Introduction: Why Visit St. Augustine?
St. Augustine, Florida, is one of the most fascinating destinations in the United States. Founded in 1565 by the Spanish, it is considered the oldest city in the country and preserves a unique historical charm. Strolling through its cobblestone streets, you will see well-preserved colonial buildings, imposing fortresses and an atmosphere that mixes the old with the new. In addition, the city offers incredible beaches, museums, boat tours and rich cuisine. In this guide, you will find the best activities in St. Augustine, Florida, to plan an unforgettable trip.
Best Attractions
Tourist Point 1: Castillo de San Marcos
Castillo de San Marcos is the city’s main historical attraction. Built between 1672 and 1695 by the Spanish, this stone fort has withstood countless battles and remains standing to this day. Its impressive structure, with coquina walls (a type of local limestone), and incredible views of Matanzas Bay.
📍 Tips for your visit:
- The fort is open daily from 9am to 5:30pm.
- Entry costs around $15 per adult (children under 15 go free).
- On weekends, there are cannon firing shows.
Landmark 2: St. George Street
This charming pedestrian street is the heart of the city’s tourist scene. Lined with shops, cafes, restaurants and museums, it’s the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll and soak up the unique atmosphere of St. Augustine.
📍 What you can't miss on your trip:
- Whetstone Chocolates – Artisanal chocolate shop with tasting.
- Oldest Wooden School House – The oldest wooden schoolhouse in the USA.
- City Gates – The historic city gates, a great spot for photos.
Landmark 3: St. Augustine Lighthouse
With 219 steps and incredible views of the city and ocean, the St. Augustine Lighthouse is one of the most photographed landmarks in the area. In addition to the scenery, the lighthouse is also known for being haunted, making nighttime tours even more exciting.
📍 Tips to make the most of it:
- The ticket costs approximately $15.
- Climb to the top to see an unforgettable sunset.
- The night tour Dark of the Moon explore the legends of the place.
Tourist Spot 4: Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
Legend has it that anyone who drinks from the Fountain of Youth will live a long life. At the archaeological park, you can taste this “miraculous” water and explore exhibits about the arrival of the Spanish in Florida.
📍 Park Highlights:
- Historical reconstructions of the colonial era.
- Archery presentations and arquebus shooting.
- Entrance fee: $19.95 per adult.
Unmissable Experiences
Boat Tours and Cruises
Exploring St. Augustine by sea is a unique experience. There are several boat tour options, including:
- Sunset Cruise – An unforgettable view of Matanzas Bay.
- Dolphin watching tour – Ideal for families with children.
- Black Raven Pirate Ship – An interactive experience for little ones.
Historical and Cultural Tours
In addition to the main attractions, St. Augustine has a wide range of museums and cultural experiences. Some must-sees include:
- Lightner Museum – Located in a former luxury hotel, it houses an impressive collection of art and antiques.
- Colonial Quarter – An interactive park that transports visitors to the 18th century.
- Ghost Tours – Night tours to discover the city’s haunted stories.
Best Beaches
St. Augustine is also a great destination for beach lovers. Some of the best beaches include:
- St. augustine beach – With great infrastructure and calm sea.
- Vilano Beach – Less busy, perfect for those looking for tranquility.
- Anastasia State Park – A beautiful nature reserve for hiking and picnicking.
Where to Eat in St. Augustine?
Traditional Restaurants
- Columbia Restaurant – Traditional Spanish food since 1905.
- Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille – Typical New Orleans dishes.
- The Floridian – Local options and fresh ingredients.
Charming Cafes and Bakeries
- The Kookaburra – Australian cafe with great pastries.
- Cocoa Cream – Delicious handmade sweets.
- Maple Street Biscuit Company – Famous for its cookies and specialty coffees.
Where to Stay?
Luxury Hotels
- Casa Monica Resort & Spa – Sophistication and history in the heart of the city.
- The Collector Inn – Charming, with preserved colonial architecture.
Cozy Inns
- St. Francis Inn – Great location and delicious breakfast.
- Bayfront Marine House – Rooms with incredible views of the bay.
Economic Options
- The Pirate Haus Inn – Simple, fun and well located.
- Anastasia Inn – Good option for those looking for savings and comfort.
Practical Tips for your Trip
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit St. Augustine is in the spring (March to May) and in the autumn (september to november), when the weather is pleasant and the attractions are less crowded.
How to Get There and Get Around
- By car: The city is 2 hours from Orlando.
- Local transport: O Old Town Trolley Tours It is a great option to get around the main tourist attractions.
Free and Economical Tours
- Constitution Square – The oldest square in the USA, great for photos.
- St. George Street – Charming tour at no cost.
- Fort Matanzas National Monument – Free entry to learn about local history.
Conclusion and Final Tips
St. Augustine is a destination full of history, culture, and natural beauty. With so many activities to do in St. Augustine, Florida, you can create a varied itinerary, including historical tours, relaxing beaches, and unforgettable dining experiences.
📍 Final tip: Book your attractions in advance to avoid queues and guarantee the best times.
Now that you have all the information, just prepare your trip and enjoy every moment in St. Augustine!