Celebrations

51 Exciting Date Ideas in St. Petersburg in 2024

by: Ashley Reut

Published on Aug 15th 2024

In a city of perpetual summer, there are so many engaging date ideas in St. Petersburg for couples of all ages and stages. Proximity to the beach, world-class dining and the year-round warm temps make this city a great place to live and date.

Do you have questions like, "Is St. Petersburg romantic?" Well, it’s no Florence or Paris, but it’s home to some of the most magical beach sunsets around. If you know the right spots and can get a little creative, you can make romantic moments all over the city.

There’s no shortage of fun, relaxing or downright extravagant ways to enjoy this lively city. Young people are flocking to Clearwater-Tampa-St.Pete, according to Newsweek. The warm weather, relatively affordable cost of living and plenty of spots to enjoy fitness or nightlife make it pretty tempting. Read on to discover the most unique, romantic and cheap date ideas in St. Petersburg for your upcoming date.

Romantic Date Ideas in St. Petersburg

1. Take a Cooking Class

Cooking classes in St. Petersburg — *Take a cooking class with your partner (via Classpop!)*

There’s something about a homecooked meal that is extra delicious and romantic. Plus, learning new skills together is a great way to grow your bond and strengthen your relationship. You can accomplish both when you sign up for cooking classes in Tampa.

Learn to create meals straight from the romance capital of the world, Paris. Or take part in lessons on how to hand-roll sushi or get spicy with Korean street food favorites. Cooking classes are a fun and interactive way to spend an evening together. They make a fun double date idea or birthday celebration with your lover.

2. Explore the Arts

Get hands-on with a new art practice for a creative date idea in St. Petersburg. A paint and sip class in Tampa is the perfect weekend activity, especially if the weather isn’t ideal. Beverages are provided, as well as all the painting supplies and inspiration you could need. You can also create an at-home, DIY version or venture out to the beach and challenge each other to the best self-portrait or colorful sunset masterpiece.

3. Unwind at the Spa

*Relax and find your zen at a spa (via Spa at JW)*

There are plenty of gorgeous, high-end hotels and spas to enjoy for a romantic date idea in St. Petersburg. Plan a special day of couples massages, facials and aromatic steam rooms to enjoy with your better half. Perfect for an anniversary date idea, your worries will melt away at a beautiful zen-like establishment like the Spa at JW, The Woodhouse Spa, or Paradise Spa.

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4. See the City From Above

A helicopter tour of the city has to be one of the most romantic and over-the-top date ideas in St. Petersburg. Wondering, "Where can I propose in St.Pete?" Follow your sunset tour of the city with a special dinner on the beach or at a high-end restaurant and you’re almost guaranteed to get a “yes.”

Choose what you want to explore from above on your tour from Treasure Island and John’s Pass to Fort DeSoto, the Skyway Bridge and the many St. Pete beaches.

5. Book a Staycation

The Saint Hotel in St. Pete — *Be a tourist in your own home with a staycation (via The Saint Hotel)*

You don’t need to fly on a plane for an amazing vacation when you have some of the best resorts in the world in your backyard. Book a staycation at the glamorous Don Cesar Hotel, golf-forward The Vinoy Resort, vibey and youthful Moxy in Downtown or trendy and blissful The Saint Hotel.

Beachfront pools, world-class dining and plenty of options for shopping or relaxing, this is one of the most luxurious romantic date ideas in St. Petersburg to help you celebrate a special occasion.

6. Grab a Drink at the Floridian Social Club

If you wondered does St. Petersburg have a nightlife? You can find your answer at the Floridian Social. This high-class establishment has everything from live music and cabaret to craft cocktails in a top-to-bottom glam building. This is a great spot for a romantic date idea in St. Petersburg for a nightcap with someone special.

7. Stroll Around the St. Pete Orchid Farm

What’s better than a bouquet of flowers? A whole garden full of them! This is one of the most romantic date ideas in St. Petersburg. The St. Pete Orchid Farm is a gardener’s sanctuary, bursting with blooms in all stages and colors.

They specialize in orchids and other exotic plants and require an appointment, unless you want to shop during their open house, the second Saturday of every month. Pick out a special plant to bring home and nourish, like a love fern, that is a truly romantic gift.

8. Pack a Picnic for Honeymoon Island

Honeymoon Island in St. Petersburg — *Take your pick of a picnic spot on Honeymoon Island (via Florida State Parks)*

You don’t actually have to be on your honeymoon to enjoy one of the top romantic date ideas in St. Petersburg. Pack a cooler with your favorite snacks and a blanket to lay in the sand of the pristine Honeymoon Beach while you watch the sun set with someone special.

9. Go All Out at Bern’s

After a high-end dinner at Bern’s Steakhouse, save room for the Harry Waugh Dessert Room. You don’t have to start with steak because there’s plenty to fill you up with over 50 desserts and 1,000 dessert wines and spirits. This is one of the sweetest romantic date ideas in St. Petersburg and is the definition of decadence.

10. Dinner and a Show at Early Bird

The most classic, old-fashioned date was dinner and a play, and that’s still on the menu at Early Bird Dinner Theater. Be on time to one of the most entertaining date ideas in St. Petersburg where they serve you dinner while you watch a play. Check their schedule ahead of time to see what shows are upcoming.

Date Ideas in St. Petersburg for Couples

11. Set Sail for Shells

*Speed down to the beautiful Shell Key Preserve (via Visit St Pete-Clearwater)*

A three-hour shelling cruise over to Shell Key Preserve is one of the quintessential Florida date ideas out there. Set sail on a guided tour over to Shell Key Preserve and enjoy some free time roaming the island looking for shells.

This archipelago is a hotspot for exotic birds, beautiful sea shells and even world-class snorkeling. You can easily spend the day here enjoying one of the most relaxing date ideas in St. Petersburg for couples. As a bonus, if you find a lot of picture-perfect shells worth keeping, you can turn them into various art projects that double as home décor and Florida gifts for loved ones.

12. Shop at Mazzaro’s

Florida has a massive population of Italian families and restaurants adding to the richness and diversity. Located in the heart of the city, Mazzaro’s Market is a unique way to spend the afternoon, surely one of the most relaxed date ideas in St. Petersburg for couples. Take home specialty ingredients or homemade sauces and snack on the many Italian treats you come across while strolling through the aisles.

13. Head to the Ball Park

St. Pete is home to two minor league baseball teams — the Dunedin Blue Jays and the Clearwater Threshers — and the pro team the Tampa Bay Rays is not far away. Head over to the BayCare Ballpark for a spring training or real season game.

This exciting date idea for couples in St. Petersburg where you can enjoy ballpark foods and a classic American pastime. Tropicana Field is where the Rays play if you prefer MLB.

14. Window Shop at the EDGE

This trendy new district has entertainment, dining, galleries and more. The name says it all! Brand new shopping, restaurants, breweries — all in one location make — this a convenient stop for date night, even wihtout a real plan. Stroll around and window shop before popping into whatever restaurant catches your eye with one of the easiest and most enjoyable date ideas in St. Petersburg.

15. Learn to Dance

Dancing as fun Date Ideas in St. Petersburg — *Take your date to a funky dance class (via Canva)*

Explore dance classes in Tampa or local salsa bars for a fun-filled evening with your date. No rhythm is necessary, just a bit of bravery. This date idea in St. Petersburg can be fun with another couple, or two, after a nice dinner with a drink, or three.

16. Explore Ancient Ruins

The closest thing to human-made ancient relics in the area has to be Historic Fort DeSoto. Named the top beach, it offers a lot more than just an upclose look at Florida’s diverse ecology. You can easily spend the day or the weekend exploring the tiny group of islands and miles of trails and shoreline.

The old fort was a part of the military coast defense system during the Spanish-American War in 1898. The area is rich with history and plenty of educational resources and placards for the history buff.

17. Get to Know the Gators

Spend the day getting to know the Florida gators (not the football team, hence the lower case) at The Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center. The center is a rescue and rehabilitation spot for surrendered exotic pets and animals like alligators, pythons and all sorts of lizards.

Part of their mission is to educate the public about these reptiles and amphibians, many of which are indigenous to Florida. They also have lots of cool marine animals like sting rays and colorful fish for you to learn about and engage with. This will definitely be one of the most memorable date ideas for couples in St. Petersburg.

18. Visit a Brewery

*Visit one of your local breweries (via Green Bench Brewing)*

You can take your pick from several top-notch local breweries in the Clearwater area. This easy date idea for couples in St. Petersburg provides fresh air, entertainment and, of course, some tasty refreshments all in one spot. Check out 3 Daughters, Pinellas Ale Works and Green Bench next time you’re craving a cold one with your better half.

19. Bring Your Furry Friend to The Dog Bar

If you have a four-legged companion that needs exercise but your girlfriend also needs some attention, kill two birds with one stone at The Dog Bar. Part dog park, part bar, this place has something for everyone (and every fluffball). There are indoor and outdoor areas, including a doggy splash zone nestled up next to a sports bar and plenty of food trucks. This is one of those date ideas in St. Petersburg that sounds like the perfect way to spend a weekday evening.

20. Enjoy the Farmer’s Market

The Saturday Morning Market is an experience in and of itself, and is the perfect way to kick off a weekend together. The time changes based on the season, but they are known for an incredible selection of ultra-local offerings from farm-fresh produce to artisanal goods and plenty of arts and crafts. A colorful bouquet is all it takes to make your partner smile.

21. Get Salty at the Saint Pete Salt Room

Experience the healing properties of salt at the Saint Pete Salt Room, one of the loveliest date ideas in St. Petersburg for couples. Enjoy various detox treatments for your feet along with other holistic offerings. Then take a relaxing stay in the salt room where you can bask in the soft pink hue of backlit Himalayan salt cubes.

Cheap Date Ideas in St. Petersburg

22. Snag a Pinellas Library Museum Pass

Imagine Museum Contemporary glass art — *Visit the Imagine Museum to see glass everything (via Amanda; CC BY 2.0)*

Enjoy the finer things with one of the most affordable date ideas in St. Petersburg. The Pinellas County library lets you check out museum passes for a week at a time. Establishments like the Museum of Fine Arts or the Imagine Glass Museum are free of charge with the pass for you and your sweetie to stroll around. It’s a romantic way to spend a rainy Saturday together.

23. Explore a Botanical Paradise

While you already live in a beautiful tropical paradise, The Sunken Gardens is one of the oldest tourist attractions around and is a fun but most importantly one of the cheapest date ideas in St. Petersburg. The gardens are over 100 years old and feature more than 50,000 species of tropical plants. Take in views of waterfalls, majestic flamingos and lush flora with your partner.

24. Stroll Along St. Pete Pier

On one of the many gorgeous evenings, stroll hand-in-hand with your lover up and down the St. Pete Pier for a relaxing and cheap date idea in St. Petersburg. Window shop the small businesses or put your toes in the sand and enjoy each other’s company, maybe even with an ice cream cone in hand.

25. Stare at Stars at the Planetarium

St. Petersburg College has a planetarium on-site with free public shows on certain nights. The shows are narrated by one of the professors as you gaze upon the galaxy, followed by a trip up to the observation deck. This entertaining and possibly one of the least expensive date ideas in St. Petersburg is a fun way to change up your date night routine.

26. Visit the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary

Just up the road in Indian Shores, you can find 1.5 acres of beachfront beauty that serves as a seabird sanctuary. Stroll around and gaze upon the hundreds of birds that call it home. Sadly these feathery friends reside there due to permanent disabilities that prevent them from thriving in the wild, but they are given a great life and are on full display for caring visitors. It’s a fantastic spot for photography lovers to capture these creatures in their natural habitats, and is an interesting and one of the many free date ideas in St. Petersburg.

27. Pub Sub Picnic

Whether or not Florida has always been home, a Pub Sub is a rite of passage. Sure, you have access to other sandwich chains like Jimmy John’s, Subway or Jersey Mike’s, but nothing competes with a Publix handmade sub, especially the buffalo chicken tender version.

It doesn’t take much to pull together a romantic evening, just a blanket, a couple of Pub Subs and a stunning Florida sunset. As one of the cheapest date ideas in St. Petersburg for those on a budget, it never gets old.

28. Spot Manatees at Coffee Pot Bayou

Manatee at Coffee Pot Bayou — *Go manatee spotting (via Canva)*

One of the coolest parts about living in Florida is that incredible animals, like manatees, are everywhere. One of the best spots to see these sea cows in the wild as at Coffee Pot Bayou. This free date idea in St. Petersburg will keep you entertained for hours. No matter how many manatees you see, they will continue to fascinate each and every time.

29. Treat Yourself at Dairy Kurl

A Pinellas institution for over 70 years, they must be doing something right at Dairy Kurl. The outside is as quaint and old-fashioned as it gets, and their shakes are fuss-free and delicious. This is one of the perfectly sweet date ideas in St. Petersburg for a first date or thousandth date.

30. Paddleboard in Philippe Park

If you have your own paddleboards (or even if you don’t), paddleboarding in Philippe Park is one of the relatively cheap date ideas in St. Petersburg for couples. This protected area is generally nice and calm, making it ideal for novice paddleboarders. You can rent paddleboards nearby in Safety Harbor at places like Wandering Adventures or Tocobaga Tours and enjoy a balance and coordination challenge.

31. Feel Like Kids Again at the Zoo

Just a short drive away, you can enjoy one of the more engaging date ideas in St. Petersburg for couples: ZooTampa at Lowry Park. They have everything from open-air safari rides to water coasters and, of course, a huge variety of animals from all over the earth. If you haven’t been to the zoo since childhood, you’re missing out. Check out interactive experiences where you can pet giant rays or feed ancient tortoises. They host special events around the holidays, too.

Active Date Ideas in St. Petersburg

32. Bike the Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

Explore the stunning Boyd Hill Nature Preserve on two feet or two wheels. This sprawling wildlife center has campsites, summer camps, lots of wetlands and, of course, a menagerie of Floridian wildlife to encounter. Note that, although this is one of the top outdoor date ideas in St. Petersburg, it's only open seasonally (March 1- October 31). You can even sign up for guided tours to learn more about the animals and ecosystem here.

33. Walk Along Courtney Campbell Causeway

The views are exceptional from this Northernmost bridge across Tampa Bay. The Courtney Campbell Causeway Trail spans almost 10 miles, which is plenty of distance for a walk, run or bike ride with your partner. Enjoy some sunrise or sunset exercise with one of the more active date ideas in St. Petersburg.

34. Paddle Along on a Kayak Tour

The warm waters of the Gulf side teem with sea shells and aquatic animals, making them ideal for kayak or snorkel tours. The Shell Key Preserve, mentioned above, is a perfect spot to explore on a small guided kayak tour. This is one of the top outdoorsy date ideas in St. Petersburg because it's enchanting and engaging, showcasing the natural beauty of the area.

35. Get a Stretch In

Plan a couple's sunrise or sunset yoga at Coachman Park, or attend a pop-up class there. Every Monday, you can find free sunset yoga, one of the top active date ideas in St. Petersburg for mindful couples. If classes aren’t your thing, you can always do your own practice at the park or on the beach with just the two of you.

36. Swap Gym Routines

If you both are into different types of fitness, try swapping routines for a day for one of the most fun and active date ideas in St. Petersburg. Bring your boyfriend to a Pilates or hot yoga class, then next time he can take you on a bike ride or show you how to surf like a pro. Don’t forget to refuel with protein shakes afterward.

37. Take a Self Defense Class

Even though Tampa-St. Pete is a safe and enjoyable place to live, it’s still useful to have this skillset when traveling or in case of an emergency. Plus, it’s kind of fun to learn some new moves! There are always new self-defense workshops being offered, and it’s pretty memorable to explore a totally foreign set of movements together.

There are plenty of places in the area to learn this new skillset like Weapon Brand Self-Defense, Tampa Bay Krav Maga or COBRA Self Defense.

38. Do Goat Yoga

The goat yoga trend was making waves a few years ago, but the concept has stuck around. Book a class at Grady Goat Yoga for one of the wildest date ideas in St. Petersburg. You get all the benefits of stretching and working on your breathing but with the added humor of tiny goats frolicking and jumping around while you flow.

49. Biohack at ExerScience Center Tampa

Biohacking is the latest health and wellness craze and you can join the movement at ExerScience Center in Tampa. This is one of the active date ideas in St. Petersburg that has everything you need for an uplifting day. Check out yoga classes, personal training or physical therapy. Maybe even treat yourselves to a wellness retreat right there in Tampa or abroad in Costa Rica, put on by The Center.

40. Refuel at SOHO Juice Co.

After a long walk, run, swim or any other activity of your choice, you'll both want to refuel your body with what it needs. This turn your active date into a one of the most refreshing date ideas in St. Petersburg that hits the spot on a hot summer day. Head over to SOHO Juice Co. for their award-winning acai bowls or whole fruit smoothies. This vegan, organic and eco-friendly shop has lots of delicious blends to cool you off and nourish your body.

41. Play Pickleball

Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the world and people of all ages and abilities are loving it. Public courts usually have social play going on most evenings or you can head over to St. Pete Athletic. For one of the most fun and active date ideas in St. Petersburg, you can choose to play with your date or against them. Get a good sweat in and see what the craze is all about!

42. Couples Golf Night

Playing golf — *Extend your date to the greens (via Canva)*

Host your own active date night in St. Petersburg on the golf course or join a local league. Walking or riding 18 holes is a great way to bond, work on new skills and enjoy the fresh air. Some courses even host date night events once a week, so check with your favorite local course for options. You can always have your own date night with dinner after golf whenever and wherever you want.

43. Mixed Doubles

Florida is known for golf, pickleball and tennis. If you don’t already play tennis together, you’re missing out on oe of the most fun active date ideas in St. Petersburg. There are tons of free local courts, or you can find lessons and group drills at a local club to get your game going. This one turns into a great double date idea in St. Pete with other tennis couples.

Date Night Ideas in Clearwater

44. Cool Off With a Sweet Treat

Uncle Andy's Market — *Pop in for an ice cream at Uncle Andy's (via Uncle Andy's)*

Nothing sounds better on a summer evening than an ice cream cone after dinner, and when every night feels like summer, you’ve got to make the most of it. Head over to Uncle Andy’s Ice Cream Parlor for an experience that’s reminiscent of the 1950’s.

The business has been around for more than 40 years but they just relocated to a fresh new home in the Don Boutiques. They have everything from shakes, ice cream cones and pastries to tempt you, plus a candy wall and a liquor license so you can enjoy beer and wine with your treat.

45. Sunset Cruise

The ocean at sunset is a magical sight and experiencing it with someone special is pretty much the ideal date night idea in Clearwater. You can rent boats or charter sunset cruises to take in views from Tampa Bay as the sky fades from pink and purple to soft hue of purple and blue with the sunset. Some yacht cruises even offer dinner, but packing a picnic always works.

46. Shop and Cook at MD Oriental Market

MD Oriental Market is a massive Asian market that features specialty items from across the globe, including a massive selection of unique seafood. For the foodie couple, this is by far one of the top date ideas in St. Petersburg as a precursor to dinner. Shopping at the market is an experience in and of itself. After a successful haul, head home to cook up an Asian-inspired feast with your lover. And don't forget to combine this with an in-person or online cooking class.

47. Catch a Show at the Coachman Park's BayCare SOUND

Not only a beautiful park with waterfront views, the Coachman Park recently built The BayCare SOUND, a venue for live shows, right next to the library. The park itself is prime for all your DIY or outdoor date ideas in Tampa like a romantic picnic on the 19 acres of greenery, but the new $84 million project makes it a must-see destination for live music and other attractions. Check out the upcoming schedule for one of the most thrilling date ideas in St. Petersburg.

48. Dinner and a Show at Gigglewaters

Dinner and a movie has been one of the most classic date ideas in St. Petersburg (and beyond) for forever. Gigglewaters Social Club and Screening Room put both things in one place for maximum convenience and enjoyment. They play classic movies and serve comforting food in old-fashioned environs.

49. Sip and Socialize at The Saint Speakeasy

The Saint Speakeasy is a trendy speakeasy-style bar and is one of the most fun and trendy spots for date ideas in St. Petersburg. Moody red lighting from floor to ceiling casts a dramatic ambiance across the entire space. Plush seating and delicious craft cocktails make this the best place for an after-dinner drink.

50. Shuffle Around at St. Pete Shuffle

St. Pete Shuffleboard Club is the largest shuffleboard club in the world, and if you’ve never played, you’re missing out on a lowkey and engaging date night idea in St. Petersburg. The vibe here is peaceful and slightly old-fashioned. Don’t forget to pack a picnic after you've shuffled to your hearts' content!

51. Go to the Arcade

As one of the most old-school date ideas in St. Petersburg, returning to the past can be a really nice way to connect in a digital-free environment. Head over to The Replay Museum where you not only get to see more than 100 pinball-style games, you can play them too.

No quarters are necessary, just an affordable $14 ticket gets you unlimited access to all the games. They have a late-night deal that’s two tickets for $22 which saves you a couple of bucks. It’s non-stop fun with this indoor date idea.

Whether you’re nervous about your first date or keeping the spark alive on your hundredth date, there’s so much to enjoy in St. Pete. Residents are lucky to live in paradise with easy access to beautiful beaches and lots of ocean activities right next door to incredible shopping, dining and entertainment. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy date ideas in St. Petersburg, it really is the thought that counts.

For even more fun date ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!