Just because summer is over doesn't mean the opportunity to take a break has vanished. We do live where most of the country vacations. If you're looking for a little 3 day vacation, you're never more than a bike ride from paradise. There's a reason WalletHub ranked the Burg as the 11th best spot to take a Staycation in the country.

Where to stay:

Staybridge Suites, 940 5th Ave S.

*Photo by Staybridge

Staybridge Suites offers the simple relief of being away from home while still offering long-term amenities that provide the comforts of home. Amenities like on site washer and dryers, weight rooms, bbq grills, an in ground pool, offerings of local craft beers and Chihuly-inspired artwork will temper any fits of home-sickness you may experience.

Staybridge is in the heart of downtown and is a stone's throw from The Mahaffey, The Dali and the lauded restaurants on Beach Drive. The hotel is also pet-friendly in case you don't want to leave your pup at home.

Rooms range from $135-$180.

What to do:

On day 1 of your long weekend, we'd suggest amplifying your experience by absorbing the incendiary culture covering the gallery walls at The Dali Museum. Our preview of the museum's latest exhibition "Picasso/Dali, Dali/Picasso" features rare archival documents and works by both artists.

Get a glimpse at the competitive correspondence between Picasso and Dali as they passionately vied for the title of the most influential artist of the era. It was this rivalry that elevated not only the technique of both artists, but the tone and purpose behind each of their works.

Admission to the Dali Museum is $24, after 5pm on Thursdays admission is just $10. Dali Museum, 1 Dali Blvd.

In the mood for the outdoors? Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is St. Pete's patch of Eden that features the fearsome creatures indelibly laced into Florida's environment.

*Photo by St. Pete Parks and Rec.

Admission to the Nature Preserve is just $3. Boyd Hill, 1101 Country Club Way.

If the nomadic endeavors during the subjectively cool day in St. Pete have your legs and feet begging for reprieve, the IMAX theatre at Muvico Sundial 19 is your sanctuary.

The theater has undergone a few updates as of late. Muvico now offers wine and beer options to moviegoers and state-of-the-art seating arrangements for the platinum movie experience. Sit back, sip and enjoy.

IMAX tickets are just $15, regular tickets are $10.50. Muvico Sundial 19, 151 2nd Ave N.

Where to eat:

Breakfast: Trip's Diner – This diner offers the atmosphere of a classic Jersey diner with a more focused emphasis on the food it provides. Their omelets are behemoths, their coffee is on point and for the celiacs of the world, Trip's even offers gluten-free bread.

Trip's Diner, 2339 Dr. MLK Jr St N.

Lunch: BellaBrava – More than just the best deal on Beach Drive, they're a culinary diamond that has continued to push the envelope of the foodie scene in St. Pete. Their asparagus prosciutto flatbread and trattoria burger represent the eclectic influences seasoning each of the restaurant's menu items.

BellaBrava, 204 Beach Dr NE.

Dinner: Casita Taqueria – One of the Burg's most beloved food institutions, Casita has blossomed since its move to Central Avenue. Their Casita bowls are light and pack the punch you'd expect from a product of St. Pete.

The big sell for us are the cinnamon-honey glazed churros. Even if you don't have enough room for the fluffy delights after a few too many fish tacos, you'll make the room after you smell them baking in the kitchen.

Casita Taqueria, 2663 Central Ave. 

However, if you do find yourself craving something sweet but churros aren't quite your style we highly recommend finding your way to the EDGE District, and more specifically Everything Dolce.

The Burg's epicenter of dessert delicacies, Everything Dolce offers the most unique and mouth watering variety of chocolates and cakes. More than that, Everything Dolce makes for the perfect date night. They offer live music in their courtyard equipped with lounge couches, cabanas and fire pits. 

Everything Dolce, 937 Central Ave. 

One day down in the Burg. If you're still restless after all of that activity make use of Staybridge's pool and WiFi access. Although we highly recommend experiencing a sunset on the waterfront at North Shore park. The acrylic hues the sky takes are beyond words.  

Stay tuned for Day 2 of staycation-ing in the Sunshine City.

Are there any activities, sights or spots you think any one taking a staycation should take advantage of? Let us know in a comment!