St. Augustine Vacation Guide

St. Augustine Highlights

Visiting St. Augustine, Florida means experiencing a unique blend of history and adventure. If you find yourself at the north end of St. George Street, there are many historic attractions that are perfect for the whole family. At the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, visitors can explore the oldest masonry fort in the United States and learn about the fascinating history of the area. For the younger adventurers in your group, the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum offers an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits. And the neighboring Colonial Quarter transports you to the 18th century with its reconstructed buildings, demonstrations, and interactive experiences, along with surprisingly great dining options.

As you head south along St. George Street, enjoy the many shops and attractions along this historic avenue of St. Augustine. If you start to get hungry, consider a lunch or dinner break at local favorite Prohibition Kitchen. Its rustic charm and unique blend of speakeasy cocktails and farm-to-table dishes are a must-try for any foodie. A few blocks west of St George Street lies Flagler College, an architectural marvel with an extraordinary history. The grandeur of the Spanish Renaissance Revival-style campus is sure to leave a lasting impression, making it a must-visit for history buffs and admiring architectural enthusiasts.

Once you’ve seen the sites of the historic downtown area, cross the Bridge of Lions to discover the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. Here you’ll have the chance to climb the 219 steps for a breathtaking view of the city and coast. Adventure seekers may prefer a trip to the nearby St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, where they can get up close and personal with the park’s resident reptiles. Nature lovers, on the other hand, may want to explore the beautiful Anastasia State Park just next door. With so many things to do in the area, you’re sure to have a memorable day out in St. Augustine.

St. Augustine Things To Do

St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is a beacon of history and culture with a storied past dating back over 140 years. This towering structure and its accompanying museum have become a beloved fixture of the community.
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St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is an iconic attraction in St. Augustine built in the 17th century by Spanish colonizers which provided a strategic means of protection against enemy attacks.
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Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

St. Augustine Wild Reserve

The St. Augustine Wild Reserve is a fascinating place where visitors can come in close contact with some truly remarkable animals, from tigers to wolves to bears.
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St. Augustine Wild Reserve

Historic Tours of Flagler College

Historic Tours of Flagler College showcases one of the most iconic landmarks of St Augustine. Formerly known as the luxurious Ponce de Leon Hotel, this architectural masterpiece is a must-visit.
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Historic Tours of Flagler College

St. Augustine Beach

St. Augustine Beach is a hidden gem located in North Florida that has everything you could dream of. With its pristine white sand beaches and inviting turquoise waters, the scenery alone is enough to take your breath away.
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St. Augustine Beach

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

The St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park functions as a modern zoo serving the public and the scientific community with educational shows and exhibits, important research, and worldwide conservation efforts.
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St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

Old Jail Museum

The Old Jail Museum in St Augustine is one of the most fascinating places to explore in the city. As soon as you enter the building, you'll feel as though you've stepped back in time to the early 20th century.
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Old Jail Museum

St. George Street

Step back in time on St. George Street, an enchanting pedestrian thoroughfare nestled in the heart of St. Augustine which houses an array of charming boutiques, delightful eateries, and must-see historic landmarks.
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St. George Street

Old Town Trolley Tours of St. Augustine

Old Town Trolley Tours provides St. Augustine sightseeing tours highlighting the best of the city.
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Old Town Trolley Tours of St. Augustine

Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, a grand 18th-century church, stands as a reminder of the city's rich history and enduring faith, drawing visitors in to admire the intricate architecture.
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Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine

Colonial Quarter

Travel back in time with a visit to Colonial Quarter in St. Augustine. This museum village is filled with costumed actors showcasing their old-world skills, immersing visitors in the colonial Spanish culture.
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Colonial Quarter

Lightner Museum

The Lightner Museum in St Augustine sits as a stunning display of Gilded Age extravagance. Originally built in 1887 as the Alcazar Hotel, the building's history is as rich as its ornate architecture.
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Lightner Museum

St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum

The St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum offers an exciting and educational museum experience showcasing over 800 real pirate artifacts.
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St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum

Anastasia State Park

Along the pristine coastline of northeast Florida lies the breathtaking Anastasia State Park, a true gem among the state parks that's just a short distance from the charming town of St. Augustine.
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Anastasia State Park

Fort Matanzas National Monument

History comes to life at Fort Matanzas National Monument. This hidden gem along the coast south of St. Augustine transports visitors to a time where the Spanish defended their colonial empire against foreign invasion.
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Fort Matanzas National Monument

Medieval Torture Museum

In the historical city of St. Augustine lies the Medieval Torture Museum. Step into a world of gruesome devices and learn about the twisted methods used to extract information or punish those who crossed the line in the Middle Ages.
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Medieval Torture Museum

National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche

Nestled in the scenic beauty of St. Augustine lies the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche at Mission Nombre de Dios. This historical landmark is a serene and tranquil oasis that takes you back in time to the 16th century.
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National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche

Oldest Store Museum Experience

Take a step back in time and immerse yourself in one of the oldest stores in America in St. Augustine.
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Oldest Store Museum Experience

Fountain of Youth Archeological Park

Take a fascinating, informative, entertaining tour of Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, the original site of the Nation's oldest city, St. Augustine.
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Fountain of Youth Archeological Park

Ripley's Believe It Or Not! St. Augustine

Discover the strange, the shocking and beautiful at Ripley's Believe It or Not! on San Marco Avenue in St. Augustine.
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Ripley's Believe It Or Not! St. Augustine

Memorial Presbyterian Church

Nestled in the heart of historic St. Augustine, Memorial Presbyterian Church stands tall, a beacon of hope and faith for visitors and residents alike. The church boasts a majestic design that blends Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
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Memorial Presbyterian Church

St. Augustine Shopping & Dining

St. George Street

Step back in time on St. George Street, an enchanting pedestrian thoroughfare nestled in the heart of St. Augustine which houses an array of charming boutiques, delightful eateries, and must-see historic landmarks.
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St. George Street

St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market

Nextdoor to Anastasia State Park is the St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market, once known as the Old City Farmers Market, offering an array of fresh and locally sourced produce, delicious artisanal goods, and much more.
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St. Augustine Amphitheatre Farmers Market

Crave

Are you hungry for something healthy and delicious? Look no further than Crave, the family-owned health food restaurant in St. Augustine. This eatery got its start as a food truck, but quickly grew in popularity and morphed into a full-scale restaurant.
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Crave

Woodpeckers Backyard BBQ

Along the scenic St. Johns River lies St. Augustine's beloved gem, Woodpeckers Backyard BBQ. This local favorite barbecue joint is the epitome of Southern comfort, boasting a backyard-style patio complete with picnic tables and string lights.
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Woodpeckers Backyard BBQ

Sunset Grille

There's no better place to be than the Sunset Grille at St Augustine Beach. The warm beach breeze, the sound of the waves crashing, and the savory aroma of grilled fare all combine to create the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing evening.
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Sunset Grille

Gaufre's & Goods

Gaufre's & Goods is a hidden gem in the heart of St Augustine that offers a truly unique dining experience. The menu is indeed a surprise, as it reflects a perfect amalgamation of Greek and Polish cuisine.
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Gaufre's & Goods

Carmelo's Pizzeria

Carmelo's Pizzeria is a delicious slice of Sicily in the heart of St Augustine. If you're looking for scrumptious pizza and pasta that's served up with a side of classic Italian hospitality, Carmelo's is the place to be.
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Carmelo's Pizzeria

Old City House Inn & Restaurant

Located in the heart of St. Augustine, the Old City House Inn & Restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and homestyle menu that will make you feel like you're an honored guest at a friend's home.
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Old City House Inn & Restaurant

Pizzalley's Chianti Room

Pizzalley's Chianti Room is the perfect place to experience the flavors of classic Italian cuisine. Whether you're in the mood for some mouth-watering brick-oven pizza or a refreshing cocktail from their full bar, Pizzalley's has it all.
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Pizzalley's Chianti Room

Columbia Restaurant St Augustine

Located in the heart of historic St. Augustine, the Columbia Restaurant on St. George Street is a must-visit destination for foodies and history buffs alike, filled with charm, elegance, and mouth-watering Spanish-inspired cuisine.
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Columbia Restaurant St Augustine

Prohibition Kitchen

Prohibition Kitchen is a testament to the mystique and intrigue that defined American nightlife during those times. This speakeasy-style restaurant and bar delivers an atmosphere that's as seductive as it is cinematic.
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Prohibition Kitchen

Getting Around St. Augustine

Exploring the picturesque and historic city of St. Augustine is a must-do on any traveler’s itinerary. Fortunately, getting around on foot in the downtown area is a breeze, with an abundance of walkable paths and streets to traverse. Ramble at your leisure and soak up the old world atmosphere as you stroll past iconic landmarks and museums. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you may want to cross one of the intracoastal bridges and head to a beach or park – but the distance may be too challenging for a stroll. In this case, renting a bike or scooter will be your best option.

One particularly enchanting way to experience the city is by horse-drawn carriage. History buffs will be charmed by this old world style of transport, couples will find it romantic, and kids will be thrilled by the adventure. It’s the perfect way to experience the sights and sounds of this charming city.

Probably the most efficient way to explore this charming destination is by taking a trolley tour which typically stops at every site of interest in the town. During the tour, you’ll learn about St. Augustine’s remarkable past, including the Spanish and British influences that have shaped its identity. You can choose to hop on or off at any stop, making it the perfect way to get around St. Augustine.

St. Augustine Hotels & Vacation Rentals

The Saint Augustine Beach House

The Saint Augustine Beach House is located on Vilano Beach just across the bridge from Historic St Augustine. This beautiful hotel offers guests the chance to soak up the sun and explore the rich cultural heritage of the surrounding area.
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The Saint Augustine Beach House

La Fiesta Ocean Inn & Suites

La Fiesta Ocean Inn & Suites in St. Augustine Beach offers the ultimate experience in vacation relaxation. This charming hotel boasts stunning ocean views and a prime location steps away from the sandy shores of the Atlantic Ocean.
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La Fiesta Ocean Inn & Suites

Renaissance St. Augustine Historic Downtown

Experience the charm of a bygone era at Renaissance St. Augustine Historic Downtown. Located in the heart of the historic district, this hotel boasts original architecture and sophisticated decor that will transport you back in time.
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Renaissance St. Augustine Historic Downtown

Casa Monica Resort & Spa

Located in the charming and historic town of St. Augustine, the Casa Monica Resort & Spa is a luxurious hotel boasting a rich history dating back to its opening in 1888, evoking the grandeur and elegance of a bygone era.
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Casa Monica Resort & Spa

Casa de Solana

Nestled in the heart of historic downtown St. Augustine, Casa de Solana is a charming bed and breakfast that dates back to the late 1700s and is a wonderful place to relax and unwind after a day spent exploring the local area.
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Casa de Solana

St. Augustine FAQs

Among the many acclaimed eateries in the area, three restaurants stand out as some of the most popular. Columbia Restaurant, a historic location with Spanish flair, has been serving up delicious seafood and Cuban-inspired dishes for over a century. Crave, a more modern spot, offers creative salads, sandwiches, and small plates with a sophisticated twist. Finally, Sunset Grille, located at St. Augustine Beach, is the perfect place to unwind with its relaxed atmosphere and tasty seafood options.

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Old Town Trolley Tours has just about everything you need to explore St. Augustine, including the St. Augustine Beach Bus. This round-trip bus tour is an exciting way to experience one of the most beautiful beaches in America. The public transit system also operates the Sunshine Bus, a free transportation option to and from the beaches that runs Monday through Saturday.

St. Augustine is a charming and historic city that is perfect for exploring on foot. With its narrow streets, brick sidewalks, and lush greenery, the city is a walker’s paradise. Whether you’re strolling through the picturesque historic district, admiring the beautiful architecture, or stopping at one of the many restaurants or shops along the way, you’ll find plenty to see and do. And with its mild climate and year-round sunshine, St. Augustine is the perfect destination for a leisurely stroll.

The city offers free shuttle services during major downtown events, taking the hassle out of navigating busy streets and parking. Additionally, several hotels and tour companies have their own shuttle services available to their customers, so if you book a tour or accommodation, be sure to ask.

While every month has its own unique appeal, the one that stands out as the best is November. The weather is perfect – not too hot, not too cold – and the summer crowds have dispersed, giving you more room to explore. Plus, November is the start of the holiday season, which means you can enjoy festive events and decorations throughout the city. From the Night of Lights to the Holiday Art Walk, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in St. Augustine in November.

If you want to leisurely immerse yourself in history, stroll the narrow cobblestone streets, and take in all of the sights and sounds of the city, then at least three days would be ideal. This would give you plenty of time to explore the iconic landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos, the Lightner Museum, and the charming Old City. On the other hand, if you are only interested in a few of the main attractions, you could potentially see them all in a day or two.

St. Augustine’s historic streets are a sight to behold, but there’s one that stands out from the rest. Cordova Street is a picturesque thoroughfare that has it all – quaint architecture, mossy trees, and charming shops. As you stroll down this enchanting street, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported back in time to the city’s Spanish colonial era. The buildings are colorful and adorned with wrought iron balconies, while the trees create a peaceful canopy overhead. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening stroll or a leisurely day of shopping, Cordova Street is the perfect place to bask in the beauty of St. Augustine.

St. Augustine in North Florida is a city steeped in history and known for its charming cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, and long stretches of pristine beaches. But what it is perhaps best known for is being the oldest continuously inhabited city in America. Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, this coastal city has a storied past that is visible in its centuries-old buildings, historic landmarks, and well-preserved architecture. Visitors flock to St Augustine to soak up its rich heritage, explore its museums and art galleries, and bask in the natural beauty of its beaches and waterways.