The Reopened Historic Manhattan Casino: A New St. Pete Cultural Stop From Isla del Sol, FL, Rentals  

A ballroom that once hosted Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, and James Brown is back on the St. Petersburg map. The city reopened the Historic Manhattan Casino in St. Petersburg on Sept. 19, 2026, after a major renovation on 22nd Street South. Guests booking Isla del Sol, FL, rentals can reach it in a short drive from the island.

What Is the Historic Manhattan Casino and Why Does It Matter Now?

The Historic Manhattan Casino is a two-story landmark in The Deuces in St. Pete, the historically Black commercial and cultural district of the city. Its reopening marks a new chapter in the building's long cultural history, following a $4.8 million renovation of both event floors.

Despite the name, the building was never a gambling hall. It was a dance hall and concert venue that did not sell alcohol.

During segregation, the Manhattan Casino was a stop on the Chitlin' Circuit, welcoming performers such as Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Ray Charles. The venue reopened on September 19, 2026, following a $4.8 million renovation. The City of St. Petersburg now operates the landmark as an event space for community gatherings, private functions, and live performances.

How Did the Manhattan Casino Get From 1925 to 2026?

The building evolved from a dance hall that opened in 1931 into a protected historic landmark, experiencing closures and short-lived revivals along the way. In late 2022, the city decided to take over operations of the venue. The timeline below lists the key milestones.

Year	Milestone
1925	Elder Jordan Sr. and his sons commissioned construction of the two-story building
1931	Opens as the Jordan Dance Hall
1930s to 1960s	Serves as a cultural hub and Chitlin' Circuit stop
1968	Closes its doors
1994	City designates it a historic landmark
2002	City of St. Petersburg buys the property
2021	Short-lived food hall operates inside
Late 2022	Final operator's lease expires; city plans renovation
Sept. 19, 2026	Reopens with a ribbon-cutting and open house

What Does the Renovated Venue Offer Visitors?

The renovated building has two main event floors: the 2,232-square-foot Legacy Room downstairs and the 4,152-square-foot Jordan Ballroom upstairs. The city runs it as an event venue, so interior access depends on scheduled public events or private rentals.

The Jordan Ballroom is named for the founder. Upgrades include:

• New flooring and air conditioning
• A new lobby with an entry foyer
• A conference room and green room
• A catering kitchen
• A stage built for live bands

Public access to the interior varies based on the venue's event schedule. Check the official City of St. Petersburg website or venue channels for upcoming public events or tour information, and compare those dates with confirmed 2026-2027 festivals and events near Isla del Sol.

What Else Is Nearby in The Deuces?

The Deuces packs a museum, a heritage trail, a historic theater, and public murals into a few walkable blocks around 22nd Street South and 9th Avenue South. The Deuces Live District on St. Pete's south side gives the Manhattan Casino its cultural context.

Woodson African American Museum of Florida

The museum at 2240 9th Avenue South finished a $1 million renovation this summer and held its grand reopening in July 2026. Renovations added exhibit space, new floors, and upgraded restrooms. Its Legacy Garden is also worth a look.

African American Heritage Trail

The self-guided trail of 19 interpretive signs in the Deuces includes stops near the Woodson Museum. Markers run along 22nd Street South and 9th Avenue South, sharing key milestones in St. Pete cultural history, including the story of the Jordan Dance Hall.

Royal Theater and Street Murals

The historic Royal Theater once seated 700 Black moviegoers during segregation and now houses a Boys & Girls Club. The "Black History Matters" street mural and the "Great Futures Start Here" mural add photo-friendly stops along the route.

How Far Is the Manhattan Casino From Isla del Sol?  

The Historic Manhattan Casino is about a 20-minute drive from Isla del Sol in typical traffic. St. Pete Beach is only about five minutes away, so a Deuces morning and a Gulf afternoon fit comfortably into the same day.

Destination	Approximate Drive From Isla del Sol
St. Pete Beach	About 5 minutes
Pass-a-Grille	Under 10 minutes
Manhattan Casino and The Deuces	About 20 minutes

Drive times are estimates. Winter and spring traffic, causeway congestion, and event days at the venue can add time, so check a live maps app before you leave. Before heading to the Gulf, review beach recovery and infrastructure updates for 2026 to 2027, since active work can bring temporary access changes.

How Do You Plan a Deuces Day Trip From Isla del Sol?

Plan a half-day around three stops: the Woodson Museum, the Heritage Trail, and the Manhattan Casino. The drive from Isla del Sol is short, but confirm hours first. Then return to the island or St. Pete Beach for the evening.

Step 1: Confirm Hours and Access

Before heading out from your rental, verify operating hours for the Woodson African American Museum of Florida and check for any public events at the Manhattan Casino. Because the venue operates primarily for scheduled events, interior access depends on programmed activities. Outdoor neighborhood art and heritage trail markers are generally accessible to visitors, subject to temporary restrictions.

Step 2: Start at the Woodson Museum

Drive over from Isla del Sol and park in the designated visitor parking at the Woodson African American Museum of Florida to begin your morning. The newly renovated museum features thoughtfully curated galleries highlighting regional history, African American art, and civic achievements. Stroll through the lush Legacy Garden outdoors, an inviting space that often hosts community gatherings and offers a tranquil introduction to the rich heritage of The Deuces.

Step 3: Explore the African American Heritage Trail

Near the museum entrance, pick up the self-guided African American Heritage Trail. The trail features 19 interpretive signs along 22nd Street South and 9th Avenue South, chronicling more than a century of local history, including stories of early Black entrepreneurs, community leaders, and civil rights milestones. Along the way, take in public murals and explore the history of the nearby Royal Theater.

Step 4: Visit the Manhattan Casino

Arrive at 642 22nd Street South to view the restored Historic Manhattan Casino. Stand before the iconic two-story facade that once welcomed legendary musicians during the Chitlin' Circuit era. If attending an open house or public event that permits interior access, you may be able to see the updated Legacy Room downstairs and the spacious Jordan Ballroom upstairs.

Step 5: Return for a Gulf Sunset

After exploring St. Petersburg, return to Isla del Sol for a relaxing evening near the coast. Spend time at nearby St. Pete Beach, catch the free Sanding Ovations sand sculpture exhibition on Treasure Island in November, enjoy the Gulf breeze, or unwind at your vacation rental after a day of sightseeing.

Why Is Isla del Sol a Practical Base for St. Pete Cultural Stops?

Isla del Sol, St. Petersburg, Florida, is a residential island community on Boca Ciega Bay. Its convenient location puts St. Pete Beach approximately five minutes away by car. Visitors staying in Isla del Sol vacation rentals can enjoy a peaceful island atmosphere while remaining close to the Gulf Coast's beaches, restaurants, and coastal activities.

Condo rentals offer families and groups space to relax after visiting museums and beaches. Comparing condo value against hotel stays helps guests evaluate options. Layouts and occupancy limits vary by property, so verify details before booking.

Some properties may offer shared community amenities, water views, or beach gear. Guests should confirm the features included with their selected rental before planning their stay.

Drivers reaching Isla del Sol may encounter tolls along the Pinellas Bayway. Travelers should check current toll rates and accepted payment methods before arriving. Winter and early spring are popular periods for seasonal visitors, so allow additional travel time during busier months.

What Should Travelers Know Before Visiting?

Treat the Manhattan Casino as a working city venue and The Deuces as an active local community. Check event schedules and visitor access before visiting, as citywide events like the St. Pete Run Fest race weekend in November can affect traffic and parking, and plan stops supporting local businesses.

• Interior access varies: Public entry depends on scheduled events, programs, or rental schedules.
• Guided options exist: Visit St. Pete-Clearwater lists St. Pete Black History Tours, with walking and bike options from fall through spring.
• Timing matters: Mornings and cooler months make the walk more comfortable than midday summer heat.
• Local businesses: Black-owned shops and restaurants along the corridor give visitors a way to stay a little longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an admission fee to visit the Historic Manhattan Casino?

Viewing the building exterior and walking the Heritage Trail is free. Admission or entry fees inside the venue depend on specific hosted events or scheduled programming.

Is parking available near the Historic Manhattan Casino?

Street parking and nearby public lots are available along 22nd Street South and surrounding blocks in The Deuces, though parking options may be limited during special events.

Are there restaurants near the Historic Manhattan Casino?

Yes. The Deuces district has local restaurants and food businesses where visitors can stop before or after exploring the area. Dining options and operating hours can change, so checking ahead is recommended, especially for evening visits.

Is the Historic Manhattan Casino accessible to visitors with disabilities?

The renovated facility includes updated accessible features. Contact event organizers or the city for specific accommodation details when attending scheduled functions.

Can visitors take photos inside the Historic Manhattan Casino?

Photography policies may vary depending on the event or private rental. Visitors can generally photograph the building’s exterior from public areas, but should request permission before taking pictures inside. Contact the venue for event-specific photography restrictions.

Ready to Plan Your Isla del Sol Stay Near St. Pete Beach?

Isla Bliss offers vacation condo rentals in Isla del Sol, St. Petersburg, Florida, providing guests with a relaxing place to stay near St. Pete Beach. Whether you’re planning a coastal getaway or a seasonal escape, our rentals offer a convenient base for enjoying the area’s beaches and laid-back lifestyle.

Explore available Isla del Sol vacation rentals, check your preferred dates, and book directly with Isla Bliss.

Related Posts

• Isla del Sol vs. Nearby Beach Areas in 2026: Where Travelers Are Finding Better Value
• Short Term Rental Regulations Florida: What Hosts and Guests Must Know in 2026