Since 2010, 20 new bars and clubs have popped up in Downtown St. Pete and beyond, prompting a nightlife renaissance for the city filled with more live music, themed bars, and nightlife than ever before.

Twelve of these twenty bars have emerged in the burgeoning nightlife district of Downtown St. Pete in the past two years giving the area an unforeseen facelift once the sun goes down.  Many cite the city's decision back in 2010 to allow bars to stay open an hour later - until 3 a.m. - which enables them to compete with bars across the bay in Tampa where you could already drink until 3 a.m.

Gone are many of the old, quaint stores that used to define Downtown St. Pete and in are a slew of new, trendy bars and clubs. Scene Premium Nightclub took over the old American Stage Theatre building back in 2010; Bishop Tavern replaced Samantha's Book Shop on 1st Ave. N.; and the Suite Six Bar & Lounge replaced the National Graphic Imaging print shop on Central Ave. just to name a few.

The longstanding outdoor music venue, Jannus Landing, changed its named to Jannus Live and underwent a multimillion dollar facelift back in 2010.  The venue now plays host to a slew of big-name concerts as well as notable bars and restaurants inside the premises including MacDinton's St. Pete.

Will the growth continue?  It's hard to tell.  According to the Tampa Tribune, St. Pete police are facing more work and financial stress when it comes to these late night hours Downtown.  Back in 2009, police responded to 45 service calls close to 3 a.m.  In 2011, they responded to 119 calls, a 160 percent increase.

We'll keep you posted as more news arises.