St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, takes on a special charm at night. With historic bars, live music, vibrant parties and unique experiences, the nightlife in St. Augustine, Florida is one of the most authentic in the state. In this guide, you will find the best places to enjoy the night, from traditional pubs to mystery tours.
Best Bars and Pubs
Where to Find Craft Drinks
If you enjoy well-crafted cocktails, St. Augustine offers several options for enjoying craft drinks:
- Ice Plant Bar – Famous for its cocktails prepared with artisanal ice and fresh ingredients.
- The Tini Martini Bar – Perfect for those who enjoy signature martinis and an incredible view of the bay.
- Odd Birds Cocktail Lounge – Offers experimental drinks in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Tip: Ask the bartender for recommendations to discover unique recipes that aren’t on the menu!
Bars with Live Music
Nothing goes better with a good drink than live music. St. Augustine has bars that offer performances by local artists every night:
- Tradewinds Lounge – One of the oldest in the city, with daily blues and rock performances.
- Prohibition Kitchen – Combines excellent food with live music, often in the jazz style.
- Meehan's Irish Pub – Classic Irish pub, with bands playing hits from the 80s and 90s.
Many of these bars don’t charge entrance, so it’s worth checking the schedule before you head out.
Nightclubs and Parties
Clubs to Dance
If you prefer a more lively place to enjoy the night, these clubs are great for dancing and having fun:
- Of Cats – Small but always full of energy, with DJs playing pop and electronica.
- The St. Augustine Distillery After Hours – On some nights, it transforms into a vibrant space with a dance floor.
- Planet! Sarbez! – An alternative environment that mixes arcade, good music and a young audience.
Clubs usually get busiest after 10pm, so get there early to secure a good spot.
Seasonal Events and Themed Parties
St. Augustine has special events throughout the year that make nightlife even more interesting:
- Nights of Lights (November to January) – The entire city is lit up, creating a magical atmosphere for nighttime strolls.
- Halloween Party at Ghostly Gala – Themed party for those who like costumes and scary fun.
- Sunset Celebration – Beachfront event with live music, drinks and food trucks.
Before you travel, check the event schedule so you don't miss any special parties!
Unique Nighttime Experiences
Historical Night Tours
As a historic city, St. Augustine offers unforgettable night tours:
- Carriage rides through the historic center – Great option for couples and families who want to see the illuminated city.
- St. Augustine Lighthouse at Night – Offers a spectacular view and a touch of mystery.
- Sunset Boat Tour – A romantic and relaxing experience, with drinks on board.
These tours are very popular, so booking in advance is a good idea.
Ghost and Mystery Tours
Considered one of the most haunted cities in the US, St. Augustine offers spooky nighttime tours:
- Ghosts & Gravestones Tour – A tram tour of the city’s most haunted spots.
- St. Augustine Haunted Pub Crawl – Mixes ghost stories with visits to historic bars.
- Old Jail After Dark – A visit to the old prison, where there are reports of supernatural events.
If you like horror and mystery stories, these tours are a must-see!
Gastronomy for the Night
Restaurants Open Late
For those who like to eat late or need a snack after a night out, these restaurants are great options:
- Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille – Specializing in seafood and Cajun food.
- The Floridian – Typical Florida dishes, made with fresh ingredients.
- Pizza Time – One of the most famous pizzerias in the country, perfect for satisfying your hunger in the early hours of the morning.
Before you leave, check opening times as some places close earlier outside of peak season.
Best Places for a Romantic Dinner
If you're looking for a special dinner, St. Augustine has the perfect options for unforgettable moments:
- Collage Restaurant – Sophisticated and highly rated, ideal for special occasions.
- Raintree Restaurant – Serves meat and seafood in a historic mansion.
- Cap's on the Water – Beachfront restaurant with stunning sunset views.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially on weekends.
Essential Tips for Enjoying the Night
- Transport: The historic center has narrow streets and few parking spaces. Prefer Uber, taxi or tourist bus.
- Security: St. Augustine is a safe city, but avoid deserted streets and always keep an eye on your belongings.
- Climate: It can be quite windy at night, so bring a light jacket even in summer.
- Tips: In bars and restaurants, the standard is to leave between 15% and 20% of the bill amount.
Conclusion
THE nightlife in St. Augustine, Florida There’s something for everyone. From cozy bars and lively pubs to vibrant parties and mystery tours, the city offers something for everyone.
Now just choose your itinerary and enjoy the best of St. Augustine's nightlife!