Curiosity: is that a question? If so, I am curious what you are referring to. There is historically Black entertainment district in St Pete situated along 22nd = hence the "Deuces" I have heard of it mainly as a thing of the past with some effort of local groups to bring it back.

I guess affordable is relative to how much money you have- there are places off the beaten path -you might be able to rent a house with Vrbo in Old Northeast- — downtown is very upscale , definitely worth going but if you want to save some money travel a little north or south by the bay…

Sirata

Downtown St. Petersburg is defined by two streets, Central Avenue and Beach Drive. Good reference points for your GPS are the Vinoy Hotel, the St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Arts and The Sundial Mall. Park your car near the intersection of Central & Beach and take it from there!

Bandit Coffee

Many choices on Beach Dr. Cassis is fancy but delicious! All have great views of parks and water!

A long walk but there is a free trolley bus. Very easy to get around. Lots of restaurants scattered around.

My friend and I did not encounter any crime in the downtown area. It was highly populated by people walking, eating at cafes and shopping.

Some of the best restaurants in Downtown St. Petersburg are along the Beach Drive: Cassis, Bella Brava, Canopy, Park Shore Grill, Moon Under Water (British tavern), and some others. They have both American and, say Italian items on their menus. Also some nice restaurants are in Sundial - the Fresh Market (this is the name of the grocery and the restaurant), as well as along the 2nd Ave -- Grattzi's, and many others. Prices are relatively moderate, these are not too fine-dining places, but not too casual, either. Quite a few have seating inside and outside, parking is along the Beach Shore Drive. Very nice views of the parks and the bay area.

Not sure about parking at Central & 17th but lots of cheap parking downtown. You can park for $5.00 in most areas.