St. Petersburg Museum of History
Perched at the gateway to the St. Pete Pier district, the St. Petersburg Museum of History has been the keeper of the city's story for over a hundred years. Founded in 1921, the museum brings Florida history to life through a collection that is equal parts fascinating and wonderfully eccentric. The Flight One Gallery celebrates one of the city's proudest moments — the world's first scheduled commercial airline flight, which took off from St. Pete across Tampa Bay in 1914 and changed aviation forever. Sports fans will lose track of time in Schrader's Little Cooperstown, home to what is recognized as the world's largest collection of autographed baseballs, a jaw-dropping display that traces the history of America's pastime through thousands of signed balls. And then there is The Odditorium, a cabinet-of-curiosities-style gallery featuring unusual artifacts including a two-headed calf and a 3,000-year-old Egyptian mummy — proof that history does not have to be stuffy. Additional exhibits explore local military history, shipwrecks along the Gulf Coast, and the stories of the people and communities that shaped St. Petersburg into the vibrant city it is today. Free parking behind the museum and a location steps from the Pier make this an easy and rewarding addition to any day downtown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the St. Petersburg Museum of History? expand_more
The museum is at 335 2nd Avenue NE in downtown St. Petersburg, right at the entrance to the St. Pete Pier district. Free parking is available behind the museum.
What is the most popular exhibit at the Museum of History? expand_more
Among the highlights are the Flight One Gallery celebrating the world's first commercial airline flight in 1914, Schrader's Little Cooperstown with the world's largest collection of autographed baseballs, and The Odditorium featuring unusual artifacts.
How much does admission cost? expand_more
Admission is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $9 for military, children, and students. Children under 6 are free.
What are the museum hours? expand_more
The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
Is there free parking at the Museum of History? expand_more
Yes. The museum offers free parking for visitors in the lot behind the building, which is a nice perk in the downtown Pier district area.
More to Explore
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