Everything You Need to Know About St. Augustine

St. Augustine is well known for it’s stunning history, vivid culture, and natural beauty. Located in Florida on the Ocean of Mexico, it is the oldest city in the United States and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. In this guide, we will explore all the main attractions, dining options, and things to do that make up this unique city.

The Founding of St. Augustine

St. Augustine was originally founded by Spanish explorers and settlers in 1565, making it the oldest continuously occupied settlement in the United States. It was founded on what was once part of the Spanish Empire and is now part of the United States. The settlement was originally known as La Florida, which translates to “The Flowery” in English.

The English were later able to seize control from the Spanish and it eventually became part of Florida in 1821. It was officially incorporated as a city in 1887. Since its inception, St. Augustine has been a place of exploration and historic significance.

Main Attractions

St. Augustine has many attractions to keep any traveler busy for days. Here are some of the most popular;

• The Castillo de San Marcos: A military fort that was built by the Spanish in 1672 to protect their settlement from pirates and other threats.
• St. George Street: This street is full of restaurants and shops, it is one of the most popular areas in St. Augustine.
• The Lightner Museum: Located in a former hotel, the museum is full of antique furniture and artifacts.
• The Fountain of Youth: One of the first landmarks visited by Spanish settlers and has become a popular tourist attraction.
• The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: This museum is filled with stories from the past and artifacts from maritime tales.

Dining Options

St. Augustine is home to an array of great eateries, from traditional american cuisine to unique seafood dishes. Here are some of the best restaurants in town;

• The Floridian: With a variety of seafood dishes, this restaurant offers an elegant dining experience.
• O’Steen’s Restaurant: Try out their famous fried shrimp and Gator Tail Bites.
• Seventh Street Char & Bar: Offering classic American favorites such as wings and burgers.
• A1A Aleworks: Enjoy great craft beer while listening to live music.
• Taste of Cuba: Home to traditional Cuban cuisine like ropa vieja and ropa vieja.

Things To Do

St. Augustine offers plenty of activities for tourists, from spooky ghost tours to beach trips, no one will be bored here! Here are some ideas;

• Take a ghost tour: St. Augustine is known for its haunted history and taking a ghost tour is an exciting way to explore the supernatural side of the city.
• Visit Anastasia State Park: A beautiful park filled with wildlife and outdoor activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and biking.
• Take a trolley tour: Hop on board a historical trolley to explore attractions like Old Town and learn about the region’s past.
• Eat fresh seafood: Some of the best seafood can be found right when you step off the boat in St. Augustine.
• Experience a Toast Of St. Augustine Walking Pub Crawl hosted by Viator: Sample signature craft brews at some of St. Augustine’s beloved watering holes while strolling along its quaint cobblestoned streets for an eclectic night out on the town Toast Of St. Augustine Walking Pub Crawl Experience.

No matter what type of traveller you are, St. Augustine will provide you with lasting memories you won’t soon forget! With its stunning vistas, warm climate, and distinctive culture, this city is an ideal destination for all types of travelers! Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an exciting city exploration, there’s something here for everyone. So next time you’re looking for a unique vacation spot, remember St. Augustine!

An Insider’s Guide to St. Augustine

Are you planning to visit St. Augustine, but tired of the same-old tourist spots? As a local, I’ve got you covered! From hidden gems to cultural experiences, local history to off-the-beaten-path suggestions, I am excited to share everything you need to know about St. Augustine.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

While St. Augustine is known for its historic landmarks and beautiful beaches, there are many lesser-known spots that are equally fascinating. For instance, the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum offer breathtaking views of the city from 219 steps above the ground. Another must-see spot is the stunning Cathedral Basilica, a 220-year-old structure that is a symbol of the city’s deep religious heritage. Art lovers should visit the St. Augustine Art Association Gallery, where you can admire local artists’ talent and even talk to them about their work.

Dining Spots: Dive into St. Augustine’s Unique Food Culture

St. Augustine’s food culture is rich, thanks to its history and location. The city’s culinary scene has been influenced by its diverse population, from Spanish to Greek, African American to Minorcan. Sample the city’s signature dish, Minorcan Clam Chowder, at O’Steen’s Restaurant, established in 1965. For a sweet treat, head to The Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops, an award-winning local chain that offers unique ice pop flavors such as Mango Habanero and Datil Strawberry. Pair it with a cup of coffee at Kookaburra Coffee for the perfect end to your day.

Cultural Experiences: Embrace the City’s Vibrant Traditions

St. Augustine is a city of many colorful traditions. Experience them firsthand by attending one of the many festivals throughout the year, such as the Blessing of the Fleet and the St. Augustine Spanish Wine Festival. Don’t miss out on the First Friday Art Walk, a monthly event where local galleries host art exhibits and live music. Additionally, pay a visit to the St. Augustine Amphitheatre – a 16-acre outdoor venue that hosts everything from music concerts to farmer’s markets.

Local History: Get Lost in Tales from the Past

St. Augustine has been witness to many historical moments that have influenced the state of Florida and the entire nation. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history by visiting the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, which was built by the Spanish in the 17th century. Alternatively, stroll through the streets of the historic district and admire the beautiful Spanish Colonial architecture. Learn about the city’s darker past on a ghost tour that takes you through the cobbled streets at night.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Create Your Own Adventure

St. Augustine has plenty of unique experiences that go beyond the usual tourist checklist. Head to the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park and sip water from the famed fountain, which is said to have healing powers. You can also take a tour on a pirate ship, hosted by the Black Raven Pirate Ship. For a serene escape, rent a kayak and paddle along the lazy Matanzas River.

In conclusion, St. Augustine offers a fantastic blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and adventure. Visiting these off-beat locations, you’ll create your own unique stories to share and memories to cherish.