On Florida’s northeast coast you’ll discover St. Augustine, one of the most historical cities in the United States. Nicknamed the ancient city or the nation’s oldest city, it dates back to 1565, making it one of the oldest settlements in the entire country. Founded by Spanish explorers and serving as the capital of Florida under both Spanish and British rule, this city has so much to offer. Use the 12 best things to do in St. Augustine, Florida to plan your trip to this historical city.
Visit military forts, castles, and Gilded Age hotels in the Ancient City. Explore a spiraling lighthouse, scenic nature trails, and tranquil beaches. The sounds of the city can be heard from horse hooves on brick-paved streets to cannons. Visit fascinating museums, go on scary ghost tours, or take part in historical reenactments. The oldest city in the United States is sure to tell you timeless stories about different eras.
When visiting St. Augustine, Florida, you will find yourself immersed in a tapestry of history and culture that is both captivating and educational. The city’s cobblestone streets whisper tales of centuries gone by, inviting you to discover its hidden gems and storied past. As you wander through the ancient walls of the Castillo de San Marco or stand in the shadow of the Old Jail, you’ll feel a connection to the rich heritage that defines this charming coastal town. But that’s just the beginning of what St. Augustine has to offer; there’s so much more waiting to be uncovered.
1. Visit Castillo de San Marco
The historical highlight of St. Augustine, you’ll want to explore the Castillo de San Marco. This imposing fort was built on the Florida coast in the late 17th century. Today it proudly stands and tells the history of the city, and it’s one of the best examples of a star-shaped fort in the entire country.
There are daily ranger programs held at the Castille de San Marco, or you can explore at your own pace. Take in the history as you walk through numerous rooms that once housed soldiers and prisoners. Don’t miss the interior courtyard or the gun deck that offers a great view of the city. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument preserves the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States and interprets more than 450 years of cultural intersections
2. Explore Colonial Quarter
The Colonial Quarter will have you feeling like you’re wandering the streets of Spain. The perfectly preserved and renovated Spanish architecture holds a wonderful piece of the city’s history.
You can stroll this area on your own or join a group tour for a more in-depth history of the area. Enjoy some historic dining at Bull & Crown or Taberna del Caballo. Or take in a concert at The Oak, there is something for everyone in the Colonial Quarter.
3. Check Out The Quirky Lightner Museum
Housed in a building which dates back to 1887, a visit to this beautiful museum is the perfect way to learn about St. Augustine’s history. The building itself was a Gilded Age hotel but now offers visitors an immersive way to experience art, architecture, design and history.
The museum is home to a quirky array of exhibits ranging from Native American artifacts to shrunken heads. There is a museum store, café, and plethora of rotating exhibits that will dazzle you.
4. Experience The Old Jail
Delve into the fascinating past of St. Augustine’s criminals at the Old Jail. Dating back to 1891, visitors get up close and personal tours of the jail during the day or even at night.
You’ll experience history as inmates, dressed in period costumes, will guide you through the jail. Visit the women’s cells, men’s cells, and the maximum-security cells where only the most dangerous criminals resided.
5. Learn About Pirates At The Pirate and Treasure Museum
This eccentric museum is great for pirate lovers, or anyone interested in the storied history of Florida’s most notorious pirates. This museum takes visitors back to a time of swashbuckling pirates and adventure on the high seas.
The museum houses an incredible number of artifacts and relics that were collected from all over the world. They even have a gun that was (supposedly) owned by the notorious Blackbeard. Set sail for adventure with the whole family and head to the Pirate and Treasure Museum!
6. Marvel At The St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum
Like much of historical St. Augustine, this lighthouse dates back to 1874 and rises over 50 meters. Overlooking the Matanzas Bay, you can climb the 219 winding stairs to the top of the lighthouse and take in the beautiful coastal views.
Make sure to check out the Maritime Museum for more on the history of both St. Augustine and the lighthouse Itself. Experience life at a Light Station through the Keeper’s House exhibits to learn how the Lighthouse served to protect our coast in World War II. You can also learn about the fascinating shipwrecks that happened in the area.
7. Ponce de Leon’s Fountain Of Youth Archeological Park
Another great historical site to enjoy while in Florida is Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archeological Park. This is the place where Ponce de Leon, a Spanish explorer that came to the Americas in search of the Fountain of Youth, landed in the 16th century.
Leon landed in Florida and came ashore at a Timucua village tucked safely into a small harbor off the Atlantic Ocean. Let the kids feed free roaming peacocks, take in a show or a living history reenactment. You can even drink from the Fountain of Youth.
8. Enjoy Nature In Anastasia State Park
Located on Anastasia Island, this is a wonderful place to explore the local Floridian nature. Ranked as the #6 most beautiful State Park in the United States, this is a can’t miss destination.
The park is the location where the Spanish mined stones that were used to build the forts of St. Augustine. While on the sixteen hundred acres of land and four miles of stunning oceanfront views, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Including camping, fishing, hiking, windsurfing, kayaking, swimming, and sailing are all available at Anastasia State Park.
9. St. Augustine Beach
Just 5 miles from historic downtown, St. Augustine Beach features 2 miles of white sand beaches, and clear Atlantic waters. This beach is very popular with families because of the gentle waves.
The uncrowded atmosphere of St. Augustine Beach is perfect for those looking for a bit of solitude. Among St. Augustine’s main attractions are its winding cobblestone streets and centuries-old Spanish colonial architecture, but its beaches are equally appealing. St. Augustine Beach is one popular choice, while Crescent Beach and Butler Beach are both beautiful beaches that offer white sands and a breezy atmosphere.
10. Eat Fresh Seafood At Catch 27
Located in charming in Old Town, Catch 27 is the place to go for fresh and delicious seafood in St. Augustine. This atmospheric eatery offers freshly caught selections of fish such as mahi-mahi, snapper, and flounder.
They also offer delicious shrimp, clams, or any other tasty catches that end up in their nets that morning. Everything here is prepared from scratch with fresh seasonal produce. Make sure to try the Shrimp and Grits or the Fresh Fish and Grits.
11. The Whetstone Chocolate Factory Tour
If you are looking for a sweet treat while visiting St. Augustine, check out the Whetstone Chocolate Factory Tour. This chocolate factory, located on King Street, offers chocolate tasting tours. Yum!
The tour explains the history of chocolate, chocolate making and how they make it right there in the factory. You will then be given some samples of freshly made chocolate to taste. What’s not to love?
12. Have An Adventure With Ripple Effect Ecotours
Ripple Effect is an outdoor adventure company that offers guided boat, fishing, and kayaking tours. These tours take place among Florida’s coastal waterways where you can spot manatees, dolphins, birds and more. This is a fantastic way to experience a different side of St. Augustine.
Try the Kayak Sunset Tour for amazingly beautiful views or St. Augustine Beach Naturalist Walking Tour.
13. Go for a ride with Old Town Trolley Tours.
A ride with Old Town Trolley Tours is an easy and convenient way to get around St. Augustine, and you’ll learn a lot about the city’s history along the way. There’s also a connection to the Old Town Trolley Beach bus, so you can easily navigate the area without a car. Plus, it’s a free sober ride around town, and most of the local distilleries, wineries, and breweries offer free tastings.
14. Try Gourmet Popsicles
Few things are as universally adored as a success story that originates from within the community, and The Hyppo is a shining example of just that. In 2010, armed with sheer determination and limited funds, this establishment was born. Its specialty? Mouth-watering ice pops inspired by the vibrant flavors of Mexican paletas. By using locally-sourced produce and herbs that are in season, they have created an array of refreshingly unique combinations such as cucumber lemon mint, blackberry jasmine, pineapple ginger, and (my personal favorite) mango mojito. From its humble beginnings, The Hyppo has expanded to five locations throughout Florida, and has even ventured into other parts of the country. Notably named after Saint Augustine’s patron saint, their flagship store can be found on Hypolita Street – a fitting tribute to the city’s auspicious beginnings on the Feast of Saint Augustine of Hippo.
15. Take a Ghost Tour
While some may consider it a cliché tourist activity, ghost tours in St. Augustine remain a must-do for good reason. No visit to the city would be complete without experiencing one of these chilling excursions that incorporate timeless stories of other eras with options such as Old Town Trolley Tours’ Ghosts & Gravestones tour on their eerie trolleys or the lantern-lit walking tours offered by Ghost Tours of St. Augustine, there are various tour companies to choose from, each with their own level of spookiness. Be prepared to leave feeling thoroughly spooked as you listen to tales of the city’s haunting history and ongoing paranormal experiences.
16. Zipline over crocodiles; St. Augustine Alligator Farm
There’s nothing like an up-close encounter with alligators and Florida, and St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is a great place to learn about them (but in a safe environment). One of the visitors favorite experience is the Crocodile Crossing, a zipline and ropes course over the crocs and gators
17. The St. Augustine Distillery and upstairs Ice Plant Bar offer a unique two-for-one experience that should not be missed when visiting the Oldest City, according to Mizell. Located inside the historic FPL Ice Plant, this local distillery offers complimentary tours and tastings, sure to delight even the light drinker with their offerings. Afterward, guests can head upstairs to the Ice Plant restaurant and bar for a refreshing cocktail made with special types of ice. Additionally, visitors can check out the on-site gift shop to purchase the distillery’s sippables as well as non-alcoholic treats created in collaboration with other local businesses.
Exploring the beautiful city of St. Augustine is an experience that you won’t soon forget. This historical city is packed full of historical landmarks, diverse museums, and delicious restaurants. This list of the top 12 things to do in St. Augustine is a great place to start planning your next trip.