels, and any necessary swim gear. There are also many nearby restaurants and food vendors where you can grab a bite to eat or drink.

In conclusion, the North Straub Park splash pad is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to St. Petersburg with kids. It offers a fun and refreshing way to cool off, while also providing a family-friendly environment that everyone will enjoy. So grab the kids and head to North Straub Park for a day of fun in the sun!

Play mini-golf at Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf

St. Pete is a fantastic destination for families with children of all ages. With its warm weather, sandy beaches, and stunning natural scenery, it’s easy to find a plethora of fun activities to do with the kids. One activity that shouldn’t be missed is mini-golf at Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf.

If you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to spend your time with the kids, you can’t go wrong with mini-golf. Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf is a perfect place to start. They have two locations in St. Pete - one on Madeira Beach and another in Indian Shores. Both locations offer 18 holes of exciting mini-golf, themed around pirate adventures.

The courses are well-designed, and each hole includes interesting challenges and obstacles. Kids can use their imagination as they navigate through caves, waterfalls, tunnels, and even a shipwreck. Along the way, they will encounter friendly pirate characters that add to the overall experience. Parents can join in on the fun, as well, and challenge themselves to a round of mini-golf.

Besides mini-golf, Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf offers other activities that are suitable for both kids and adults. For example, they have a live alligator exhibit, where visitors can get up close and personal with real alligators. Kids will definitely enjoy seeing these magnificent creatures and even learn about them. There are also coin-operated arcade games, where kids can play their favorite games and win prizes.

Overall, mini-golf at Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf is a great way to spend quality time with your family. It offers a fun and challenging experience that everyone can enjoy. The courses are well-designed, and the pirate theme makes it exciting for both kids and adults. If you’re planning a trip to St. Pete with your kids, be sure to add mini-golf at Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf to your itinerary. It’s an activity that you won’t regret.

See the manatees at the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center

Characteristic	Description
Name	Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center
Type	Museum in St. Petersburg, Florida
Website	Go to website
Address	700 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone	(727) 291-4103
Hours	Sunday - 10 AM–6 PM Monday - 10 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–7 PM Saturday - 10 AM–7 PM
Profiles

If you're planning a family trip to St. Pete, Florida, make sure to take time to visit the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center. This educational center is the perfect spot for kids of all ages to experience the natural beauty that Florida has to offer and to learn about the area's wildlife, particularly the iconic manatees.

Located on a scenic shoreline, the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center provides a stunning view of the Tampa Bay area, with a rooftop deck that overlooks the water. The facility features a variety of interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the unique ecosystems of the area, including seagrass beds, oyster reefs, and mangrove swamps.

The center's star attraction, of course, is the manatees. These gentle giants can be found in the Tampa Bay estuary throughout the year, and the Discovery Center is a great place to get a close-up view of them. Kids can learn all about these fascinating animals, including their habits, habitats, and what they eat. They can also get a hands-on experience by touching replicas of the manatees' flippers.

In addition to the manatees, the center is home to a variety of other creatures that inhabit the Tampa Bay area, including horseshoe crabs, sea stars, and snails. The center's staff members are knowledgeable and friendly, and they are always happy to answer questions and provide insights into the local ecology and wildlife.

The Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center offers a variety of educational programs for kids and families, including guided tours, workshops, and nature walks. These activities provide an opportunity for kids to explore the natural world and to learn about the importance of preserving the environment for future generations.

In short, a visit to the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center is a must-do activity for families traveling to St. Pete. It's a great way to spend a day in nature, learn about the area's unique ecosystem, and get up close and personal with the magnificent manatees that call the Tampa Bay estuary home.

Frequently asked questions