The Reader’s Choice Awards have been revealed for Conde Nast’s top American Cities to Visit — and St. Pete came in at number 10. St. Pete’s emergence as a key travel destination over the last 10 years has so much to do with out blossoming arts and small business scenes in the Sunshine City.

SHINE Mural Festival has transformed the ‘Burg into an open air art gallery. The lauded mural festival returns November 7-14 of this year. Organizers have partnered with artists for oceans for the latest edition of the event.

Our sprawling restaurant and dining scene also makes the downtown area, and the stretch West on Central Avenue has transformed out city into one for food lovers. If you want a glimpse at our booming food scene consider joining the St. Pete Socially Distanced Supper Club.

St. Pete’s stunning waterfront parks system, and the brand new St. Pete Pier offer resplendent escape (and you’re almost always guaranteed to spot a dolphin from Vinoy Park). The Sunshine City also offers quick access to some of the best beaches in America.

You can’t understate the significance of our wonderful museums, like The James Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, The Dali, Imagine, and The Chihuly Collection.

The ‘Burg also plays host to one of the largest PRIDE celebrations in the Southeast, and is famous for its weekly farmers market.

This is a city dedicated to protecting the environment. This is evidenced by the myriad businesses that joined No Straws St. Pete. St. Pete is also home to the near zero waste shop The Refillery, which continues to help residents cut down on single use plastics in their own homes.

We’re also home to beautiful boutique hotels like The Hollander Hotel in downtown St. Petersburg.

There’s even a large online shop specifically for Tampa Bay businesses, you can shop and support local no matter where you are.

The arrival of unique boutiques like Neat Neat Neat (a punk rock Rose Apothecary), and Cultosaurus (a designer art and toy shop), and a new arthouse cinema (Green Light), and celebrated Indie Bookstore (Tombolo Books), just add to the overall splendor.

Can you tell we love it here?

There are ample intangibles that make us proud to call this city home. Why do you love the ‘Burg?

Let us know in the comments.

Why do I Love the ‘Burg?