St. Augustine stands as one of the most historical, captivating, and beautiful coastal communities in the United States. This northeastern Florida destination holds the title of the oldest continuously-inhabited European-established settlement on the continental U.S. Bursting with character and charm, this ancient city of around 17,000 residents offers an abundance of sights and experiences for every visitor.
Known affectionately by locals as “St. Augie,” the city was founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers. This rich history is reflected in its stunning architecture and vibrant culture, often making it feel more like a European town than a typical Floridian city. For vacationers, it presents a delightful mix: beautiful sandy beaches perfect for relaxation and boating, alongside fascinating historical tours, a rich cultural scene, and diverse culinary delights. Discovering the top things to do in st augustine means stepping back in time while enjoying modern-day pleasures.
Discovering the Top Things to Do in St Augustine
Getting acquainted with St. Augustine’s unique layout and history is often the first step for visitors. Its compact, yet complex, downtown area is easily explored once you understand its key landmarks and streets. From historic forts and colonial streets to vibrant marketplaces and scenic waterfronts, the city offers a wealth of experiences that cater to history buffs, foodies, adventurers, and those simply seeking a charming getaway. Let’s delve into the top things to do in st augustine to help you plan your perfect trip.
Consider starting your exploration with an overview. The city’s history is deeply embedded in its streets and buildings, telling tales of Spanish settlement, British rule, and American development. Understanding this context enhances the appreciation of the many sites you’ll visit. St. Augustine isn’t just a destination; it’s a living museum where the past and present beautifully converge.
Essential Attractions: Starting Your Journey
To get a comprehensive feel for the city without getting lost, the St Augustine Old Town Trolley is highly recommended. This open-air trolley tour offers a narrated journey through all the major highlights of St. Augustine. It’s an excellent way to orient yourself and learn about the city’s fascinating history, including its founding by the Spanish, the conflicts with the French, and the significant impact of Henry Flagler in shaping its modern era.
The hop-on, hop-off feature allows you to spend ample time at the attractions that capture your interest. A full circuit takes about 70 minutes, providing a solid foundation of St. Augustine’s story. This flexibility makes it one of the smart top things to do in st augustine, allowing you to customize your sightseeing pace over one or even multiple days. For those preferring a more personalized experience, private golf cart tours, like those offered by Gold Tours, can provide an intimate way to navigate the city’s 450 years of history.
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No visit to St. Augustine is complete without exploring St George Street. This iconic brick-lined pedestrian avenue is a central artery of the historic district, leading you through centuries of architecture and culture. Starting from the historic Old City Gates, you’ll wander past the nation’s oldest wooden schoolhouse, through bustling colonial quarters, and into an area filled with eclectic shops, charming cafes, and lively dining establishments. It’s a vibrant hub of activity and a must-stroll location among the top things to do in st augustine.
Continuing your historical walk, take time to stroll down Aviles Street. Recognized as the oldest street in the nation, Aviles Street offers a more laid-back atmosphere than St. George Street, featuring delightful art galleries, unique museums, and cozy cafes. This street provides a glimpse into residential life from centuries past and is a peaceful retreat from the main thoroughfare.
Experience a unique evening on Aviles Street at the Ximenez Fatio House, which sometimes hosts fun “Heist” events. These old-fashioned murder mystery evenings offer an immersive way to engage with the history of the area, blending entertainment with a touch of the past. Adding such unique events to your itinerary enhances the cultural exploration aspect of the top things to do in st augustine.
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Gilded Age by touring Flagler College. Originally constructed as Henry Flagler’s lavish 450-room Ponce De Leon Hotel in 1888, this building is an architectural marvel. It features extravagant stained glass by Louis Comfort Tiffany and was one of the first buildings of its size to have electricity, installed by Thomas Edison. Today, it serves as a prestigious college campus, offering guided tours that showcase its opulent history and stunning design. Witnessing this historic transformation is one of the fascinating top things to do in st augustine.
Adjacent to Flagler College is the Lightner Museum, housed in another former Henry Flagler hotel, the 1889 Alcazar Hotel. While the museum houses a diverse collection of antiques and collectibles, a highlight for many is simply experiencing the building itself, particularly its grand former indoor swimming pool. This vast space is now home to Café Alcazar, offering a truly unique dining environment. Enjoying lunch here is a memorable way to appreciate the scale and luxury of St. Augustine’s past, no swimsuit required!
Historical Forts and Coastal Beauty
A defining landmark and a cornerstone of the top things to do in st augustine is the Castillo de San Marcos. This imposing stone fort, built beginning in 1672, is the oldest masonry fortification in the continental United States. Constructed from coquina, a local shell stone, it stood as a formidable defense for the city against various attacks throughout its history.
Now a National Park, the Castillo offers fascinating ranger-led programs, cannon firings, and the opportunity to explore its grounds, bastions, and interior rooms. Walking the ramparts provides spectacular views across the Matanzas Bay and towards the iconic Bridge of Lions. It’s a powerful reminder of the city’s strategic importance and military past, providing a deep historical dive into the top things to do in st augustine. Exploring the fort grounds is free, while entry into the fort structure requires a fee.
Beyond the history embedded in stone, St. Augustine’s coastal location offers natural beauty and seaside activities. St. Augustine Beach, located on Anastasia Island just south of the lighthouse, boasts miles of beautiful white sand and clear waters. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and simply enjoying the ocean breeze.
At the north end of St. Augustine Beach is the St. Johns County Ocean Pier. This pier is not only a great spot for fishing but also frequently hosts events like farmers markets and free concerts, adding to the lively beach town atmosphere. Exploring the beaches and coastal areas provides a refreshing contrast to the historical immersion found downtown and is essential to a complete list of top things to do in st augustine. Other nearby beaches like Vilano Beach and Ponte Vedra Beach also offer stunning coastal experiences.
Culinary and Spiritual Experiences
St. Augustine’s culinary scene is a delightful reflection of its diverse history and coastal location. While the original article mentions dining, exploring the local food and drink offerings is undoubtedly among the top things to do in st augustine. Beyond restaurants, the city has a burgeoning craft beverage scene.
City Gates Spirits, located near St. George Street, offers free tours and tastings of their inventive concoctions. From flavored bourbons and vodkas to unique rum blends and moonshine, it’s a fun place to sample local spirits. The enthusiastic staff make the experience engaging and informative. Continuing your tasting adventure, the San Sebastian Winery, housed in a historic East Coast Railway building, offers free tours and wine tastings.
Nearby, the St Augustine Distillery, situated in a beautifully renovated ice plant, also provides free tours and tastings of their craft spirits. These distilleries and wineries offer a taste of local craftsmanship and are enjoyable additions to the top things to do in st augustine for adults. Another noteworthy stop is Sailbird Distilling on W. King Street, featuring a cool tasting room for their vodka, gin, whiskey, rum, and moonshine.
St. Augustine also boasts significant religious architecture that reflects its European Catholic roots. The St Augustine Basilica (Basilica Cathedral of St. Augustine) is a stunning example of Spanish Colonial and Neoclassical architecture and is one of the oldest Catholic parishes in the United States. Visiting this historic basilica offers a moment of quiet reflection and an appreciation for the enduring faith that has been part of the city’s fabric for centuries.
Other notable churches, such as the Memorial Presbyterian Church (a Flagler legacy with stunning Venetian Gothic architecture) and Grace United Methodist Church, also offer architectural beauty and a glimpse into the city’s diverse religious heritage. Including these sites in your itinerary adds a layer of cultural and spiritual depth to the top things to do in st augustine.
Unique Attractions and Local Stories
Beyond the main historical sites, St. Augustine offers several unique and intriguing attractions. One such place is the legendary Fountain of Youth. According to lore, this was the spring discovered by Spanish explorer Ponce de León in 1513, who was seeking the mythical waters of youth. While the historical accuracy is debated, the site itself is a fun and engaging historical park.
Visitors can drink from the spring believed to be the original one sought by Ponce de León, which draws water from the same aquifer used by the native Timucua people. The park also features historical exhibits, a planetarium, and a Timucua village reconstruction, making it a fascinating look at the earliest history of the area and a quirky addition to the top things to do in st augustine. It serves as a poignant reminder that St. Augustine was established decades before the Pilgrims arrived at Plymouth Rock.
Another point of interest that blends history with the bizarre is Ripley’s Believe It Not! Located in the historic Castle Warden, an 1887 Moorish Revival building, the “odditorium” is filled with strange artifacts and curiosities collected by Robert Ripley. The building itself, a former winter home of a Standard Oil partner and later a hotel, has a fascinating history.
One peculiar highlight outside is a marble replica of Michelangelo’s “David,” reportedly placed among bushes because its grandeur (and nudity) proved distracting to drivers, causing accidents. While Ripley’s might seem like typical tourist kitsch, its location in a historic mansion adds a unique layer, making it one of the more unconventional top things to do in st augustine.
While many attractions are highly recommended, some might be subject to personal preference. The original text mentions the St Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park with reservations, noting it might appeal primarily to reptile enthusiasts due to crowds, limited space for animals, and an abundance of bird droppings. However, it’s worth noting that the Alligator Farm is itself historic, founded in 1893. For those with a strong interest in wildlife conservation or reptiles, it could still be a valuable visit, but it’s wise to manage expectations based on reviews.
Other sights to consider adding to your list of top things to do in st augustine depending on your interests include: Villa Zorayda (a Moorish-style mansion), Fort Mose State Park (site of the first free black settlement in North America), The Spanish Military Hospital Museum, The Old Jail Museum, Potter’s Wax Museum, St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, and Marineland Dolphin Adventures (just south of St. Augustine). Each offers a different facet of the area’s rich history, culture, or natural environment.
Staying and Arriving in St. Augustine
Choosing the right place to stay significantly impacts your experience of the top things to do in st augustine. The city offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious historic hotels and charming boutique inns to private vacation rentals and marina resorts. Staying within or near the historic district provides easy walking access to many attractions, while opting for Anastasia Island or areas slightly further out might offer more space or direct beach access.
Notable lodging options mentioned include The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens, a boutique sanctuary with private cottages and a pool, offering a luxurious stay within walking distance of downtown. The Casa Monica Resort & Spa, part of the Marriott Autograph Collection, is another historic landmark hotel right in the heart of the action, steps from Flagler College and St. George Street. The St George Inn provides rooms with potential views of the fort and includes a complimentary breakfast in a lovely courtyard.
For a different experience, consider a Luxury Private Home Rental on Anastasia Island, offering waterfront views and proximity to both the beach and downtown. Conch House Marina Resort on Anastasia Island provides a more casual, fun-loving atmosphere with poolside suites, dining, and a popular Tiki Bar, offering an island vibe just a short distance from downtown.
For those arriving by boat, St. Augustine is a popular stop along the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW). The St Augustine Municipal Marina is conveniently located downtown, offering dock space within steps of major sights and dining. Marker 8 Hotel & Marina, just south of the Bridge of Lions on Anastasia Island, offers stunning sunset views and a full-service marina. The Conch House Marina, also on Anastasia Island, is a lively spot with a classic restaurant, dock bar, and live music, popular with fishing charters and boaters.
Getting to St. Augustine is relatively straightforward. It’s easily accessible by car from several major airports in Florida, including Jacksonville (JAX), Daytona Beach (DAB), Sanford Orlando (SFB), and Orlando International (MCO), all within a 2-hour drive. Amtrak also services the area via the Palatka Station, about 40 minutes northeast of St. Augustine. For boaters, the coordinates are GPS 29.896004° N, -81.31671° E. Planning your arrival and stay is a key part of preparing for the top things to do in st augustine.
The city’s blend of historical significance, cultural richness, beautiful beaches, and unique attractions ensures there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring ancient forts, sampling local spirits, strolling historic streets, or relaxing by the sea, St. Augustine offers a journey through time and a wealth of experiences. It’s a destination that invites you to not just visit, but to truly immerse yourself in its enduring spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Top Things to Do in St Augustine
What is the most popular attraction in St. Augustine?
While opinions may vary, the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is arguably the most iconic and visited attraction. Its historical significance as the oldest masonry fort and its prominent location make it a central point of interest for anyone exploring the top things to do in st augustine.
How many days are recommended to see the top things to do in St. Augustine?
To experience the majority of the top things to do in st augustine at a relaxed pace, including historical sites, walking streets, dining, and possibly some beach time, a visit of 2 to 3 full days is generally recommended. This allows ample time without feeling rushed.
Is St. George Street just for shopping?
No, St. George Street is much more than just a shopping street. While it has numerous shops, it’s also a historic pedestrian thoroughfare lined with colonial-era buildings, museums, restaurants, and cafes. Walking its length is a key part of experiencing the historical district and is considered one of the essential top things to do in st augustine.
Can you drink from the Fountain of Youth?
Yes, at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, visitors are offered cups to sample the water from the spring. While its anti-aging properties are legendary rather than proven, drinking from the spring is part of the historical experience at the park and one of the unique top things to do in st augustine.
Are the beaches in St. Augustine accessible?
Yes, St. Augustine Beach and other nearby beaches on Anastasia Island are generally accessible. St. Johns County Ocean Pier offers accessible ramps, and many beach access points include facilities. Checking specific access points beforehand is recommended for those with mobility concerns.
What is the best way to get around St. Augustine’s historic district?
The historic district is quite walkable, making walking the primary mode of transport once you’re there. Using the hop-on, hop-off trolley is an excellent way to cover more ground and learn the history. Biking is also popular, and rideshares are available. Parking in the historic district can be challenging, so staying nearby or utilizing parking garages and shuttles is advisable for exploring the top things to do in st augustine.