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St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club: A Century of Fun

Experience a slice of classic Americana at the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club, the world's largest shuffleboard club, offering a fun, social, and nostalgic experience for all ages in the heart of St. Pete.

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Step back in time at the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club, a vibrant and historic landmark that has been a community hub since 1924. This isn't your grandma's shuffleboard – though she'd probably love it too! With 74 courts, it's the world's largest shuffleboard club, offering a unique blend of recreation, nostalgia, and social connection. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-timer, the friendly atmosphere and easy-to-learn game make it a perfect spot for an afternoon of fun. Friday nights are especially popular, with music, food, and a lively crowd creating a memorable experience. Beyond the shuffleboard, the club hosts various events, from concerts to art markets, solidifying its place as a dynamic and engaging destination in downtown St. Pete. Experience a slice of old Florida charm and discover why shuffleboard is making a comeback!

A brief summary to St Petersburg Shuffleboard Club

  • Tuesday 6 pm-9 pm
  • Thursday 6 pm-9 pm
  • Friday 7 pm-10 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-12 pm

Local tips

  • Attend Friday Night Shuffle for a lively atmosphere with music, food, and open play – a great way to experience the club's social scene.
  • Bring your own food and drinks (no glass bottles allowed) to enjoy while you play or relax on the sidelines.
  • Check the club's website or social media for upcoming events, tournaments, and special programs.
  • Consider becoming a member for year-round access to the courts and other benefits if you plan to visit regularly.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking and standing while playing shuffleboard.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of 4th Street North and Central Avenue, walk west on Central Avenue towards Mirror Lake. Turn right onto Mirror Lake Drive North. The St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club will be on your left, adjacent to Mirror Lake. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes, offering a pleasant stroll through downtown St. Pete.

  • Public Transport

    Several PSTA (Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority) bus routes serve the area around Mirror Lake. From the nearest bus stop on 5th Street North at Mirror Lake Drive, walk one block west to Mirror Lake Drive North. The St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club will be on your left. A single ride fare is $2.25. Residents within city limits can ride all PSTA routes fare free.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Request a taxi or ride-share (Uber/Lyft) to 559 Mirror Lake Drive North, St. Petersburg. This will drop you directly in front of the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club. Expect to pay around $6-$10 for a short ride within downtown St. Petersburg, depending on demand and distance.

  • Driving

    From I-275, take exit 23A for 5th Avenue North. Head east on 5th Avenue North. Turn left onto Mirror Lake Drive North. The St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club will be on your right. Parking is available in the city lot next to the Shuffleboard Club (559 Mirror Lake Dr N). Metered street parking is also available around Mirror Lake. Parking rates in city lots are typically $1 per hour, with a daily maximum of $9.

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Discover more about St Petersburg Shuffleboard Club

The St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club, a true St. Petersburg icon, has been serving up fun and friendly competition since 1924. Founded during the city's early tourism boom, the club quickly became a social epicenter, drawing in winter visitors and locals alike with its accessible and engaging sport. Shuffleboard's simple rules and gentle pace made it a hit with all ages, fostering a sense of community that continues to thrive today. Originally named the St. Petersburg Mirror Lake Park Shuffleboard Club, it all began with a Connecticut jeweler named Phineas T. Ives. After enjoying shuffleboard on Florida's east coast, he encouraged the City of St. Petersburg to build courts. The first two appeared in September 1923 in front of the current location of the Shuffleboard Club on Mirror Lake. By January 1924, the game's popularity led six charter members to organize the club, the first of its kind in the world. The club changed its name to the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club in 1932. The club's popularity soared in the mid-20th century, boasting over 8,000 members and more than 100 courts at its peak. It was a place where friendships were forged, tournaments were fiercely contested, and the spirit of friendly competition reigned supreme. The club even standardized the rules of shuffleboard in 1928, solidifying St. Petersburg's place as the sport's spiritual home. The line that runs up the middle of a shuffleboard court is even named after St. Pete's own main drag: Central Avenue. However, like many historical institutions, the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club faced challenges in later decades. Membership dwindled, and the facilities began to show their age. But in the early 2000s, a resurgence began, fueled by a new generation of enthusiasts who recognized the club's unique charm and potential. A group of young artistic types approached the then-president about opening the club on Friday nights for free play. Today, the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club is experiencing a renaissance, attracting a diverse crowd of players and visitors. The club's 74 courts are meticulously maintained, and the historic clubhouse provides a nostalgic backdrop for events and gatherings. Friday nights have become a local institution, drawing hundreds of people for shuffleboard under the lights, live music, food, and a vibrant social atmosphere. For non-members, it costs $10 to play on Friday nights, while kids are free. Members and their guests can play for free. Beyond Friday nights, the club hosts a variety of events, including tournaments, concerts, art markets, and private rentals. It's a popular venue for weddings, birthday parties, and corporate gatherings, offering a unique and memorable setting for any occasion. The club also offers beginner boot camps and strategy boot camps. The St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club is more than just a place to play shuffleboard; it's a living piece of St. Petersburg history and a testament to the enduring power of community. Whether you're a seasoned shuffler or a curious newcomer, a visit to this iconic club is a must for anyone seeking a taste of old Florida charm and a fun, social experience. The club celebrated its 100th anniversary in January 2024, marking a century of community, culture, and courts. The club toasted its birthday with champagne, cake, and speeches from City officials, club members, and the club's Executive Director, Christine Page. City Council member Gina Driscoll noted what a special place the Shuffleboard Club is. “It's not about the building, or the courts, or the tournaments. It's about the people, the community, and the relationships.” She added that “there aren't a lot of places left in our city that are 100 years old!” The St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club stands as a reminder of a simpler time, a place where people can come together to enjoy a friendly game, connect with their community, and celebrate the unique spirit of St. Petersburg.

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