Saint Augustine, Florida: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Ever wondered what makes St. Augustine, the oldest continuously occupied settlement in the U.S., so special? This city is full of activities, from beach fun to history tours. It's a place where you can enjoy beautiful Spanish colonial architecture, nature, and a lively food scene.

St. Augustine is perfect for those who love history, great food, nature, or just chilling on the beach. You can find all these things in and around this charming city.

Key Takeaways

• St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied settlement in the U.S., offering over 450 years of history to explore.
• The city features iconic landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos and Flagler College, as well as charming streets like St. George Street.
• Visitors can relax on the pristine beaches of St. Augustine, including St. Augustine Beach, Crescent Beach, and Butler Beach.
• The city is home to a variety of museums, historic sites, and outdoor attractions that showcase its rich history and natural beauty.
• From guided tours to local cuisine and shopping, St. Augustine offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers.

Explore Historic St. Augustine's Charm

Step back in time and dive into St. Augustine, Florida's captivating history. This city is the oldest in America, dating back to 1565. It has over 400 years of rich cultural heritage. Walk down St. George Street to see the city's historic architecture, local artisan shops, galleries, and live entertainment.

Wander the cobblestone streets and admire the Spanish-influenced buildings. Stop to look at the local artisan shops filled with unique items. Visit the galleries to see beautiful art, from paintings to handmade crafts. You might find free live entertainment too, adding to the city's lively vibe.

Stroll Down St. George Street

St. George Street is the heart of Old Town St. Augustine. It's a place where history, culture, and charm come together. Being the oldest European port city in the U.S., it invites you to experience its unique charm.

Shopping, admiring the historic architecture, or just enjoying the sights is a must on St. George Street. It's a place where history and culture touch your senses, making your visit unforgettable.

Relax on St. Augustine's Beaches

The city of St. Augustine in northeast Florida is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the U.S. Whether you want adventure or peace, the St. Augustine beaches have it all.

At Anastasia State Park, you'll find sheltered coves and 7 miles of untouched coastline. It's a place full of wildlife sightings. For those who love action, Vilano Beach is great for surfing and shelling. On the other hand, Crescent Beach and North Beach are perfect for swimming, relaxing, and wildlife viewing.

St. Augustine Beach is a top choice for families. It has splash pads and volleyball courts, making it a hit with visitors. People come from everywhere to enjoy the sun and the beach activities available.

With its wide variety of St. Augustine beaches, the city is a top spot for those looking for sun, surf, and peace by the sea.

Discover St. Augustine's Rich History

St. Augustine sits on Florida's northeastern coast, filled with history. It has over 450 years of culture. At its center is the Castillo de San Marcos, a Spanish stone fortress. It shows the city's past as part of the Spanish empire.

Visit the Castillo de San Marcos

The Castillo de San Marcos was built in 1695. It's the oldest masonry fort in the U.S. mainland and a National Park. Walking through, you'll feel like you've gone back in time. You'll learn about its role in defending Spanish settlements and past wars.

There are interactive displays and guided historical tours. These let you dive into the stories of this famous landmark. From the top, you'll see amazing views of the St. Augustine Inlet. This gives you a look at the city's Spanish colonial history.

Adults pay $15 to get in, and kids under 15 get in free. The Castillo de San Marcos is a key spot that will make a big impact on everyone who visits.

"St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied European city in the United States, founded in 1565."

Saint Augustine, Florida: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

St. Augustine is more than just historic sites and natural beauty. It has many top attractions for visitors. Check out the Flagler College campus, a historic landmark with Spanish Renaissance-style architecture. The Lightner Museum is in a former grand hotel and has a great collection of Gilded Age artifacts and art.

The Alcazar Hotel, now a public library, is another must-see. Golf fans will love the World Golf Hall of Fame. For a peek into 19th-century life, the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum is both educational and budget-friendly.

Don't miss the St. Augustine Distillery for a unique tour that's even kid-friendly. They made hand sanitizer during the COVID-19 pandemic. The city shines during the Nights of Lights festival, lighting up from late November to early February.

"St. Augustine is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the stunning Spanish architecture to the vibrant culinary scene, there's something for everyone to discover in this enchanting coastal town."

St. Augustine has something for everyone, whether you love history, the outdoors, or just a charming place to visit.

Climb the St. Augustine Lighthouse

The St. Augustine Lighthouse sits on Anastasia Island, a symbol of the city's deep maritime history. Since the 1600s, it has guided sailors. Now, it invites visitors to climb its 219 steps for amazing views of St. Augustine and its coast.

The St. Augustine Lighthouse is full of maritime history and archaeology. You can check out the museum's exhibits, learn about the seafaring past, and see maritime archaeologists work. They restore artifacts from shipwrecks off Florida's coast.

If you love history, nature, or just want a great view, the St. Augustine Lighthouse is perfect. It has historic buildings, interactive exhibits, and a beautiful observation deck. This place offers a memorable and educational visit.

"The St. Augustine Lighthouse is not just a beacon, but a window into the past, guiding us through the rich maritime history that has shaped this remarkable city."

Getting into the St. Augustine Lighthouse costs $15 for adults and $13 for kids under 12. You must be at least 44 inches tall to climb to the top. Plan to spend at least an hour here, but two hours is better to see everything, including the exhibits and maritime archaeology displays.

Encounter Wildlife at the Alligator Farm

Step into a world of captivating reptiles and exotic wildlife at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. This is Florida's oldest continuously running attraction. It's the only place where you can see all 24 species of crocodilians. It's a top spot for nature lovers.

Explore the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

The farm is home to more than just alligators and crocodiles. You'll find birds, snakes, lemurs, sloths, and more. Take a walk through lush landscapes and try the thrilling Crocodile Crossing zipline. It's a heart-pounding way to see the park's amazing animals up close.

Whether you want to learn about reptiles or just have a unique wildlife experience, the St. Augustine Alligator Farm is perfect. It's a gem that will amaze you with its natural beauty.

"The St. Augustine Alligator Farm is a one-of-a-kind attraction that offers an unparalleled opportunity to see all 24 species of crocodilians in one place. It's a must-visit for anyone who loves wildlife and wants to learn more about these fascinating reptiles."

Indulge in Local Flavors

When you visit St. Augustine, Florida, don't miss out on the local food scene. You'll find everything from upscale Southern dishes to craft cocktails and artisanal chocolates. This historic city has something delicious for everyone.

For a taste of the best local cuisine, go to The Floridian Restaurant. They use the freshest ingredients to make modern takes on classic Southern dishes. It's a must-try spot for food lovers.

If you're into unique spirits, check out the St. Augustine Distillery and Ice Plant Bar. You can take a tour to see how they make their small-batch spirits. Then, enjoy their cocktails made with their own vodka, gin, and whiskey.

For dessert lovers, Whetstone Chocolates is a dream come true. This family-owned shop is famous for its handmade chocolates. You can take a tour of the factory and taste their delicious, locally inspired treats.

On a hot day, cool off with a visit to The Hyppo. This popsicle shop offers unique flavors made with Florida's local produce and herbs. They have a wide range of seasonal popsicles to choose from.

St. Augustine has plenty of options for upscale dining, craft cocktails, or sweet treats. Dive into the local food scene and let your taste buds lead the way. You're in for an unforgettable food adventure.

Embark on Coastal Adventures

The St. Augustine area along Florida's coast is perfect for coastal adventures. Drive 72 miles on the A1A Scenic & Historic Coastal Byway&-historic-coastal-byway>. Stop at Matanzas Inlet and Fort Matanzas National Monument. For wildlife, try a guided kayak or paddleboard tour with Ripple Effect EcoTours. Or visit Marineland Dolphin Adventure.

For a different view, sailing charters are great. They offer brunch, sunset, and dinner cruises. The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve (GTM Reserve) is perfect for nature lovers. It's where Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon first reached the U.S. mainland.

"Exploring the coastal adventures in St. Augustine was the highlight of my trip. The diversity of activities, from scenic drives to wildlife encounters, truly allowed me to immerse myself in the natural beauty of the region."

Conclusion

St. Augustine has historic charm and beautiful beaches, offering something for everyone. It's perfect for those who love history, outdoor fun, or just relaxing. This Florida city will leave a lasting mark on you.

It's full of historic sites like the Castillo de San Marcos and the Lightner Museum. You can walk along St. George Street, check out the Colonial Quarter, and see the mix of Spanish, Caribbean, and American cultures.

But there's more than history here. Enjoy the sun on beautiful beaches, try outdoor activities in Anastasia State Park, or see the variety at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. With some planning, you can have a great time in this historic city and make memories to last a lifetime.