The city is our campus
The city of St. Petersburg is more than just our geographical location. It’s an extension of who we are - a place that combines natural beauty with the excitement of city life.
Studying and living on campus puts students within walking and biking distance to world-class museums, city parks, live music venues, sports, dining and nightlife that is part of a vibrant and dynamic downtown. Our "In Our Backyard" video series highlights many of these places.
Video by the City of St. Petersburg
Dubbed the “Sunshine City,” St. Petersburg is home to some of the country’s best beaches. Just a 15-minute car or free bus ride from campus puts students’ feet in the sand and their gaze across the Gulf of Mexico.
The city also hosts hundreds of events and festivals each year, from the Shine Mural Fest to the Grand Prix of St. Petersburg to Reggae Rise Up. And every Saturday, students can pick out fresh, local veggies at one of the largest weekly fresh markets in the Southeast U.S.
These are just some of the reasons St. Petersburg has become an international destination, named by Forbes as one of the "Best Places to Travel in the U.S. in 2023.”
While staying on campus, Florida’s wonderous wildlife is a common sight right outside your window. Manatees, dolphins, sting rays and pelicans are guests in and around our calm harbor on Tampa Bay.
Our impressive waterfront location is also ideal for water sports and recreation. Students have access to a well-equipped boat dock where they can use kayaks and paddle boards to explore our waterways, while hammocks are commonly seen among the palms.
Overhead, small aircrafts glide over campus as they land at Albert Whitted Airport nearby. Students interested in flying can take discounted lessons at the historic airport just a short stroll from campus.
Our close-knit campus reflects our city: a welcoming, lively, sustainably minded, entrepreneurial community where it is easy to make friends and easier to know your professors.
Welcome to USF St. Petersburg.