Deep Six Dumpsters

Sandcastles made of the white sand on St. Petersburg Municipal Beach seem more magical when you look out over the clear water that makes its way slowly up to the shoreline. The kids will love playing in the surf all afternoon as you bask in the invitingly warm Florida sunshine or maybe take a little snooze. But don't forget the sunscreen!

They say that laughter is the best medicine. If that idea is true, then the doctors are definitely in to keep you healthy with a sizable dose of sidesplitting laughter. See some of the country's top comedians take the stage at St. Petersburg's Coconuts Comedy Club. Some of these hysterically funny modern day court jesters have been the guests of Jay Leno and David Letterman as well as fixtures on HBO and Showtime specials.

If you feel the need for speed, then make a beeline to the Festivals of Speed that is held every February in St. Petersburg. This revved-up three-day festival presents the finest in jets, planes, helicopters, yachts, motorcycles and cars that are all designed to raise adrenaline levels. In addition to these luxurious exhibitions, gourmet foods and premium cocktails add an even higher level of distinctive flavor to the fast-paced proceedings.

The American Stage is considered to be the best theater organization in the area, and with good reason. It was founded in 1977 and has been staging impressive productions that feature the talents of area actors, directors and technicians. American Stage features a wide variety of entertainment that ranges from dramatic classics to the cutting edge as well as everything from musicals to Shakespeare. There are performances offered all year long as well as the popular "American Stage in the Park" in the Spring.