St. Pete is a beach town, has a happening downtown club scene, and is full of culture- but do you really know about all of the amazing places hidden so close to campus? Here are just a few of my favorites:
Pass- a- Grille Beach: Everyone thinks Florida = beach, BUT not everyone knows the ins and outs of parking and navigating the windy beach town streets like the Eckerd student. Fun fact- if you drive all the way down towards the left most part of the beach, there is a little rock cove with beautiful shells and fish (you might even spot a dolphin or two).
Salvador Dali Museum: This museum is a great way to get a taste of the arts so close to campus. Each year, the museum has a guest artist that is showcased- it is currently Frida Kahlo. The museum offers great discounts for students, and Eckerd has their annual “Day at the Dali” coming up and you can go for free!
Sunken Gardens: take a stroll through one of the oldest museums in St. Petersburg. Filled with exotic and tropical plants from around the world, you will get lost in this botanical beauty. See if you can spot the flamboyance of flamingoes that resides here!
Fort De Soto: This nature park is just beyond the tolls. The interconnected islands are filled with bike paths, hiking trails, beaches, and feel free to bring your kayak. The park immerses you in the true ecosystem of Florida- from the birds in the trees to the gators in the water.
Painting with a Twist: Wine. Painting. Friends. What more cold you ask for? Sign up for a Corks N Canvas night! Go to their website, and pick what canvas YOU want to paint. Drink some wine, gossip with your girlfriends, and take home a piece of art that you created.
Tampa Bay Escape Room: Need a little more thrill in your life? Check out the Escape Room! Gather up your group of friends, get locked in a room and solve the clues to escape in less than 60 minutes. There are three room options- choose wisely.
Lowry Park Zoo: An animal lovers paradise. They have elephants, snakes, sloths, and so much more. The best part- buy a ticket once and get in free for the rest of the year and a portion of the proceeds goes towards animal conservation and upkeep of the zoo!
Empower Adventures: Zip line tours, high ropes course, and a view of Florida’s wild side. Empower Adventures is great for team building, overcoming your fears, or if you’re just seeking a new thrill.