Consistently ranked one of the best beach destinations in the U.S. by TripAdvisor and Travel + Leisure, St. Pete features dozens of fun things to do. Among them, families will find entertaining kids options for all ages ranges and interests. Read more about our picks of the top St. Pete kids activities and get ready to play.
Top 9 St. Pete Kids Activities to Try on Vacation
Play at the Beach, Park
As the largest park in the county, Fort De Soto Park features more than 1,100 acres for kids to explore. They will love playing on 3 miles of beaches, climbing playground equipment and picnicking with their family. Those who can spend the day at the park should plan outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, wildlife-watching and soaking up the sun. This popular park welcomes nearly 3 million visitors a year, so plan to have a great time with both locals and visitors.
Go Fishing
Gear up and take the kids to the Skyway Fishing Pier State Park, home to one of the longest fishing piers in the world. This pier once served as a bridge but was replaced by a new one that connects St. Pete to Sarasota. The city took this as an opportunity to create a new fishing spot. Anglers can park on the pier, step out and set up for fishing day or night. Common catches include snook, tarpon, grouper and red snapper. Families also have easy access to bait, snacks, supplies and more.
Keep Them Swimming
Open year-round, the North Shore Aquatic Complex houses a 50-meter pool with diving board, 25-yard training pool, and a play pool with flume slides. For less than $5 per person, families can swim, splash and play all day. The center also has a shaded picnic area perfect for taking a break. Parents can join in the fun or simply admire the view, as North Shore is located on the St. Pete waterfront. For those younger tikes, head to the splash pad or book swim classes.
Celebrate the Arts
Perfect for a rainy-day activity, children have two artsy attractions in St. Pete. The Morean Arts Center has delighted guests for more than 100 years. Visitors will enjoy changing exhibits, classes, and learning about local, regional and international artists. The center offers free family art activities on Saturdays and Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., respectively. Additional class options for kids and teens include metalworking, photography, painting, drawing and mixed media. Don’t forget to ask about the one-on-one glassblowing experiences.
One of the top attractions in the area, The Dali Museum celebrates Salvador Dali and his collected works. Families are welcome to tour more than 20,000-square-feet of exhibit space, featuring both permanent and temporary pieces. Younger kids feel right at home during DillyDally with Dali and StoryTime at The Dali. The free DillyDally events welcome young ones to learn about Dali through games, puzzles and hands-on projects. StoryTime activities are also free and include selections from the Museum Library and Store.
Help Them Explore
Families with children 10 and younger should spend the day at Great Explorations Children’s Museum. One of the top St. Pete kids attractions, visitors will find 24,000-square-feet of exhibits that encourage creativity and imagination. Children can pretend and play at more than 16 exhibits, including a pizza kitchen, critter cave, my checkup, live on the air and more. Great Explorations also hosts summer camps, after school programs, parties and other family-friendly events.
Escape!
Kids 12 and older should join in the Escape St. Pete experience. All minors are welcome with a signed consent form; however the game’s challenges are best suited for those 15 and older. Escape games have become a growing trend in the U.S., as guests have 1 hour to solve mysteries and escape dangers that await them. Two rooms – the science lab and writer’s cabin – push players to solve crimes and mystery. This activity also ranks as a great way to bring the family closer together.
Take a Thrill Ride
Adults and teens alike can’t pass up the opportunity to ride professional go-karts as fast as 50 miles per hour. The Pro Karting Experience track includes multiple layouts and options, and oval races rank as one of the most popular activities. Online reviewers also rave about the helpful staff and fast thrills.
Join the Scallywags
Get ready for adventure and shenanigans with a Captain Memos Pirate Adventure in nearby Clearwater. The captain and his crew offer daytime pirate-themed cruises that dock from the Clearwater Bay Marina. Guests enjoy two hours packed full of treasure hunts, face painting, water gun games, stories and dancing. The ship, Pirate’s Ransom, resembles a real-life pirate ship with clean facilities and safety features.
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