St. Petersburg Jungle Prada Site History Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The Jungle Prada Site History Tour is a historian-led walking tour of a private seaside garden and featuring the best-preserved American Indian mound in Tampa Bay. The Jungle Prada Site Complex is also thought to be the landing place of the 1528 expedition led by Pánfilo de Narváez, the survivors of which walked from Florida all the way to the Pacific Ocean (1528 – 1536). The privately-owned Anderson Mound has been lovingly preserved by members of the Anderson family for over 80 years.
You’ll meet wild peacocks, discover native plants used by the Tocobaga people, and explore a side of St. Petersburg, Florida you never knew existed!
Safety Statement:
Due to the historic nature of the property some surfaces are uneven. Please watch your step and use caution on the paths. Other potential risks include all those that naturally arise from walking through heavily wooded or natural areas.
Available options
St. Petersburg Jungle Prada Site History Tour
What's included
Parking available on-site
75-minute Historian led guided tour
Detailed itinerary
1
The Jungle Prada Site is the best-preserved American Indian site in Tampa Bay. The highlight of our 75-minute guided Florida history tour is a huge Tocobaga Indian midden mound and adjoining village plaza. Hidden away in the historic neighborhood known as Jungle Prada, the main mound consists of tens of thousands of ancient conch and whelk shells, and is more than 900 feet long! The subtropical jungle landscape here is populated by dozens of beautiful free-roaming peacocks! The tour and the locations are loaded with Florida history that is explained in a vibrant and engaging way. In addition to learning about the lives of the Tocobaga Indians, you'll also encounter the amazing story of Alvar Nunez Cabeza de Vaca, a Spanish conquistador who landed at the Jungle Prada with the 1528 Narvaez Expedition, and whose incredible journey of survival took him and three others from Florida all the way to the Pacific Ocean (1528 - 1536). If you are a Florida resident or a visitor interested in history and archaeology, the Jungle Prada Site Tour is a rewarding experience that will engage your mind and challenge your perceptions about the Sunshine State!
2
Nearby attraction. Free parking attraction on site and close walk to site tour.
What's not included
Transportation to/from attraction
Please bring water to stay hydrated in the Florida summer.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
128 reviews
5★
121
4★
6
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
434 reviews
5★
429
4★
5
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Pets are not allowed on the site
Due to the historic nature of the property some surfaces are uneven. Please watch your step and always exercise caution. Other potential risks include all those that naturally arise from walking through heavily wooded areas.
Meeting point
Take Park Street to the Jungle Prada building (corner of Park Street N. and Elbow Lane N.). Drive past the JP Tavern heading towards Boca Ciega Bay. Look for our A-frame sign and orange cones in the gravel parking area on your left. The entrance gate is at the end of that parking lot.
Important notes
Look for small yards signs with an arrow pointing towards the start of the tour. You will see orange cones outside of the entry gate.
About St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg, Florida, is a vibrant city known for its sunny weather, beautiful waterfront, and rich cultural scene. With over 361 days of sunshine per year, it's a perfect destination for outdoor activities, arts, and relaxation.
Top Attractions
The Dalí Museum
The Dalí Museum houses the largest collection of Salvador Dalí's works outside of Europe. It's a must-visit for art lovers and those interested in surrealism.
Museum
2-3 hours
$25
St. Petersburg Pier
The St. Petersburg Pier offers stunning views of Tampa Bay, dining options, and recreational activities. It's a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a family outing.
Waterfront/Entertainment
1-2 hours
Free (attractions may have separate fees)
Fort De Soto Park
Fort De Soto Park is a beautiful beach park with historical significance. It offers pristine beaches, nature trails, and a historic fort to explore.
Nature/Beach
Half day
Free (parking fees apply)
Savage Gardens
Savage Gardens is a unique botanical garden featuring carnivorous plants, tropical plants, and a beautiful butterfly exhibit.
Nature/Botanical Garden
1-2 hours
$10
Sunken Gardens
Sunken Gardens is a historic botanical garden with a diverse collection of plants, including tropical and exotic species. It's a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
Nature/Botanical Garden
1-2 hours
$10
Must-Try Local Dishes
Grouper Sandwich
A delicious sandwich featuring fresh grouper, often served with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce on a toasted bun.
Lunch
Contains fish and gluten (unless served on a gluten-free bun)
Key Lime Pie
A classic Florida dessert made with key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust.
Dessert
Contains dairy and gluten (unless served in a gluten-free crust)
Stone Crab
A Florida delicacy featuring sweet and tender stone crab meat, often served with mustard sauce.
Dinner
Contains shellfish and gluten (in the mustard sauce)
Popular Activities
Kayaking
Paddleboarding
Biking
Hiking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga
Meditation
Best Time to Visit
November to April
This is the most popular time to visit St. Petersburg due to the pleasant weather and various festivals and events. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
15-27°C
60-80°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5) / Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4) during daylight saving time
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
St. Petersburg is generally a safe city for visitors, with a low crime rate. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or rideshare services
Getting there
By air
- St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport • 15 miles (24 km)
- Tampa International Airport • 20 miles (32 km)
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and convenient, with numerous routes connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown St. Petersburg
Tropicana Field
Grand Central District
Historic Kenwood
Day trips
Clearwater Beach
20 miles (32 km) • Half day to full day
Clearwater Beach is a beautiful beach destination with white sand, clear water, and a variety of water sports and activities.
Tarpon Springs
30 miles (48 km) • Full day
Tarpon Springs is a charming Greek town with a rich history and a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
25 miles (40 km) • Full day
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a popular theme park with thrilling rides, animal encounters, and live entertainment.
Festivals
St. Petersburg Pride • June
Tampa Bay Margarita Festival • October
St. Pete Food Truck Festival • March
Pro tips
- Visit the St. Petersburg Pier for stunning views of Tampa Bay and the city skyline
- Explore the city's vibrant arts and culture scene by visiting museums, galleries, and theaters
- Enjoy the city's beautiful waterfront by taking a sunset sail or renting a kayak or paddleboard
- Sample the city's diverse culinary scene by trying local specialties, such as grouper sandwiches and key lime pie
- Take a day trip to nearby Clearwater Beach or Tarpon Springs for a change of pace and additional attractions
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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