What Does St Augustine Have to Offer?

Located close to Jacksonville, St. Augustine is a beautiful coastal town on the northeastern tip of Florida. It is known for its stunning beaches and for its many historical attractions. Each year, St. Augustine receives millions of visitors who come to experience its beauty and its wealth of activities.

Those interested in history should visit Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. It offers cannon demonstrations, living history events and tours throughout the year. The St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum is another must-see attraction. With over 450 artifacts from real pirate shipwrecks, visitors can immerse themselves in pirate lore. Other nationally recognized sites in St. Augustine include the Lighthouse & Maritime Museum and the Oldest House Museum Complex.

Many visitors come to St Augustine for its pristine shorelines and water sports activities. The city’s 42 miles of coastline offer plenty of options for swimming, fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding. Anastasia State Park is a local favorite and has plenty of outdoor recreation areas and trails with breathtaking views of the ocean. Visitors can find more nature-filled activities in St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, home to a variety of animals including alligators, crocodiles, birds and sloths.

Families may be interested in checking out the Pottery Kingdom, which offers pottery painting classes throughout the year. Visitors can join in building a lego masterpiece during Lego Building Workshops at the Old Carriage Shop. Tours through the streets of downtown are available year-round as well and offer a unique way to see all of St. Augustine’s attractions.

Foodies will find plenty of delicious options in St Augustine. Restaurants like The Ice Plant and Agustin Kitchen serve up small plates to provide an array of flavors for food adventurers. There are also many waterfront eateries, including Meehans Irish Pub & Seafood Restaurant and Cap’s On The Water, that offer up seafood specialties and amazing views of the Matanzas River.

No matter what brings you to St Augustine, you’re sure to find something interesting and exciting here. From its beautiful beaches to its number of historical sites, St Augustine offers something for all visitors. Of course there are plenty of lesser known attractions here as well, so it’s best to explore and discover what sorts of hidden gems await you here in this charming seaside town.

For more information on things to do in St Augustine, visit VisitStAugustine.com, a comprehensive source with the latest news and attractions in St Augustine.

An Insider’s Guide to Visiting St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, Florida is a city steeped in history, charm and a touch of magic. Known as the oldest continuously occupied European-established city in the country, it offers visitors a window into the past, with beautiful architecture, quaint streets, and delicious food. Whether you’re a history buff, beach-goer, or just looking for a relaxing weekend away, St. Augustine has something for everyone. Here’s an insider’s guide to planning your trip.

Things to Do in St. Augustine

There is no shortage of things to do in St. Augustine, from visiting historic landmarks to exploring the great outdoors. A must-see is the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century stone fortress that sits on the waterfront. Visitors can walk the ramparts, explore the canons, and learn about the history of this impressive structure through reenactments. Another popular attraction is the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, which offers stunning views of the coastline and a glimpse into the life of a lighthouse keeper. Other notable landmarks include the St. Augustine Cathedral, the Colonial Quarter, and the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park.

For those who want to enjoy the outdoors, the Anastasia State Park offers camping, hiking, and swimming opportunities. The St. Augustine Beach is also a popular destination where you can enjoy the warm Florida sunshine and go for a swim.

Dining in St. Augustine

St. Augustine has a fantastic local food scene. Some of the best seafood in the state can be found in the city. The most popular dish is the local shrimp, which can be served in a variety of ways, from fried to grilled to boiled. A few top dining recommendations include The Floridian for Southern-style dishes and fresh seafood, Catch 27 for inventive seafood plates sourced locally, and The Ice Plant Bar for delicious cocktails and farm-to-table American eats.

For breakfast, head over to The Blue Hen Cafe for their famous benedicts or maple-bacon doughnuts. You can also check out the weekly farmers market at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre for fresh produce, bread, and other local treasures.

Cultural Experiences in St. Augustine

Aside from its remarkable history, St. Augustine offers a diverse cultural scene. The city boasts several art galleries and museums, including the Lightner Museum, which has an extensive collection of 19th-century art and artifacts, and the St. Augustine Art Association, which showcases local artists.

If you’re interested in live performances, the St. Augustine Amphitheatre and the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall host an array of concerts and events throughout the year. The Limelight Theatre also provides visitors with a fantastic opportunity to see top-notch theatrical productions.

Local History in St. Augustine

St. Augustine was founded in 1565, making it not only the oldest city in Florida but the entire continental United States. Consequently, the area is steeped in history and provides visitors with a wealth of museums and attractions. To learn more about the city’s history, you can visit sites like the Oldest Wooden School House, where you can see how children were educated in the late 18th century. Another must-visit spot is the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum, where you can step back in time and learn about colonial life in St. Augustine.

Off the Beaten Path Suggestions for St. Augustine

Beyond the typical tourist sites, there are still plenty of hidden gems to discover in St. Augustine. The St. Augustine Distillery, housed in a former ice plant, offers insightful tours and tastings of their small-batch spirits. For those who like a good scare, the Ghosts & Gravestones Tour of St. Augustine offers a thrilling night-time adventure through the city’s most haunted spots.

Another unique spot is the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, where visitors can see a wide array of crocodiles and alligators. And if you’re looking for a unique way to explore the city, you can take a ride in one of the horse-drawn carriages, which offer a romantic and historic way to see the sights.

In conclusion, St. Augustine is a true gem of a city in Florida, with an endless variety of activities and experiences to satisfy every visitor. From history to delicious food, visitors can choose their own adventure in this fascinating and charming city.