
Stroll along the winding boardwalk amid mature trees, and see wading birds and other wildlife at pristine Boca Ciega Millennium Park.
Nature & Parks
Plan Your Nature Escape
The St. Pete-Clearwater area is brimming with parks and nature preserves, making it easy to wander to the nearest green space and breathe in some fresh air.
For a look at untouched nature, local preserves are the way to go. Weedon Island Preserve is filled with hiking trails and kayaking paths, ideal for bird watching or simply spending time in the great outdoors. Indian Rocks Beach Nature Preserve adds a beautiful mangrove-lined boardwalk into the mix.
If you prefer to stroll through a park, there are dozens to choose from in the St. Pete-Clearwater area. Philippe Park in Safety Harbor is fantastic for a picture-perfect picnic or photo shoot, with its towering oak trees draped in wispy Spanish moss. Sawgrass Lake Park in St. Pete is known for its wildlife spotting opportunities – from turtles and water birds to armadillos and alligators.
To round out the nature-focused fun, add a couple of botanical gardens to the list. The famed Sunken Gardens in St. Pete is filled with koi ponds, small waterfalls, vibrant plants, and colorful birds. The Florida Botanical Gardens in Largo is home to 100 acres of thriving flora for you to explore.
Which parks and gardens are the best in the area?
Mother Nature herself wouldn't argue with these top picks for "Best Walk in the Park" in our annual Best of St. Pete-Clearwater awards. Visit one or many to appreciate the beauty that's all around us.
See winners in more categories
Explore Nature Preserves
Take a walk on the wild side right near the city by exploring the Weedon Island, Boyd Hill and Brooker Creek Preserves.
Explore Nature Preserves NowEscape to Nature with Our Park Videos!
Get a glimpse at the beautiful, natural world of parks and preserves in St. Pete/Clearwater.