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Pioneer Park: A Waterfront Oasis in St. Petersburg

Discover a peaceful waterfront park in downtown St. Petersburg, honoring the city's founders with scenic views and a rich history.

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Pioneer Park, nestled along St. Petersburg's downtown waterfront, offers a serene escape and a glimpse into the city's past. Honoring the city's early settlers, this shaded park features scenic bay views, lush greenery, and a monument commemorating the pioneers who shaped St. Petersburg.

A brief summary to Pioneer Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Enjoy the cool shade and gentle breezes while relaxing on one of the park's many benches.
  • Visit the park during the Saturday Morning Market or Shakespeare in the Park for a lively atmosphere.
  • Take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the views of the St. Petersburg Municipal Marina.
  • Read the plaques on the central obelisk to learn about the early settlers of St. Petersburg.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the St. Pete Pier, walk south along Bayshore Drive SE. Pioneer Park will be on your left, between Central Avenue and 1st Avenue South. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    From various points in St. Petersburg, use the SunRunner Bus Rapid Transit or the Central Avenue Trolley. The closest SunRunner stop to the Pier is 5th Street N (Stop #1111). From there, walk down 1st Ave N towards the water. You'll pass Jannus Live on the right and Starbucks on the left. Once you hit South Straub Park, you'll see the entrance to the Pier ahead. The Central Avenue Trolley also provides service to the downtown area. A regular cash fare on PSTA is $2.25.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    From anywhere in downtown St. Petersburg, a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to Pioneer Park is a readily available option. Simply provide the destination address (50-98 Bayshore Dr SE) to the driver. The typical cost for a short trip within downtown St. Petersburg ranges from $8 to $15, depending on distance and demand.

  • Parking

    If driving, several parking options are available near Pioneer Park. Metered street parking is available, with costs varying. City-owned garages, such as the SouthCore Garage (101 1st Ave S), offer hourly rates ($1/hour) with a daily maximum of $9. The Al Lang Parking Lot entrance is located on 1st Avenue South between Beach and Bayshore Drive. Temporary space reservations will cost $10 per day and will be paid at the time of reservation. The St. Pete Pier offers over 500 on-site parking spaces, with rates starting at $2 per hour.

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Discover more about Pioneer Park

Pioneer Park, situated on the downtown waterfront of St. Petersburg, Florida, provides a tranquil retreat with a touch of history. Located between Central Avenue and 1st Avenue South, and bordered by Bay Shore Drive and Beach Drive Southeast, the park offers beautiful views of the bay and marina. The park is dedicated to the 600 early settlers who played a crucial role in establishing St. Petersburg. A 20-foot obelisk stands at the heart of the park, bearing the names of residents who significantly contributed to the city before the opening of the Gandy Bridge in 1924. Pioneer Park provides a peaceful environment with plenty of benches and grassy areas, perfect for relaxation and reflection. Its convenient location near the St. Petersburg Municipal Marina and other attractions makes it an ideal spot to unwind after exploring downtown. The park also hosts community events throughout the year, fostering a sense of community and celebrating the city's heritage. The park's origins trace back to a 1976 initiative led by Jay B. Starkey, Sr., whose family were St. Petersburg pioneers, with the park officially dedicated on November 26, 1981. A major revitalization project was completed in 2012, ensuring the park remains a beautiful and well-maintained space for generations to come. Pioneer Park is open from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset.

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