After a long and patient wait, St. Petersburg residents can finally enjoy the brand new St. Petersburg Pier and sprawling Pier District that embodies a 26 acre expanse along downtown St. Petersburg’s public waterfront! Starting today, visitors can expect to dine, shop, and fish at the Pier head as they explore all the amenities the new St. Pete Pier District has to offer. The Pier District includes a newly expanded Spa Beach for visitors to relax on, play beach volleyball, or launch a kayak from. The beach borders Spa Beach Park and there is also a playground for families visiting with their kids. The Pier Marketplace has a diverse mix of vendors, and the Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center will teach visitors about Tampa Bay’s ecosystem. There is also an inviting “Tilted Lawn” for visitors to take in breathtaking views of Tampa Bay and the city’s skyline under its umbrellas, and there are some really spectacular art installments, including the Pier’s signature public art piece, Janet Echelman’s aerial net sculpture, Bending Arc, and more. Here’s a photo of the new Pier that was published in today’s Tampa Bay Times’ article covering the Grand Opening:

 

Parking can be found in the “Pelican” parking lot located next to Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, as well as the “Dolphin” parking lot which is north of the marketplace. There is plenty of shade to enjoy – something the old Pier lacked. Solar panels shade much of the Pelican parking lot, as well as the Pier Marketplace. In addition, there are plenty of umbrellas and newly planted trees. Trams come by every ten minutes and make four stops – near each of the parking lots, the Discovery Center, and the Pier head. There will be several options for dining and refreshing libations, as well as the Bioswale, a tree-populated park that is ideal for picnicking. Plenty of seating and shade abounds at the new St. Petersburg Pier 2.0 – don’t miss out! Best of all, there is no charge for admission and most events are free to the public, with some ticketed special events (that are subject to a fee) happening throughout the year.

This week is the St. Pete Pier’s Grand Opening week, and reservations are limited (but free!) to maintain capacity and optimal social distancing. Click here to secure reservations. See you at the Pier!