What’s Special About St Augustine, FL?

St. Augustine, located in northeast Florida, is a beautiful historic town with a lot of classical charm. Founded in 1565, it is the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the United States, and it is home to some of the oldest and most beloved Spanish Colonial buildings in the country. Not only is it a popular tourist destination, it is also a great place to live. If you’re thinking about moving to St. Augustine, here’s what you need to know.

History and Culture

St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States, and its impressive historical legacy can be seen everywhere. It is home to some of the oldest European-based buildings in the country, including the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th century Spanish stone fortress. You’ll also find plenty of colonial Spanish architecture from the 16th and 17th century, including charming cobblestone streets and numerous colonial-era churches. The city has also been home to many famous historical figures, from Spanish explorers to US presidents.

The city’s cultural heritage is alive and well today. St. Augustine is home to numerous museums and galleries, plus a variety of artisans who create unique handmade goods. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine specialties such as cubans sandwiches and traditional paella. The city also has a great live music scene with its numerous bars and clubs hosting regular concerts.

Outdoors and Nature

St. Augustine is part of Florida’s “First Coast” region, which offers stunning scenery of rolling hills, forests and marshlands. It’s easy to take advantage of this beautiful area with plenty of outdoor activities, such as kayaking and canoeing on the St. Johns River, golfing on championship level courses, and walking or biking on the scenic trails. If that isn’t enough, you can make a day trip to the nearby St. Augustine Beach and Crescent Beach for more outdoor fun.

Living in St. Augustine

If you are looking to settle down in the area, there’s plenty of good housing options in St. Augustine. Downtown homes tend to be historic properties, while suburban neighborhoods tend to have more modern homes. In any location, you’ll find a combination of affordability and great amenities such as shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. St. Augustine also has great education options with Florida’s top-ranked K–12 schools such as Flagler College and St Johns River State College.

Conclusion

All in all, St Augustine is a truly unique place to live or visit. You get a mix of vibrant history, culture and nature, plus great job opportunities and amenities. With so much to see and do, there’s something for everyone in St Augustine!

To learn more about life in St Augustine, be sure to check out the chamber of commerce website.

An Insider’s Guide to St. Augustine, FL

St. Augustine is a charming city located on Florida’s northeast coast known for its historic landmarks and stunning beaches. It was founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, making it the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the United States. Today, the city is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world with its rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty. Here’s an insider’s guide to St. Augustine, FL.

Top Local Attractions

St. Augustine is a city full of attractions, offering a variety of things to see and do. Here are some of the top local attractions to check out:

– The Castillo de San Marcos is a 17th-century Spanish fortress located on the shores of Matanzas Bay. It is the oldest masonry fort in the United States and a National Monument. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the fort and learn about the history of St. Augustine.

– The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting St. Augustine. The lighthouse was built in 1874 and is now a museum. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for stunning views of St. Augustine and the surrounding area.

– St. Augustine’s Old Town Trolley is a fun way to see the city’s historic sites and attractions. The trolley makes stops at all the major attractions, and visitors can hop on and off as often as they like.

– The St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is a great attraction for families. It is home to hundreds of alligators and crocodiles, as well as other animals such as birds, monkeys, and snakes.

Best Dining Spots

St. Augustine has a thriving food scene, offering a variety of dining options to suit every taste. Here are some of the best dining spots in the city:

– The Columbia Restaurant is an iconic restaurant in St. Augustine, serving up delicious Spanish and Cuban cuisine for over 100 years.

– Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille is a popular spot for seafood lovers, offering fresh seafood dishes as well as Cajun and Creole-inspired cuisine.

– The Floridian is a farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on using local, seasonal ingredients in its dishes. It offers a laid-back atmosphere and delicious food.

– The Ice Plant is a unique restaurant that specializes in craft cocktails and contemporary cuisine. It is located in a historic ice plant and features a rustic, industrial decor.

Cultural Experiences

St. Augustine is a city steeped in history and culture, offering a variety of cultural experiences for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top cultural experiences in the city:

– The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is a great place to catch a concert or event. It is a historic venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in music.

– The St. Augustine Art Association is a non-profit organization that promotes local artists and hosts art exhibits and events throughout the year.

– The Lightner Museum is a unique attraction that is housed in the former Alcazar Hotel. It features a collection of Victorian-era art and artifacts.

Local History

St. Augustine has a rich history, and visitors can learn about it by visiting some of the city’s historic landmarks and museums. Here are some of the top historic sites in St. Augustine:

– The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is a historic site that is believed to be the location where Ponce de Leon first landed in Florida. Visitors can explore the park and learn about the early history of St. Augustine.

– The St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum is a fun and interactive museum that showcases the history of pirates in the area.

– The St. Augustine History Museum is a great place to learn about the city’s history. It features exhibits on everything from the Spanish explorers to the Civil Rights Movement.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something a little different to do in St. Augustine, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– The St. Augustine Distillery offers tours of its historic building and a tasting of its award-winning spirits.

– The St. Augustine Wild Reserve is a sanctuary for exotic animals that have been rescued from captivity. Visitors can take a tour of the reserve and see tigers, lions, and other animals up close.

– The St. Augustine Eco Tours offer a variety of eco-tours, including dolphin and bird-watching tours, as well as kayaking and paddleboarding.

St. Augustine, FL, is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s historic sites, enjoying its delicious food, or taking in its stunning beaches, there is something for everyone to enjoy.