From Pink Palaces to Military Parade Grounds: St. Pete Goes to War

What happens when paradise becomes a military training hub?

In the 1940s St. Petersburg traded beach umbrellas for boot camp drills. Join us on a waterfront walk to learn how St. Pete hosted more than 100,000 troops during World War II.

Discover how elegant hotels like the Vinoy became barracks, how merchant mariners trained on tall ships in Bayboro Harbor, and how the Coast Guard launched daring rescues from Albert Whitted. Hear the fascinating story of St. Pete in WWII—its role as a training center, its colorful characters, and the everyday locals who supported the troops as you enjoy the beauty of the waterfront.  

We will start at the park in front of the Vinoy Resort and finish near the airport where you can hop the free trolley back, if desired. Total walking distance about 1 mile.

St. Petersburg Downtown Looper | PSTA

PTB members are $10; Guests and non-members are $20/person. 

Tour reservations are strongly recommended, space is limited.

Tour will meet at the North end of North Straub Park across from the Vinoy Resort (350 Bayshore Dr NE)  

image by Elisa.rolle  CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=57308498