St. Augustine, Florida is a beautiful city with rich history and culture. Founded in 1565 by Spanish admiral Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the United States.
St. Augustine offers a wide range of exciting activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interest is exploring the city’s historic landmarks, relaxing on the beach, or trying out some delicious local cuisine, St. Augustine has something for everyone.
Table of Contents
- 1. Historic Landmarks
- 2. Outdoor Adventures
- 3. Cultural Experiences
- 4. Shopping and Dining
- 5. Arts and Entertainment
- 6. Ghost Tours
- 7. Family Fun
- There You Have It!
Let’s get to it! Here are some top exciting things to do in St. Augustine. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this beautiful city!
1. Historic Landmarks
When visiting St. Augustine, Florida, exploring its historic landmarks is a must. These sites provide a glimpse into the city’s rich history and offer a fascinating experience for visitors. Here are a few notable historic landmarks:
Castillo de San Marcos
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The Castillo de San Marcos is a prominent historic fort that has stood for centuries, showcasing Spanish architecture and stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the fort’s design, learn about its role in history, and appreciate the picturesque waterfront setting. It was amazing to see this historic fort and to add St. Augustine to our places of travel! We loved it so much that we have been there several times since!
Flagler College
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Flagler College is another iconic landmark in St. Augustine, known for its Spanish Renaissance architecture and captivating history. Formerly the Ponce de Leon Hotel, the college’s campus features beautiful courtyards, intricate details, and a rich legacy that makes it a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Lightner Museum
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The Lightner Museum is housed in the former Alcazar Hotel and showcases an extensive collection of art, artifacts, and antiques. Visitors can marvel at the museum’s interior, explore its exhibits, and gain insight into the city’s cultural heritage.
2. Outdoor Adventures
When it comes to outdoor adventures in St. Augustine, Florida, there are plenty of exciting activities to do. From pristine beaches to state parks and wildlife encounters, the options are many.
Anastasia State Park
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Anastasia State Park offers a beautiful natural setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. The park’s diverse ecosystems provide a picturesque backdrop for a day of exploration and relaxation.
St. Augustine Beach
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St. Augustine Beach is a popular destination for those seeking sun, sand, and sea. With its sandy shores and rolling waves, it’s an ideal spot for swimming, surfing, beachcombing, or simply unwinding on the beach.
St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park
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For a unique wildlife experience, the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is a must-visit. This attraction offers the chance to observe a variety of wildlife, including alligators, exotic birds, and other fascinating creatures. The park also features engaging educational programs and zip line adventures, making it an exciting destination for nature enthusiasts.
3. Cultural Experiences
St. Augustine is a city rich in history and culture, and there are many exciting ways to immerse yourself in it. Here are a few of St. Augustine’s cultural experiences:
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
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The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
is a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history. The lighthouse, which was first built in 1824, has been restored and is now open to the public. Visitors can climb the 219 steps to the top for a breathtaking view of St. Augustine and the beaches. The museum also includes exhibits on shipwrecks, lighthouse keepers, and the history of the coast guard.
We enjoyed the Lighthouse and the Museum. They have a nice gift shop with books and other items that you can purchase as a keepsake of your visit.
Colonial Quarter
The Colonial Quarter is a living history museum that takes visitors back in time to the 16th and 17th centuries. The quarter includes a reconstructed Spanish fort, a blacksmith shop, a carpenter’s shop, and a leatherworking shop. Visitors can watch demonstrations of traditional crafts and skills, and try their hand at some of them. The quarter also includes several restaurants and shops that sell traditional crafts and souvenirs.
4. Shopping and Dining
When visiting St. Augustine, Florida, exploring the local shopping and dining scene is a must. The city offers a variety of options for those looking to indulge in retail therapy or savor delicious cuisine.
St. George Street
St. George Street is a busy thoroughfare lined with diverse shops, boutiques, and eateries. Visitors can stroll along this pedestrian-friendly street, browsing through charming stores offering unique souvenirs, crafts, and clothing. The area also boasts several dining establishments, ranging from cafes to upscale restaurants, where one can savor local cuisine and international flavors.
Aviles Street
For a more intimate shopping and dining experience, Aviles Street is a hidden gem in St. Augustine. Aviles Sreet is the oldest street in the United States! This historic street is home to art galleries, antique shops, and quaint cafes, providing a delightful experience for a leisurely exploration. Visitors can peruse art, antiques, and enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee at one of the eateries along this cobblestone street. Read more about this special street of history!
5. Arts and Entertainment
St. Augustine is known for its vibrant arts and entertainment scene. From live music to art galleries, there’s always something exciting happening in the city. Here are a few of the top places to go:
St. Augustine Amphitheatre
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The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is a must-visit for music lovers. This outdoor venue hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year, featuring both local and national acts. With a capacity of over 4,000, the amphitheater provides an great time for music fans. Be sure to check their calendar of events to see who’s performing during your visit.
Art Galleries
St. Augustine is home to a vibrant arts community, and there are plenty of galleries to explore. The city’s art scene is diverse, with everything from contemporary art to folk art. The St. Augustine Art Association features rotating exhibits of local and regional artists. Another great option is the Lightner Museum, which houses a collection of fine and decorative art from the 19th century.
6. Ghost Tours
When visiting St. Augustine, one of the most thrilling experiences is to go on a ghost tour. These tours offer a unique perspective on the city’s history, blending chilling stories and tales with historical facts. Visitors can explore haunted locations and learn about the city’s paranormal past. Several tour companies offer a variety of options, including walking tours and trolley tours.
7. Family Fun
St. Augustine offers a variety of family-friendly activities that cater to both kids and adults. Here are a few of them:
Pirate & Treasure Museum
Go see the pirates at the Pirate & Treasure Museum. This interactive museum showcases authentic artifacts and exhibits that brings piracy to life. Visitors can explore the history of famous pirates and view genuine treasures recovered from shipwrecks.
Old Jail
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Step back in time with a visit to the Old Jail, a historic landmark that provides a glimpse into St. Augustine’s past. Guided tours tells about the harsh living conditions of prisoners and the tales of daring escapes.
Potter’s Wax Museum
Potter’s Wax Museum with over 160 wax figures portrays some of the most influential personalities in our history from around the world. These include personalities from Florida history, American history, science, government, and celebrities. Potter’s Wax Museum is the oldest Wax Museum in the United States and the 2nd largest Wax Museum in the world!
We enjoyed seeing the many wax figures! We could have stayed there most of the day!
There You Have It!
St. Augustine, Florida is an exciting place to visit and offers much to do and see for its visitors! This article only touches the hem of the garment, as there is many more attractions, adventures, shops and historical sites than what I have listed. Whether planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, your trip to St. Augustine will be amazing. So, pack your bags and travel to this awesome oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the United States!
As always be safe in your travels and have tons of FUN!