The Railroad Pier was built in 1889 by the Orange Belt Railway. It was the first privately owned and was an attraction for locals and tourists. The elaborately designed Electric Pier, which was located on Second Avenue North, was erected in 1906. This pier was well known for it's delightful night lights, from about 1914.
The first Municipal Pier was constructed in 1914 as well, with a $40,000 bond approved by voters. This pier was built on Second Avenue North only about 10 feet from the north side of the Electric Pier.
In 1921, a hurricane destroyed all standing piers and the then 8 year old Municipal Pier was severely crippled, that is when the "Million Dollar Pier" dream was realized. (1925) This would be the first city owned pier.
The "Dream Pier" or the Million Dollar Pier was opened/Dedicated on Thanksgiving Day in 1926 and over 10,000 people came to watch the dedication ceremonies!
The landmark of the inverted pyramid pier that stands today is owned by the City of St.Petersburg, which opened in Jan. 1973. There are still some shops, food, ice-cream and a center floor aquarium, with an over look balcony from the second floor. (You may want to watch those pesky teenagers from above)
The Pier is opened most of the year, rain or shine!
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