What Is Saint Augustine, Florida?

Located in Northeast Florida, Saint Augustine is the oldest city in the United States. Founded in 1565 by Spanish admiral, Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, Saint Augustine is full of rich history and steeped in mysteries that draw tourists each and every year. With a combination of stunning views, a stunning tropical climate, and fewer crowds than other areas of Florida, Saint Augustine is a must-see destination.

What Sites and Attractions Can You Find in Saint Augustine?

For visitors to Saint Augustine, there are a variety of attractions to choose from. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument was built in 1672 by the Spanish and is the longest-running fort in the United States. Spanning over 20 acres, the fort offers insight into America’s early colonial history. Nearby Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is rumored to be the site that Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon stumbled upon in 1513 in search of eternal youth. Visitors participate in interactive archaeological excavation, learn about weapons and armor used by Native Americans and colonial militias, learn about 16th-century Spanish artifacts, and even taste cups of mythical water said to restore youth.

What About Night Life?

If nightlife is more your style, Saint Augustine offers an array of sites and activities guaranteed to please. For those looking to explore St. Augustine’s haunted past, several ghost tour companies lead nightly ghost walks. Tours of Saint Augustine’s “Most Haunted Pubs” gives visitors an opportunity to explore the city’s supernatural side while visiting pubs and learning their stories. If you feel brave enough – you can also book St. Augustine’s most popular Haunted Pub Craw with a Guide St Augustine Florida Augustine Haunted Pub Crawl with A Guide. Led by an entertaining guide, the tour takes people on a two-hour journey between well-known haunted pubs. Typically, guides will pause along the way to tell ghostly stories, tales of murder and mayhem, and other supernatural occurrences associated with the pubs.

Visitors can also explore more than 20 art galleries within the city, such as Straub Gallery & Sculpture Garden, which displays an eclectic mix of contemporary art ranging from sculpture to furniture. Live music is also highly sought after, with a variety of popular venues such as The Standard offering concerts from local and regional artists every week.

Other Activities You Can Do in Saint Augustine

Nearby beaches offer the perfect place to relax or get adventurous with kite boarding, jet skiing, scuba diving and fishing. If a beach day isn’t your thing, you can opt for kayaking or paddle boarding instead. Just off the coast of Saint Augustine is Fort Matanzas National Monument – a historic fort built in 1740 and now home to breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. Anastasia State Park is great for swimming, camping and shelling amongst other activities. There are also several eco-tours and gardens like The Wildlife Reserve as well as museums such as the Lightner Museum.

Conclusion

Saint Augustine is a city full of history, mystery, and iconic attractions that are sure to please all visitors. As America’s oldest city, it definitely has many secrets, experiences, and untold stories waiting to be discovered. With a variety of activities from exploring historical sites at Castillo de San Marcos National Monument to taking part in lively excursions such as the Haunted Pub Craw with a Guide St Augustine Florida Augustine Haunted Pub Crawl with A Guide, visitors are sure to have a memorable and exciting time during their exploration of this iconic city located in northeast Florida .

An Insider’s Guide to Saint Augustine, Florida

Located on the northeast coast of Florida, Saint Augustine is a charming city that is rich in history and culture. Known as the oldest city in the United States, the city makes for a perfect vacation spot with many outdoor activities, local attractions, and cultural experiences for tourists. Dive in and explore everything Saint Augustine has to offer with this insider guide.

Local Attractions

Saint Augustine’s historic district, with it’s narrow streets and colonial-style buildings, is the best place to start exploring the city. The area is home to several significant historical sites, including Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fort, and the oldest wooden schoolhouse in the USA. A visit to the Lightner Museum is worth every penny, a 19th-century hotel building now flaunts a vast collection of antiques, including paintings, sculptures, and musical instruments.

Saint Augustine is also famous for its beautiful beaches, and St. Augustine Beach is a must-visit. It has excellent beach access, and the white sand beaches stretch almost endlessly. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a visit to Anastasia State Park is a must. This beautiful park covers over 1,600 acres and boasts several hiking and biking trails, as well as picnic areas and a beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

Dining Spots

Saint Augustine has a broad range of dining options that are sure to satisfy every palette. For seafood lovers, the Catch 27 restaurant in the historic district offers fresh seafood prepared with a southern flair. If you are up for a drive, head to Cap’s On The Water, a picturesque waterfront property in nearby Vilano Beach. Cap’s On The Water is known for its fresh seafood, amazing views and atmosphere.

For lovers of Italian cuisine, The Floridian serves Florida-inspired gourmet dishes with ingredients locally sourced. Another great option is Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grill, where you can get traditional Louisiana Creole dishes alongside classic American fare.

Cultural Experiences

Saint Augustine has several cultural experiences that you can take on. Attend Saint Augustine Amphitheatre where performers like Bob Dylan, Steve Miller Band and Willie Nelson have performed. Take the Tasting Tours which offers a combination of food, history and drinking. This tour covers four restaurants and a winery, allowing guests to sample a wide range of cuisine and drinks while exploring the city.

Be sure to catch the Nights of Lights, a spectacular holiday light display that illuminates the historic district from mid-November to mid-January.

Local History

Saint Augustine has a rich history, being one of the first cities founded by European explorers in what is now the United States. A stroll through the city will give you a glimpse of its past. Visit the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, which marks the landing point of Juan Ponce de Leon in 1513. The park boasts several historical attractions, including a reconstructed Native American village and a 1650s Spanish fort.

The city also has several other landmarks with its rich history, including the Oldest Wooden School House, the city’s oldest house, and Government House Museum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Saint Augustine has some unique experiences worth considering, such as taking a ride with Trolley Tours, which are hop-on-hop-off tours, allowing visitors to craft their itinerary. For adventure seekers, check out the Airie Skyport, where you can take a ride in a vintage biplane or even take a flyboarding lesson.

Lastly, spend half a day exploring Saint Augustine’s unique street art, and you can hop on a complimentary Lolly the Trolley for the ride.

In conclusion, Saint Augustine is an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore Florida’s rich history and enjoy its laid-back, welcoming charm. With an abundance of attractions, dining spots and cultural experiences, plan your next trip to Saint Augustine, Florida and create memories that will last a lifetime.