Shopping St. Pete: Guide to Big-Box and Local Shops
Award-winning St. Petersburg, Florida, provides ways to enjoy the outdoors and Florida sunshine. Its Gulf location offers easy access to recreation and water fun, but its shopping scene showcases what makes St. Pete so special. Home to local markets, boutiques, large retailers and treasures, St. Petersburg has a good mix. Read about shopping St. Pete and what to expect.
Shopping St. Pete: Top 6 Places Vacationers Can’t Miss
Saturday Morning Market
Shop local in St. Pete at Saturday Morning Market. The popular farmers market operates every Saturday in early October through late May and welcomes all ages. With a focus on local products, visitors find locally grown produce, homemade food, handmade arts and crafts, and live music representing several genres.
Roughly 10,000 people attend Saturday Morning Market to browse over 170 vendors. Those looking for lunch enjoy selections from over 15 different cultures, including Belgian, Greek, Cuban and Thai. Visitors also have access to plenty of seating and tables, so expect to socialize and spend a couple of hours at the market.
Sundial St. Pete
Located in downtown St. Petersburg, Sundial St. Pete features a collection of shops, public art, restaurants and spas. The area welcomes visitors with its working three-story sundial situated in the center of the plaza as well as dolphins created by a local artist.
Shoppers peruse a dozen retailers selling apparel, footwear and jewelry. Take a break from shopping, and select from restaurants that offer diverse menus and atmospheres. Visitors also have access to barbers, salons and a large wellness center. After a day of exploring, catch the latest movie releases at the on-site AMC theater.
Tyrone Square Mall
For big-box retailers, head to Tyrone Square Mall located 4 miles inland. This indoor-outdoor shopping center in St. Petersburg houses over 130 stores, with anchors including Macy’s, Dillard’s, JCPenney and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
The whole family will find exactly what they need. Shop for apparel, books, fashion, gifts and souvenirs. Kids and collectors alike enjoy browsing Comics and Hobbies, Disney Store and GameStop. Or pick from a selection of specialty stores such as Spencer’s, Claire’s and Perfume World. In addition, Tyrome Square Mall has over 15 restaurants ready to serve hungry shoppers.
John’s Pass Boardwalk
John’s Pass Boardwalk ranks as a top attraction and must for those shopping St. Pete. The vibrant boardwalk houses over a dozen shops — each offering their own flair. Find local souvenirs or grab some goodies while walking along the boardwalk. A few retailers include: DD Collectibles, Lori’s Soap and Sponge Market, Overhead Surf Shop, and The Florida Winery.
Those who have more time can book a pirate ship cruise, play arcade games and try a hands-on experience with alligators. Perfect for families, Alligator Attraction lets guests kiss a gator and see other animals, including tortoises, fish, frogs and sting rays. John’s Pass Boardwalk also has several dining options.
Duncan McClellan Gallery
Art lovers can’t miss the chance to visit Duncan McClellan Gallery. Once a fish and tomato packing plant, the gallery now provides a multi-functional space for glass artists. The museum features rotating exhibits by national and international artists, with small and large pieces available for purchase.
To see how it’s done, attend DMG School Project’s live glass blowing demonstrations or book a free tour. Ideal for groups and families, tours run every Saturday morning and last about 45 minutes.
Morean Art Center
Another popular option for art and shopping in St. Pete is Morean Art Center. Free and open to the public, Morean Art Center ranks among the oldest of its kind in Florida, and showcases local and international artists. Exhibits include paintings, drawings, clay and other mediums.
The center also offers classes, and guests can tour Morean Center for Clay. Also free, the clay center is among the largest working pottery studios in the country. To purchase a special piece, stop by the Hot Shop retail store.
Once done shopping St. Pete, book a sightseeing tour to learn about the area and admire its beauty.
Already have a plan? Then book a vacation rental the St. Petersburg area.