St. Petersburg, Florida is known for its beautiful beaches and sunny weather, but it also has a number of amazing parks to explore. Whether you’re looking for a place to walk, jog, bike, or simply relax and enjoy nature, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best parks for walking in St. Pete.

8 Best Parks for Walking in St. Pete

Fort De Soto Park

Fort De Soto Park is a massive park located on the southern tip of St. Pete Beach. It spans over 1,100 acres and features miles of walking and biking trails, as well as stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The park is also home to some of the area’s most beautiful beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

In addition to the beaches, Fort De Soto Park also has a historic fort, campgrounds, and a fishing pier. There are also plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, as the park is home to a variety of birds and sea creatures.

Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is a 245-acre park located on the shores of Lake Maggiore in south St. Pete. The park features a number of trails that wind through its diverse ecosystems, including pine flatwoods, hardwood hammocks, and wetlands. The trails are well-maintained and easy to navigate, making them perfect for walkers of all skill levels.

One of the highlights of Boyd Hill Nature Preserve is its birding opportunities. The park is home to over 200 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. In addition to the birds, the park is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including alligators, snakes, and turtles.

Vinoy Park

Vinoy Park is an 11.6-acre waterfront park located in downtown St. Pete. It’s a popular destination for walkers and joggers, thanks to its paved pathways that wind along the waterfront. The park is also home to a number of amenities, including a playground, picnic areas, and a fishing pier.

One of the highlights of Vinoy Park is its stunning views of Tampa Bay. The park is located on the waterfront, so visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the bay and the city skyline. It’s also a popular spot for watching the sunset.

Sunken Gardens

Sunken Gardens is a 100-year-old botanical garden located in the heart of St. Pete. The garden features over 50,000 tropical plants, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. The paths wind through the lush foliage, providing a peaceful and serene atmosphere for walkers.

In addition to the plants, Sunken Gardens also has a number of water features, including a koi pond and a waterfall. There are also plenty of benches and gazebos throughout the garden, providing opportunities for visitors to sit and relax.

Sawgrass Lake Park

Sawgrass Lake Park is a 400-acre park located in northeast St. Pete. The park is home to a mile-long boardwalk that winds through its unique wetland ecosystem. The boardwalk provides a close-up view of the park’s wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and a variety of bird species.

In addition to the boardwalk, Sawgrass Lake Park also has a number of other trails and paths that are perfect for walking. The park is also home to a picnic area and a playground, making it a great destination for families.

Demens Landing Park

Demens Landing Park is a waterfront park located in downtown St. Pete. The park features a paved pathway that winds along the waterfront, providing stunning views of Tampa Bay. The park is also home to a number of amenities, including a playground, picnic areas, and a fishing pier.

One of the unique features of Demens Landing Park is its outdoor concert venue. The park hosts a number of concerts and events throughout the year, making it a popular destination for music lovers.

Weedon Island Preserve

Weedon Island Preserve is a 3,190-acre park located on Tampa Bay in northeast St. Pete. The park features a number of hiking trails that wind through its diverse ecosystems, including mangrove forests and salt marshes. The trails provide opportunities for wildlife viewing, including a variety of bird species.

Weedon Island Preserve also has a cultural and natural history center that provides visitors with information about the park’s history and ecology. The center hosts a number of events and educational programs throughout the year.

Crescent Lake Park

Crescent Lake Park is a 56-acre park located in the Historic Old Northeast neighborhood of St. Pete. The park features a 1.5-mile walking path that winds around the lake, providing stunning views of the water and surrounding foliage. The park is also home to a playground, picnic areas, and a dog park.

One of the highlights of Crescent Lake Park is its historic bandshell, which hosts concerts and events throughout the year. The park is also a popular destination for fishing and kayaking.

Interactive Map of the 8 Best Parks for Walking in St. Pete

In conclusion, St. Pete has no shortage of beautiful parks to explore. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk through a botanical garden or a scenic stroll along the waterfront, there are parks for everyone. So grab your walking shoes and get ready to discover the natural beauty of St. Pete.