Florida Travel: The St. Petersburg Pier

St Petersburg Pier is situated on the east side of downtown St. Pete's. Either side of the elegant road leading to it, are yachts and sailing boats. On the left side is a small beach and to the right, a short distance away, is a small airport. We decided to park at the end of the road and walk to the pier. Here parking for 2 hours is free. If we had wanted to stay longer, the parking lot charges $3 for all day parking. There is also valet parking for $4, and trams run continuously free of charge. The prices are higher during special events throughout the year.

The ground floor of the pier has lots of unique shops, rest rooms and a food court which are air-conditioned. When you open the doors and walk outside there is a fishing pier, and also a miniature golf. At the front of the building you can purchase food and feed the pelicans.

On the second floor is the Aquarium. The cost for adults is $5, students and seniors $4, and under 6 years old are free. Sundays the cost is just $2.50 for everyone. We took our time looking at all the different kinds of fish. There was also a lot of information displayed around the walls. This is a private not for profit aquarium so it is nice to support it. The opening times are Monday to Thursday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Up to the fifth floor there is a restaurant, with either indoor or outdoor eating. We went to the east side and were able to see Tampa. This was without using the coin operated viewing machines. Around the corner we could see that little airport. We were surprised at how many small craft were flying.

We came back down in the glass elevator at the front of the building which showed the road leading to the pier. This was lovely to see.