As the cost of living goes up, so does my drive to find free ways to entertain my kids. If you find yourself in the same boat, keep reading! Being a local parent and the creator behind Sunshine City with Kids, I’ve had the chance to research for you. Whether you live in St. Pete or are just here for a visit, save this quick go-to list of 10 FREE and FUN things to do with your kids in the St. Pete area.
St. Pete Pier: Spend a day exploring all of the family fun that the St. Pete Pier has to offer! Enjoy free access to playgrounds, a splash pad, and the stunning Spa Beach. Have a picnic by the water and soak in beautiful views in every direction.
John’s Pass Boardwalk: Be a tourist for a day at John’s Pass! This is a great area to find live music, window shop, spot fishermen bringing in their big catch, see dolphins swimming behind tour boats, and view pelicans awaiting a snack from the fish cleaning stations.
Florida Botanical Gardens: This stunning and completely free Botanical Garden is just a quick 25-minute drive from downtown St. Pete! It is home to the whimsical Majeed Discovery Children’s Garden. Bring your kids here to spend the day climbing, building, playing, and exploring nature.
Seaside Seabird Sanctuary: This free Sanctuary located on Madeira Beach offers families the opportunity to experience close encounters with a variety of native sea birds. In addition to unique wildlife interactions, visitors have the opportunity to learn about animal rehabilitation and habitat conservation. All of this is located in a beautiful beachfront setting.
St. Petersburg Library System: The incredible St. Pete Library System offers multiple free programs for children and teens. Check their online calendar to find free classes, events, and story times. These free events are offered almost every day of the week and are a great way to beat the heat without breaking the bank.
Sawgrass Lake Park: Hit the trails and keep your eyes peeled for alligators, birds, turtles, and other wildlife. With miles of shady boardwalks, an observation tower, and an education center, Sawgrass Lake Park is a must-do for any family visiting or living in St. Pete!
Saturday Morning Market: This well-known weekly pop-up market has something for everyone! Pack a lunch and bring the kids out to dance to live music while you shop from local vendors. Don’t forget to bring your kids to see the bubble man (if you know you know). This free market takes place under the shade trees at Williams Park during the summer months and Al Lang Stadium during the remainder of the year.
St. Pete Art Galleries: St. Pete is exploding with free local art experiences that are great for kids and adults alike. Spend the day inspiring your young artists with free gallery tours. Some of our favorites include the Morean Arts Center, Florida CraftArt, Morean Center for Clay, Creative Clay, and the Craftsman House Gallery.
Upham Beach Day: Of course, I couldn’t end this list without recommending a beach day! Though they are all free, I can’t recommend Upham Beach enough. With a cafe, bathrooms, a reusable beach toy basket, and shallow pools created by the rock jetties – it’s the perfect beach spot for families.
Gulfport Waterfront District: A visit to Gulfport is always a good idea. Kids love the shaded beachfront playground, the fishing pier, and playing in the sand at Gulfport Beach. Parents can enjoy window shopping down Beach Blvd and catching live music at Gulfport Brewery. You can easily spend a whole afternoon soaking in the fun of this area.
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