St. Pete is home to one of the best arts districts in America, according to USA Today

USA Today has published the list of the 10 Best Arts Districts in America, and St. Pete’s Warehouse Arts District (WADA) placed third overall. An expert panel of judges curated a list of the 20 best arts districts in the nation and then left it up to the public to see which would make it in the top 10. After weeks of voting, we’re so happy to see the St. Pete community rallied so firmly behind our beloved arts hub.

WADA stands out as a vibrant hub for artists and art enthusiasts alike. USA Today highlights WADA’s Duncan McClellan Gallery and ArtsXchange (originally founded by prolific sculptor and artist Mark Aeling) as the district’s anchors, describing them as “a creative ecosystem behind an industrial facade.” The expert panel of judges also applauded The Morean Center for Clay and the super popular Second Saturday Art Walks. “The Pinellas Trail provides a mural-lined artery through this dynamic arts community,” writes USA Today in its listing for WADA.

Building and sustaining a vibrant arts community

“In 2025, WADA not only remains dedicated to delivering culturally distinct and socially impactful programming, but we also stand as passionate advocates for the arts. We actively pursue diverse initiatives aimed at fostering sustainability and support for artists,” writes Markus Gottschlich, Executive Director of the Warehouse Arts District Association.

Residents of St. Petersburg will recognize that beyond its galleries and studios, WADA primarily functions philanthropically, championing artists through its programs and initiatives. “Our mission is to build and sustain a vibrant arts community in St. Petersburg, Florida,” declares WADA’s mission statement. “[One] that supports the success of all artists and the community at large through a variety of tools, including community revitalization, marketing, advocacy, and educational programming.” These initiatives are designed to empower and support both artists and the broader community.

USA Today’s inclusion of the Warehouse Arts District in their list of the top 10 arts districts in the nation testifies to the efficacy and success of WADA’s mission.