St. Augustine, Florida, is the oldest city in the United States and a destination full of history, culture and beautiful scenery. Founded in 1565 by the Spanish, the city preserves its colonial buildings, cobblestone streets and fortresses that tell more than 450 years of history. In addition, St. Augustine offers incredible beaches, varied cuisine and tours for all types of travelers.
If you are planning a trip, this complete guide will show you What to do in St. Augustine, Florida, with detailed itineraries, unmissable attractions and tips to make the most of your stay.
Why Visit St. Augustine? (History and Fun Facts)
St. Augustine is known as the oldest city in the USA, being one of the few places in the country that maintains its preserved Spanish colonial architecture. For centuries, it was the target of disputes between the Spanish, the English and pirates, which generated many legends and mysteries.
One of the most famous stories involves the Fountain of Youth, supposedly discovered by explorer Juan Ponce de León. Legend has it that anyone who drinks from this spring gains eternal life. The site has become a tourist attraction and can be visited in Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park.
Another curious detail: St. Augustine was the scene of pirate attacks, and traces of that time can still be seen in museums and historic buildings.
Best attractions to visit
Castillo de San Marcos: The Historic Fort
Built by the Spanish in 1672, Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest fortress in the United States. Made of coquina stone, it has withstood numerous attacks and remains imposing to this day. It is worth watching the recreation of the cannon firing, which takes place on weekends.
St. George Street: The Most Charming Street
This pedestrian street is the heart of St. Augustine. With shops, restaurants and street performers, a stroll along it is a must. You will find souvenir shops, cozy cafes and well-preserved centuries-old buildings.
Lightner Museum: Art and History
The Lightner Museum is located in the former Alcazar Hotel and houses a fascinating collection of art and historical objects, from Victorian furniture to curious 19th-century relics.
Vilano Beach: Beach and Relaxation
For those looking for a moment of relaxation, Vilano Beach is a great option. Less crowded than other beaches in Florida, it is perfect for enjoying the sunset and relaxing.
Unmissable tours for all styles
Trolley Tour: Discover the City Without Getting Tired
The Trolley Tour is a convenient way to explore St. Augustine. It operates on a “hop-on, hop-off” basis, meaning you can hop on and off at different tourist attractions along the route.
Ghost Tour: Mysteries and Legends
The city is reputed to be one of the most haunted places in the US. The night tour takes visitors to historic sites with stories of ghosts and unexplained phenomena.
Boat Tour: Incredible Coastal Views
How about seeing St. Augustine from the sea? A boat tour offers a different perspective of the city, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot dolphins swimming in the area.
Food: Where to Eat and Drink in St. Augustine
Historic restaurants
- Columbia Restaurant – Traditional Spanish restaurant, famous for its paellas and sangrias.
- The Floridian – Blends flavors of the southern US with local Florida ingredients.
Best bars and cafes
- Ice Plant – 1920s-inspired bar known for its craft cocktails.
- Kookaburra Coffee – Perfect for a special coffee and a quick snack before your outings.
Where to stay? Recommended hotels and Airbnb
If you want to stay in the heart of the historic center, St. George Inn is a great option. For those seeking luxury, the Casa Monica Resort & Spa offers sophisticated accommodations. For those who prefer a budget stay, there are several Airbnbs and guesthouses in the city's surroundings.
Best time to visit and weather
The best time to visit St. Augustine is between March and May, or September and November. Summer can be very hot and rainy, while winter is mild and pleasant.
How to get around the city? Transportation and car rental
St. Augustine's historic downtown is compact and easily explored on foot. If you want to visit beaches or attractions further away, it may be worth renting a car. Plus, Trolley Tour and tourist buses are good alternatives to get around without worries.
Themed itineraries to optimize your trip
1 day itinerary
- Morning: San Marcos Castle
- Afternoon: St. George Street and Lightner Museum
- Night: Ghost Tour
3-day itinerary
Day 1: Exploring the historic center
Day 2: Boat trips and beaches
Day 3: Gastronomic experience and museums
Family trip
- Old Jail (former prison with interactive tours)
- Pirate & Treasure Museum
- Trolley Ride
Romantic trip
- Sunset at St. Augustine Lighthouse
- Dinner at Columbia Restaurant
- Night tour of the historic center
Unmissable events and festivals throughout the year
- Nights of Lights (December to January) – Special lighting throughout the city.
- St. Augustine Celtic Festival (March) – Festival with Celtic music and dance.
- Seafood Festival (April) – Gastronomic festival dedicated to seafood.
Extra tips to save money and make the most of it
✔️ Buy combo tickets – Many museums and attractions offer passes that are cheaper than buying them separately.
✔️ Take advantage of the free tours – Some historic squares and churches have free entry.
✔️ Avoid peak times – Visiting early or late in the afternoon helps you avoid the crowds.
St. Augustine is a charming destination, full of history, culture and beautiful scenery. With so many attractions, tours and unique experiences, it is worth including this city on your travel list. Now that you know What to do in St. Augustine, Florida, just plan your trip and enjoy!