St. Augustine, located on the Atlantic coast of northeastern Florida, is a city that carries an immense historical value in the United States. It features centuries-old architecture, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant arts scene that draws visitors from all around the world. A trip to St. Augustine feels like a step back in time, and visiting its museums is the perfect way to delve deeper into its rich history. With numerous museums and galleries scattered throughout the city, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to visit. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best museums in St. Augustine, Florida, to help you make the most of your visit.

The 2 Must Visit Museums in St Augustine Florida

1. St Augustine Trolley Bus Museums Combo Package
2. St Augustine Trolley Tour St Augustine History Museum

The 2 Must Visit Museums in St Augustine Florida

1. St Augustine Trolley Bus Museums Combo Package

With so much history to explore, it can be challenging to know where to begin when visiting St. Augustine, Florida. However, this combo package offers an ideal starting point for a day of sightseeing. Hop aboard a trolley and travel to more than 100 landmarks and attractions throughout the city.

One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to the Old Jail, where you can experience the life of a prisoner and see the jailers in action. You’ll have an up-close view of the cells, including maximum security, and a collection of weapons.

The Oldest Store Museum is also included in the package, which takes you back in time to see what life was like in the early 1900s. You can meet the snake oil salesmen and browse the latest gadgets of the era.

At the St. Augustine History Museum, you can immerse yourself in over 400 years of the city’s history. From the early settlement of the Spanish and French explorers to the Civil Rights Movement, you’ll discover the stories of the people and events that have shaped St. Augustine into the city it is today.

Overall, this combo package offers a fantastic way to explore some of the best museums and attractions St. Augustine has to offer. It’s an enjoyable outing that the entire family can appreciate.

2. St Augustine Trolley Tour St Augustine History Museum

See historic St. Augustine on a guided hop-on hop-off trolley tour and uncover the secrets of the oldest continuously settled city in the US. Explore sights like Castillo de San Marcos and Mission of Nombre de Dios and have the opportunity to take a drink from Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth. Your conductors will provide fascinating and fun narration throughout the tour. Take advantage of the 1 or 2-day hop-on hop-off trolley ticket (depending on your chosen option) to avoid costly parking and city traffic as you explore St. Augustine. Admission to the St. Augustine History Museum is included in the tour, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off. Food, drinks, and tips are not included.

Frequently Asked Questions About Museums in St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, Florida, is known for its rich history, and museums play a big role in preserving that history. Visitors to the area often have questions about the museums, what they offer, and how to make the most of their visit. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about museums in St. Augustine.

1. What are the top museums to visit in St. Augustine?

St. Augustine has several museums that are worth a visit. The top museums to visit in St. Augustine include:

a. The Lightner Museum

The Lightner Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. The museum is housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, which was built in 1888. The museum’s collection includes furniture, art, and artifacts from the Gilded Age.

b. The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is another popular museum in St. Augustine. The museum offers visitors the chance to climb the lighthouse for panoramic views of the area. The museum also has exhibits on maritime history, shipwrecks, and Florida’s coastal ecosystems.

c. The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is a historic Spanish fort located in St. Augustine. The fort was built in the late 17th century and played a significant role in the Spanish colonization of Florida. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about the area’s history.

2. How much time should I allow for a museum visit?

The amount of time you should allow for a museum visit depends on the museum and your interests. Some museums can be explored in a few hours, while others may take a full day to see everything.As a general rule, plan to spend at least two to three hours at each museum. This should give you enough time to see the major exhibits and get a sense of what the museum has to offer. If you have a specific interest or want to dive deeper into a particular exhibit, plan to spend more time at the museum.

3. What is the best time of day to visit a museum?

The best time of day to visit a museum will depend on the museum and your personal preferences. Some museums are more crowded in the morning, while others are busier in the afternoon.If you want to avoid crowds, plan to visit the museum in the afternoon or evening. Many museums offer extended hours on certain days of the week, so check the museum’s website for more information.

4. Are there any discounts available for museum admission?

Many museums in St. Augustine offer discounts for students, seniors, and military members. Some museums also offer discounts for local residents.Before visiting a museum, check the museum’s website for information on discounts and special offers. You can also ask at the admission desk if any discounts are available.

5. Can I take photos inside the museums?

Most museums in St. Augustine allow photography, but there may be restrictions on where you can take photos and what type of equipment you can use. Flash photography is usually not allowed, as it can damage artifacts and artwork.Before taking photos, check with museum staff to make sure it’s allowed and ask about any restrictions. You should also be mindful of other visitors and avoid disrupting their experience.

6. Are the museums wheelchair accessible?

Many museums in St. Augustine are wheelchair accessible, but some may have limited accessibility in certain areas. Check the museum’s website or call ahead to inquire about accessibility options.Many museums also offer mobility aids such as wheelchairs or scooters for visitors to use. If you need assistance or have specific accessibility needs, let the museum staff know in advance so they can make any necessary arrangements.

How to Find the Best Museum in St Augustine Florida

St Augustine, Florida is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage. There are many museums in St Augustine that showcase its varied history, from the prehistoric era to the modern times. Finding the best museum in St Augustine can be a daunting task as there are so many options to choose from. In this article, we will provide you with clear step-by-step instructions on how to find the best museum in St Augustine Florida.

Step 1: Determine Your Interests

The first step in finding the best museum in St Augustine is to determine your interests. Do you have a passion for history, art, or science? Do you want to learn more about the Spanish heritage or the Native American culture? Once you have identified your interests, you can narrow your search to the museums that cater to your interests.

Step 2: Do Your Research

The next step is to do your research. Look for information on the various museums online, read reviews on TripAdvisor and Yelp, and check their websites for information about the exhibits and events. Consider the location of the museums, their operating hours, admission prices, and other details that are important to you.

Step 3: Ask for Recommendations

Another way to find the best museum in St Augustine is to ask for recommendations from locals or people who have visited the city before. Ask your hotel staff, your tour guide, or your friends who have been to St Augustine for suggestions on which museums to visit.

Step 4: Visit the Museum

After you have done your research and have narrowed down your options, it is time to visit the museums. Take note of the layout, the displays, and the overall ambiance of the museum. Consider the quality and authenticity of the exhibits, the knowledgeability of the staff and the availability of guided tours. It is also important to consider the accessibility of the museum and whether it is appropriate for your age group.

Step 5: Evaluate Your Experience

After visiting the museums, evaluate your experience based on your interests and expectations. Did the museum meet your expectations? Did you learn something new? Was the staff friendly and knowledgeable? Did you enjoy the exhibits? Use these factors to determine which museum is the best fit for you.

Step 6: Consider Long-term Memberships

If you are a frequent visitor to St Augustine or if you plan to visit several museums, consider purchasing a long-term membership to your favorite museum. This will allow you to visit the museum without worrying about admission fees and to attend special events throughout the year.

Conclusion

Finding the best museum in St Augustine Florida requires a bit of planning and research. By identifying your interests, conducting research, asking for recommendations, visiting the museum, evaluating your experience, and considering long-term memberships, you can find the museum that offers the best experience for you. Take your time, enjoy the process and learn as much as you can about the rich cultural heritage of St Augustine through its museums.