Welcome to Old Southeast
Melding privacy and desirable estates, southern grace, and mesmerizing sunset views, the neighborhoods of Old Southeast are as distinctive as they are alluring
Comprising the three distinctive neighborhoods — Driftwood, Old Southeast, and Tropical Shores — the collective area referred to simply as “Old Southeast” presses against the deep blue of the Tampa Bay waters, just southeast of Downtown. While the Tropical Shores and Old Southeast portions of the grouping are drenched in southern charm, the third neighborhood, Driftwood, combines the historic and subtropical to create a one-of-a-kind environment.
For years, the homes in Driftwood were sold or traded exclusively between owners, and today, homes rarely come up for sale. This exclusivity and privacy contribute to Driftwood’s reputation as a show-stopping, desirable neighborhood filled with old family estates on the waterfront. Winding, path-like streets separate Driftwood from more traditional suburban layouts, and this coveted niche community is one of two Designated Artist Enclaves in Saint Petersburg.
Waterfront living is available in all three portions of Old Southeast, and here, the architectural styles can range from quaint bungalows and Mediterranean houses all the way to mid-century stunners valued at several million dollars. Whether you’re searching for an elegant, stately home hidden away from the world or a waterfront cottage bursting with charisma, the neighborhoods of Old Southeast are ready to surpass your expectations.
What to Love
- Captivating Tampa Bay vistas from the grassy expanse of Lassing Park
- Homes zoned for multi-family use and living
- Minutes away from Downtown Saint Petersburg
Local Lifestyle
Creators abound in Old Southeast, and frequent gatherings of the community’s artists result in a vibrant culture of individualism and innovation. With its three individual neighborhoods, Old Southeast is a welcoming place for everyone, and the district’s friendliness is almost as famous as its artistic heritage.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
Though Old Southeast remains predominantly residential like other neighborhoods just outside the limits of Downtown, Old Southeast has the advantage of quick access to the Grand Central Arts District. This versatile commercial epicenter is overflowing with boutiques and independent shops selling a variety of wares, from the mystical gifts at Christy’s Enchanted Notions to the fashionable apparel at Cozette’s Boutique.
Apart from the thrill of the finds at the Grand Central Arts District, Old Southeast is home to its own impressive dining scene. Serving up fresh, fast-casual Poke and Hawaiian cuisine that never slacks on flavor, The Old Southeast Market brings a truly tropical vibe to the already palm-laden streets.
Known as one of the best-kept secrets of Saint Petersburg and a local treasure, The Chattaway is an utterly unique, old-school eatery dishing out award-winning burgers in its open-air garden space. Another hidden gem, The Big Catch at Salt Creek, is a vision in turquoise. Live music, Old Florida hospitality, and a menu loaded with drool-worthy seafood all ensure that diners have an unforgettable experience. Cajun cuisine comes to life at establishments like Mini Restaurant, which never fails to impress visitors with its always-excellent food.
Things to Do
When residents want to spend a serene day out in nature, they invariably head to the vast green swath of Lassing Park. Rarely crowded, this stretch of land has over 14 acres of grassy space to enjoy and even features a sandy beach. Here, biking along the paths, taking a scenic pitstop on the way to downtown, and participating in the free Fun Fitness Boot Camp classes are all invigorating options for entertainment.
Each year, the community gets together for the Annual Plant Swap and Art Raffle, a beloved local event hosted by The Garden Club of Saint Petersburg. Those looking to explore the remarkable work of artists in the Southeast Artist Enclave can participate in the new tradition of the Artist Enclave Self-Guided Tour, in which creators open their doors and invite the neighborhood into their studio spaces.
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