Local Events • August 7, 2025

What’s Happening in Pinellas County: August 8–15, 2025

by Angela Wetzel

Sounds of Soul – Pinellas Park

When: Saturday, August 9, 7 PM–9 PM
Where: Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center, 4951 78th Ave N, Pinellas Park
A community concert offering soulful sounds for all ages in an intimate theater setting. pinellas-park.com
Free Ice Cream at The James Museum –

Free Ice Cream at The James Museum – St. Petersburg

Dates: August 8–10 during museum hours
Stop by The James Museum for a complimentary soft‑serve cone with any purchase at the Canyon Café. A sweet perk when exploring thought-provoking exhibits. I Love the Burg

Dunedin Downtown Market – Dunedin

Start Date: Friday, August 8 (ongoing weekly through Oct 23, 2026)
When: Fridays (and likely Saturdays/) weekly market
Vibrant open-air market featuring local artisans, food vendors, produce, and live music—ideal for weekday evenings or early weekend strolls. Visit St Petersburg Clearwater Florida

Nature & Community Options (ongoing)

While specific one-off events for this week weren’t listed, several attractions offer year-round experiences perfect for locals:

Weedon Island Preserve (St. Petersburg): Nature trails, kayaking loops, boardwalks, observation tower, and educational programs throughout the week. Wikipedia
Wall Springs Park (Palm Harbor): A lovely natural spring with boardwalks, fishing piers, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Ideal for a weekday afternoon outing. Wikipedia
Brooker Creek Preserve (Tarpon Springs): Hiking trails, wildlife observation, and educational exhibits—great for nature lovers and families. Wikipedia

Final Tips & Resources

Check Visit St. Pete‑Clearwater’s Events & Festivals page regularly for updates on events across the region. Visit St Petersburg Clearwater Florida+1
For even more listings—from art shows to live music—local blogs like I Love the Burg and community calendars (like Pinellas Park’s) are excellent ongoing references.

top 10 lists • August 6, 2025

Top 10 Weirdest Laws in Florida You Won’t Believe Exist

by Angela Wetzel

Florida is known for its sunshine, beaches, and… some truly strange laws. While many of these quirky rules aren’t enforced today, they remain part of the state’s legal history and charm. Let’s dive into 10 of the weirdest laws in Florida that might just make you do a double-take!

1. It’s Illegal to Sing in a Swimsuit

In Sarasota, it was once illegal to sing in public while wearing a swimsuit. Better save those karaoke sessions for after you change!

2. Skateboarding Without a License? Nope!

In some Florida cities, you technically need a license to skateboard. Imagine pulling out your “skateboarding permit” at the park.

3. No Selling Oranges in Miami

Selling oranges within the city limits of Miami was once banned to help protect the citrus industry from disease.

4. No Parking on a Sidewalk in Daytona Beach

This one’s less about cars and more about… elephants. Yep — it was originally to stop circus animals from blocking pedestrian paths.

5. Unmarried Women Can’t Skydive on Sundays

This odd law in Florida supposedly aimed to keep “proper conduct” — but it mostly makes us wonder… why just Sundays?

6. Doors Must Open Outward in Public Buildings

Florida building codes require public building doors to open outward, originally to help during emergency evacuations.

7. No Selling Ice Cream in a Cemetery

In some towns, you can’t sell ice cream from a cart within a cemetery. That’s one way to keep things… quiet.

8. Keep the Elephant Off the Meter

If you tie your elephant to a parking meter, you must pay for the meter just like a car.

9. No Throwing Dwarves

In the 1980s, “dwarf tossing” was banned for safety reasons — and yes, it was actually happening in bars.

10. Don’t Steal Horses

While obvious, the punishment for horse theft in early Florida law was particularly harsh — it could result in hanging.

Florida’s laws are a fascinating mix of practicality, history, and pure quirkiness. They’re part of what makes the Sunshine State unique — and a little more colorful than most places.

If you’re looking to make Florida your home (strange laws and all), I can help you find your perfect place in paradise!

Visit: gulfhomesinparadise.com

buyer tips • August 5, 2025

2025 St. Petersburg Housing Market Trends: A First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide

by Angela Wetzel

If you’ve been dreaming about buying your first home in sunny St. Petersburg, Florida, now might be the perfect time to make your move. The 2025 housing market is showing signs of cooling, giving first-time buyers more opportunities to find the right home at the right price.

Why St. Petersburg is Ideal for First-Time Buyers

With its beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, vibrant arts scene, and welcoming neighborhoods, St. Pete has always been a sought-after place to live. But in 2025, the market shift means you may finally have a chance to get into your dream home without the intense bidding wars of the past few years.

Current Market Snapshot (2024–2025)

According to recent housing data:

Median home sale price: $405,000 (down about 2.4% from last year)
Typical home value: Around $359,000 (a 7.8% drop year-over-year)
Inventory: About 2,990 homes for sale in June 2025 — up from last year, giving buyers more choices
Days on market: 54 days on average (up from 34 days in 2024)

This slowdown means more negotiating power, less pressure to make rushed offers, and the possibility of securing seller concessions.

Financial Help for First-Time Buyers

If you’re worried about the down payment, you’re not alone — and the good news is, St. Petersburg offers several programs to make homeownership more accessible:

City of St. Petersburg Down Payment Assistance – Contribute just 1% of the purchase price, with the city helping cover the rest up to certain limits.
Pinellas County Housing Finance Authority – Low-interest loans and down payment assistance for qualifying buyers.
Florida Hometown Heroes Program – Grants for eligible workers in key professions.

Taking advantage of these resources can lower your upfront costs and make buying your first home far more affordable. Contact me for all the details!

Best Neighborhoods for Your First Home

If you’re new to St. Pete, here are some top picks for first-time buyers:

Historic Uptown – Charming bungalows and walkable streets.
Crescent Lake – Family-friendly, with a beautiful park at its center.
Kenwood – Known for its craftsman-style homes and artsy vibe.

These neighborhoods offer a mix of affordability, community spirit, and proximity to downtown.

Why 2025 Could Be Your Year

With home prices softening, inventory rising, and more time to make decisions, the St. Petersburg real estate market is more favorable for first-time buyers than it’s been in years. Pair that with local down payment assistance programs, and you may be closer to homeownership than you think.

Ready to find your first home?
Contact me today for personalized guidance through every step of the process!

Angela Wetzel – Gulf Homes In Paradise
🌐 gulfhomesinparadise.com

buyer tips • August 4, 2025

6 Big Mistakes First-Time Homebuyers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

by Angela Wetzel

By Angela Wetzel | Gulf Homes in Paradise
gulfhomesinparadise.com

Buying your first home is exciting — but it’s easy to make costly mistakes if you’re not prepared. As a local realtor in the Tampa Bay area, I’ve helped many first-time buyers navigate the process with confidence. Here’s a breakdown of the six biggest mistakes to watch out for and how to avoid them.

1. Not Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Many first-timers start touring homes before speaking to a lender — big mistake! Getting pre-approved (not just pre-qualified) gives you a clear understanding of your budget and strengthens your offer in a competitive market.

Pro Tip: Always meet with a lender first. A pre-approval letter shows sellers you’re serious and financially ready.

2. Underestimating the Total Cost of Homeownership

It’s not just about the mortgage payment. Homeowners must also budget for property taxes, insurance, HOA fees (if applicable), utilities, and routine maintenance.

Pro Tip: Use a detailed monthly cost calculator to understand your true home expenses before making an offer.

3. Skipping the Home Inspection

Waiving the inspection to win a bidding war might seem tempting — but it can backfire. A professional inspection reveals hidden issues that could cost you thousands later.

Pro Tip: Always schedule a home inspection, even in hot markets. It’s your best line of defense.

4. Letting Emotions Lead the Way

Falling in love with a home’s charm is understandable — but don’t overlook important factors like the neighborhood, commute, condition, or resale value.

Pro Tip: Make a list of must-haves vs. nice-to-haves, and stick to your goals. Think long-term lifestyle fit and investment value.

5. Not Working with a Buyer’s Agent

Some buyers rely on the seller’s agent or try to go solo. That’s risky. You need someone in your corner who knows the market and protects your interests.

Pro Tip: Partner with a trusted local real estate agent (like me!). As a buyer, this typically comes at no cost to you — the seller covers the commission.

6. Missing Out on First-Time Buyer Programs

Many first-time buyers aren’t aware of grants, down payment assistance, and low-interest loan programs designed just for them.

Pro Tip: Explore options like FHA loans, Florida Housing down payment assistance, and local city or county programs. I can help connect you with trusted lenders who specialize in these programs.

Final Thoughts

Buying your first home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right guidance and preparation, you can avoid these common mistakes and move into a place you love — with confidence and peace of mind.

🔑 Thinking about buying your first home in SW Florida? Let’s connect!
I’ll help you through every step of the process — from pre-approval to closing day.

📲 gulfhomesinparadise.com

top 10 lists • August 4, 2025

Top 10 Ice Cream Shops in St. Petersburg, FL

by Angela Wetzel

If you’re looking to scoop out the best ice cream in St. Petersburg, FL, here’s a mouthwatering roundup of the top 10 ice cream spots locals and visitors rave about:

1. Paciugo Gelato & Caffè

Voted Best Gelato in Tampa Bay multiple times, Paciugo serves over 40 rich, creamy flavors that regularly earn top reviews. ilovetheburg.com+4Paciugo Gelato & Caffe+4Yelp+4

2. Small Batch Creamery

Known for scratch-made ice cream onsite with inventive flavors like peanut butter and coconut. Offers shakes, floats, affogato, and ice cream sandwiches. Small Batch Creamery

3. La Diperie

This creative spot lets you dip soft serve or ice cream sandwiches into chocolate and toppings—with over 30 dipping varieties. A sugar-rush experience! Yelp

4. Bright Ice Scoop Shop

A newer artisan shop adding bold flavors and local buzz, recognized as runner-up in local polls. reddit.com+1reddit.com+1

5. Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream (Uptown St. Pete)

Locally owned, community-focused, offering carefully churned ice cream with friendly service in a vibrant part of the city. kellyshomemadeicecream.comkellyshomemadeicecream.com

6. Sprinkles Ice Cream Shop (St. Pete Beach)

Family-run with thick, Amish-style ice cream, unique sundaes, and options like edible cookie dough—set by the beach with 14% butterfat joy. ilovetheburg.com+1larrysicecream.com+1

7. Larry’s Ice Cream & Gelatos

A long-standing favorite on St. Pete Beach offering 100+ flavors, mini donuts, shakes, sundaes, and hot dogs. Nostalgic and delicious. visitstpeteclearwater.com

8. Twistee Treat (St. Pete Beach)

Iconic giant cone-shaped building serving soft-serve, banana splits, brownie sundaes, and more—fun and photogenic. wanderlog.com

9. Let It Be Ice Cream (Gulfport)

Quaint and nostalgic with checkerboard floors and daily small-batch flavors like Butter Pecan and Pistachio—plus shakes, malts, and floats. lovingstpete.com

10. Wildflower Ice Cream

Soft serve specialty with dairy-free options and an impressively large selection of flavor combos covering every craving. ilovetheburg.com

Suggested Ice Cream Crawl Itinerary

Downtown Dive

Start at Small Batch Creamery on 4th Street for artisanal favorites.
Then head over to Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream Uptown for community charm.
Wrap up at La Diperie for a dipped dessert overload.

Beachside Sweets

Visit Paciugo on Beach Drive for authentic Italian gelato.
Walk or drive to Sprinkles or Larry’s on St. Pete Beach for old-school fun.
Snap a photo at Twistee Treat’s giant cone building.

Beyond the City

Make the short trip to Gulfport for Let It Be Ice Cream, perfect for a retro stop.
Don’t miss Wildflower for creative soft serve mixes on Dr. MLK Jr St.

💬 Insider Opinions from Locals

On Reddit, locals said:

“Lulu’s on Gulf Blvd is the best … they make their own in small batches…”
“We are quite fond of haze ice cream” and “Plant+Love is delicious.” Small Batch Creamery+2Yelp+2Yelp+2Yelp+2Yelp+2Yelp+2tripadvisor.ca+6ilovetheburg.com+6Yelp+6Tripadvisor+2wanderlog.com+2stpetebeachicecream.com+2lovingstpete.com+1ilovetheburg.com+1facebook.com+1ilovetheburg.com+1ilovetheburg.com+5reddit.com+5tripadvisor.ca+5

And Tampa Magazine’s Best of St. Pete 2025 round-up placed Bright Ice Scoop Shop as a beloved runner-up. Yelp+3tampamagazines.com+3Tripadvisor+3

Why These Spots Made the Cut

Flavor variety & creativity: Paciugo, Wildflower, Small Batch
Instagram-worthy fun: La Diperie dipping, giant-cone Twistee Treat
Vintage charm: Let It Be, Kelly’s, Larry’s
Local favorites & awards: Paciugo, Bright Ice, Kelly’s, Sprinkles

💡 Tips for Ice Cream Lovers

Tip	Details
Timing	Visit early evenings or weekday afternoons to avoid lines
Photo ops	Don’t forget your camera at Twistee Treat and Larry’s outdoor seating
Pairing treats	Enjoy mini donuts at Larry’s or waffle cones at Bright Ice
Dietary options	Wildflower and Small Batch offer vegan/gluten-free scoops

🍧 Final Scoop

St. Petersburg truly serves up some of Florida’s most exciting and accessible ice cream—from artisanal neighborhood shops to retro beachside classics. Whether you’re craving creamy gelato, inventive flavors, or nostalgic sundaes, this city has something sweet for everyone.

#StPeteEats, #StPeteFoodie, #IceCreamLovers, #StPeteBeach, #FloridaEats, #summer, #GelatoLove, #ScoopLocal, #SweetTooth, #DessertTime, #FoodieFinds, #RealEstateAndTreats, #icecream, #StPeteLiving, #ExploreStPete, #SummerVibes, #LocalEats, #StPetersburgFL, #EatLocalFL, #BeachsideBites, #Top10Eats, #FloridaLife, #FoodieAdventures, #WeekendEats, #SupportLocal, #IceCreamTrail, #TreatYourself, #FrozenFavorites, #StPeteLove, #follow

homeowner tips • August 3, 2025

Top 10 Most Important Things to Look for When Buying a Home

by Angela Wetzel

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial and emotional investments you’ll ever make. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking for your next dream home in SW Florida, knowing what to look for can make the difference between a smart investment and a costly mistake.

Here are the top 10 most important things to look for when buying a home:

1. Location, Location, Location

This old real estate saying still holds true. A home’s location affects everything from your daily commute to property value. Consider proximity to schools, shopping, hospitals, public transportation, and beaches.

2. Neighborhood and Community

Drive around the neighborhood at different times of the day. Look at the upkeep of nearby homes, the presence of parks or community spaces, and the general vibe. Do you feel safe and comfortable?

3. The Home’s Condition

Look beyond paint colors and décor. Pay close attention to the roof, foundation, HVAC, windows, and plumbing. A professional home inspection is a must — but having an eye for wear and tear during showings can save time and money.

4. Layout and Functionality

The home should fit your lifestyle. Does the layout work for your family? Are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms? Is there space for a home office or guest room if needed?

5. Natural Light and Ventilation

Homes that feel bright and airy often have higher resale value and are more pleasant to live in. Open the blinds and check how much natural light each room receives throughout the day.

6. Storage Space

Don’t overlook closets, attic access, garage space, and cabinetry. A lack of storage can quickly become frustrating and costly if you have to rent additional space.

7. Noise Levels

Check for traffic noise, airport proximity, or noisy neighbors. Visit the property at different times of the day and week to get a full picture of the sound environment.

8. School District

Even if you don’t have kids, buying in a good school district can positively affect your property value. Homes in sought-after school zones often appreciate faster and are easier to sell.

9. Future Resale Value

Try to look at the home as an investment. Is it in a growing area? Are there planned developments nearby? A good real estate agent can provide data on market trends and future growth potential.

10. Your Intuition

Finally, trust your gut. If something feels off, don’t ignore it. And if a home feels like “the one,” it probably is — as long as the other boxes are checked, too.

Final Thoughts

As a local expert with Century 21 Integra, I love helping buyers navigate the home buying process with confidence. If you’re house hunting in the Greater Tampa Bay or St. Petersburg area, I’d be honored to help you find your perfect piece of paradise.

Visit GulfHomesInParadise.com to get started — or contact me directly for a free consultation!

#HouseGoals, #HomeSweetHome, #RealEstateExpert, #KnowBeforeYouBuy, #HomeBuyersChecklist, #LocationMatters, #InvestSmart, #FutureHomeowners, #YourNextChapter, #HomeBuyingTips, #FirstTimeHomeBuyer, #RealEstateAdvice, #HouseHunting, #SmartHomeBuying, #BuyAHome, #DreamHomeChecklist, #HomeBuyingGuide, #RealEstateTips, #StPeteHomesforsale, #FloridaRealEstate, #GulfHomesInParadise, #LivingInFlorida, #StPetersburgFL, #TampaHomesForSale
#SunshineStateLiving, #StPeteLiving, #GulfCoastHomes, #Bradentonhomesforsale, #lakewoodranchhomesforsale, #sarasotahomesforsale

homeowner tips • August 1, 2025

Top 10 Tips for Homeowners: Protect, Maintain, and Thrive

by Angela Wetzel

Owning a home is one of life’s biggest investments—and one of the most rewarding. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a seasoned pro, staying on top of home care helps protect your investment, avoid costly repairs, and create a more comfortable living space. Here are 10 essential homeowner tips everyone should know:

1. Stay Ahead with Regular Maintenance

Create a seasonal checklist for HVAC systems, gutters, plumbing, and appliances. A little upkeep now saves big money later.

2. Know Where Your Shut-Off Valves Are

In an emergency, knowing how to quickly shut off your water, gas, or electricity can prevent serious damage.

3. Build a Home Emergency Fund

Set aside savings specifically for home repairs or upgrades. Roof leaks, broken water heaters, or A/C issues can happen without warning.

4. Improve Energy Efficiency

Seal gaps in doors and windows, use LED bulbs, and invest in a smart thermostat to reduce utility bills and energy waste.

5. Keep Records of Repairs & Upgrades

Maintain a file (digital or paper) with receipts, warranties, and project timelines. It helps with resale value and home insurance claims.

6. Know Your Home’s Age and Materials

Understand how old your roof, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems are so you can plan and budget for replacements before problems arise.

7. Keep Pests Out

Regularly inspect for signs of termites, ants, or rodents. Seal cracks and trim landscaping away from your home’s foundation.

8. Take Safety Seriously

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly, check fire extinguishers annually, and have an escape plan in place for your family.

9. Stay on Top of Landscaping

A well-maintained yard not only boosts curb appeal—it prevents water damage and deters pests and mold buildup around your home.

10. Don’t Delay Small Repairs

That small drip, cracked tile, or loose railing may seem minor—but over time, small issues become expensive fixes. Address them early.

Final Thought

A well-cared-for home is a happy home. Whether you’re staying put or considering a move, good maintenance habits lead to peace of mind and long-term value. If you ever need real estate guidance or are curious about market trends in Manatee, Sarasota, Pinellas, or Hillsborough counties, I’m here to help!

Angela Wetzel

614-980-3801

awetzel@c21integra.com

gulfhomesinparadise.com

Local Events • July 31, 2025

What’s happening in St. Petersburg, FL (July 31 – Aug 9, 2025)

by Angela Wetzel

Between July 31 and August 9, 2025, St. Petersburg invites locals and visitors alike to dive into a weekend mix of reggae concert nights, family‑friendly art tours, flavorful food‑truck gatherings, wellness community meet‑ups, and immersive trolley rides through the city’s storied neighborhoods—all featured here!

Live Music & Shows

Ballyhoo! Summer Tour with Cydeways & Beach Fly
Thu, July 31 – 7 PM at Jannus Live — Energetic reggae‑rock evening with almost sold‑out tickets.Eventbrite+1Facebook+1

Historic Tours & Cultural Experiences

Historic Downtown St. Pete Trolley Tour
Sat, Aug 2 – 9 AM, Museum of History + Star Trolley, $35–45. Explore landmarks like Roser Park, Mirror Lake, Coffee Pot Bayou.spmoh.com+4spmoh.com+4I Love the Burg+4
Historic Baseball Trolley Tour
Sat, Aug 9 – 9 AM at Museum of History, $35–45. Take a themed ride steeped in local baseball history.spmoh.com
St. Pete Pier & Tampa Bay Watch Sunset Boat Tour
Sat, Aug 9 evening, narrated waterfront tour, around $40–45.milehightikkaexpress.com+15spmoh.com+15wusf.org+15

Wellness, Dance & Community Events

Natural Wellness Expo
Sat, Aug 2 – 10 AM at The Coliseum — holistic health booths, vendors, community wellness sessions.Eventbrite+15Eventbrite+15visitstpeteclearwater.com+15
High Vibe Ecstatic Dance
Sat, Aug 2 – 7 PM at St. Pete Calisthenics — live DJ dance party powered by community energy.Eventbrite
F45 Bootcamp at the Pier
Fri, Aug 1 – 4:30 PM, free high‑energy outdoor workout overlooking the waterfront.stpetepier.org

Family‑Friendly & Arts Activities

Little Surrealist Tour at The Dalí
Sun, Aug 3 – 11:15 AM, for ages 4–11—family‑friendly art tour of Salvador Dalí Museum.thedali.org
Art Demos & Trunk Show: Janet Sams at Imagine Museum
Aug weekend likely — watch live glass‑art demonstrations by featured artist Janet Sams.Eventbrite
Sunday Market Summer Series
Sundays during August, local artisan shops, live music, creative vendors, and food‑truck stands.Facebook+1I Love the Burg+1

Food Trucks & Street‑Food Culture

First Friday Art Market at Creative Clay
Fri, Aug 1 – 11 AM‑1 PM, food trucks + live music and art, at Creative Clay studio.tampabayfoodtruckrally.com
Food Truck Nights at Maximo Marina area
Early August Thursdays — family‑friendly gatherings with multiple trucks like Happy Snapper, BBQ and gourmet pops.business.stpete.com
-CALL ME FOR A FREE MARKET EVALUATION AND ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS!!!!!
#727Day, #BeachLifeVibes, #DTSP, #FloridaFoodie, #FloridaSeafood, #GulfCoastEats, #GulfHomesInParadise, #JannusLive, #LocalEatsFL, #StPeteBeachVibes, #StPeteEats, #StPeteEvents, #StPeteFL, #StPeteFlorida, #StPeteLiving, #StPeteLocalLife, #StPetePier, #StPetersburgFL, #SupportLocalFL, #TampaBayThingsToDo, #VisitStPete, #VisitStPeteBeach, #WeekendVibesFL

Local Events • July 24, 2025

Top 10 Best Seafood Spots in St. Pete, Florida!!!

by Angela Wetzel

Fresh, Flavorful & Unforgettable Coastal Dining

St. Petersburg, Florida, is a seafood lover’s dream. With its location on Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, it offers an endless variety of fresh fish, oysters, shrimp, and signature Southern coastal dishes. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these 10 seafood spots in St. Pete are sure to satisfy your cravings.

1. Sea Salt St. Pete

📍 183 2nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL
Upscale and elegant, Sea Salt is known for its high-end raw bar, beautiful presentation, and over 130 types of sea food from around the world. Perfect for a date night or special occasion.

2. The Dewey

📍 109 8th Ave, St. Pete Beach, FL
This hidden gem near Pass-a-Grille offers fresh, local seafood with Gulf views. Try the lobster roll or blackened grouper sandwich while sipping a craft cocktail on the rooftop deck.

3. Crabby Bill’s

📍 5100 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach, FL
A casual Florida favorite with a fun vibe. Known for their crab legs, peel-and-eat shrimp, and beachfront atmosphere. Great for families and seafood purists.

4. Wild Child

📍 2710 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL
An elevated neighborhood bistro with a Caribbean-inspired menu. Their grilled octopus and ceviche are standouts, and the ever-rotating fish specials are always worth trying.

5. The Oyster Bar

📍 249 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL
A downtown favorite for over 20 years. Happy hour oysters, lobster bisque, and seared tuna tacos are just a few local favorites. Don’t skip the daily raw bar specials!

6. Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille

📍 610 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL
This waterfront staple serves up island-inspired seafood and tropical drinks. The Yucatan shrimp and grouper tacos are perfect post-beach bites.

7. Fish Tales Seafood House

📍 1500 2nd St S, St. Petersburg, FL
A laid-back, dockside joint with great fried seafood baskets, crab cakes, and waterfront views. Arrive by boat or land—it’s a local weekend go-to.

8. 400 Beach Seafood & Tap House

📍 400 Beach Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL
A stylish spot on Beach Drive with a large seafood menu, wine list, and patio dining. From shrimp and grits to lobster ravioli, they’ve got all your favorites covered.

9. Red Mesa Cantina (Seafood with a Twist)

📍 128 3rd St S, St. Petersburg, FL
While not a traditional seafood restaurant, Red Mesa fuses Latin cuisine with fresh seafood options like mahi tacos, shrimp ceviche, and seafood paella. A flavorful twist on classic dishes.

10. Billy’s Stone Crab

📍 1 Collany Rd, Tierra Verde, FL
Worth the short drive from downtown. Known for stone crab season, waterfront dining, and rustic Floridian charm. It’s a must-visit when in season (October–May).

🍤 Ready to Dive In?

Whether you’re a raw oyster fanatic, a shrimp lover, or a grouper sandwich enthusiast, St. Pete is overflowing with seafood spots that celebrate the best of Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Planning a foodie trip or local seafood crawl? Bookmark this list and tag your favorite seafood joint on social media.

Local Events • July 22, 2025

🎉 What’s Happening in St. Pete: Events & Things to Do (July 22–28, 2025)

by Angela Wetzel

If you’re wondering what to do in St. Petersburg, FL this week, we’ve got you covered! From music festivals and waterfront workouts to art experiences and nighttime paddleboarding, Downtown St. Pete is bursting with energy. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here’s your go-to guide for the best things to do from July 22 through July 28, 2025.

🎶 Live Music & Festival Fun

🎤 Barrington Levy at Jannus Live – July 22
Kick off your week with reggae legend Barrington Levy performing live at Jannus Live. Expect good vibes, island rhythms, and dancing in the courtyard.

🎸 The Supervillains – July 26
On Saturday, don’t miss the ska-punk fusion energy of The Supervillains, also at Jannus Live. Grab a drink and join the mosh or just soak in the sounds.

🍻 Heat Fest at Cage Brewing – All Weekend
Enjoy a 3-day music fest at one of the coolest local breweries. Great beer, food trucks, and a mix of local talent keep the vibes high.

🧘 Wellness at the Pier

🌅 Barre on the Pier – July 26 at 8:30 AM
Get moving with a free barre fitness class from Freebird Fitness, part of the St. Pete Pier’s 5-Year Celebration Series.

🎉 727 Day Celebration – July 27 (4–10 PM)
Celebrate everything St. Pete (727) with live music, vendors, local eats, and a beautiful sunset on the waterfront.

🖼️ Arts & Culture

🧘 Sound Healing & Art at The Dali – July 22
Experience the calming power of sound meditation within the iconic Dali Museum—part of a special mural exhibit event.

💎 Imagine Museum’s 727 Week Specials – All Week
Explore a world of glass art and light at Imagine Museum, with weeklong discounts and special programming in celebration of 727 Day.

🌊 Outdoor Adventures

🌊 Paddle & Drone Show – July 27 (Evening)
Launch your paddleboard or kayak at Coffee Pot Bayou for a guided evening paddle topped off with a drone light show. A unique and magical way to end the weekend.

🚤 Water Tours & Adventures (Daily)

Sunset Cruise + Skyway Light Show
Shell Key Dolphin Tour
JetSki Guided Excursions

Don’t forget your sunscreen and a camera!

🍦 Family Fun: Tampa Bay Ice Cream Festival

📍Spa Beach Park – July 20 (if you’re early!)
While technically just before the week begins, this sweet celebration of frozen treats deserves a mention. Dozens of vendors, live music, and your chance to vote for “Best Ice Cream in Tampa Bay.”

📅 Quick Week-At-A-Glance

Day	Highlights
Tue 22	Dali Museum + Barrington Levy @ Jannus
Wed–Thu	Museums, tours, brewery visits
Fri 25	Live music + Cage Brewing Heat Fest
Sat 26	Barre class, Supervillains @ Jannus
Sun 27	727 Day on the Pier + drone paddle
Mon 28	Chill day – perfect for galleries/beach

🌴 Wrap-Up

Whether you’re dancing under the stars at Jannus Live, cooling off with a gourmet scoop at the Ice Cream Festival, or watching the sunset from a paddleboard, St. Pete’s got something for everyone this week.

See you downtown!