St. Augustine, Florida is a charming and historic town located on the eastern coast of Florida. It is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the United States and has a rich history that dates back over 450 years. But St. Augustine offers so much more than just history – it’s home to some of the best attractions and activities the state has to offer. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or just looking for a fun getaway, St. Augustine has something for everyone. In this post, we’ll explore the best attractions and things to do in St. Augustine, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. So, grab your sunscreen and let’s get started!
The 2 Best Things to Do with Kids in St Augustine Florida
The 2 Best Things to Do with Kids in St Augustine Florida
1. St Augustine Trolley Tour St Augustine History Museum
See historic St. Augustine on a guided hop-on hop-off trolley tour, without the hassle of parking and traffic. This tour provides a fascinating mix of trivia and stories narrated by conductors. Visit the St. Augustine History Museum to learn about the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the country. Take the opportunity to taste the water of the Fountain of Youth, explored the sights of Castillo de San Marcos and Mission of Nombre de Dios, and uncover the secrets of the oldest continuously settled city in the US. Enjoy a 1 or 2-day hop-on hop-off trolley tour of St. Augustine, which includes a ticket to the trolley, admission to the St. Augustine History Museum, and pickup and drop-off services from your hotel.
2. Ghosts Gravestones Tour of St Augustine
Explore the darker side of St. Augustine with the Ghosts Gravestones Tour. Your Ghost Host will guide you through the town’s most haunted buildings, including the Old Jail, which is listed on the Florida and National Register of Haunted Places. Hear true stories of paranormal activity and tales of murder and mayhem in St. Augustine as you visit the Huguenot and Tolomato Cemeteries. You’ll also make a scary stop inside the Potter’s Wax Museum. This is the only ghost tour that takes you inside two of the city’s most haunted buildings. Don’t miss out on the frightfully fun riding tour that has been voted best ghost tour. All aboard for a thrilling adventure!
Top Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists About St Augustine Florida
St Augustine, Florida, is a popular destination for tourists due to its rich history, beautiful beaches, and many attractions. However, first-time visitors may have many questions about the city before arriving. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions by tourists about St Augustine, Florida.1. What is the best time to visit St Augustine?
St Augustine is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The peak tourist season is from March to May, during the spring, and from June to August when most families visit during the summer break. The weather is mild and sunny, and the city is bustling with activities during these months.However, if you prefer a quieter visit, you might consider visiting during the offseason, which is from September to February. During these months, the weather is cooler but still comfortable, and the crowds are much smaller.2. What are the best attractions to visit in St Augustine?
St Augustine offers a wide range of attractions to suit everyone’s interests. Some of the top attractions you should not miss include:Castillo de San Marcos National Monument:
This fort is the oldest masonry fort in the United States and has been standing for over 300 years. It is a great place to learn about the history of St Augustine.
St Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum:
Built-in 1874, the lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the city from the top. The Maritime Museum showcases the history of the region’s seafaring heritage.
St Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park:
The park is home to a variety of reptiles, birds, and mammals, including alligators, crocodiles, and lemurs.
The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park:
This park has a spring claimed to be the famous Fountain of Youth, discovered by Juan Ponce de Leon in 1513.
Ghost Tours:
St Augustine is known as one of the most haunted cities in the United States, and there are many ghost tours for those who are interested in the paranormal.
3. What are the best beaches to visit in St Augustine?
St Augustine is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida. Some of the top beaches include:St Augustine Beach:
This is the most popular beach in St Augustine, known for its wide sandy shorelines and gentle waves that are perfect for surfing.
Vilano Beach:
This beach is located just north of St Augustine Beach and has more seclusion and privacy.
Crescent Beach:
This beach is located just south of St Augustine Beach and has a quieter atmosphere with fewer crowds.
4. How can I get around St Augustine?
St Augustine is a walkable city, and most of the top tourist attractions are located within a few blocks of each other. However, if you prefer to drive, you can rent a car or use public transportation.The city’s public transportation system is the Sunshine Bus, which offers several routes throughout St Augustine and the surrounding areas. You can also use ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft.5. Where should I stay in St Augustine?
St Augustine offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses.If you prefer to stay in the heart of the city, you might consider staying in the Historic District, where most of the top tourist attractions are located. If you prefer to stay near the beach, there are several hotels and resorts located along the coast.6. What is the weather like in St Augustine?
The weather in St Augustine is mild and humid. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s. Winters are mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to low 70s. It can rain throughout the year, but the rainiest season is from June to September.7. Is St Augustine safe?
St Augustine is a safe city to visit. However, like any tourist destination, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, so visitors should take precautions such as securing valuables and keeping an eye on their belongings.How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in St. Augustine Florida
St. Augustine, Florida, is a city rich in history and culture. It is the oldest city in the United States and has a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. With its cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and stunning coastal views, St. Augustine is a destination that tourists should visit. Whether you want to explore the city’s historic landmarks or relax on the beach, St. Augustine has something for everyone. In this post, we will show you how to spend your time as a tourist in St. Augustine!1. Explore St. Augustine’s Historic Downtown
One of the best ways to see St. Augustine is by exploring its historic downtown. You can spend an entire day strolling along the city’s cobbled streets, taking in the historic architecture, and visiting some of its iconic landmarks like the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum.
St. George Street
Start your walking tour at St. George Street, one of the most popular streets in the historic downtown area. The street is lined with shops, restaurants, and historic landmarks like the Colonial Quarter, which features recreated buildings and exhibits showcasing life in America’s oldest city.
Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
Visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, located just a few blocks south of St. George Street. The cathedral, built-in 1797, is the oldest parish church in the United States and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
2. Visit St. Augustine’s Historical Landmarks
St. Augustine is home to many historical landmarks that are worth exploring. Here are some of our favorites.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
Visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, located on the bayfront. It is a 17th-century fortress built by the Spanish to protect St. Augustine from foreign invaders. The fort is well-preserved and offers stunning views of the bay and the city.
Flagler College
Visit Flagler College, one of St. Augustine’s most iconic landmarks. The building was once the luxurious Ponce de Leon Hotel, built-in 1888. Today, it is a private college with stunning architecture, including a grand lobby featuring Tiffany stained-glass windows.
Lightner Museum
Visit the Lightner Museum, located in the grand historic Alcazar Hotel building. The museum showcases a vast collection of decorative arts from the 19th and early 20th centuries, featuring everything from fine art to musical instruments.
3. Relax on St. Augustine’s Beaches
No trip to St. Augustine is complete without a visit to its beautiful beaches. St. Augustine has several beaches to choose from, each with its unique charm.
St. Augustine Beach
St. Augustine Beach is the most popular beach in the area, with over two miles of pristine white sand, crystal blue waters, and plenty of amenities like public restrooms, showers, and picnic areas.
Vilano Beach
Vilano Beach is a more secluded beach, perfect for a peaceful day of sunbathing and relaxation. The beach has several restaurants and shops nearby, making it a great place to spend the day.
4. Take a Scenic Boat Tour
See the city and its historic landmarks from a different perspective by taking a scenic boat tour. You can choose between several options, including sunset cruises, dolphin watching tours, and eco-tours.
St. Augustine Eco Tours
St. Augustine Eco Tours is a local company that offers several scenic boat tours. One of their most popular tours is the Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure, where you can see dolphins, manatees, and other wildlife up close.
Florida Water Tours
Florida Water Tours offers a variety of scenic boat tours, including sunset and wildlife tours. Their tours depart from several locations in St. Augustine, making it easy to choose a tour that fits your schedule.
5. Try the Local Cuisine
St. Augustine has a rich culinary scene, with many local restaurants serving up delicious seafood, international cuisine, and classic American fare. Here are some of our top picks.
Collage Restaurant
Collage Restaurant is a fine-dining establishment located in the heart of the historic downtown area. It offers an elegant atmosphere and a menu featuring seafood, pasta, and other classic dishes with a modern twist.
Salt Life Food Shack
Salt Life Food Shack is a casual restaurant located near St. Augustine Beach. It offers a fun, beachy atmosphere and a menu featuring fresh seafood, burgers, and other American classics.
The Floridian
The Floridian is a family-owned and operated restaurant located in the historic downtown area. It offers a menu featuring Southern-style cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients, including seafood, grits, and biscuits.
Conclusion
St. Augustine, Florida, is a destination that tourists should not miss. From its historic downtown area to its beautiful beaches and culinary scene, St. Augustine has something for everyone. By following the tips in this guide, you can make the most of your time in America’s oldest city.
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