What Are The Best Things To Do in St Augustine Florida?

St Augustine Florida is a historical city with some of the best and most interesting attractions, things to do and sights to be seen in the US. As the ‘Oldest City in the US’, the city is steeped in history and culture, making it one of the most unique and vibrant places to visit in the country. There is no shortage of things to do in St Augustine Florida, from activities to famous landmarks, and from relaxing beaches to exquisite restaurants. If you’re planning a vacation or weekend getaway to St Augustine, this guide provides the perfect resources for you.

Historic Sites & Landmarks

St Augustine is home to some of the most important, interesting and unusual places to visit in all of North America. From the iconic Castillo de San Marcos – the oldest masonry fort in the continental US – to Flagler College and the St Augustine Lighthouse, there are just so many fantastic sites to explore as part of a day trip or extended stay. For those looking for an authentic St Augustine experience, attractions like Amerigo Vespucci replica ship, the Huguenot Cemetery, The Potter’s Wax Museum, The Oldest House and the FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH offer plenty of entertainment and information.

Museums & Cultural Experiences

St Augustine has an impressive range of cultural attractions for visitors of all age groups and tastes. There are several museums that celebrate the area’s rich history, from St Augustine’s Museum of Art & History and Colonial Spanish Quarter to The Fort Matanzas National Monument and the Florida Heritage Museum. Other notable sites include the St Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, The Wells Museum of Art and the Potters Wax Museum – all of which offer engaging and illuminating ways to explore local culture and traditions.

Beaches & Outdoor Activites

Thanks to its close proximity to some of Florida’s most stunning beaches – St Augustine Beach, Crescent Beach and Vilano Beach – visitors are never short of outdoors activities to enjoy. Equally close are the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve – a 76,000 acre park – which offers a wealth of recreational opportunities including fishing, hiking and kayaking. Other fantastic natural locations include Anastasia State Park – with over 2000 acres – and Washington Oaks Gardens State Park.

Famous Restaurants & Eateries

From Spanish-style tapas bars to classic seafood restaurants and award-winning dining establishments, St Augustine offers a huge array of eateries for every taste and budget. Some of the most iconic establishments in town include The Columbia Restaurant – an acclaimed Spanish restaurant dating back over 100 years – Salt Life Food Shack, Café Atlántico and Cap’s on the Water – which is renowned for its fresh-off-the-boat seafood tastings.

Conclusion

Whatever your interests or budget, St Augustine has something that will make your trip special. With its wide variety of historic sites and landmarks alongside exhilarating outdoor activities, fascinating museums and award-winning restaurants, St Augustine is an absolute must-visit destination if you’re seeking a unique experience in North America. For more information on visiting St Augustine, please feel free to check out https://staugustine-visitor.com/, the official website for St Augustine Visitors & Convention Bureau.

An Insider’s Guide to St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, located in northeastern Florida, is an ideal destination for those interested in history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. The city is filled with unique landmarks, museums, galleries, and outdoor activities that cater to a broad range of interests. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in St. Augustine:

Local Attractions

St. Augustine is probably best known for its historical significance. As the oldest continuously occupied European city in the United States, it has an extensive list of landmarks and museums that offer insights into the city’s intriguing history. Some of the most popular tourist attractions include:

– The Castillo de San Marcos: This 17th-century fortress is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States and a US National Monument. Visitors can explore the fort’s rooms, tunnels, and gun deck, and enjoy stunning views of the bay from the ramparts.

– The St. Augustine Lighthouse: This iconic lighthouse has guided sailors into the safe waters of the St. Augustine Harbor for over 140 years. Besides admiring the tower and its view, visitors can also access the Light Keeper’s house museum and learn about the lives of the lighthouse keepers.

– The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park: According to legend, this 1565 landing site of Ponce de Leon’s expedition holds the secret to eternal youth. The park features beautiful gardens, a planetarium, and an archaeological exhibit that covers over 15,000 years of Florida history.

– Flagler College: This historic school building, formerly known as the Ponce de Leon Hotel, is a masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the campus and learn about the building’s unique history.

Dining Spots

St. Augustine’s food scene is incredibly diverse, ranging from high-end restaurants to casual eateries that offer classic southern dishes. Here are some of the most popular dining spots in the city:

– The Floridian: This lively restaurant highlights the flavors of Florida, serving dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The menu features Southern-style comfort food classics with a modern twist, such as Shrimp and Grits and Pulled Pork Tacos.

– Collage Restaurant: This fine dining restaurant presents a fresh and modern menu, blending seasonal ingredients with classic French culinary techniques. The dishes are all thoughtful and inventive and are sure to please foodies.

– Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille: Harry’s is an excellent dining spot that offers a Louisiana-inspired menu featuring fresh seafood, live music, and a casual atmosphere. Don’t forget to try Harry’s famous Cajun-style jambalaya.

Cultural Experiences

St. Augustine is an artistic hub, featuring a diverse range of galleries, museums, and live performances. These are some of the city’s must-visit cultural attractions:

– Lightner Museum: This museum’s collection of decorative arts, beautifully housed in a former grand hotel, showcases the opulence of the Gilded Age. Be sure to check out the stunning ballroom and Music room during your visit.

– St. Augustine Art Association: This non-profit organization exhibits local artists’ works and offers art classes and workshops to the community. The gallery is located in a charming, restored historic building and is sure to satisfy any art lover.

– St. Augustine Amphitheatre: This 16-acre outdoor venue hosts a variety of musical and cultural performances throughout the year. The venue’s open-air amphitheater is an ideal way to enjoy Florida’s colorful sunsets while attending concerts.

Local History

St. Augustine has a rich and complex history that dates back centuries. Visitors can learn about the city’s unique story at the following sites:

– The Oldest House Museum & Gardens: This reconstructed house and garden complex offers a glimpse into Florida’s early pioneer life. Visitors can see local artifacts such as early pottery and witness historical demonstrations.

– The Ximenez-Fatio House: This elegant 19th-century home is now a museum that documents the lives of Florida’s early Territorial Period. The property’s buildings and gardens are well maintained and provide a peaceful glimpse back in time

– Fort Matanzas National Monument: Located just south of St. Augustine, this 18th-century Spanish fort is accessible by ferry and provides another fascinating insight into the area’s rich history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

When in St. Augustine, it’s worth taking some time to explore the lesser-known attractions that exist off the beaten path. Here are some suggestions that might pique your interest:

– The St. Augustine Wild Reserve: This unique non-profit facility is home to over 50 exotic animals, including lions, tigers, and bears, who hail from various zoos across the United States. Visitors are required to make reservations ahead of time for tours.

– St. Johns County Ocean Pier: Located just a few miles outside of downtown St. Augustine, this pier provides a gorgeous view of the coastline. It’s also an excellent spot for fishing, walking, or simply relaxing and watching the waves.

– Paddleboard St. Augustine: This company takes visitors on guided tours of the Intercoastal waterways surrounding St. Augustine. The tours allow paddlers to see dolphins, wildlife, and the historic city from a different vantage point.

In conclusion, St. Augustine is a beautiful, multifaceted city that offers something for everyone. Its rich history, arts scene, natural beauty, and unique culinary experiences make it an excellent destination for any traveler.