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St. Petersburg is not exactly known for their art scene, but I’m still not sure why it took me so long to visit The Dali Museum. It’s only about an hour and a half drive from Orlando and certainly worth the time.
Upon arrival you’re asked to pay $5 for parking, which when coupled with the $21 admission fee ($15 for students with ID) seems a bit steep, but I suppose it’s for a good cause.
The outside of the Dali Museum itself is a work of art inspired by the works of Dali. From most angles it’s an industrial concrete rectangle, but with a free form glass bubble on one side called “the enigma.”
Once inside the architecture is just as exciting, the three story building features a spiral staircase.
The first floor features a cafe and pretty cool gift shop.
The second floor is administrative offices. The third floor is where all the action is. There are two separate galleries, one for the permanent Dali collection, and one for traveling exhibits, which while I was there was Worhol: Art. Fame. Mortality. That was of course, as dramatic as the title promises.
The Dali Museum is very interesting, but slightly overly guarded. I was there with my friend, Chelsea, and we both felt like we were being followed around by security like sketchy teenagers at the mall. We definitely would have enjoyed the experience more if they weren’t breathing down our necks. I also could have done with out the docents pronouncing his name like “Dah-Leeeee”, but I guess that’s just personal preference.
We were most excited about the outside of the museum, which featured several photo ops and labyrinth in the “avant-garden”.
While I do think the museum is a bit over priced for what was offered, I’m always happy to support the arts (though less happy to support the parking lot). I definitely think it is worth a visit if you’re in the area, and if you’re looking to save money, the Dali Museum stays open late on Thursdays and it’s only $10 to get in after 5pm!
