Discover St. Augustine with a Trolley Tour & History Museum

Are you looking for a way to experience the timeless beauty and history of St. Augustine, Florida? The best way is through a Trolley Tour of the historic city, which can be combined with a visit to the St. Augustine History Museum to make it a truly memorable experience. In this article, we will be discussing the details of both of these attractions, along with what makes St. Augustine such a unique place for visitors.

What Is the St. Augustine History Museum?

The St. Augustine History Museum (also known as the Florida Heritage Museum) is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of St. Augustine. The museum strives to immerse visitors in the history of the nation’s oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in America – making it an ideal way to learn more about the city’s unique past. This unique museum is located in a building that was originally built in the early 19th century and has been restored to its original splendor. Inside, you will find several permanent exhibits, as well as temporary exhibits that feature a variety of topics related to the history of St. Augustine and its many stories.

What Is A Trolley Tour?

A trolley tour is a tourist attraction that allows visitors to explore a city or region by riding in an old-fashioned trolley car. A trolley tour in St. Augustine is a great way for visitors to learn more about the city’s history and culture, as well as taking in its stunning architecture. The trolley tour itself lasts for about an hour and takes visitors around the city’s sights, including some of its oldest buildings and landmarks. During the tour, visitors can get off at designated stops to explore particular areas of the city in more detail, or they can simply sit back and enjoy the view from inside the trolley car.

Why Visit The St. Augustine History Museum And Take Trolley Tours?

If you really want to understand the unique history and culture of St. Augustine, then a visit to the St. Augustine History Museum and a trolley tour are both ideal activities. Combining these two attractions gives visitors a comprehensive overview of the city and its history, as well as allowing them to take in its exquisite architecture.

A visit to the museum will allow visitors to explore its exhibits in more depth, giving them a better understanding of St. Augustine’s past and its many stories. The temporary exhibits also provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about other interesting aspects of the city’s heritage, such as its music and art scenes.

The trolley tour also offers visitors a great way to get around the city, as well as giving them an overview of its many attractions. It also allows them to stop off at specific locations to explore particular areas in more detail, whilst still being able to enjoy the view from the comfort of the trolley car itself.

In short, visiting the St. Augustine History Museum and taking a trolley tour are two great activities that can help you gain a greater understanding of this unique Florida destination. So why not book your tour today and get ready to experience all that St. Augustine has to offer!

Insider’s Guide to St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, located on the northeast coast of Florida, is the oldest continuously inhabited European-founded city in the United States. With its charming cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and stunning beaches, St. Augustine has something to offer every type of traveler. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that make St. Augustine a must-visit destination.

Top Attractions

St. Augustine is a city filled with history, and there are several landmarks and attractions that should be on your must-see list. The top attractions in St. Augustine include:

– Castillo de San Marcos: A national monument, this fort is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. It was built in the late 1600s and served as a strategic location for defending the city against invaders.

– St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum: This lighthouse, built in the 1800s, offers stunning views of the city and the ocean. The museum is home to exhibits detailing the city’s maritime history.

– St. George Street: This pedestrian-only street is lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Take a relaxing stroll down the street while enjoying the local fare and shopping for souvenirs.

– Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park: You can’t visit St. Augustine without visiting the famous Fountain of Youth. This park is home to a replica of a Timucua Indian village and a natural spring that is believed to have healing powers.

Dining Spots

St. Augustine is known for its seafood, but the city also offers a wide variety of dining options. Some of the top dining spots in St. Augustine include:

– The Columbia Restaurant: This restaurant has been serving Spanish and Cuban cuisine since 1905. Try the famous 1905 Salad and the paella for a taste of St. Augustine’s culinary history.

– O’Steen’s Restaurant: This family-owned restaurant has been serving up fried shrimp and other seafood dishes since 1965. Don’t let the long lines dissuade you- the food is well worth the wait.

– The Floridian: This farm-to-table restaurant offers a unique twist on Southern classics. Try the fried green tomatoes, shrimp and grits, or the smoked brisket sandwich.

Cultural Experiences

St. Augustine’s rich history and diverse culture make for a variety of cultural experiences. Some top experiences include:

– The Lightner Museum: Housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, this museum is home to a collection of art and artifacts from the Gilded Age.

– The St. Augustine Art Association: This non-profit promotes local artists and offers exhibits, workshops, and events.

– The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine: This stunning Catholic Church was built in the late 1700s. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of this iconic landmark.

Local History

St. Augustine’s history is rooted in European colonization and the tumultuous relationship between Spanish, French, and British powers. Some top historical landmarks include:

– Fort Matanzas: This small fort was built in the early 1700s to protect the city’s southern flank. Take a ferry to the fort and explore the grounds.

– The Oldest House Museum: This museum is home to St. Augustine’s oldest surviving house. It offers a glimpse into the daily life of early settlers and their families.

– The St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum: This museum offers an interactive look at St. Augustine’s pirate history. See authentic artifacts recovered from shipwrecks and learn about the city’s ties to piracy in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist attractions, St. Augustine offers several off-the-beaten-path suggestions. These include:

– Whetstone Chocolates: This family-owned chocolate shop offers tours and tastings of their artisanal chocolates.

– The Mint Museum: This museum offers a look into the history and production of coins and currency. See historical coins and learn about the process of minting.

– The St. Augustine Distillery: This craft distillery offers tours and tastings of their unique spirits, including bourbon, gin, and vodka.

In conclusion, St. Augustine is a city with a rich history and cultural heritage that is sure to delight visitors. From its historic landmarks to its stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine, St. Augustine is a destination that should be on every traveler’s list.