Tour de Shine: St. Petersburg Art Murals by Bicycle


I love discovering incredible destinations in my own backyard.  Downtown St. Petersburg has become well-known in cultural circles not only for its world-class museums, but also for its growing collection of art murals.

This fall the Shine Mural Festival brought in artists from across the country, including Canada and the Caribbean, to add 15 new murals. It's easy to stroll along the alleyways and side streets in the Central Arts District to find many , but it's even better to take a guided bicycle tour so you can see even more.

Guided walking tours of the art murals are offered every Saturday from Florida CraftArt, but the guided bike rides are only offered occasionally. I was lucky enough to grab a coveted spot on the recent Tour de Shine bike  ride sponsored by St. Pete Bike Coop. Some 80 art lovers  cruised around the streets of downtown on a lazy Sunday afternoon, discovering amazing murals and learning about the talented artists behind them.  It was the best $10 I have spent in a while!

You can't help but love downtown St. Petersburg, which has evolved in the last decade into a super cool, laid-back and creative community. I love exploring the many art galleries and museums, restaurants and nightlife ... and now I am adding Sunday bike rides and art murals to the list.

I am not sure when another Tour de Shine will be offered but you can contact the St. Pete Bike Coop and they will probably know.  Happy trails!