11 Things to Do Within 10 Minutes of Campus
By Rhys Cote
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. —College life moves fast — classes, deadlines, clubs and the eternal hunt for free food. But one of the perks of our campus is how much there is to do just minutes away. Whether you need caffeine, culture or simply somewhere to breathe, here are 11 spots within a 10-minute radius that offer an easy escape from the academic grind.
1. Grab a cold brew at Black Crow Coffee
St. Pete’s Black Crow Coffee is a student favorite thanks to its artsy interior, local pastries and the kind of cold brew that helps after a long night of studying. Half the people inside seem to be typing on laptops while the others are sketching in notebooks, so no matter your creative mode, you fit right in.
2. Reset at Paradeco Coffee Roasters
Paradeco isn’t just a café; it’s an aesthetic commitment. With Art Deco-inspired murals and locally roasted beans, it’s hard not to feel lighter walking in. Creative Loafing Tampa Bay reported during its opening that Paradeco emphasizes sustainability and ethically sourced coffee — something that makes that $6 latte feel a little more justified.
3. Wander through the Dalí Museum gardens
Even if you’re not buying a ticket, the Dalí Museum’s outdoor space is free and surprisingly peaceful. The gardens overlook the marina, and the museum’s geodesic bubble exterior is worth the short walk on its own. Smithsonian Magazine has cited the museum as one of the top art museums in the United States, which is clear once you’ve stood in front of “The Hallucinogenic Toreador.”
4. Explore the MFA’s free lawn events
The Museum of Fine Arts hosts recurring outdoor events that don’t cost anything, from yoga on the lawn to pop-up markets featuring local artists. Even without a scheduled event, the waterfront lawn is one of the best places nearby to unwind between classes. The museum updates its free programming monthly on its website.
5. Walk the St. Pete Pier
It’s hard to believe the St. Pete Pier is only minutes from campus, given how sprawling it feels. You can walk, bike, hammock, grab a smoothie or just sit beside the water and forget, briefly, that you have assignments due. The Tampa Bay Times reported that the pier attracted more than 2 million visitors in its first year, and once you’ve watched a sunset from the end of it, the hype makes sense.
6. Grab tacos at Red Mesa Cantina
For a fast and affordable meal that still tastes fresh, Red Mesa Cantina is a go-to. The outdoor seating and late hours make it ideal for post-study dinners. The street tacos are the favorite, but the breakfast burrito is an underrated pick.
7. Try boba at Teaki
If you need a mid-day sugar boost that feels like both a treat and a coping mechanism, Teaki is the spot. Its customizable boba options let you make your drink as simple or chaotic as you want. My favorite combo is passion fruit green tea with lychee jelly.
8. Spend an afternoon at North Shore Park
Right by the water, North Shore Park is a great place for a breezy walk or a quick homework session under a tree. You’ll usually see dogs, families and at least one person rollerblading with surprising confidence. It’s easy to forget how grounding it can be to sit outside for 20 minutes, and this is the closest, easiest place to do it.
9. Catch a free event at Williams Park
From farmers markets to outdoor concerts and vendor fairs, Williams Park regularly hosts free community events. According to the City of St. Petersburg’s events calendar, the park holds multiple free activities every week, making it one of the most accessible ways to experience local culture without leaving the 10-minute bubble.
10. Browse books at Tombolo Books
Independent bookstores are automatically comforting, and Tombolo Books is no exception. Its curated layout makes it easy to find something unexpected. The shop also hosts regular author talks featuring national and local writers. Even if you don’t buy anything, stopping in is a quick mental reset.
11. Eat your way through Central Avenue
Central Avenue is the one-stop strip for almost anything: cafés, vintage shops, dessert spots, bars, noodle bowls, vegan options and more. Wandering without a plan is sometimes the best plan. One minute you’re trying on thrifted sunglasses, the next you’re eating rolled ice cream. It’s chaotic in the best way.
If there’s any secret to surviving college, it’s knowing when to step off campus — mentally and physically. Luckily, everything you need for a quick reset, inspiration boost or study break is just a short walk, bike ride or Bolt scooter trip away.
