Seminole
Though primarily a residential community, Seminole has some unique outdoor experiences that endear it to locals and visitors alike. The community sits northwest of big city St. Pete and is a gateway to Madeira Beach and Indian Shores. Here, parks and trails beckon – and good food and drink is always nearby.
Outdoor Adventures
For a peaceful day on the water, launch your boat or kayak into Lake Seminole Park. If you want to rent a kayak, Sandy Feet Kayak Rentals will drop it off at your desired launch site. Prefer to stay on land? You can work up a sweat (or take a relaxed stroll) on the park’s paved trails. Rent a bike (or a water bike) from Wheel Fun Rentals. Either way, you’re likely in for some wildlife-spotting (alligators are often seen here). Grills and pavilions make for pleasant picnicking.
For a special nature experience, check out Boca Ciega Millennium Park, a stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail, and a hidden gem within the city. The entrance itself is lovely, with a long, winding drive through a canopy of moss-covered live oaks. Once inside, walk the boardwalk trails and be sure to experience the most magical part of the park: the 35-foot observation tower, where a climb to the top will treat you to expansive views of Boca Ciega Bay. (Tip: come around sunset, when the view is spectacular) Elsewhere in the park, kids can climb around on the playground, and a dog park provides pups with plenty of exercise.
Things to Do
Cyclists will love Seminole for its easy access to the 45-mile-long Pinellas Trail, which traverses many communities in St. Pete/Clearwater. The former railway route will take cyclists north to Clearwater, Dunedin and beyond – or south to St. Pete – with plenty of cafes, ice cream shops, bike shops and even a few breweries along the way.
Whether it’s a rainy day or you’re looking for some old-fashioned family fun, head to Treasure Island Fun Center just across city lines in Treasure Island. With two hours of unlimited play for just $5, the arcade is sure to entertain kids of all ages.
If you’re looking to catch a movie, reserve your seat at Studio Movie Grill, which has full table service and an extensive food and drink menu.
Where to Eat
Seminole is full of great dining choices. Looking for some curry with a dragon roll on the side? Osaka Japanese & Thai is an excellent choice. For no-fuss pub fare like wings, mahi-mahi tacos and fried pickles as well as a lengthy tap list, check out Angry Pepper on 113th Street.
If you’re looking for some quick fuel, check out Empanada Brothers for some hearty handhelds, including the likes of buffalo chicken empanadas guava-and-cheese arepas, a Central American delight.
For a pizza menu that runs the gamut from good ol’ cheese by the slice to Chicago deep-dish, pear/Gorgonzola and the oh-so-savory Truffle Shuffle and surprisingly hearty salads (check the antipasti), head to Slyce near the Tom Stuart Causeway. Opt for seating on the spacious patio for live music, water views and craft beer on tap.
Be sure to delve into the legendary local craft beer scene at Rapp Brewing. Nestled in an unassuming commercial complex, it’s a “nanobrewery” offering handcrafted small-batch brews and a creative, ever-changing tap list. Learn more about the ever-growing craft beer scene in St. Pete Clearwater, also known as the Gulp Coast.