Fourth of July in St. Pete-Clearwater: America's Favorite Beaches

With gentle waves, soft, white sands and emerald waters, it's no wonder St. Pete-Clearwater's beaches are America's favorite. In fact, our beaches rank among the best in the world! Tripadvisor recently named Clearwater Beach the #1 Beach in Florida, the #2 Beach in the U.S., and among the Top 20 Beaches in the World!

There's plenty going on over July 4th weekend in St. Pete-Clearwater, including several fireworks shows. The St. Pete Pier will be hosting a big celebration, so be sure to check that out. 

Buy yourself some peanuts and Cracker Jack and root, root, root for the home team at a baseball game. The Clearwater Threshers will play the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels on July 3rd and 4th, with fireworks after both games. The Tampa Bay Rays will play the New York Yankees July 6-9. 

Baseball fans won't want to miss Schrader's Little Cooperstown, the world's largest collection of autographed baseballs, housed at the St. Petersburg Museum of History. You can see baseballs signed by greats such as Jackie Robinson, Ted Williams and Babe Ruth here.

Dig into chicken & waffles, homemade meatloaf, or bacon and eggs (with a side of cheesy grits, of course) at one of our classic diners, such as Trip's Diner, Central Diner, or Skyway Jack's, in St. Petersburg.

What could be more nostalgic than the simple joy of an ice cream cone on a warm summer day? (Answer: a homemade ice cream from Candy Kitchen on Madeira Beach). This little shop can't be called retro, because it's the real deal: It's been right here on Madeira Beach since 1950. You'll find an amazing selection of old-time candies, including Pez, Abba-Zaba, Zagnuts and penny candies. Tip: Remember to sign your name on the wall while you're there (Sharpies provided).

Curious visitors will want to explore St. Pete-Clearwater's museums and historical sites. Here are some top spots to consider as you celebrate America's heritage:

• The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art: While it's a bit of a surprise to find a museum dedicated to the art of the American West in Florida, what a nice surprise it is. In addition to its impressive permanent collection, the museum is featuring a stunning new exhibit, "Wolves: Photography by Ronan Donovan."
• St. Petersburg Museum of History: The museum is home to a replica of the Benoist, which made the first scheduled commercial airline flight in the U.S. on January 1, 1914. You can also catch some great exhibits at the museum, including "Wish You Were Here," an exploration of how tourism has shaped the Sunshine City; "The Florida Highwaymen," which tells the story of the 26 Black artists who sold paintings from the trunks of their cars on U.S. Hwy. 1 from the 1950s to 1970s; and "Civil Rights in the Sunshine City."
• The Museum of the American Arts & Crafts Movement: The only museum of its kind solely dedicated to this uniquely American art form is in a stunning building in downtown St. Pete.
• Heritage Village: Step back in time as your explore several historic homes and learn about the daily lives of early settlers in St. Pete-Clearwater.
• Tarpon Springs: Part of the melting pot of America, the city of Tarpon Springs was largely settled by Greek immigrants and their influence is still felt throughout the community today, from the historic Sponge Docks to the stellar Greek restaurants.
• Black History: Learn about Black history in St. Pete when you follow the self-guided African American Heritage Trail. (Note: The Carter G. Woodson African American Museum is expected to reopen in July but no date has been announced.)
• St. Pete Shuffleboard Club: The country's oldest shuffleboard club (over 100 years old!) offers the "Friday Night Shuffle" every week. It's open to the public and you can bring drinks and snacks.
• Sunken Gardens: This little gem of a botanical garden first opened to the public in the 1920s, when visitors were charged a nickel admission fee. There's plenty of shade in the garden, but come at opening time or late in the day to avoid the mid-day summer heat.
• Palm Harbor Museum: This small museum, open Thursday through Saturday, offers a glimpse of the lives of early white settlers, including citrus farmers. 
• Native American Heritage: Explore the history of Native Americans in what is now St. Pete-Clearwater, when you visit Indian mounds; the Cultural and Natural History Center at Weedon Island Preserve; and the Safety Harbor Museum.
• St. Petersburg Post Office: This Italianate building at 400 1st Ave. N. was the first open-air post office in the country, and it is still in use today.