The culture in St. Pete is different from that of Tampa. There are a lot of local boutiques and shops, all owned by residents of St. Pete. Thrift stores are especially popular and you find a lot of them in the area, as well as specialized vintage boutiques that turn thrifting into an art form. The local eateries and bars are amazing – there is a focus on green living and sustainable food, so you will find a lot of local foods in the restaurants.