St. Pete Day Trip: The Quick Facts for 2025
Planning your escape to the “Sunshine City”? Get all the essential details for your Tampa to St. Petersburg day trip at a glance. Here’s everything you need to know to start planning.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance from Tampa | ~24 miles |
| Travel Time | 30-45 min (driving) / 50 min (ferry) |
| Best Transportation | Cross-Bay Ferry for a scenic, car-free experience |
| Estimated Cost | $75 – $200 per person |
| Best Time to Go | October – May |
How to Get From Tampa to St. Petersburg
Crossing the bay is part of the adventure! While it’s a short distance, how you get there can transform your day trip. Here are the best ways to travel from Tampa to St. Pete in 2025.
By Cross-Bay Ferry (The Scenic Route)
For a truly memorable experience, nothing beats the Cross-Bay Ferry. This relaxing “water taxi” glides across Tampa Bay, offering stunning skyline views and a stress-free start to your day. You’ll depart from the Tampa Convention Center and arrive in the heart of St. Pete at the Vinoy Park basin, just steps from the pier and museums. The journey takes about 50 minutes, giving you time to grab a drink on board and soak in the Florida sun.
- Cost: Approximately $12-$15 one-way for an adult.
- Schedule: The ferry is seasonal, typically running from October to May. Always check the official website for the latest 2025 schedule and to book tickets in advance, as popular times sell out.
By Car (The Flexible Route)
Driving offers the most flexibility for your schedule. The most direct route is via I-275 West, a roughly 24-mile drive that takes 30-45 minutes without traffic. Be warned: rush hour can easily push this travel time to over an hour. Once you arrive, downtown St. Pete has plenty of parking garages (like the Sundial Garage or SouthCore Garage) and metered street parking. We highly recommend downloading the ParkMobile app to make paying for parking a breeze. Expect to pay around $1-$2 per hour.
By Rideshare (The Easiest Route)
If you want door-to-door service without the hassle of parking, Uber and Lyft are readily available. A one-way trip will typically cost between $35-$50, but be aware that prices can surge during peak times or special events. It’s a great option if you’re splitting the cost with friends.
| Mode | Average Time | Estimated Cost (One-Way) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cross-Bay Ferry | 50 mins | $12 – $15 | Scenic, relaxing, car-free | Seasonal, fixed schedule |
| Driving | 30-45 mins+ | $5 (gas) + parking | Flexible schedule, own car | Traffic, finding parking |
| Rideshare | 30-45 mins+ | $35 – $50 | Door-to-door convenience | Most expensive option |
Top 5 Must-Do Attractions in St. Petersburg
St. Pete is packed with incredible sights, but with only one day, you need to focus on the absolute best. Here are five unmissable attractions that define the city’s vibrant character.
-
Immerse Yourself in Art at The Dalí Museum
Home to the largest collection of Salvador Dalí’s work outside of Europe, this museum is a mind-bending journey into the world of Surrealism. The building itself is a masterpiece of architecture, featuring a massive glass “enigma” that wraps around the structure. Don’t miss the serene Avant-garden on the waterfront grounds.
Details: Located on the downtown waterfront. Adult tickets are ~$32. Pro Tip: Book your tickets online weeks in advance for your 2025 visit! They sell out almost daily, especially for morning time slots.
-
Explore the Magnificent St. Pete Pier
Reimagined and opened in 2020, the St. Pete Pier is so much more than a place to fish. This 26-acre district is a destination in itself. You can cool off at the splash pad, relax on the sand at Spa Beach, try your luck on the fishing deck, or travel all the way to the Pier Head for incredible views, dining, and drinks.
Details: Located on the downtown waterfront. It’s free to enter and walk around. Pro Tip: Your feet will thank you for using the free, open-air trolley that runs the length of the Pier.
-
Wander Through the SHINE Murals in the Central Arts District
St. Petersburg’s streets are a living gallery of vibrant color and creativity. The Central Arts District is the epicenter, covered in world-class murals from the annual SHINE Mural Festival. Every alley and building wall tells a story, making for a fantastic and free afternoon of discovery.
Details: Centered around Central Avenue between 5th and 7th Streets. It’s free to explore. Pro Tip: Visit the SHINE Mural Festival website for an interactive map to guide your self-guided art walk.
-
Discover a Tropical Oasis at Sunken Gardens
Escape into a 100-year-old botanical paradise, a true hidden gem. This historic garden is home to some of the oldest tropical plants in the region, winding paths, cascading waterfalls, and a flock of brilliant flamingos. It’s a peaceful and shady retreat from the city buzz.
Details: Located in the Historic Old Northeast neighborhood. Adult tickets are ~$15. Pro Tip: This is a perfect activity for a hot Florida day, as the dense canopy provides wonderful shade and cooler temperatures.
-
Be Dazzled by the Chihuly Collection
Prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking glass art of Dale Chihuly. Housed in a gallery specifically designed to showcase these vibrant, large-scale sculptures, the collection is an explosion of color and light. The iconic Ruby Red Icicle Chandelier is a must-see.
Details: Located on Central Avenue. Adult tickets are ~$20. Pro Tip: Your ticket also grants you admission to the Morean Glass Studio across the street, where you can watch a live glass-blowing demonstration.
A Perfect One-Day St. Petersburg Itinerary from Tampa
Feeling overwhelmed by the options? Follow this walkable, art-and-scenery-filled itinerary for a flawless day trip that hits all the highlights.
-
9:00 AM: Depart from Tampa
Catch a morning Cross-Bay Ferry from the Tampa Convention Center. Grab a coffee on board and enjoy the beautiful 50-minute ride across the bay as you approach the St. Pete skyline.
-
10:00 AM: The Dalí Museum
Once you dock at Vinoy Park, it’s a short, scenic walk to the Dalí Museum. With pre-booked tickets, you’ll walk right in. Give yourself 2-3 hours to fully explore the galleries and the garden.
-
1:00 PM: Lunch on the Waterfront
You’ll be hungry after all that art! Walk towards the Pier entrance and grab a table at a waterfront restaurant like Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille for great food and even better views.
-
2:30 PM: Explore the St. Pete Pier
Time to experience the main attraction. Stroll the length of the pier, take in the 360-degree views from the Pier Head observation deck, and maybe dip your toes in the water at Spa Beach.
-
4:30 PM: Mural Hunting in the Central Arts District
From the pier, it’s a pleasant walk (or a quick ride on the Downtown Looper Trolley) over to Central Avenue. Spend an hour getting lost in the incredible street art that makes this city famous.
-
6:00 PM: Dinner and Departure
Enjoy an early dinner at a casual spot on Central Ave. We recommend Bodega for their legendary Cuban sandwich. Afterward, head back to the ferry terminal for a relaxing evening ride back to Tampa.
Where to Eat in St. Pete: From Casual Bites to Fine Dining
St. Pete’s food scene is as vibrant as its art. From quick tacos to upscale waterfront dining, there’s something for every palate and budget.
Budget-Friendly ($)
- Bodega on Central: “Famous for its Cuban sandwich and fresh juices. A local institution.”
- Red Mesa Mercado: “Quick, delicious tacos and bowls in a vibrant setting with a popular courtyard.”
Mid-Range ($$)
- Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille: “Great food with unbeatable views, located right on the St. Pete Pier.”
- Cassis: “American brasserie with a French influence and great people-watching on Beach Drive.”
A Special Treat ($$$)
- Teak: “Upscale dining at the very top of the Pier with 360-degree views of the bay and city skyline.”
- Parkshore Grill: “Classic, elegant American cuisine with a prime location across from the waterfront parks.”
Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips for a Perfect Day
A little planning goes a long way. Keep these tips in mind for a smooth and enjoyable 2025 day trip.
- Book Ahead: This is critical! The Dalí Museum and the Cross-Bay Ferry can sell out, especially on weekends and during peak season. Book your tickets online well in advance.
- Use the Trolley: The Downtown Looper is a cheap ($0.50 per ride) and easy way to get around the main downtown loop if your feet get tired.
- Check for Events: Look up the St. Pete city event calendar before you go. A festival like the St. Pete Grand Prix (March) or Mainsail Art Festival (April) could be a fantastic bonus or mean bigger crowds to navigate.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Our itinerary involves a lot of walking to soak in the city’s atmosphere. Comfort is key!
- Stay Hydrated: This is Florida, and the sun is strong year-round. Bring a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day.
What to Pack for St. Pete
Pack light, but pack smart. Here’s a quick checklist of essentials for your day bag.
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- Reusable water bottle
- Portable phone charger or battery pack
- A light jacket or sweater (the ferry can be breezy, even on warm days)
- Camera to capture the art and views!
Estimated Day Trip Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much to budget? Here’s a sample breakdown for two different travel styles.
| Expense Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation | $30 (Ferry RT) | $80 (Rideshare RT) |
| Activities | $15 (Sunken Gardens) | $52 (Dalí + Chihuly) |
| Food & Drink | $30 (Quick lunch/snacks) | $75 (Sit-down lunch & dinner) |
| Total Est. / Person | ~$75 | ~$207 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much is a water taxi from Tampa to St. Petersburg?
The Cross-Bay Ferry, which functions as the primary water taxi between the cities, costs approximately $12-$15 for a one-way adult ticket. Remember that it operates seasonally, typically from October to May. Always check the official website for the current 2025 prices and schedule before your trip.
How do I spend a day in St. Petersburg, Florida?
A perfect day in St. Petersburg combines art, nature, and incredible waterfront views. We recommend starting at The Dalí Museum, exploring the massive St. Pete Pier district, and then admiring the vibrant street art murals in the Central Arts District. Our one-day itinerary in this guide provides a great, walkable plan to follow.
Is it better to stay in Tampa or St. Petersburg?
It depends on the vacation you’re looking for!
- Stay in St. Pete if: You want a more relaxed, artsy vibe with a highly walkable downtown and closer access to world-class Gulf beaches like St. Pete Beach and Pass-a-Grille.
- Stay in Tampa if: You prefer a bigger city feel and are interested in attractions like Busch Gardens, the Florida Aquarium, pro sports games, or need to be close to Tampa International Airport (TPA).
How many days do you need in St. Petersburg, Florida?
While a day trip is perfect for hitting the downtown highlights, St. Pete has enough to keep you busy for much longer.
- 1 Day: Ideal for the downtown core—The Dalí, the St. Pete Pier, and the Central Ave murals.
- 2-3 Days: This allows you to add a beach day at St. Pete Beach or Fort De Soto Park, explore the charming neighborhood of Gulfport, and enjoy the city’s fantastic restaurants and nightlife at a more leisurely pace.
TL;DR: Your Perfect St. Pete Day Trip
In a hurry? Here are the absolute must-knows for your 2025 Tampa to St. Pete day trip:
- Best Way to Go: Take the scenic Cross-Bay Ferry (seasonal, Oct-May).
- Can’t-Miss Sights: The Dalí Museum, the St. Pete Pier, and the SHINE street art murals.
- Top Tip: Book your Dalí and Ferry tickets online in advance—they sell out!
- What to Wear: Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable.
