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Eat Like a Local: 5 Burger Spots You Can’t Miss in St. Petersburg

3/27/2025

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If there’s one thing St. Pete locals know how to do right—besides sunshine and sunsets—it’s burgers. Whether you’re craving a classic cheeseburger or something a little more gourmet, our city’s got you covered. And lucky for guests of the Crystal Bay Hotel, some of the best burger joints in town are just a short stroll or scenic drive away. We’ve rounded up five must-try spots where you can sink your teeth into mouthwatering patties, from cozy neighborhood favorites to creative, chef-driven bites. Hungry yet? Let’s dive in.

1. Dead Bob's: Burgers, Beers, and Old-School Vibes Just Minutes Away
  • Distance from Crystal Bay Hotel: ~1 mile
  • Google Rating: 4.5 stars
  • Address: 6716 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33707
  • Website: deadbobsstpete.com

​Dead Bob's is a local institution where you can catch the game, listen to music, or simply enjoy a no-fuss burger with a cold beer. The atmosphere is casual and full of character—think local dive and a jukebox playing your favorite old-school hits. Their "Philly Bob Burger" is a must-try: topped with shaved sirloin, grilled onions, and gooey American cheese. Bonus points for the stuffed tots, which are like tiny bites of heaven. This is comfort food with a old-school twist, just a mile from your room at Crystal Bay.
2. Engine No. 9: Gourmet Burgers with Game Day Energy

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7 Hidden Gems Near St. Pete Beach: Local Attractions Guide

3/25/2025

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Looking for unique experiences near St. Pete Beach? Here are 7 spots that go beyond the usual beach activities. From nature trails to historic districts, these are perfect for exploring Florida's charm:
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  1. Sunken Gardens: A century-old botanical garden with 50,000+ tropical plants, waterfalls, and flamingos. Admission: $15 adults, $12 seniors, $6 kids.
  2. Boyd Hill Nature Preserve: 245 acres of trails through 6 ecosystems with wildlife like gopher tortoises and wood-warblers.
  3. Weedon Island Preserve: Coastal boardwalks, a 45-ft observation tower, and a cultural history center.
  4. Relaxing at Fort De Soto Park: Enjoy kayaking, fishing, and exploring the park’s diverse habitats. They even have a dog-friendly beach.
  5. Kayaking Through Shell Key Preserve: Paddle through lush mangrove tunnels in clear kayaks, allowing an unobstructed view of the marine life beneath you.
  6. John’s Pass Boardwalk: Shopping and Dining​: Waterfront shopping, dining, and events like the upcoming Seafood Festival (March 28–30, 2025).
  7. Pass-a-Grille Historic District: Old Florida vibes with historic homes, unique shops, and beachfront dining.

Quick Tip: Visit early for cooler weather and active wildlife. Don't forget sunscreen, water, and comfy shoes.

Discover the Enchanting Sunken Gardens in St. Petersburg ...


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Inside the Crystal Bay Butterfly Garden: A Natural Sanctuary in St. Pete

3/21/2025

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Imagine stepping out for your morning coffee and being greeted by the flutter of monarch wings, the soft rustle of native Florida milkweed, and the peaceful buzz of a thriving pollinator garden. Welcome to the Crystal Bay Butterfly Garden, a serene, living habitat thoughtfully cultivated to support one of nature’s most delicate and iconic creatures: the butterfly.

A Garden with Purpose
Established in 2018, the Crystal Bay Butterfly Garden was created with a clear mission in mind: to provide a safe haven for pollinators, especially monarch butterflies, whose populations are facing steep decline across North America. Our dedicated gardener has lovingly planted an array of native Florida plants, including milkweed, the essential host plant for monarch caterpillars.

This vibrant space doesn’t just add beauty to our grounds; it plays a crucial role in local conservation. Guests often spot butterflies fluttering between blossoms or caterpillars munching happily on leaves. It’s a peaceful reminder that even the smallest creatures deserve a home.

Why Monarchs Matter
Monarch butterflies are more than just beautiful; they are a vital part of our ecosystem. But these iconic pollinators are in trouble. In 2024, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service proposed adding monarchs to the Endangered Species Act list as a threatened species.

And the statistics are sobering:
  • By 2080, the probability of extinction for eastern monarchs ranges from 56% to 74%. For western monarchs, that probability jumps to greater than 95%.

At Crystal Bay, we believe every garden, no matter how small, can help shift those odds.

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    Written by Cathy Burns, our Marketing Manager with the assistance of AI. 

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