St. Augustine is a city on the northeast coast of Florida, just South of Jacksonville in St. Johns County. It lays claim to being the oldest city in the U.S., and is known for its Spanish colonial architecture as well as beautiful beaches. St. Augustine Beach, Vilano Beach and Crescent Beach. Anastasia State Park is a protected wildlife sanctuary. The Castillo de San Marcos is a 17th-century Spanish stone fortress with views of the St. Augustine Inlet. Flagler College is in the heart of St. Augustine. This city offers so much for everyone. History buffs are sure to love it.
THINGS TO DO
Castillo de San Marco
Enjoy walking the grounds of this beautiful fort for free. Be sure to check their website for the schedule of events. Including the reenactment of the cannon firing, the park rangers dressed as 17th century soldiers, the detailed exhibits of the history of the city and the fort, and how the soldiers spent their days. You could even pack a lunch and blanket and have a picnic on the grounds. Great space for kids to run off some energy.
Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
A visit to the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is more than you might expect! Climb 219 steps for a breathtaking view of both St. Aug and the beaches. Or go below to discover a 1782 British shipwreck
Hop off and on trolley tour
I think this is a great way to see the town. Hope off and on to see every spot you’d like to see. You can buy a one day or multi-day pass. You can buy them HERE this also includes admission to a few local sites.
Old Jail Museum Tour
Tickets to this also included in the Hop off and on trolley tour mentioned above – or found HERE
Lightner Museum
Formerly the Alcazar Hotel built in 1888 by Henry Flagler showcases Otto Lightner’s collections of fine and decorative 19th-century art. Advance tickets get you in the door faster. Buy there HERE
Ghost train adventure
Pirate and Treasure Tour
Ripley’s Believe it or Not
Night of Lights – Nov-Jan
The next few places are not downtown St. Augustine, but I recommend going to one or all if you have time while there.
Alligator Farm
Marineland
Marineland Dolphin Adventure is a place for education, inspiration and connection with common bottlenose dolphins. With a variety of different programs, including immersions and behind the scenes tours, Marineland Dolphin Adventure is the perfect place for an unforgettable family visit.
Saint Augustine Beach & Splash Park
WHERE TO STAY
I recommend staying a night or two if you’re able to. The city has so much to offer. St. Augustine has many quaint bars with live music, great restaurants, shops and more.
There are plenty of B&B’s downtown, but most have a 3 night minimum stay so depending on how long you want to visit.
Below I have listed a few B&B’s that have great reviews.
Bayfront Marin House
Hemingway House
Centennial House
St. Francis Inn
The hotels I would recommend downtown are:
Casa Monica Resort & Spa
This resort is beautiful and high end. On weekends there are often weddings or wedding parties staying here. It’s in a great location with beautiful decor.
Hilton Historic Bayfront
My husband and I have stayed here a few times and love it. If booking here I would ask for a waterfront room with a balcony. This hotel overlooks the intracoastal and is nicely kept.
If you’d prefer being oceanfront there is a new Embassy Suites that is great for families. If you aren’t familiar with Embassy Suites they have free made to order breakfast and a happy hour. They’re perfect for families since the rooms have a separate living room and a small fridge and microwave. This hotel a quick Uber ride or drive downtown. There is a popular restaurant across the street called Salt Life and a free splash park right on the beach which is great for kids.
WHERE TO EAT / DRINK
St. Augustine Distillery
Ice Plant
Great atmosphere and food. Limited menu during certain hours so check ahead to be prepared. The Blue Crab Beignets will melt in your mouth.
San Sebastian Winery
The Tini Martini Bar
Mi Casa Cafe – live music daily
Columbia Restaurant
Mill Top Tavern
Prohibition Kitchen
This is my favorite place to eat in St. Aug. They have delicious deviled eggs, a new recipe every day. The short ribs & brussels sprouts are my go to. I have heard that the PK burger is the best burger in town. They also have craft cocktails and beer and delicious milk shakes along with a great atmosphere.
Great Craft cocktails @ Odd Birds
The next few are not downtown but locals love them.
Caps on the Water
O’Steen’s
Salt Life Shack
For those of you who have a sweet tooth…
Cousteau’s Waffle & Milkshake Bar
Kilwin’s Chocolate
