When you're ready for a change from the beach, head to the most comprehensive museum exhibit of the great Spanish surrealist artist, Salvador Dali. Located in a stunning new building on the scenic St. Petersburg waterfront, the Dali Museum houses numerous oils, watercolors, sketches, sculptures and other objects of art, more than 2,000 items in total.
Most Dali novices are surprised to learn that the artist was so much more than a noted surrealist. In his early years, Dali's works are full of wonderful landscapes, portraits and still lifes. His later works astound with fascinating double images and immense religious paintings. Of the 18 so-called Masterworks produced by Dali, eight are located in the St. Petersburg museum.
Given the surrealist artist's penchant for eye trickery, this museum also offers kids a playful introduction to fine art. Ask for the Surreal Family Guide which directs kids through the museum and points out interesting facts about the art and the artist.
Dedicated solely to Dali, the museum's mission is to protect and preserve this unique collection, making it available for the enjoyment and education of all people, and to enhance public appreciation of Dali, one of the most significant artists of the twentieth century. The museum also features temporary exhibits of other artists relating to Dali and surrealism. The museum also hosts many interesting Dali related events.
The Dali museum opened in a new 66,450-square-foot home in early 2011 that's not far from its previous location on the waterfront. This architecturally striking new building has the ability to display many more of Dali's unique pieces as part of the museum's permanent collection. The stunning new landmark has made big news and continues to draw local and worldwide attention. High-profile architect Yann Weymouth (who worked with I.M. Pei on the Louvre’s glass pyramid) created the design to pay homage to Dalí’s free-flowing imagination. The structure represents the artist’s blend of classical and fantastical styles.
Watch a video, read more and see the new museum layout here.
Get Downtown
After visiting the museum, you'll want to check out picturesque downtown St. Petersburg, only minutes from the museum. Featuring seven miles of beautifully preserved downtown waterfront parks, the area makes for a perfect leisurely stroll along the shoreline.
A walk along downtown St. Pete's bayfront sets the mood for a vacation that's as cultural as it is heartwarming. Many early city homes and buildings were originally built in a Mediterranean Revival-style meant to draw on the waterfront's healthy sea air and beauty. The beautifully restored Vinoy Renaissance Resort is a perfect example of this architectural trend. This pedestrian friendly city center has enjoyed a revival in recent years, and gleaming new skyscrapers and restaurants dot the waterfront.
The Pier, a landmark building located in the heart of St. Petersburg is a unique piece of Florida architecture that offers visitors a chance to experience the waterfront along Tampa Bay. Located at the end of a 1/4-mile-long approach, this five story inverted pyramid features shops, restaurants, its own aquarium, live music and even boat docks.
St. Petersburg is alive with art galleries, sidewalk cafes and many other museums, including the newly renovated Museum of Fine Arts. Wander through the unique antique shops and one-of-a-kind curio shops along Central Avenue or at the Pier. Or visit along Beach Drive, with a variety of retail, restaurant and outdoor cafe options along the waterfront, not only are the views spectacular, so is the food. A recent addition to Beach Drive is the new Chihuly Collection - Morean Arts Center. This permanent exhibit displays the blown glass art work of world renowned artist Dale Chihuly in an exhibit space designed especially for the collection, including both pieces created specifically for the exhibit as well as some of his traditional glass pieces.
The city is is also home to many outdoor events, including the Honda Grand Prix, the Mainsail Art Show, the Festival of States parades, Gala Under the Stars and much more.
At night, things heat up. Bars and restaurants come alive and every first Friday of the month, the city hosts a big block party along Central Avenue, complete with live jazz, food, drinks and dancing in the street.
So, do Dali and do downtown.
