FLORIDA’S FAMOUS ST. PETE PIER

FLORIDA’s FAMOUS

Aerial view of the St. Petersburg Pier

St. Pete PIER It’s one-stop fun at this Tampa Bay landmark

By Nancy Foster Dating back to 1889, the St. Pete Pier has overlooked Tampa Bay’s beautiful shoreline at the far east end of St. Petersburg. Developed as an environmentally conscious multiplex to encourage public interaction with Tampa Bay’s natural resources, it is an enjoyable and vibrant experience for all ages.

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille overlooks Tampa Bay

The 26-acre, family-friendly Pier complex has been transformed into a trendy waterfront entertainment district. Popular features include a kid’s playground, beach area, history museum, retail outlets, picnic areas, fishing pier and multiple food and beverage outlets.

Among four internationally renowned artists, whose works can be found at select locations around the facility, is Tampa Bay native Janet Echelman, who’s aerial sculpture “Bending Arc” is made with over 1.6 million knots of lightweight fiber that ebb and flow with the changing wind and light. In addition, a full-size sculpture of the Benoist Airboat used

Take an Eco Tour at Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center

Photos courtesy of visitstpeteclearwater.com

“Bending Arc” sculpture Night View of “Bending Arc” sculpture

to transport cargo to Tampa in 1914 pays homage to the country’s first commercial air service site.

An important nod to the area’s vital estuary system, the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center is a “marine environmental and educational experience” meant to teach visitors about the history and recovery of the Tampa Bay ecosystem. Its stylistic gallery features floor-to-ceiling glass walls encompassing interactive displays and touch tanks. The center’s USCG-certified catamaran Eco-Vessel enables visitors to cruise the bay’s waters and learn from an onboard marine biologist about the area’s aquatic life and unique water ecosystem.

The pierhead itself features five dining outlets. Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille serves up fresh seafood with flavors of the Caribbean. The laid-back Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro beckons with jaw-dropping views of the bay, and two cafes offer casual meals or snacks. The perfect nighttime experience is at Teak, the signature restaurant on the fourth floor, known for its nautical-inspired menu and fine dining experience. Stop first at the rooftop Pier Teaki for tantalizing signature cocktails and gorgeous views of the Tampa Bay sunset.

The St. Pete Pier is within walking distance to the city’s arts district, museums, shops and restaurants, making this iconic hotspot the perfect place to roam for hours. Visit the St. Pete Pier at 800 2nd Avenue NE, St. Petersburg. stpetepier.org