St. Petersburg, Florida, isn’t just about sun and beaches — it offers a surprising amount of history that’s waiting to be explored. Whether you’re into ancient Native American sites, walking through historic neighborhoods, or gliding on a Segway, this city packs a punch when it comes to stories of the past. We particularly love the Jungle Prada Site History Tour for its immersive storytelling about Florida’s earliest inhabitants, and the Historic Biking Tour for giving a quick, active glimpse into the city’s colorful development. Plus, for a fun, tech-savvy option, the Segway Tour with Museum Entry offers a lively way to see the sights while learning about local history.
Quick Overview
This list features a mix of walking, biking, and Segway tours, each with its own unique flavor. From ancient Native American mounds to walking through historic districts and exploring on a Segway, these experiences cater to different interests and activity levels. Read on to find out which one fits you best.
1. St. Petersburg: Jungle Prada Site History Tour
This immersive history tour takes you back over 1,000 years in Florida. The Jungle Prada Site stands out as one of the best-preserved American Indian mounds in Florida and was a Tocobaga Indian village for over six centuries. The tour offers a fascinating look at Native American life, particularly focusing on the land’s significance as the landing point of Pánfilo de Narváez in 1528—a pivotal moment in Florida’s early history. Visitors also get to explore a family-owned seaside garden where wild peacocks roam freely, adding a touch of charm to the experience.
Led by knowledgeable guides, this 1.5-hour tour costs just $14 per person, making it an excellent value. Tourgoers praise the personal touch and insightful storytelling. The site itself offers a tangible connection to Florida’s earliest inhabitants, making it perfect for history lovers who enjoy a quiet, meaningful setting. The tour’s highlight is learning about the Tocobaga people and their lasting legacy in the region.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in ancient Florida and Native American culture, this tour offers a rare, in-depth look at a well-preserved site for little money.
2. St. Petersburg: Historic Biking Tour
For those who want to combine exercise with education, the Historic Biking Tour is a lively option that lasts about 2 hours. This guided ride takes you through St. Pete’s historic neighborhoods, where you’ll see landmarks like Webb City and the Orange Belt Railway. Your guide, well-versed in local lore, will share stories about the city’s transformation from a small seaside town to a thriving cultural hub.
What makes this tour stand out is its ability to pack in a lot of history in a short time while keeping things active and fun. It’s perfect if you prefer a more energetic way to learn about the city’s roots. The cost is $69 per person, which includes bike rental and guide services. Although it has only one review so far, it’s clear that this tour appeals to travelers eager to cover ground efficiently while soaking up local tales.
Bottom Line: If you like cycling and want an engaging way to see historic sites, this tour offers a quick, informative experience in a scenic setting.
$69 per person
3. St. Petersburg: Historic Segway Tour with Museum Entry
Looking for a fun and modern way to explore St. Petersburg’s history? The Segway Tour with Museum Entry offers a 2-hour glide through the city’s historic district, paired with a visit to the Museum of History. After a 20-minute training session to get comfortable on your Segway, you’ll explore old photographs of the city’s founders and their historic hotels, making history come alive in a lively, interactive way.
This tour stands out for its combination of personal narration through headsets, allowing you to hear your guide clearly as you move. Visitors can also explore the Museum of History at their own pace afterward, adding a flexible element to the experience. The $70 price tag is reasonable given the fun of Segway riding and the educational value, especially for travelers who prefer a more dynamic way of sightseeing. Though reviews are not yet available, the concept has broad appeal for tech-savvy explorers.
Bottom Line: If you’re comfortable on a Segway and want to combine fun with education, this tour provides a memorable way to learn about St. Petersburg’s past.
$70 per person
How to Choose the Best Historical Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your activity level, budget, and specific interests. If you’re intrigued by Native American history, the Jungle Prada Site tour is a rare find. For a quick, active look at the city, the bike tour is excellent. If you want a hands-free, fun experience that combines tech and history, the Segway tour is a great pick.
Reservations are recommended, especially in peak season, and booking early ensures you get your preferred time slot. Think about the kind of experience you enjoy — quiet and contemplative, active and energetic, or tech-savvy and interactive — and choose accordingly.
Final Thoughts
St. Petersburg offers a surprising variety of ways to explore its past. Whether you prefer walking among ancient mounds, pedaling through historic streets, or gliding on a Segway, each tour offers a unique perspective. For history lovers, the Jungle Prada Site is a standout, but the biking and Segway options provide lively, engaging alternatives. Whichever you choose, booking ahead will help you make the most of your trip. Get ready to step back in time and discover the stories that shaped this Florida city.