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St Augustine Historic District

170 St. George St., St. Augustine, Florida

Founded in 1565 by Don Pedro Menéndez de Avilés of Spain, St. Augustine is America’s oldest continuously inhabited city settled first by Europeans. In the historic downtown, the Spanish Quarter, the Castillo de San Marcos, and the old schoolhouse and jail offer a glimpse into the past.

The heart of the district is St. George Street, a pedestrian-only promenade lined with historic architecture and specialty shops, galleries, and restaurants. Parts of St. Augustine’s downtown have been preserved as living museums, some with artifacts dating back to the 1500s. Check out the Fountain of Youth, a monument dedicated to Juan Ponce de León (who claimed Florida for Spain in 1513).

For a fun and funky peek into the city’s history, join an evening ghost tour, and explore downtown St. Augustine through the stories of its dearly departed.

Wear shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.

Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen, as the sun can be intense in St. Augustine year-round.

Downtown is serviced by two wheelchair-accessible trolleys.

Downtown St. Augustine is pedestrian-friendly, and most of the historic sights can be seen on foot. As many of the streets are narrow and designed for foot traffic, parking in the historic district can be challenging—though you’ll find some public lots.

The best time to visit St. Augustine is between March and May, when temperatures are a bit cooler and tourists are fewer. If you’re there in summer or on a weekend, do your sightseeing early in the day to beat the crowds.

St. Augustine is a study in 450 years of architectural history. Take a stroll through downtown, and you’ll see colonial and Renaissance revival facades, Florida-bungalow-style homes, Gilded Age mansions, Italian-inspired bridges, and Greek Renaissance fountains. Major architecture buffs shouldn’t miss the works commissioned by Henry Flagler, including Hotel Ponce de León and the Lightner Museum.

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Discover all that St. Augustine has to offer

August 02, 2020 | 3 min read.

This jewel on Florida’s historic northeast coast is the oldest continually inhabited city in our nation, first settled by Spanish explorers in 1565. With 42 miles of beautiful white sand beaches, you’ll find plenty of wide open space to find your own place in the sun.

Known as one of the country’s most walkable cities, your legs will get you everywhere when you stay at the St. George Inn , one of more than two dozen historic inns in the area. Enjoy complimentary breakfast from your balcony overlooking the pedestrian shopping street or next to the fountain in the private courtyard. The Spanish Baroque Revival architecture at Casa Monica Resort & Spa , built in 1888, exudes old world glamor with the luxurious amenities and comforts you’d expect from a Marriott Autograph Collection hotel. The historic 1880 Bayfront Westcott House is now a 16 room bed and breakfast known for its gourmet morning meal. In the late afternoon, enjoy the complimentary wine and hors d’oeuvres from the verandah overlooking Matanzas Bay.

In the heart of the Old Town, enjoy locally-sourced catch at the St. Augustine Seafood Company , where you may even catch live entertainment in the back courtyard. Experience the romance of an intimate candlelit Spanish courtyard while sipping sangria and tasting tapas at Taberna del Caballo . Ever wonder about those Salt Life stickers you see on cars everywhere? They promote a way of life that you can also taste at Salt Life Food Shack , which isn’t a shack at all, but a trendy, upscale embodiment of the cultural phenomenon. For a uniquely St. Augustine experience, ask to sit in a palapa-covered treehouse table overlooking the marina at the Conch House Restaurant .

Conduct your own exploration of the Ancient City aboard the Old Town Trolley . The fully narrated tour takes about 90 minutes, or you can hop off at any of 22 stops around town. Your ticket includes free admission to the St. Augustine History Museum and the Old Jail Museum , and free transportation just outside town to the St. Augustine Alligator Farm , one of the nation’s oldest zoos and home to 24 species of reptiles including saltwater crocodile Maximo, the park’s largest animal at nearly 16 feet long and 1,250 pounds. Of course, you must visit the Fountain of Youth Archeological Park and take a drink from the freshwater source of eternal youth discovered by Ponce de Leon in 1513.

St. Augustine is the patron saint of brewers, so it isn’t surprising to find several microbreweries, wineries and distilleries in the area. Take in a free tour and tasting the St. Augustine Distillery , featuring small batch spirits crafted from local sources. Tour Flagler College , a National Historic Landmark built as the Hotel Ponce de Leon in 1888 by railroad visionary Henry Flagler and wired for electricity by his friend, Thomas Edison. The College is home to 79 priceless Tiffany windows and considered one of the country’s best examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture. Walk through the Colonial Quarter , including a turn-of-the-century village and pedestrian shopping along St. George Street. Complete your trip with a few relaxing days along St. Augustine’s beaches , extending from Vilano Beach in the north to the secluded Crescent Beach at the southern end of town.

For the latest information about St. Augustine, visit AAA's Travel Guide.

And before you go, check out AAA’s recommendations on taking a safe road trip.

For the latest information about St. Augustine, visit AAA's Travel Guide . And before you go, check out AAA’s recommendations on taking a safe road trip . Bon Voyage!

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22 Best Things To Do In St. Augustine, Florida

Known as the Ancient City, St. Augustine features centuries-old architecture, iconic cultural sites, and unspoiled beaches.

A leader in the travel and tourism industry, Kara Franker has served in executive leadership roles for several destination organizations. A seasoned journalist, Kara has been featured as a travel expert for Southern Living, Coastal Living, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Travel Channel, Travelocity, Orbitz, HGTV, Huffington Post and more. Additionally, she serves as Editor-in-Chief of several luxury lifestyle print magazines in the Miami, Palm Beach and Aspen markets for Modern Luxury.

• Florida's Historic Coast
• Historical Icons
• Best Beaches

Where to Eat

Where to stay, when to visit.

The Fountain of Youth is calling your name—just like it called to the Spanish colonizers more than 500 years ago. Maybe it's those gorgeous beaches, or maybe it is something in the water. Either way, there is lots to explore in this charming city on Florida's Atlantic coast. Check out this travel guide for St. Augustine before your next Florida trip.

What to Know About Florida's Historic Coast

Most people don't realize St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the United States. (It was preceded by Puerto Rican colonies; Pensacola, which was destroyed in 1559; and Fort Caroline in Jacksonville, Florida, destroyed in 1565.) Ponce de León claimed "La Florida" for Spain in 1513, decades before the Jamestown colony of Virginia, and long before the Pilgrims arrived at Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts. Over the centuries, many cultures have called the city on Florida's Historic Coast home, including Native American, Spanish, British, French, and African.

Where to Find Historical Icons

Explore a historic fort.

One of the city's most architecturally significant structures, and also the oldest masonry fort in the country, the waterfront Castillo de San Marcos is truly a sight to behold. Built in the 17th century, the national monument is made of native coquina stones, which absorbed or deflected enemy projectiles, giving the Spanish an advantage. Climb to the top of the fort to see the incredible views of the city and waterfront.

nps.gov/casa , 11 South Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Visit a Free-Slave Settlement

Just two miles north of Castillo de San Marcos, Fort Mose Historic State Park is the location of the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in North America. Learn about this important 40-acre historical site at the interactive museum, and stick around to spot bald eagles and blue herons.

floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/fort-mose-historic-state-park , 15 Fort Mose Trail, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Sip From the Fountain of Youth

Take a sip from the legendary fountain at Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park , which tells about the birth of St. Augustine, as well as the Timucuan people who preceded the Spanish by thousands of years. Walk through the lushly landscaped park (dogs are also allowed) to sample water from the bubbling fountains. Stroll the 15 acres of waterfront while you're there.

fountainofyouthflorida.com , 11 Magnolia Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Step Back in Time

History comes alive in the Colonial Quarter in St. Augustine's historic district along St. George Street. Journey through the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries to learn about blacksmithing, watch a live musket demo, and climb the 35-foot watchtower for panoramic views of St. Augustine's bayfront and the historic Castillo de San Marcos.

colonialquarter.com , 14 South Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Discover Flagler College's Historic Past

Fast forward to the early 20th century, when oil tycoon Henry Flagler developed St. Augustine into one of the country's first winter resort destinations. Paying homage to the city's past, the millionaire developer built the stunning Hotel Ponce de Leon (now Flagler College), with its opulent 80-foot domed ceiling and Spanish Renaissance architecture. In 1967, the hotel closed its doors, and the building opened as Flagler College in 1968. While the property is an active college campus, visitors can take a historic tour to learn about the architecture, stand in the domed grand lobby, and view 79 Tiffany windows in the dining room.

flagler.edu/about/our-history/hotel-college , 74 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Take a Guided Tour

Explore St. Augustine by a horse-drawn carriage ride , historic walking tour , or hop-on-and-off trolley ride . Many tour operators can craft an experience to fit any taste, whether culinary, historic, or even paranormal (yes, we're talking ghosts ). Legend has it that St. Augustine is one of the most haunted cities in America. Whether you're a believer or a skeptic, prepare to be entertained (and maybe a little frightened) on Ripley's Haunted Castle Tour , Old Town Trolley's Ghost & Gravestones Tour , or Ghost Tours of St. Augustine .

ripleys.com/staugustine/haunts-and-history , 19 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084

trolleytours.com/st-augustine , 167 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084

ghosttoursofstaugustine.net , 4 Granada St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Climb the Lighthouse

St. Augustine Lighthouse is rumored to be haunted too, but during the day it's perfectly ghost-free (they only come out at night, right?) and a gorgeous site to see. Halfway between downtown St. Augustine and the beaches of Anastasia Island, it's the oldest navigational site in North America and home to a maritime museum. If you're feeling energetic, climb 219 steps to the top of the lighthouse for incredible views.

staugustinelighthouse.org , 100 Red Cox Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Set Sail on an Offshore Adventure

Enjoy the sea and year-round balmy weather. Help hoist the sails of the Schooner Freedom , a massive topsail schooner captained by John and Sarah Zaruba. If you'd like to try your luck with a rod and reel, get offshore or on the flats on a fishing excursion with professional guides like Sea Love Charters or Drum Man Fishing Charters .

schoonerfreedom.com , 111 Avenida Menendez Suite D, St. Augustine, FL 32084

sealovefishing.com , 220 Nix Boat Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32084

drummancharters.com , 57 Comares Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Spend an Evening Listening to Live Music

For live music in the oldest city, walk along the downtown streets where a variety of restaurants host bands. The St. Augustine Seafood Company hosts free concerts at its on-site Colonial Oak Music Park . Known as The Amp, the nearly 5,000-seat St. Augustine Amphitheatre hosts ticketed live music performances. A little farther north, the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall is another popular performing arts venue.

saseafoodco.com , 33 St. George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

theamp.com , 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine, FL 32080

pvconcerthall.com , 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

Where to Find the Best Beaches

Kick off your shoes on unspoiled beaches.

While Florida's Historic Coast is most famous for its storied past, leave plenty of time to kick back on the area's unspoiled beaches. Home to the popular St. Johns County Ocean and Fishing Pier , St. Augustine Beach offers a large oceanfront pavilion, splash and play park, sand volleyball courts, and plenty of seaside restaurants like Salt Life Food Shack .

Get in Touch with Nature

Just north of St. Augustine Beach, Anastasia State Park is a pristine stretch of sand with abundant wildlife and natural tidal marshes. There's a coquina quarry where laborers mined stones to build the majestic Castillo de San Marcos and other historic structures downtown.

In northern St. Johns County, Ponte Vedra Beach is famous for its historic and luxurious resort town feel. It's also the site where, according to navigational records, Ponce de Leon first set foot on Florida sand. View the exact spot at the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve , with more than 76,000 acres of protected coastal dunes, tidal lagoons, and forests. It's a gorgeous location to hike, bike, fish, kayak, picnic, and ride horseback. There are over nine miles of nature trails, as well as a prehistoric earthen burial mound, and 60 additional archaeological sites.

gtmnerr.org , 505 Guana River Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

Tour the Food Scene

There are plenty of options to taste local flavors along Florida's Historic Coast. Culinary tours allow you to sample cuisine from the many destinations that have influenced the city's history, including Spain, France, Italy, Asia, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Check out The Tasting Tours and City Walks Food and Wine Tours . And you'll want to tour the St. Augustine Distillery , where you can sample small batch spirits in a restored ice plant dating back to 1917.

Dine with a Water View

Two crowd favorites equally famous for their water views and oyster bars are Meehan's Irish Pub & Seafood House in the heart of the historic district, and Cap's On The Water in Vilano Beach, which has killer sunset views of the Intracoastal Waterway to the west. The waterfront Aunt Kate's is a family-owned eatery with a tradition of serving Menorcan dishes, fresh seafood, and famous clam chowder for more than 100 years. The family's history dates back to Menorca island residents brought to New Smyrna as indentured servants. They fled the failed English Colony to safety in St. Augustine in 1768. And while the original restaurant succumbed to fire, the new building serves up the same great recipes right on the water.

facebook.com/MeehansIrishPub , 20 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084

capsonthewater.com , 4325 Myrtle St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

aunt-kates.com , 612 Euclid Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Sample Southern Cuisine

And, of course, delectable Southern-style cooking is what many food lovers have grown to know and love about St. Augustine. Supporting local growers and producers, The Floridian features a regional take on traditional fare like fried green tomatoes, peppered shrimp, and barbecue pulled pork and waffles. Another local favorite, Catch 27 serves up hefty helpings of blackened chicken, grits, and deviled eggs.

thefloridianstaug.com , 72 Spanish St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

catchtwentyseven.com , 40 Charlotte St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

For an artisan-style after-dinner treat, head to Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops where flavors like Dragonfruit and Granny's Apple Pie are crafted with fresh fruit, spices, and herbs, or venture over to Peace Pie in the historic district for unique homemade ice-cream sandwiches, or nearby Whetstone Chocolates of St. Augustine , which offers a chocolate tasting tour.

thehyppo.com , 48 Charlotte St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

peacepieworld.com , 8 Aviles St, St Augustine, FL 32084

whetstonechocolates.com , 139 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Stay in a Historic Luxury Inn

Blending romance and history seamlessly, The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens is a high-end bed and breakfast with the ambiance of a luxury boutique hotel. Located in the heart of downtown St. Augustine, the inn features elegant guest rooms and suites that have been completely restored inside nine vintage structures—the oldest dating back to 1790. A Colonial-era Revival residence built in 1909 once welcomed visitors like Mark Twain and Sinclair Lewis.

thecollectorinn.com , 149 Cordova St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Book a Room in the Historic Spanish Quarter

A waterfront gem located within walking distance of historic downtown sites, restaurants, and shopping, the Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront hotel offers great views of the Bridge of Lions and Matanzas River. Many rooms in the Spanish Colonial cottage-style buildings provide views of the bay.

hilton.com/en/hotels/usthdhf-hilton-st-augustine-historic-bayfront , 32 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Wake Up to Ocean Views

For a lavish beachside escape, the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club is a AAA Five-Diamond stunner that originally opened in 1928 and has been attracting well-heeled guests for nearly a century. A major perk is the resort's 36 holes of serene seaside golf. Plus, there's tennis, kid's activities, a beautiful spa, and lots to do on the beach. Many rooms offer ocean views and walkout access to the beach. Make reservations at the upscale on-site Seahorse Grille for coastal cuisine.

pontevedra.com/stay/inn-club , 200 Ponte Vedra Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

Fall Asleep to the Sounds of Nature

Nestled between the St. Augustine Beach Pier Park and the 1,600-acre Anastasia State Park, Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort provides opportunities for water sports, nature hikes, and access to miles of pristine undeveloped beaches. Wake up steps from the beach, or enjoy coffee with views of St. Augustine beach from your balcony.

hilton.com/en/hotels/ustboes-embassy-suites-st-augustine-beach-oceanfront-resort , 300 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Savor the St. Augustine Spanish Food and Wine Festival

Since Pedro Menéndez and the first European settlers arrived in St. Augustine more than 450 years ago carrying loads of wine from Spain, the historic city has become known as America's Spanish wine capital. Celebrating this unique heritage, the St. Augustine Spanish Food and Wine Festival in February features a series of special events at various venues that feature Spanish wine, cuisine, and culture. And all proceeds from the festival benefit local charities.

Enjoy a Month of Music

Let the rhythm move you at the annual Sing Out Loud Festival throughout September. Including big-name headliners and local talent and songwriters, the event features live music performances at venues around the city. The best part? It's the largest free music festival in Florida.

Experience Nights of Lights

St. Augustine transforms during the holidays for the annual Nights of Lights celebration. Wander through the historic district and witness magical displays of millions of Christmas lights. Enjoy Light-Up! Night, the beer-infused Nights of Pints, Villa Zorayda's annual Candlelight Tour, holiday concerts, craft festivals, boat parades, and more. The festival kicks off the Saturday before Thanksgiving and continues nightly through January.

Whenever you choose to visit, and however you fill your days, Florida's Historic Coast is a great place for a family vacation or solo trip.

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Kelly Maguire Monroe presented with award from AAA

AAA Travel St. Augustine announced the most recent accomplishments of Kelly Maguire Monroe.

She was honored 2014 Top Revenue in Florida and the 2014 Top Sales Allianz Insurance.

These were presented to her by AAA on Oct. 18 in Orlando at the annual travel convention.

10 Things To Do In St. Augustine: Complete Guide To Historic Florida

N estled along the picturesque northeast coast of Florida, St. Augustine proudly holds the title of the oldest city in the United States . Steeped in rich history and adorned with captivating Spanish colonial architecture, this charming coastal gem offers a mesmerizing blend of old-world charm and sun-kissed beaches. With sandy stretches like St. Augustine Beach and the serene Crescent Beach gracing its shores, visitors are beckoned to indulge in the coastal beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.

Founded in September 1565, St. Augustine predates iconic American landmarks such as Jamestown and Plymouth Rock. Its establishment by the Spanish settlers marks a significant milestone in the country's history, making it the oldest continuously occupied European and African-American settlement in the nation.

With a population of approximately 14,581 residents in 2021, St. Augustine exudes a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, inviting travelers to discover its captivating history, bask in its sun-drenched beaches, and embrace the allure of its Spanish-inspired charm.

UPDATE: 2023/07/10 11:17 EST BY NOAH STAATS

The Ultimate Travel Guide To St. Augustine & What To Do In This Historic City

St. Augustine is one of Florida's most charming historic cities, with things to do both indoors and out. This updated travel guide includes more places to explore in St. Augustine and travel tips for visitors.

Things To Do In St. Augustine

To help the many Travelers visiting the city hoping to experience a bit of its iconic history and aesthetic classic beauty, here’s the complete travel guide to things to do in historic St. Augustine.

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

One fun thing to do while in St. Augustine, Florida, is the Alligator Farm Zoological Park . Here, guests can experience one of Florida's oldest continuously running attractions, having opened on May 20, 1893.

Like much of the city, this zoological park is rich in history and will keep the group entertained for the entire day. The St. Augustine Alligator Zoological Park boasts 24 species of crocodilians and also a variety of other reptiles, mammals, and birds, as well as exhibits, animal performances, and educational demonstrations.

• Address : 999 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080
• Hours : Daily from 9 AM to 6 PM
• Tickets : General admission is $34.99 per person

Medieval Torture Museum

The next place to see while in St. Augustine, Florida, is the Medieval Torture Museum . Here, people can check out the largest interactive torture museum in the United States, displaying a private collection of torture, execution, and restraint devices.

Although not an everyday type of attraction, this could be an interesting stop for adults and history buffs wanting to learn about how prisoners, criminals, and accused individuals were tortured back in the day.

What gives this museum an edge is that it's interactive. Therefore, guests of the property can engage in hands-on displays of how things were done, as well as learn about these torture devices and chambers in a way like no other.

Especially in the summer, Florida can get hot and muggy, so why not spend it learning about torture through the centuries?

• Address : Second Level, 100 St George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
• Hours : Daily from 10 AM to 10 PM
• Tickets : Client Choice ticket - $21.29 / All Inclusive ticket - $31.94

This museum is not intended for children. Generally, adults are the target audience for the torture museum in St. Augustine, as much of the imagery and displays are disturbing.

Ripley's Believe It or Not!

The next fun stop in St, Augustine, Florida, is Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum . Here, people can experience one of the city's top tourist destinations, with kitschy oddities on display, including shrunken human heads and rare animal skeletons.

Ripley's Museum in St. Augustine is perfect for families, with many displays and interactive sections to enjoy with the young ones. This is a nice choice for a day trip in the city and shouldn't take more than 2–3 hours to finish.

• Address : 19 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084
• Hours : Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM
• Tickets : Adult tickets - $23.99 / Child tickets - $12.99

Lightner Museum

The next place to see in St. Augustine is the Lightner Museum . Here, people can check out the location boasting antiques, mostly American Gilded Age pieces, housed within the historic Hotel Alcazar building in downtown St. Augustine.

In addition, the Lightner Museum has an 1887 Spanish Renaissance Revival-style building that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. St. Augustine is home to many old-time buildings and artifacts, both of which someone can witness here.

• Address : 75 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
• Hours : Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM
• Tickets : Adults - $17, Youth - 12-17 $10, Seniors - $14

Typically, people spend 1–2 hours here, as it's not super big. However, in hotter seasons, coming to this museum might be a nice way to escape the heat.

St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is a popular tourist destination, but be prepared to climb their 210 steps for the best, most breathtaking views of St. Augustine and its beaches (these are among the best on the East Coast ).

Travelers can even check out a 1782 shipwreck. Guided tours are included with the cost of admission, and there is also their Dark of the Moon tour, which is the only St. Augustine ghost tour that gets visitors inside the Lighthouse.

• Address : 100 Red Cox Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32080
• Hours : Open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM
• Tickets : General admission - $14.95

St. Mark's Castle National Monument

Easily accessible from the main square of St. Augustine and historic St. George St., travelers will have a fun time walking through 500 years of history in the oldest fort in the US .

They offer self-guided tours for visitors looking to explore the monument.

• Address : 11 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084

St. Augustine Distillery

St. Augustine Distillery is found in downtown St. Augustine within the beautifully restored and historic turn-of-the-century ice plant. This locally owned and operated artisanal spirits distillery is an incredibly fun stop for travelers looking to taste their spirits.

Serving their spirits in classy cocktails, this is one of the best stops in the city to enjoy a drink.

• Address : 112 Riberia St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
• Hours : Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM

St. George Street

St. George Street is a bastion for small unique shops and boutiques. The street is also home to a variety of casual restaurants and pubs. So, regardless of the hour of the day, travelers will be able to find something for them to enjoy along this historic street full of restored architecture and amazing sights.

• Address : St. Augustine, FL 32084
• Hours : Open 24 hours, every day

Cathedral Basilica Of St. Augustine

Travelers don’t need to be religious or even that interested in cathedrals or churches to appreciate this structure’s beauty and architecture. Built between 1793 and 1797, this structure is an iconic part of the city.

Travelers are welcome to explore the cathedral on their own, and the entrance is completely free.

• Address : 38 Cathedral Pl, St. Augustine, FL 32084
• Hours : Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM (closed Saturday and Sunday)

Anastasia State Park

Travelers to St. Augustine should definitely make a stop at Anastasia State Park . Travelers who enjoy the outdoors will love the abundant wildlife, especially the bird population of the park.

Many birds of prey can be seen hunting above the waters of the park. There are trails to explore, as well as campsites for travelers if they are interested.

• Area - 2,656 mi²
• Established - 1949

Best Time To Go To St. Augustine

Travelers generally agree that March through May is the best time to visit St. Augustine. May enjoys warm but mild temperatures with little rainfall. This is a popular time to visit but not nearly as busy as June through August.

Related: We're Going To Times Square! The One In Florida, Not New York

The second-best time of the year to visit St. Augustine would be in the fall, just after Labor Day and into October.

The temperatures are ideal, and there is little rainfall. Winter and summer come with tradeoffs. Summer will have the hottest weather, ideal for the beach, but it will also be when St. Augustine is the most crowded and most expensive.

Winter is lovely in St. Augustine, but travelers will likely not want to venture into the water. However, the costs won’t be as high, and there will be the holiday charm the city drapes itself in every year.

Best Ways To Get Around St. Augustine

There are an abundance of fun and interesting ways of getting around St. Augustine, as well as more conventional means. Travelers will be able to rent a car if they wish, and they will also be able to find taxis, Uber, and Lyft rides too.

However, it is recommended that travelers try some of these other ways to get around St. Augustine.

One of the most iconic features of St. Augustine is seeing a trolley rolling through the city streets. These trolleys are run by Red Train Tours and Old Town Trolley Tours . Riding the trolleys is a fun alternative way of exploring St. Augustine.

Some of the stops that the trolleys make include the Colonial Quarter, Fountain of Youth, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, St. George Street, Lightner Museum, Plaza de la Constitucion, and the St. Augustine Distillery, to name a few.

By Pedicabs

Travelers who want a quick lift around the city, but an alternative to taxis and Uber, should check out Pedicabs. A pedicab is a style of bicycle rickshaw.

With service offered throughout the town, Pedicabs are often a popular option to get to destinations such as festivals and concerts once traffic starts to become heavy.

Bicycle And Other Rental Services

St. Augustine is a popular destination for cyclists as well as other forms of two-wheeled transportation.

Mopeds and Scoot Coupes have also joined bicycles as a popular way of getting around.

• Solano Cycle - Rents bicycles, 1-seater scooters, 2-seater scooters, Scoot Coupes, walkers, strollers, wheelchairs, and mobility strollers. They offer hourly, overnight, and weekly rentals
• St. Augustine Bike Rentals - Rents bicycles, scooters, and Scoot Coupes. They offer hourly and daily pricing. You can also book a segway, VIP Kart, or bike tour through them
• A1A Cycle Works - A1A Cycle Works rents bicycles
• PIT Surf Shop - PIT Surf Shop rents bicycles
• Big Bill’s Beach Stuff - Rents out beach cruisers

Explore By Tours & Pickups

One more recent addition to the ways travelers can explore St. Augustine is Explore Tours & Pickups . Escorting travelers around in what looks like a cross between a golf cart and a van is an excellent and pet-friendly way of seeing the city.

By Carriage Rides

Travelers looking for a slow-paced and relaxing way of seeing the city should consider taking a carriage ride. There are several companies in the city that offer these rides: Southern Heritage Carriages , Country Carriages , and St. Augustine Horse & Carriage . They have become a popular way for travelers to explore the city.

One of the most attractive aspects of visiting St. Augustine is its walkability . No matter where travelers are staying in the city, they will find the beach, downtown, and uptown, all accessible by foot. The city’s design is quite friendly toward pedestrians.

Where To Eat In St. Augustine

This old city has a mix of southern, traditional American, and Spanish-influenced cuisine. To help travelers discover the best places in the city to enjoy a meal, here are three highly recommended locations for travelers to check out.

The Blue Hen Cafe

Travelers looking for the best way to start their day while in St. Augustine should check out The Blue Hen Cafe . Offering travelers a traditional breakfast, every dish is absolutely delicious.

There may be a line, but it will be worth the wait.

• Address - 117 M L King Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084-4844
• Contact - (904) 217-3777
• Cost - $$-$$$
• Fan-Favorite - Peanut Butter and Banana French Toast

Woodpeckers Backyard Barbeque

Travelers looking for some good southern barbeque while in St. Augustine should try Woodpeckers Backyard Barbeque . Their delicious meats are served in a variety of ways, but one of the most popular would be their pulled pork served on Texas toast. Travelers will love this casual and delicious barbeque experience.

• Address - 4930 State Road 13 N, St. Augustine, FL 32092-1419
• Contact - (904) 531-5670
• Fan-Favorite - Pulled Pork

Sunset Grille

On their fourth decade of business, Sunset Grille sits idyllically across from the beach with a mix of indoor and outdoor seeding that includes their first-floor deck and patio, as well as their second-story deck. This is a great location for enjoying their delicious cuisine while enjoying the views.

• Address - 421 A1A Beach Blvd Saint Augustine, Florida, Saint Augustine Beach, St. Augustine, FL 32080-6315
• Contact - (904)471-5555
• Fan-Favorite - Clam Chowder and Coconut Shrimp

Where To Stay In Augustine

St. Augustine is a popular tourist destination with many choices for accommodation. To help travelers out, here are three hotels that are highly rated and well-reviewed.

Southern Oaks Inn

Southern Oaks Inn offers travelers great value at budget-friendly prices and a convenient location. The grounds of the hotel are well-kept, and it makes for a great romantic getaway.

Travelers with pets will also love this hotel as they are pet friendly and will even offer dog beds.

• Accommodation: Southern Oaks Inn
• Address - 2800 N Ponce de Leon Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32084
• Amenities - Wi-Fi, outdoor pool, pets Allowed (dog/pet-friendly), photocopier/fax In the business center, ATM on-site, 24-hour front desk

The Saint Augustine Beach House

The Saint Augustine Beach House is an incredible hotel along Vilano Beach with oceanfront accommodations. By oceanfront, travelers will literally be able to walk onto the sands of the beach from some of the rooms.

• Accommodation: The Saint Augustine Beach House
• Address - 10 Vilano Rd, Vilano Beach, St. Augustine, FL 32084-2964
• Amenities - Free parking, free high-speed internet (Wi-Fi), free breakfast, beach, fishing, children's television networks, highchairs available, pets allowed (dog/pet friendly)

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Augustine Historic District

With incredible access to St. Augustine's Historic District, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Augustine Historic District is a great stay for those who want to enjoy luxurious accommodations while having access to some of St. Augustine's oldest and most classic sites.

• Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Augustine Historic District
• Address - 116 San Marco Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084-3262
• Amenities - Electric vehicle charging station, free high-speed internet (Wi-Fi), pool, fitness center with gym/workout room, bar/lounge, bicycle rental, bicycles available, shuttle bus service

Tips For Visiting St. Augustine

Famous for its stunning Spanish colonial architecture and beautiful Atlantic Ocean beaches, St. Augustine holds the title of the oldest city in the US. Travelers to the city can soak up the sun on St. Augustine Beach, tranquil Crescent Beach, and among the dunes of Anastasia State Park.

Since its founding in September 1565 , St. Augustine has been a gem on Florida’s northeast coast. It's also a short day trip from attractions like the Kennedy Space Center , the city of Jacksonville, and Orlando.

Fun Facts About The History Of St. Augustine

At the time this article was published, St. Augustine was 457 years old, having been founded on September eighth, 1565. Spanish admiral Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, Florida's first governor, named the settlement “San Agustin,” and it was the location where ships arrived bearing settlers, troops, and supplies from Spain.

The Spanish had just spotted the peninsula that would become Florida eleven days before their first landing. This city served as the capital of Florida for 200 years as well as the capital of British East Florida when the colony was established in 1763.

Great Britain would then return Florida to Spain in 1783 before Spain ceded it to the US in 1819. It would remain the capital of Florida until 1824 when the capital was moved to Tallahassee.

Related: These U.S. Historic Landmarks Were The Most Popular In 2022

Guide To Popular Neighborhoods In St. Augustine

There are a few popular neighborhoods in St. Augustine that travelers love to frequent. Here is a look at them and what travelers can expect to find while there.

The Historic District

The Historic District of St. Augustine, containing St. George Street and all of its shops, is the most historically aesthetic district of the city, with old and well-maintained or restored Spanish architecture.

Visiting or staying in the Historic District gives a Spanish-European feel to the trip.

• Tour: St. Augustine Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour
• Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cost: From $38.48 USD per adult

Book this tour

Lincolnville

Lincolnville, settled by former slaves, is known for its civil rights heritage with sites like the Lincolnville Museum & Cultural Center and the ACCORD Freedom Trail like the Civil Rights House.

This neighborhood is home to 1800s architecture, including Gothic Revival churches and the Lightner Museum. There is much history to be discovered in this neighborhood.

Anastasia is both a neighborhood and a barrier island for St. Augustine. It is also where Anastasia State Park is located. Here travelers are recommended to explore kayaking in places like Salt Run, an estuarine habitat for roseate spoonbills and dolphins, to get the most out of this incredible island neighborhood.

Related: 10 Most Photo-Worthy Spots In Orlando, Florida (Besides Disney)

Budgeting A Trip To St. Augustine

Travelers looking to visit St. Augustine may want to optimize their budget, so they can have the best possible experience. To help travelers out, here are three tips for optimizing a budget during a trip to St. Augustine.

Arrive During The Off-Season

There are lots of ways to save some money during a trip to St. Augustine. One of them is to plan a trip during the off-season, Spring and Fall are both great.

And even the winter is incredibly pleasant in St. Augustine.

Take Advantage Of Free And Cheap Attractions

St. Augustine is full of museums and historical sites that are publicly maintained. That means visiting some of these attractions is affordable or even free.

Several of the above attractions mentioned in this article fall into that category, such as Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine.

Try Having A Picnic Instead Of Dining Out

With its lovely aesthetic, stunning beaches, and parks , there are a few locations in St. Augustine where travelers could have a picnic.

It won’t just be cheaper, but it is also a great way to stay outside when the weather is great and not have to relocate for a meal.

How To Spend The Perfect Day In St. Augustine

A perfect day in St. Augustine could take many forms, but if travelers had just one day in the ancient city, it would start with breakfast at The Blue Hen Cafe. After that, travelers should head to Anastasia State Park, and don’t forget to pack a picnic!

Related: This Is The Best Time To Visit Manatee Park In Fort Myers

Travelers will linger lazily in the dunes, sand, and waves of the coast until early afternoon when they tour the cities neighborhoods by foot until hunger hits them. Stops at Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine and St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, Inc. are a must, and the shops on St. George Street are fun to look through.

Dinner will be had at Sunset Grille, right across from the beach, where travelers can stroll during the evening hours after their meal and before returning home. That would be a perfect day in St. Augustine.

Q: What is St. Augustine Florida known for?

While the first settlements that would go on to form the original 13 Colonies were English settlements like Jamestown and Plymouth, the first European settlement in what is today America was in Florida . This is St. Augustine's primary claim to fame!

If in Virginia be sure to see the "Historic Triangle" of Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown. In Massachusetts, one can see a replica of the original Mayflower and see Historical Plymouth.

Q: What is the best month to go to St. Augustine Florida?

Many travelers flock to Florida in the winter months because it's far warmer than many other US (and international) destinations. However, that can mean high prices and busy tourist spots.

Therefore, March through May is often cited as the best time to head to St. Augustine.