For families in search of a fun and educational activity, the Pier Aquarium is the perfect destination. Occupying the second floor of the St. Pete Pier, the aquarium showcases a variety of fish and other aquatic animals. Stingrays, clown fish, urchins, lobsters and sea horses can be found swimming about one of the large saltwater tanks. The aquarium also has educational displays featuring historic, climate, weather and marine life facts relative to the state of Florida. There is a daily touch tank and fish feeding for children to have a more hands-on experience as well as lectures and guided tours with trained marine scientists.
The gift shop gift shop is located at the entrance where visitors may purchase t-shirts, books, jewelry and other souvenirs. The Pier Aquarium hosts free events monthly and accommodates private parties and school field trips.
The St. Pete Pier has been a popular spot for locals and tourists for generations. It has been rebuilt over the years but essentially stayed the same. Located on 2nd Avenue, extending into Tampa Bay, the Pier invites people to experience the waterfront. Visitors walk, bike, drive or take the Looper Trolley. It has shops, restaurants, a place to rent bait and tackle, as well as a place to hand-feed fresh fish to the pelicans that sit idly and dry their wings along the pier. Visitors may take a scenic boat ride on Tampa Bay on the Dolphin Queen cruise, enjoy a fun and educational experience at the Pier Aquarium, dine on the rooftop at Cha Cha Coconuts, or browse one of the specialty gift and apparel shops that occupy the 1st floor. In addition, the Pier hosts hundreds of events each year, including 4th of July fireworks shows and live music every Sunday rain or shine.