Day Trip to St. Petersburg

Sunken Gardens & Mazzaro's Italian Market 

Monday, November 30, 2026

Enjoy a relaxing day in St. Petersburg beginning with a visit to Mazzaro’s Italian Market, where the holiday season will be in full swing. This bustling market is a destination in itself, filled with the aromas of freshly baked bread, handcrafted pastries, and authentic Italian specialties. Browse the aisles for imported goods, gourmet treats, and unique gifts, or stop to enjoy a made-to-order sandwich or coffee. With its festive atmosphere and endless selection, it’s the perfect place to shop, explore, and enjoy lunch at your leisure.

Afterward, we’ll continue on to Sunken Gardens, a lush tropical escape tucked in the heart of the city. This historic botanical garden is home to winding pathways, vibrant flowers, cascading waterfalls, and a variety of exotic plants and wildlife, offering a peaceful setting to explore at your own pace. Whether you choose to join a guided tour or wander independently, you’ll have time to take in the beauty and rich history of this beloved local landmark before heading home.

SCHEDULE:

8:30 AM – Bus arrives and Check-in begins

8:45 AM – Depart from Activity Center

10:15 AM – 12:00 PM – Lunch & Shopping at Mazzaro’s. Enjoy an early lunch from the deli, bakery, or café. Browse seasonal specialties and holiday items 

12:00 PM – Depart for Sunken Gardens

12:30 PM – Guided tours are led by volunteer docents and are subject to availability. If a docent is not available, the visit will be self-guided. Tours typically last 1 to 1.5 hours and highlight the gardens’ tropical flora, wildlife, and rich history. 

1:30 – 2:30 PM – Free Time in the Gardens. Stroll, relax, take photos, or continue exploring at your own pace 

2:30 PM – Depart for home

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO...

Group Leader:  Susan Conaty  (914) 356-1396  [email protected]  

Mobility Notes: This trip includes walking along garden paths with varied terrain and through a busy, potentially crowded market. While much of Sunken Gardens is accessible, some areas feature uneven surfaces, narrow pathways, slight inclines, and small bridges. Limited seating is available throughout the gardens. Walkers and wheelchairs are welcome, but guests should use caution on uneven ground.

Coolers Welcome: Guests may bring a cooler on the motorcoach to keep items fresh from Mazzaro’s Italian Market. Larger coolers can be stored in the cargo area beneath the bus.

Mazzaro’s Visit: Please expect a lively and busy atmosphere, especially with the upcoming holiday season. Seating is limited and casual. Guests are encouraged to browse, shop, and enjoy lunch at their own pace.

Garden Tour Note: Guided tours are led by volunteer docents and are subject to availability. If docents are unavailable, your visit may be partially or fully self-guided. Guided tours are not guaranteed, and pricing remains the same regardless of format.

For full details, please review our official itinerary by clicking here: Itinerary - Sunken Gardens & Mazzaros.pdf

REGISTRATION ENDS: Tuesday, November 24 at 3:00 PM or until sold out