It’s always the season of love in St. Petersburg. From fun date ideas St. Pete couples can enjoy year-round to unique things for couples to do on date night, this city makes it easy to plan something special together. Whether you’re keeping it casual or planning something a little more elevated, this is your official St. Pete Date Idea Guide, featuring everything from relaxed daytime adventures to unforgettable evenings out.
Looking for things for couples to do in St. Petersburg, FL?
Whether you’re planning a first date, celebrating an anniversary, or simply looking for new things to do in St. Pete, the city offers plenty of ways to spend quality time together. From adventurous outings and creative experiences to cozy cocktail bars and memorable meals, there is no shortage of fun or romantic date ideas in the Sunshine City. We’ve split this guide into two sections: the first highlights active, unique, and daytime-friendly experiences that are perfect for breaking the ice or kicking off a date day, while the second focuses more on wining and dining: the restaurants, wine bars, and dining destinations that set the stage for a great night out.
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And if you’re visiting from out of town, or want to turn your romantic day or evening into a staycation, don’t forget to check out our list of the best hotels in St. Pete. From luxury waterfront resorts to charming boutique properties, there are plenty of places to extend the romance beyond date night.
This guide is broken up into two sections. First, you’ll find some non-standard options that are more thoughtful than just dinner and drinks. Then, you’ll find dinner and drinks, because hey, the classics are classics for a reason.
15 fun date ideas St. Pete couples need to try
St. Pete is full of more than just great restaurants and bars. It’s also packed with unique experiences and events that make planning a great date easy. From hands-on classes and live music to outdoor adventures and one-of-a-kind local happenings, these date night ideas are perfect for couples who want to do something a little different around the city.
Breakfast at Cafe Clementine
255 Beach Dr NE
Tucked inside the stunning atrium of the Museum of Fine Arts, Café Clementine offers one of the most charming date spots in St. Pete. Known for its beautifully baked pastries, great coffee menu, and breakfast dishes like a classic breakfast sammy and Turkish eggs, it’s an easy spot to linger over good conversation. Afterward, take your drinks to go and enjoy a stroll along the waterfront parks, making for a simple yet memorable date.
Indoor rock climbing at Vertical Ventures St. Pete
116 18th St S
For couples looking to add a little adventure to a date, rock climbing at Vertical Ventures is a fun way to challenge yourselves together. The climbing gym is one of the great indoor activities St. Pete has to offer, catering to all skill levels, whether you’re seasoned climbers or complete beginners. Grab a day pass and tackle the auto-belay walls at your own pace, or sign up for an introductory class to really learn the ropes and enjoy the full climbing experience.
Kayaking tour with ECOmersion (for the outdoorsy couple)
1800 Weedon Dr NE
There’s nothing like connecting with your crush while also connecting with nature, right? ECOmersion offers unforgettable paddling experiences, whether you prefer to rent kayaks and explore on your own or join a guided tour through the stunning Weedon Island Preserve. As you glide through the mangrove tunnels and calm waterways, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, wading birds, and fish. It’s a peaceful yet fun date that feels worlds away from the city.
Boat cruise aboard The Pelican St. Pete
For a scenic and relaxing date, hop aboard a boat tour with The Pelican and explore Tampa Bay from the water. Choose from a variety of excursions, whether you’re interested in discovering the wildlife-rich shores of Egmont Key, cruising beneath the iconic Sunshine Skyway Bridge, or spotting playful dolphins on a sightseeing tour. With fresh sea breezes, scenic backdrops, and plenty of opportunities to relax and chat, it’s an easy way to turn an ordinary date into a one-of-a-kind adventure.
Visit St. Pete’s Sunken Gardens (for the birders and plant enthusiasts)
1825 4th St N
For a date that feels like a tropical escape without leaving St. Pete, spend an afternoon wandering through Sunken Gardens. Nestled in the Historic Old Northeast neighborhood, this lush botanical garden is filled with winding pathways, vibrant blooms, cascading greenery, and tranquil water features. As you explore the four-acre oasis together, keep an eye out for the garden’s famous flock of flamingos and other colorful wildlife. It’s a peaceful, picturesque setting that makes it easy to slow down, enjoy each other’s company, and share a little slice of paradise.
Yoga at The Dalí
1 Dali Blvd
The Dalí Museum is one of the standout St. Pete attractions, drawing visitors from around the world to experience Salvador Dalí’s iconic works. It may be one of the more unusual things to do in St. Petersburg, Florida, but yoga at The Dalí sure makes for a unique date. Held by Lucky Cat Yoga on the third Sunday of each month from 9 to 10 a.m., the class takes place against the museum’s striking architecture and waterfront backdrop. It’s suited for all levels, just be sure to bring your own mat. Admission is $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers, and if you decide to explore the museum afterward, museum tickets are half off when used the same day. After class, head to Café Gala for a coffee or light breakfast before wandering through the galleries together.
Lindy Hops at Green Bench (for couples looking to learn something new together)
1133 Baum Ave N
Looking for a date night that gets you moving? Head to Green Bench Brewing for an evening of swing dancing in the brewery’s spacious beer garden. Held during the cooler months from November through April, this is one of those St. Pete events that brings together good beer, good company, and plenty of fun. Led by local swing dance instructors Dominic Howarth and Kalz Daniel. From 7 to 9:30 p.m., the first hour is dedicated to the lesson, followed by a dance party where you can put your new moves into practice. Best of all, it’s free to attend. Just grab a cold beer from the bar and step onto the dance floor.
Pottery class at The Hive (one of the most unique date night ideas St. Pete couples can do)
2200 22nd Ave S
A pottery class at The Hive Community Clay is one of the most creative and unique date night ideas St. Pete has to offer. Spend a couple of hours getting a little messy together, with one hour of wheel throwing and an hour of handbuilding. Community studio hours are offered Friday through Sunday, and you can easily register online. If your first date goes well, you’ll even have a built-in excuse to come back in a few weeks to glaze your fired pieces—easily turning one date into a second.
Arcade games at Right Around the Corner
2244 Central Ave
While an arcade might seem like one of those things to do in St. Pete with kids, this bar-and-arcade combo offers something for everyone. With more than 20 vintage arcade and console setups, including favorites like Mario, Pac-Man, and pinball, it makes it easy to turn a casual drink into a playful night out. Most of the retro games are free to play, while a few still take quarters (there’s an ATM on-site). The bar is also known for its extensive rotating beer tap list featuring local Tampa Bay favorites and international brews. Grab a beer or a glass of wine, challenge each other to a few games, and let the competition unfold—loser buys the next round.
Friday Night Shuffle at The St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club
559 Mirror Lake Dr N
For a fun double date night, head to the shuffleboard courts on Friday evenings and enjoy a little friendly competition at one of the most quaint and historic spots in the Burg. The St. Pete Shuffleboard Club hosts its weekly Friday Night Shuffle from 7 to 10 p.m., weather permitting. It’s $10 per person, or free for members and their guests. It’s BYOB and food is welcome, so order a pizza, pick up a six-pack from your favorite local brewery, and make a night of it.
Book browsing at Book + Bottle
17 6th St N
For the book lovers, Book + Bottle is a no-brainer date night. This bookstore, wine bar, and café has all the right ingredients for a relaxed and thoughtful evening, with shelves of great reads, a glass of wine in hand, and plenty to talk about. It is the perfect place to browse, linger, and swap favorite recommendations before heading off to dinner.
St. Pete’s Second Saturday Artwalk
2955 Central Ave
Now this one is for the art lovers. St. Pete’s ArtWalk is held on the second Saturday of every month. This citywide event brings together more than 40 galleries and studios showcasing the work of local and regional artists. Wander through the participating spaces as you not only discover great art, but also explore different corners of St. Pete. It’s a fun, walkable way to experience the city’s vibrant arts scene together.
Go to a Rowdies game (A St. Pete date idea for the sports lovers)
230 1st St SE
A Tampa Bay Rowdies game is super underrated, and catching a match at Al Lang Stadium is a great way to enjoy the energy of game day right on the waterfront. With a season that runs from early March through late October, there are plenty of chances to plan a lively night out cheering on the Rowdies together.
Catch a sunset at Pier Teaki
800 2nd Ave NE 5th Floor
Few date night spots in St. Pete can compete with the views from Pier Teaki. Perched atop the St. Pete Pier, this rooftop bar offers sweeping views of Tampa Bay and the downtown skyline, making it an ideal place to catch the sunset together. Order a couple of tropical cocktails, find a seat overlooking the water, and watch as the sky transforms into shades of orange, pink, and purple. It’s a simple yet memorable date that showcases some of the best views in the city.
See a show at Jannus Live
200 1st Ave N
If live music is your love language, a show at Jannus Live is hard to beat. One of the most iconic St. Pete concert venues, Jannus Live hosts an exciting mix of St. Pete concerts featuring everything from local musicians to nationally touring, big-stage artists. With its open-air courtyard and electric energy, it’s the kind of date night where you can grab a drink, sing along, and enjoy an unforgettable night of live music together.
29 romantic things to do in St. Pete: food edition
While there’s plenty of unique dates in St. Pete, sharing a great meal together remains one of the best date night traditions. Whether you’re planning a special occasion, a first date, or simply a night out with your favorite person, these restaurant date ideas in St. Pete offer the perfect setting for good food, conversation, and connection. Spend date night at one of the best restaurants in St. Pete and discover why the city’s dining scene is one of its biggest attractions.
Alésia
7204 Central Ave N
This hidden gem serves some of the tastiest French, Vietnamese & Chinese Cuisine in a really magical venue. The courtyard seating under the trees is proper date-night material. Open for dinner from 5pm-8pm. We recommend the Asian Style Beef Stew and the Lobster Bisque.
Allelo
300 Beach Drive NE #128
A newcomer to Beach Drive, this spot has quickly become one of the best date night restaurants St. Pete has to offer, serving Mediterranean Aegean-inspired small plates alongside an extensive wine selection. We recommend the Rabbit Agnolotti, any of the standout appetizers, and finishing with the Basque burnt cheesecake for dessert. Perfectly located, it also makes for an easy pre- or post-dinner stroll along the waterfront or through Straub Park.
Baba
2701 Central Ave
Located in the Grand Central District, there’s nothing more lovely than the Baba patio on a breezy Florida evening. The whole grilled fish and quail souvlaki are standouts in our book. For something a little outside the norm – Barbouni at Baba, in the same building, is a Greek-inspired ouzeri with oysters, caviar service, and dozens of tinned fish to enjoy from around the world.
Bacchus Wine Bistro
124 2nd Ave NE
Right off Beach Drive, this intimate spot has Old World charm and some of the best charcuterie and wine options we’ve seen in St. Pete. They also have one of the best happy hours in the city. Their French Onion Soup, Steak au Poivre, and Raclette for Two make for a delicious date night.
Beau & Mo’s Italian Steakhouse
2924 5th Ave N
This Chicago-style steakhouse is a St. Pete classic. If tomahawks and lobster tails are your ideal evening out, this is your spot with multiple “dinner for two” options on the menu. Make sure you save room for their tiramisu!
Bin6South (a St. Pete date night spot for the foodies)
330 6th St S
This intimate restaurant was one of the best new additions to the St. Pete restaurant scene in 2023. If you consider yourself a foodie, this is your bucket list date night spot. Their Shrimp Escabeche, Crab Rigatoni, and Venison Saddle are all top tier dishes for us.
Bonu Italiana Taverna
601 Central Ave
This is a staff fave! This South Italian culinary adventure right on Central Ave just expanded and they serve some d*mn good food. The Anguria appetizer with watermelon, goat cheese, and pistachio pesto is fantastic. The Roman-style pizza is some of the best in town.
Brick & Mortar
539 Central Ave
Another St. Pete gem, this “rustic-chic” nook is New American fare that makes for a fabulous evening. From braised short rib with housemade “fat” noodles to bouillabaisse and roasted octopus – their menu is concise, and all hits no skips.
Ceviche
332 Beach Dr NE
If you haven’t been yet, Ceviche relocated to the main stretch of Beach Drive and the space is beautiful. Ceviche has remained a date night in St. Pete staple for sharing an evening of tapas and sangria. Menu faves for us include the drunken goat, Iberian oysters, patatas bravas, and picanha. PSA: most of their menu is gluten-free!
Exquisite Bistro
397 Fifth St S
Wine enthusiasts, this one is for you. Their high-quality wine list has specially curated stars from renowned wine regions. The vibe is minimalist, upscale, and great for conversation. Their menu features signature charcuterie boards, flatbreads, and other bistro bites perfect for sharing on a date night.
The Library
656 Central Ave
With towering bookshelves lining the walls and floor-to-ceiling windows, the atmosphere in The Library is wonderful and warm during the evening. We enjoy their beef cheek pappardelle and salmon with charred scallion gnocchi (plus a side of truffle fries because it’s a must). A sweet finish to the evening is their warm cookies and milk for dessert.
Wild Child (fun date night spot with an eclectic menu)
2710 Central Ave
One of our favorite restaurants that’s opened in the last few years. It has a tropical and bright energy that’s great for an evening out. Their menu rotates throughout the year, but our fave dishes to order are the Tom Yum Mussels, Mushroom and Kale Paella, and the Hanger Steak. The Miso Caramel Apple Hand pies are a flavor dream.
Fortu
97 Central Ave
An elevated Pan-Asian restaurant in downtown St. Pete, Fortu is one of the newest spots, and it’s absolutely lovely inside. Their Miso Black Cod, Pork Collar with 24-hour char siu, and A5 Wagyu make are as beautiful as they are mouthwateringly good.
Il Ritorno
449 Central Ave N #101st
When we asked our readers who most deserves a MICHELIN star in St. Pete, the overwhelming favorite was Il Ritorno by a WIDE margin. If you’re able, we highly recommend Chef Benstock’s Tasting Menu. Other menu highlights include a Foie Gras Lasagna, Burgundy Truffle Risotto, and a Filet Mignon with bone marrow and fondant potato.
Lolita’s Wine Market
16 18th St S
A St. Pete icon for wine lovers, Lolita’s Wine Market is dreamier than ever now that it’s back in its original home in the Grand Central District. With an extensive wine selection and a cozy, romantic atmosphere, it’s an easy choice for date night. Nosh on one of their signature boards while you enjoy the evening with your date. The Fire and Ice Ceviche and the beef short rib are fantastic if you’re looking for something extra.
Mangosteen
656 Central Ave
This Southeast Asian restaurant is located in the heart of the 600 Block of Central Ave. Going to The Floridian for some live music? This is the perfect spot to grab food and drink beforehand. Their menu covers sushi, dumplings, spicy Korean BBQ tacos, lao lemongrass bowls, and Shanghai fried rice. Sip on sake or their mangosteen mocktails.
In Between Days (a St. Pete hidden gem that really sets the mood)
2340 1st Ave S
A historic bungalow converted into Florida’s first Tokyo-style listening room and a sake bar, In Between Days is a hidden gem for phenomenal food. They have a very concise menu but it is flavor-packed. Check out the mushroom gyoza and the chili-flake prawn polenta.
OLIVIA (a go-to date night spot)
211 1st Ave N
With locations now in downtown St. Petersburg and Tampa, we were ecstatic to see one of our go-to Tampa date night spots open up on our side of the bridge. OLIVIA has that holy trinity of stellar fresh housemade pasta, pizza dough, and mozzarella. It’s an Italian trattoria from local legend Chef Chris Ponte. With phenomenal food and a great atmosphere, it’s a solid date night treat.
Rococo Steak
655 2nd Ave S
A classic American steakhouse with fantastic service. Rococo Steak is a downtown gem and a date-night must. The miso bone marrow, lobster bisque, and dry-aged porterhouse steak are all standouts. Their smoked Old Fashioned with bacon maple cube and apple smoke is a delight.
Sauvignon Wine Locker & American Trattoria
241 Central Ave
Tucked above Central Ave on the 200 Block, Sauvignon Wine Locker’s wine menu is one of the largest in the region. We love sitting on their second-floor patio (on weeknights for a quieter ambiance) overlooking Central Ave. All of their housemade pasta dishes are to die for, and ricotta cheesecake is a must for dessert.
Social Roost
2924 5th Ave N
Downtown’s globally inspired scratch kitchen led by Executive Chef Susan Burdian is a glittering spot for a chic date night. The apple-stuffed baklava for dessert is mandatory. The Peruvian chicken and chicken tagine are two of our go-to’s when we dine here.
Sōl St. Pete Bistro
2149 3rd Ave S
Gluten-free fam this one is for you! This 100% gluten-free restaurant is an intimate, family-owned and operated, local farm-to-table bistro with some wonderfully nostalgic dishes. They have a fantastic lasagna, ribeye, multiple cheesecake options, and more – all safe for gluten-free diners and other allergens.
Sonata Restaurant & Lounge
400 1st St S
While you can’t dine *on* the moon yet, you can dine next to it at Sonata inside the Mahaffey Theater. The six-meter-across art installation is a jaw-dropper and the perfect conversation starter. They serve coastal cuisine with Southern hospitality and we enjoyed the Guanciale wrapped Monkfish and Crispy House Smoked Duck when we dined there last.
The Urban Stillhouse Restaurant & Bar (a special anniversary-worthy spot)
2232 5th Ave S
A restaurant by the Horse Soldier bourbon folks and a darn good one at that. The 1.5lb baked lobster stillhouse is a showstopper and the bone-in bison filet is mouthwateringly perfect. For dessert order the Bomboloni (little sugar doughnuts, tequila lemon curd, Nutella sauce). Note: their official dress code is “smart casual” and requests no casual flip flops, beach attire, athletic workout clothes/sweats, and etc.
Castile Restaurant
3701 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach
A rooftop terrace restaurant at the top of the Hotel Zamora, Castile Restaurant is perfect for beach sunsets. Dinner highlights include Chilean Sea Bass and risotto, Crema Catalano, grouper bites, and more.
Snappers Sea Grill
5895 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach
Snappers offers a powerhouse menu with a hidden gem feel. Owned by a local fisherman, the restaurant shines with fresh seafood as the biggest highlight. In addition to seafood, the in-house dry-aged steaks boast serious star power on their own. The delectable house-made desserts are downright unskippable, making every bite a memorable treat. Pair your meal with a pre- or post-dinner walk on the beach and you’ve got best date ever material.
Pia’s Trattoria (one of the most romantic places St. Pete couples need to try)
3054 Beach Blvd S, Gulfport
Get a table on their atmospheric outdoor patio during the cooler months or inside the cozy ambient wine room. Reservations are strongly recommended here. Pia’s is a classic; we celebrate most special occasions here. Also able to get appetizers, a few drinks, great entrees, and dessert aka lots of food for two for about $100 before tip. PSA: Their menu is super friendly toward gluten-free and vegan diets!
Ash (date night beyond the Burg)
420 S Nebraska Ave
If you’re willing to venture beyond the Burg, Ash is one of the best date night ideas Tampa has to offer near St. Pete. Romance and Italian cuisine go hand in hand here, with chic interiors, impeccable small plates, and a menu designed for sharing. Start with the crispy artichokes (get two—trust us), then order the housemade cavatelli with charred broccoli before lingering over a glass of wine. With its stylish atmosphere and thoughtfully crafted menu, it’s the perfect spot to impress on date night.
Did we miss any of the best date spots St. Pete?
Hit us on Facebook or on Instagram to let us know what you think the best St. Pete date night is, or shoot an email to info@ilovetheburg.com. We want to hear your favorites.
