The History of Jungle Terrace Area: Some historians have placed t his area as the site where the first European exploreres visited North America starting in 1528. Indian mounds dating back more then 2,000 years have been identified and one archeological dig is currently underway. In the early 20TH Century, the Jungle Terrace area became one of the finest vacation destinations in Pinellas County.
The Jungle Prada Complex (Now the Saffron's Restaurant building) was built in 1924 where The Gangplank became St. Petersburg's first nightclub. Count Bassie and Duke Ellington played at the Gangplank and Babe Ruth was married there. According to legend, Al Capone was a part owner of the nightclub. Saffron's Restaurant claims that there is still an un-opened safe in the building that dates back to the Al Capone days.
Jungle Terrace Civic Association was formed in the early 1950's when the conversion from septic tanks to a City sewer system drew neighbors together to discuss the issue. Over the years, the Association has addressed myriad issues that affect the quality of life in the neighborhood.
Many of the residential homes were built in the 1950s, 60s and 70s, featuring single story masonry style two and three bedroom houses. Fascinating homes from the 1920's and earlier are fuond throughout the area reflecting the area's rich history. Mansions selling for well over one million dollars can be found on the western edge of the neighborhood along Boca Ciega Bay.