Not any more. Most will agree today that this isn't your grandparents' St. Petersburg. Fast forward just over a half a century and you'll find a very different city. The green benches are gone, victims of a well-meaning, but perhaps misguided attempt at a city-wide "image upgrade." And, while you'll still find retirees in this waterfront city, you'll also find a changing demographic that includes 30-something professionals and young families — those that most likely would be bored by shuffleboard.
So, while shuffleboard courts are still around, St. Petersburg's choices in entertainment are changing along with the demographics. Consider the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. We're talking about an Indy-style street course with high fences, tight turns and roaring race cars.
The event is run on a 1.8-mile, 14-turn temporary street course that fronts St. Petersburg's bay front and runs along Bayshore Drive. This year's event will once again feature races from both the IndyCar Series and the American Le Mans Series (ALMS).
Race weekend is a family-friendly affair with activities taking place in the Bright House Speed Zone, located near Al Lang Field. Racing simulators, face painting for the kids, a rock climbing wall and Euro bungee jumper are just some of the excitement to be found off the raceway.
Ticket Information
General admission tickets for the event range from $25 for Friday and Saturday to $40 on Sunday. One- and three-day tickets with reserved seating are available from $60-$110. For more information or to purchase tickets contact the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg box office at 727-892-5767 or online at www.gpstpete.com or visit Ticketmaster online at www.ticketmaster.com.
