Travel Guide To St. Augustine, Florida
Looking for a vacation spot with great weather, beautiful beaches, and a rich history? Look no further than St. Augustine, Florida. This charming city, located on the northeast coast of Florida, is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the United States. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or just looking for a fun getaway, St. Augustine has something for everyone.
Top Attractions
St. Augustine is home to many top-rated attractions. The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is a must-visit for history buffs, as it is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. Another popular attraction is the St. Augustine Lighthouse, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding ocean. For a more laid-back experience, check out the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, where you can see hundreds of alligators and other animals up close.
Hidden Gems
While St. Augustine has plenty of well-known attractions, it also has some hidden gems that are worth checking out. The Lightner Museum, housed in a grand 19th-century hotel, is a treasure trove of eclectic collections, including Tiffany stained glass and Victorian art. For a unique dining experience, try the Ice Plant Bar, a craft cocktail bar and restaurant housed in a restored ice plant from the early 20th century.
Food Scene
St. Augustine has a thriving food scene, with plenty of options for every taste and budget. For seafood lovers, try the famous Conch House Restaurant, which offers fresh seafood and stunning waterfront views. For a more casual experience, head to the Floridian, a hip restaurant that serves up Southern-style comfort food with a modern twist. And don’t forget to try the city’s famous datil pepper sauce, a spicy condiment that is a staple in St. Augustine cuisine.
Budget-Friendly Tips
St. Augustine can be an expensive destination, but there are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing fun. Take advantage of free activities, such as exploring the historic district or spending a day at the beach. Look for happy hour specials at restaurants and bars, and consider staying at a budget-friendly hotel or vacation rental.
Outdoor Adventures
With its beautiful beaches and mild climate, St. Augustine is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Spend a day at Anastasia State Park, where you can hike, bike, fish, and swim. Take a kayak tour of the city’s waterways, or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding. And don’t forget to hit the links at one of the city’s many golf courses.
Historical Landmarks
St. Augustine is steeped in history, and there are plenty of landmarks to explore. In addition to the Castillo de San Marcos and the St. Augustine Lighthouse, be sure to visit the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where you can learn about the city’s founding and sample the famous “fountain of youth” waters. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, with its stunning architecture and rich history, is also worth a visit.
Family-Friendly Activities
St. Augustine is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids and adults will love. Take a ghost tour of the city, or visit the St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum, where you can see real pirate artifacts and learn about the city’s pirate history. Kids will also love the St. Augustine Wild Reserve, a non-profit animal sanctuary that houses exotic animals such as tigers, lions, and bears.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, St. Augustine has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Take a hot air balloon ride over the city, or explore the city’s underground tunnels on a ghost tour. For a truly unique experience, take a sunset sail on a replica 19th-century schooner.
Natural Wonders
St. Augustine is home to some breathtaking natural wonders, including the Matanzas Inlet, a serene waterway that is perfect for kayaking and birdwatching. The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, located just south of the city, offers hiking trails, fishing, and a chance to see dolphins and other marine life up close. And don’t forget to visit the city’s beautiful beaches, including Anastasia State Park and St. Augustine Beach.
Vibrant Nightlife
St. Augustine may be a historic city, but it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. Check out the St. George Street nightlife district, where you can find everything from sports bars to dance clubs. For a more sophisticated experience, head to the Scarlett O’Hara’s piano bar, where you can enjoy live music and craft cocktails in an elegant setting.
Local Markets
St. Augustine has plenty of local markets where you can shop for unique souvenirs and gifts. The St. Augustine Farmers Market, held every Saturday morning, offers fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts. For a more eclectic shopping experience, head to the St. Augustine Flea Market, where you can find everything from antiques to vintage clothing.
Beaches and Mountains
St. Augustine is located on the coast, but it is also close to some beautiful mountain ranges. Take a day trip to the Ocala National Forest, where you can hike, fish, and camp in the rolling hills of central Florida. Or head to nearby Jacksonville Beach, where you can enjoy the sun and surf of the Atlantic Ocean.
Cultural Immersion
St. Augustine has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Spain, Africa, and the Caribbean. Immerse yourself in the city’s culture by visiting the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center, which tells the story of St. Augustine’s African American community. Or take a tour of the city’s historic churches, including the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine and the Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche.
Art and Music Scene
St. Augustine is home to a thriving arts and music scene, with plenty of galleries and live music venues to explore. Check out the First Friday Art Walk, held on the first Friday of every month, where you can browse art galleries and enjoy live music and refreshments. For a more intimate experience, head to the Sing Out Loud Festival, a celebration of local and national music acts that takes place every September.
Walking Tours
St. Augustine is a great city to explore on foot, and there are plenty of walking tours to choose from. Take a historic walking tour of the city’s many landmarks, or go on a ghost tour to learn about the city’s haunted history. For a more unique experience, try the St. Augustine Food Tour, where you can sample the city’s best cuisine while learning about its history and culture.
Architectural Marvels
St. Augustine is home to some stunning architecture, from the grandeur of the Lightner Museum to the Spanish colonial style of the historic district. Be sure to visit the Ponce de Leon Hotel, an iconic building that now serves as a part of Flagler College. The Villa Zorayda Museum, housed in a beautiful 19th-century building, is also worth a visit.
Historical Sites
St. Augustine is a city rich in history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. Visit the Fort Matanzas National Monument, a Spanish fort that dates back to 1740. The Government House Museum, housed in a historic building that once served as the governor’s mansion, offers a glimpse into the city’s political history. And don’t forget to check out the oldest wooden schoolhouse in the United States, a charming little building that dates back to the 18th century.
Biking Routes
St. Augustine is a great city to explore on two wheels, with plenty of scenic biking routes to choose from. Take a ride along the beach at Anastasia State Park, or explore the city’s historic district on a leisurely bike ride. The St. Augustine Scenic and Historic Byway, a 72-mile route that winds through the city and surrounding countryside, is also a great option for more experienced riders.
Wellness Retreats
St. Augustine is a great destination for wellness retreats, with plenty of options for yoga, meditation, and relaxation. The Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health offers retreats and workshops focused on mindfulness and self-care. For a more immersive experience, check out the Sacred Springs Wellness Retreat, which offers yoga, meditation, and healing therapies in a beautiful natural setting.
Adventure Sports
St. Augustine is also a great destination for adventure sports, with plenty of opportunities for surfing, kiteboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding. Take a surfing lesson at St. Augustine Beach, or try your hand at kiteboarding at the nearby Guana River State Park. And don’t forget to check out the city’s many adventure tour companies, which offer everything from zip-lining to kayaking to hot air balloon rides.
With so much to see and do, St. Augustine is the perfect destination