🌴 $20 Adventure Days in St. Pete: Budget-Friendly Things to Do in St. Petersburg, Florida

Looking for fun, affordable things to do in St. Petersburg, Florida without spending a fortune? Good news — St. Pete is one of the best cities in Florida for budget-friendly activities, waterfront adventures, and local experiences that cost $20 or less. Whether you're a resident exploring your own backyard or thinking about moving to St. Pete, these low-cost adventures showcase exactly why people fall in love with this city.

Here are five $20 Adventure Days that highlight the very best of St. Pete’s lifestyle, neighborhoods, and local hotspots.

1️⃣ St. Pete Pier Adventure – One of the Best Free Things to Do in St. Petersburg

Total cost: $17.50 (and million-dollar views)

The St. Pete Pier is one of the top attractions in St. Petersburg, and it's completely free to explore. Start your day wandering the waterfront, checking out public art installations, and enjoying the breeze off Tampa Bay.

👉 Budget-friendly add-on:
• Cold brew or iced tea at Perry's Porch

Free highlights:

• The Pier swings

• Spa Beach

• Dolphin spotting along the pier

• The Nature Discovery Center

This is hands down one of the best cheap things to do in St. Pete for both locals and visitors.

2️⃣ Gulfport Stroll + Sweet Treat – A Charming, Budget-Friendly Day Trip

Total cost: $14–$20

Just minutes from St. Pete, the city of Gulfport, Florida is a colorful, artsy waterfront community perfect for a relaxing budget-friendly outing.

👉 Stop at Gulfport Creamery:
• Single scoop for around $5

Then stroll along Beach Blvd, enjoy the murals, step into quirky shops, and take in the views at the waterfront park.

Pro tip:
Visit on Tuesday mornings for the Gulfport Fresh Market — free to wander and full of local charm.

Gulfport offers some of the most unique and affordable experiences near St. Petersburg.

3️⃣ Murals + Market Day – Explore the Best of Downtown St. Pete

Total cost: $20

Downtown St. Pete’s Central Arts District is famous for its huge collection of street murals — a completely free activity that makes for fun photos and a great walking route.

👉 Budget-friendly additions at the Saturday Morning Market:

• $7 empanada

• $5 fresh juice

• $8 impulse buy from a local vendor

This experience supports local artists, small businesses, and gives you a true taste of the St. Pete lifestyle.

4️⃣ Sunset Snacker – St. Pete Beach on a Budget

Total cost: $18

If you’re looking for cheap things to do in St. Pete at sunset, this one is unbeatable.

Pick your beach:

• Pass-a-Grille

• Upham Beach

• Sunset Beach

• St. Pete Beach

👉 Grab a few Publix favorites on the way:
• $5 half sub
• $3 drink
• $10 sushi tray

Eat on the sand, enjoy the ocean breeze, and watch one of St. Pete’s famous sunsets — consistently rated among the best in Florida.

This is an iconic St. Petersburg experience for under $20.

5️⃣ Explore Old Northeast – Historic St. Pete Charm on a Budget

Total cost: $12–$20

Start at Coffee Pot Bayou, a scenic waterfront path known for manatee sightings in cooler months. The walk is free and packed with beautiful Old Northeast scenery.

👉 End at Old Northeast Tavern:

• $6 beer or seltzer

• Optional $10 appetizer

This is one of the most beloved historic neighborhoods in St. Petersburg, and exploring it is completely free — except for whatever you decide to sip on afterward.

🌟 Why St. Petersburg, Florida Is Perfect for Budget-Friendly Fun

One of the biggest perks of living in St. Pete is that the city is filled with waterfront views, art, parks, events, and outdoor spaces you can enjoy with little to no cost. These affordable adventures highlight the lifestyle, community, and energy that make St. Petersburg such a desirable place to live.

And if you fall in love with one of these neighborhoods along the way?
The Link Property Group is here to help you explore homes, hidden gems, and the best local living options St. Pete has to offer.