Discover the Charm of The Nation's Oldest City: Top 10 Must-Do Things in St. Augustine, Florida!
Are you planning a trip to Florida? If so, make sure to visit St. Augustine, the nation's oldest city! Located on the northeastern tip of the state, this charming city provides visitors with an unforgettable experience full of rich history and captivating landmarks.
Get ready to learn about the top 10 must-do things in St. Augustine, Florida! Whether you're interested in exploring museums, soaking up the sun at the beach, or indulging in delicious food, this city has something for everyone.
Step back in time and visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, a 17th-century Spanish fort made of coquina shells. The fort served as a strategic military stronghold for the Spanish empire and is now open to visitors who want to learn about its history.
If you're interested in art, you won't want to miss the Lightner Museum, which houses an impressive collection of decorative arts ranging from the 18th century to the present day.
Ready for some fun in the sun? St. Augustine Beach awaits you! With pristine white sands and turquoise waters, this beach is the perfect place to relax and soak up the Florida sunshine.
These are just a few of the top things to do in St. Augustine, Florida. To discover more, read the full article and plan your unforgettable trip!
Introduction
St. Augustine, Florida is a city that holds a special place in history as the nation's oldest city. Visitors can explore its charming historical sites, pristine beaches, quaint shops, and delicious cuisine. In this article, we will discuss the top 10 must-do things in St. Augustine, Florida.
1. Explore the Historic District
The Historic District of St. Augustine is a must-visit for history buffs. Walk the cobblestone streets and take in the Spanish colonial architecture. Visitors can easily spend hours exploring the area's numerous museums, including the Lightner Museum, the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, and the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum.
Historic District
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A great place to learn about the city's rich history | May be crowded during peak season |
| Offers plenty of photo opportunities | Some of the attractions may require an admission fee |
2. Visit Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
The Castillo de San Marcos is a 17th-century fortress built by the Spanish. It is located in the heart of the city and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can tour the fortifications and learn about the area's military history.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A fascinating glimpse into the past | Crowded during peak season |
| Well-maintained and informative | Can be hot and sunny, so visitors should bring water and sunscreen |
3. Relax on St. Augustine Beach
St. Augustine Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline with soft sand and warm waters. Visitors can swim in the ocean, sunbathe on the beach, and watch the sunset over the water. The beach is also home to several restaurants and shops.
St. Augustine Beach
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A great place to relax and unwind | Crowded during peak season |
| Gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean | Parking can be difficult to find |
4. Take a Ghost Tour
St. Augustine is known for its haunted history, and there are several ghost tours available for those who are interested. Visitors can learn about the city's spooky legends and hear ghost stories from local guides. Some tours even visit reportedly haunted buildings.
Ghost Tours
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A fun and unique way to learn about the city | May be too scary for some visitors |
| Great for thrill-seekers and fans of the paranormal | Some may find the tours overpriced |
5. Visit the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park
The St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is a family-friendly attraction that is home to hundreds of alligators, crocodiles, and other animals. Visitors can watch daily shows, feed the animals, and take guided tours. The park also has a zip line course for those who are feeling adventurous.
St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A unique and educational experience | Can be crowded, especially on weekends |
| Plenty of activities for visitors of all ages | Some may find the admission fee too high |
6. Shop on St. George Street
St. George Street is a pedestrian-only street in the heart of the Historic District. Visitors can browse through quaint shops selling jewelry, art, and souvenirs. The street is also home to several restaurants and cafes.
St. George Street
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A charming and picturesque street | Can be crowded during peak season |
| Plenty of unique shops and restaurants | Some may find the prices too high |
7. Tour Whetstone Chocolate Factory
The Whetstone Chocolate Factory offers tours that let visitors learn about the chocolate-making process and sample delicious chocolate treats. Visitors can also shop for chocolate souvenirs in the gift shop.
Whetstone Chocolate Factory
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A great activity for chocolate lovers | Tours can sell out quickly, so visitors should book in advance |
| Friendly and knowledgeable staff | Not ideal for those with allergies to nuts or other common ingredients |
8. Take a Trolley Tour
The Old Town Trolley Tour takes visitors around St. Augustine's historic sites on a narrated tour. Visitors can hop on and hop off at 23 different stops, allowing them to explore the city at their own pace.
Trolley Tour
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A convenient way to see the city | Can be noisy and crowded during peak season |
| Informative and friendly guides | May not allow visitors to spend as much time at individual sites |
9. Visit the Bridge of Lions
The Bridge of Lions is one of St. Augustine's most iconic landmarks. Visitors can walk or drive across the bridge for stunning views of the city and surrounding waterways.
Bridge of Lions
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A beautiful and historic bridge | Can be crowded during peak season |
| Offers great photo opportunities | Some may find the traffic on the bridge to be heavy |
10. Tour the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse
The Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse in St. Augustine is a historic attraction that provides a glimpse into the educational practices of the past. Visitors can tour the restored schoolhouse and learn about the daily life of early Florida residents.
Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| An interesting and informative attraction | May not hold the interest of young children |
| Friendly and knowledgeable staff | Not ideal for those with mobility issues, as the schoolhouse has steep stairs |
Conclusion
St. Augustine, Florida is a city with a rich history and plenty of charm. From exploring its historic sites to relaxing on its beautiful beaches, visitors will find no shortage of things to do in this wonderful city. Whether you're a history buff or a thrill-seeker, St. Augustine has something for everyone.
Thank you for taking the time to read about the charm and beauty of St. Augustine, Florida! As the nation's oldest city, St. Augustine offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, there is always something new to discover in this beautiful city.
From exploring historic landmarks like Castillo de San Marcos and Flagler College, to enjoying outdoor activities such as kayaking and beachcombing, there is no shortage of things to do in St. Augustine. One of the must-do things is to visit St. George Street, which is home to many quaint shops, restaurants, and galleries. Be sure to try the famous Datil Pepper sauce when eating out in the city!
We hope that our list of top 10 must-do things in St. Augustine has been helpful and informative. There is truly something for everyone in this charming coastal city. We invite you to come and discover the beauty of St. Augustine for yourself. Thank you for visiting our blog and we hope to see you soon!
People also ask about Discover the Charm of The Nation's Oldest City: Top 10 Must-Do Things in St. Augustine, Florida!
- What is the nation's oldest city?
- What are the top things to do in St. Augustine?
- Visiting the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
- Exploring St. George Street
- Taking a Ghost Tour
- Enjoying the view at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
- Relaxing on St. Augustine Beach
- Visiting the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
- Browsing the Lightner Museum
- Experiencing the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park
- Tasting the local cuisine
- Attending a live performance at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre
- Is St. Augustine worth visiting?
- What is the best time of year to visit St. Augustine?
- How long should I stay in St. Augustine?
- What is the history of St. Augustine?
- What is there to do in St. Augustine at night?
- What is the best way to get around St. Augustine?
- Is St. Augustine safe for tourists?
- What is the cost of visiting St. Augustine?
St. Augustine, Florida is known as the nation's oldest city.
The top 10 must-do things in St. Augustine include:
Yes, St. Augustine is definitely worth visiting for its rich history, charming architecture, and unique attractions.
The best time to visit St. Augustine is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds.
You can see most of the top attractions in St. Augustine in 2-3 days, but if you want to fully experience the city, it's recommended to stay for at least 4-5 days.
St. Augustine was founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles, making it the oldest continuously inhabited city in the United States. It has a rich history spanning over 450 years and has been influenced by Spanish, British, and American cultures.
There are plenty of things to do in St. Augustine at night, including taking a ghost tour, watching a live performance at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, enjoying a sunset cruise, or simply strolling around the historic district.
The best way to get around St. Augustine is on foot, bike, or by taking the Old Town Trolley Tour which provides an overview of the city's top attractions.
Yes, St. Augustine is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's always important to take precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and not leaving valuables in plain sight.
The cost of visiting St. Augustine varies depending on your budget and interests. Many of the city's top attractions have admission fees ranging from $10-$20 per person, but there are also free activities such as exploring the historic district and beaches.