If you're exploring downtown St. Petersburg and craving something uniquely local, Sunken Gardens should be on your must‑see list. Nestled in the Historic Old Northeast at  1825 4th Street North  , this botanical gem spans four acres and features over  50,000 tropical plants and flowers , winding paths, cascading waterfalls, and a tranquil escape right in the heart of the city.

Originally started in  1903  by George Turner, who drained a shallow lake to build this “sunken” garden, it later opened to the public and is now operated by the City of St. Petersburg. The gardens also host tropical birds, flamingos, koi ponds, butterfly gardens, and themed plant collections from around the world.

Visitors can stroll under live oaks, pause at koi ponds, and enjoy the lush landscapes—typically in  1 to 2 hours  —making it a perfect midday or afternoon stop. The gardens are open  Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM  , and  Sunday from 12:00 PM to 4:30 PM  (last admission at 4:00 PM).

Why Sunken Gardens Draw Locals & Visitors

•  It’s one of Florida’s  oldest roadside attractions , now a cultural treasure in St. Pete
• The gardens are a favorite spot for  weddings , photo shoots, horticulture classes, and community events
• You’ll often find educational programs, art installations, and seasonal plant showcases
• It’s extremely walkable and partly wheelchair accessible, with gardens arranged so visitors can experience vibrant greenery everywhere

Because Sunken Gardens is so close to downtown and the Garden District area, it's also a scenic endpoint for a stroll or a break between city activities.

Pair Your Visit with Authentic Brick-Oven Pizza

 After you leave the tranquility of Sunken Gardens, you don’t have to travel far to keep your day special. Just minutes away is Flippers Pizza in St. Pete , ready to serve stone-fired pizza, wings, crisp salads, and vegan or gluten-free options all day.
Whether you’re wandering through the Old Northeast, strolling over to nearby landmarks like  Vinoy Park , or shopping along Central Avenue, our St. Pete location is perfectly situated to deliver—or to welcome you for dine-in.Make your visit delicious:

•  Try a  Margherita  or  Pepperoni  pie straight from the brick oven
• Explore our  vegan & gluten-free crust  options
• Order online now or swing by after your garden walk

Order Online for    Sunken Garden Pizza Delivery or Pickup