T's Favorite Places in St. Petersburg

I have lived in sunny St. Petersburg, Florida since 1997. So much has changed since then, mostly for the better. St. Petersburg is in one of the most densely populated counties in the United States. Our downtown has seen a facelift that has increased tourism, fed the arts, and drawn the locals out to play. If you are ever in St. Petersburg, here are a few places to visit. By the way, these are in no particular order.

1. Skyway Jack's - St. Pete's greasy spoon (and cheap too)

2. Saturday Morning Market - organic fruits and veggies, hand made goods, live music

3. Red Mesa - don't miss the Sunday brunch

4. Sunken Gardens - I love this place so much that I got married there

5. St. Pete Shuffle - the largest collection of shuffleboard courts in the world; a scene from Cocoon was filmed there; live music, great company, and free on Friday nights

6. Schakolad Chocolate Factory - I love the turtles and hot chocolate

7. Hooker Tea Company - I learned how to knit here over a steamy cup of chai

8. The waterfront from Downtown to Coffee Pot Park - hang out long enough along the sea wall and you'll see dolphins and manatees; also a great place for a jog

9. Hook's - the best sushi in town

10. Weedon Island Preserve - a great place for kayaking