Spring fever (and pollen) is in the air, and it's almost time for that most esteemed of traditions, spring break. The kids need to be entertained and so do you, but want to avoid the college student hordes while still having a good time? We've got you covered with this handy list of fun and family-friendly ideas for spring break in St. Petersburg and Clearwater.
Must Read: Spring Break Bars on Clearwater Beach | Nightclubs and More
Get Your Culture On
The Bay area is home to a plethora of world-class museums featuring a huge variety of visual art and interactive exhibits. Aside from being always affordable, museums are a welcome relief from already-hot days and very bright sunshine during spring break.
Check out the stunning Salvador Dali Museum located right on the water in beautiful Downtown St. Petersburg. This unparalleled collection of works by the Spanish master of surrealism features well-known works as well as early pieces, an interactive sculpture garden, and a gift shop that's sure to have something for everyone in the family. After a delightfully air-conditioned stroll through the galleries, stop and enjoy authentic Spanish cuisine at the museum's Cafe Gala.
St. Petersburg's Museum of Fine Arts offers classical art, photography, sculpture, and a cool elegant atmosphere, and currently has several acclaimed exhibits by world famous artisans. The perfect place to inspire artistic endeavors, the MFA also has a tasty cafe located inside the glass conservatory that features indoor and outdoor dining, fresh local ingredients, and a constantly updated menu.
The Store at MFA boasts a huge collection of unique jewelry, apparel, cookbooks, toys, and games for all ages. Great Exploration Children's Museum, also located in St. Petersburg, is one of the top children's museums in the country with educational and interactive exhibits that encourage kids to grow and explore their interests.
Hit the Water
Certain beaches in our area might be overrun with college kids celebrating spring break (and who can blame them?), but your family still has a LOT of beach to enjoy! One of the most pristine and secret gems is the gorgeous Fort De Soto Park.
Related content: 10 Florida Destinations on One Tank of Gas
Located on an island near the tip of Pinellas County in Tierra Verde, Fort De Soto is a National Park and is also on the National Historic Landmark Registry. Camping with beach lots and boat ramps are available along with picnic areas with drop-dead perfect tropical beach views, a doggie beach full of adorable puppers, kayaking, bike trails, and more amenities your family will enjoy. There's also ferry service available to Egmont Key and Shell Key, so enjoy exploring a tropical paradise right in your own backyard!
It's also fun to explore the fancy resorts of south St. Petersburg Beach such as the TradeWinds Island Grand Resort and the historic Don Cesar. Many resorts offer complimentary tours and day tours, and their delicious beach-side restaurants are open to the public.
Related content: The Best Luxury Hotels in Pinellas County for a “Treat Yo’self” Spring Break
Want to get closer to some marine wildlife? The Tropics Boat Tours offers exciting and memorable experiences sailing the beautiful Gulf waters. See dolphins, enjoy the sunset, or just have an awesome day for the whole family on a newly remodeled double-decker catamaran.
Grab Some Grub with a Gorgeous View
St. Petersburg and Clearwater are world-renowned for our gorgeous white sand beaches, but the area is also famous for tons of waterfront restaurants with breathtaking views and tasty Florida cuisine. Take the family to check out Paradise Grille, a chill beachfront joint with live music, a gift shop, an absolutely delectable breakfast menu, and a huge menu of delicious and affordable vittles you'll enjoy this spring break.
Then be sure to check out O'Maddy's Bar and Grille, located on the stunning Gulfport waterfront. Enjoy Irish-inspired takes on traditional beachfront snacks like Mark & Nik's Irish Chips, a mouth-watering lobster BLT, or a classy yet approachable tomato jam and Gorgonzola cheeseburger, perfectly cooked and served with an unbelievable reduced balsamic syrup.
And you won't want to miss Sea Hag's Bar and Grill, featuring an outdoor tiki area, lovely waterfront views, live music, and a well-crafted menu with yummy dishes such as homemade seafood chowder, grouper tacos, ahi tuna, and filet mignon!
Want to try some Tampa fare? Head over to Bodega on Central for the BEST Cuban sandwich in the bay. With freshly baked Cuban bread, maduros (that melt in your mouth) and a cool Hobby Libby to drink it's a must-try foodie destination in Downtown St. Pete!
There's so much to do in the St. Petersburg and Clearwater area during spring break that we couldn't possibly list it all here, so join 727area for free today and stay up-to-date on all of the best things to do, places to see, and fun activities for your family!
Cover photo courtesy of Adobe Stock Images
