Things To Do In St. Augustine On Vacation

Budget-Friendly St. Augustine Vacation

We all know that a vacation can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be! St. Augustine is a popular tourist destination for its Spanish Colonial architecture and nearby beaches. However, many visitors don’t realize that it’s also a great place for a budget-friendly vacation. There are plenty of free or cheap activities to keep the whole family entertained, from exploring the city’s historic landmarks to spending a day at the beach. With a little planning, you can take an enjoyable and affordable trip to St. Augustine.

Local’s Guide to Visiting St. Augustine

St. Augustine is a one-of-a-kind historic city perched on the northeast coast of Florida. Set out for your adventures with this St. Augustine travel guide close by for the highlights of the Nation’s Oldest City. Whether or not you’ve called the St. Augustine area home or not, you’ll know every corner of the city in no time.

Riding with Old Town Trolley – St. Augustine is like knowing a local who has long experienced St. Augustine tourism. Many of our knowledgeable conductors are from the area, while others have called St. Augustine home for years. They enjoy sharing some of their personal favorites with visitors and, of course, know all about the stops you see along the way during your tour. To plan your St. Augustine stay like a true local with all the best activities, including some of our stops, check out this St. Augustine travel guide.

First-Time Visitor’s Guide to St. Augustine

Your first time traveling to a new destination is always a trip to remember. There’s something about exploring a new city and experiencing its culture with fresh eyes that’s truly special.

An unforgettable first-time trip to St. Augustine starts with Old Town Trolley – St. Augustine. With various stops, our seasoned conductors take you to and from the famous must-sees of St. Augustine tourism. Hop on and hop off at renowned attractions such as the rustic Old Jail, the iconic Lightner Museum, the historic Castillo de San Marcos and more.

From its architecture unique to the Spanish Renaissance and authentic historic landmarks, the city turns heads. As you tour with Old Town Trolley – St. Augustine, you’ll hear the stories of each stop and other unique facts along the way. Take it from us, for your first experience as a St. Augustine visitor, it helps to have a friend who knows all the best spots in town.

The Best Scenic Views and Instagrammable Spots in St. Augustine

St. Augustine, the oldest city in the continental United States, is small, quaint, friendly, and highly Instagrammable. There are examples of architecture here that you will find nowhere else in the country and its beaches are some of the best in the Sunshine State. So, grab your camera, review the rule of thirds, and get ready to snap some of the prettiest scenic views on the east coast!

Oldest Store Museum

Learn about the Oldest Store Museum in St. Augustine with our complete information guide featuring historical facts, interactive map, pictures, and things to do nearby.

Best St. Augustine Tours For Every Type Of Vacation

Our local experts surveyed guests, canvassed review sites, and researched hundreds of different St. Augustine tours to select our annual best of the best list.

Things to Do in St. Augustine at Night

As the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine is a northern Floridian vacation destination. Filled with centuries-old history, 40-plus miles of spectacular beaches and nightlife options, this city has been entertaining visitors through the ages. Dating back to 1565, the city of St. Augustine has been featured in family albums across the world. Showcasing history, architecture and outdoor fun through its landmarks, restaurants and historic heritage, visitors from around the globe put St. Augustine on their vacation list annually.

Historic Churches of St. Augustine

Houses of worship have played a significant role in St. Augustine’s history. Established by various denominations, these sanctuaries proclaim the faith of settlers who came to Florida in the hope of a better life.

Things To Do In The Colonial Quarter

The Spanish Quarter, also known as the Colonial Quarter, captures the essence of St. Augustine’s rich heritage. A visit here takes you back more than 300 years and offers you a chance to engage in a variety of interesting activities and see numerous points of interest. There is much to do and see in and around this historic area.

History

Over the past 450 years, St. Augustine has grown from a fledgling European settlement and military outpost ridden with violence and turmoil to Henry Flagler’s Gilded Age in the late 1800s. Today, the historic city lays claim to one of Florida’s up-and-coming cultural hubs with a vibrant art and music scene.

St. Augustine Museums

Explore the unique and storied history of the Nation’s Oldest City with a trip to these must-visit St. Augustine museums.

St. Augustine Historic Sites

St. Augustine Attractions

See all the best attractions in St. Augustine with the Old Town Trolley Tour. You’ll be able to experience all the historic tourist attractions in a day or two!

Things To Do On St. George Street

A pedestrian-only thoroughfare, bustling St. George Street is the epicenter of downtown St. Augustine. Chock full of shops, restaurants, art galleries and attractions, this historic street is a must for any visitor to the Nation’s Oldest City.

Hop On Hop Off St. Augustine Tours

Hello, I’m Dave Chatterton, General Manager of Old Town Trolley of St. Augustine. With nearly 500 years of history, including rule by Spain, Britain, and the U.S., St. Augustine is full of sights and attractions that entertain and educate. For over 30 years, Old Town Trolley Tours has provided St. Augustine sightseeing tours highlighting the best of the city. Hop aboard one of our trolleys and you’ll experience Transportainment, a delightful combination of transportation and entertainment.

Labor Day Events

Old Town Trolley Tours of St. Augustine has provided vacation guests and locals with more than 20 years of historic tours, news, and events. Each month the Trolley Team publishes upcoming events in St. Augustine for visitors and residents to enjoy. If you’re visiting during the St Augustine Labor Day Weekend, don’t forget to include the Old Town Trolley Tour in your itinerary.

How To See St. Augustine in 2 Days

“Plan ahead and have time to explore the most important historic places, enjoy delicious meals, and learn the importance of our Ancient city” America’s oldest city is home to centuries of history, soft sandy beaches and a host of fun and interesting attractions. And you can see all of St. Augustine in 2 days aboard the Old Town Trolley! If you’ve never been to St. Augustine, you’re in for a fun-filled, fascinating experience; Old Town Trolley Tours St. Augustine makes 22 stops and includes about 100 different sights. If you plan ahead, you’ll have time to explore many of the most important historic places, enjoy delicious meals, and learn the importance of our Ancient city.

How to See St. Augustine in 1 Day

The nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine, is home to five centuries of history, fascinating attractions, beautiful beaches and exquisite architecture. How can you see it all in just one day? Get a seat aboard the Old Town Trolley and follow our recommendations below to see the best of the city!

Top 10 Must See Hidden Gems in St. Augustine

With more than 450 years of history, it’s hard to find a rock unturned in the nation’s oldest city. But that certainly doesn’t mean St. Augustine is lacking a few hidden gems. And while all the most popular attractions should definitely be on every visitor’s itinerary, there are many special places that are local favorites, offering unique, one-of-a-kind experiences. To help make your next visit to Northeast Florida just that much better, we’ve compiled a list of the top places to visit and things to do that are a bit off the beaten path.

Unique Things To Do

St. Augustine’s rich history and natural beauty make it one of the best vacation spots in Florida. From pirate lore to appetizing eats, a vacation in St. Augustine is both memorable and enjoyable. If you’re looking for a unique sightseeing experience in the city, read on to find out about hidden gems and one-of-a-kind adventures in St. Augustine.

Fun Facts About St. Augustine

Since its founding in September 1565, St. Augustine has managed to intrigue and entertain visitors for more than 450 years. As the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the continental United States, the Nation’s Oldest City offers more than charming cobblestone streets, historical landmarks and pristine beaches. It’s also a wealth of interesting stories and historical tidbits. To help make your upcoming trip to St. Augustine just that much better, we’ve compiled a list of the top fun facts about this beautiful city by the sea.

Things to Do in the Winter

Escape to St. Augustine during the winter for fun in the sun and an abundance of activities, events and attractions. The nation’s oldest city, situated right on Florida’s east coast, tends to have very mild temperatures while the rest of the country experiences snow. Here are some of the top things to do in St. Augustine during winter.

Things to Do in the Spring

Springtime is one of the best times to visit America’s oldest city. The summer heat hasn’t arrived and there’s a lightness in the air. St. Augustine is home to many unique sights, pristine beaches and historical points of interest. Here are some of the best things to do in spring in St. Augustine.

Things To Do With Kids

Looking for the most efficient and entertaining way to visit many of the things to do in St. Augustine with kids? Look no further because Old Town Trolley Tours offers parents a relaxing way to tour all the best St. Augustine attractions for kids. Parents don’t have to worry about searching for directions to Ripley’s Believe it or Not, driving to the Authentic Old Jail, or finding parking while traveling from all of St. Augustine’s best attractions. If you’ve come with the family, you’re all in for an amazing vacation experience.

Fountain of Youth

Encompassing 15 acres of lush Old Florida landscape, The Fountain of Youth National Archaeological Park in St. Augustine is the perfect way to spend a day in the Nation’s Oldest City. It’s also considered the state’s oldest attraction and it commemorates the Florida landing of Ponce de Leon in 1513 and his quest for the legendary Fountain of Youth. Overlooking the Matanzas River and St. Augustine Inlet, the park offers visitors the chance to relive the days of the conquistadors and discover many colorful facts about Ponce de Leon’s arrival to Florida. It also hosts a blend of stately oaks, blue cedars, sweet-smelling magnolias and dozens of beautiful peacocks along with other wildlife.

Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche

Peaceful and serene, the Mission of Nombre de Dios is a place where everyone can feel at home. Shrines and statues are surrounded by lush greenery and trees and welcome visitors from every corner of the earth. It is here that the Great Cross, which rises 208 feet, was erected in 1965 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the first parish mass.

Castillo de San Marcos

The oldest masonry structure of its kind in the continental United States, Castillo de San Marcos was built and constructed to guard the coastline against invasion. Take some time to wander around this massive fort that overlooks the sea on the St. Augustine coast. Walk through the numerous rooms that were once home to war soldiers and prisoners. Out on the large interior courtyard, you’ll see the gun deck and enjoy magnificent views of the city.

Flagler College

What better place to study Liberal Arts than inside an oasis of architectural beauty? Flagler College, situated on the grounds of the original Ponce de Leon Hotel, offers students 29 majors and four-year degrees in several dozen areas of study. Established in 1968, Flagler College is a private, liberal arts institution of higher education. The school has been ranked by US News and World Report as well as The Princeton Review as one of the best regional colleges in the southern United States. The college is named for industrialist and railroad magnate Henry Morrison Flagler who built it in 1888 as a hotel. It is considered one of the finest examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture and was one of the most exclusive resorts of its day.

Ghosts & Gravestones

Explore the darker side of the Nation’s Oldest City and let our Ghost Host be your guide. Don’t miss this frightfully fun riding tour!

You won’t want to miss this Ghost Tour!

Lightner Museum

Elegance and history, grace and sophistication all come together in the glorious rooms, walkways and exhibits at the Lightner Museum. Originally The Hotel Alcazar, the building was built by railroad tycoon and hotel developer Henry Flagler and is a magnificent example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. Browse through costumes, furnishings, mechanical musical instruments and collections that bring back the grand Gilded Age, a marvelous period in the 19th century. See beautiful works of cut glass, Victorian art glass and the celebrated work of Louis Comfort Tiffany. Tour the museum and take a historical journey that will not soon be forgotten.

Villa Zorayda Museum

When visiting Villa Zorayda, make sure to leave yourself a good hour to explore this architectural and cultural gem. It’s been added to the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and houses one of the most unique collections of antiquities in America. Such rarities on display include the “Sacred Cat Rug,” which is over 2,400 years old and said to be made from the hairs of ancient cats that roamed the Nile River. You can also see hand-carved tropical hardwood furniture and impressive interior details like the flooring and windows.

Mission of Nombre de Dios

Peaceful and serene, the Mission of Nombre de Dios is a place where everyone can feel at home. Shrines and statues are surrounded by lush greenery and trees and welcome visitors from every corner of the earth. It is here that the Great Cross was erected in 1965 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the first parish Catholic Mass. The chapel, which is dedicated to Our Lady of La Leche, is a shrine which houses an exquisitely detailed carved statue of Mary nursing the baby Jesus.

Grace United Methodist Church

Constructed by Henry Flagler, the Grace United Methodist Church is a lovely site and a place of special interest in the Old City. Its Spanish style, terracotta spire and moldings are a continuing reminder of the impact of Spain on the entire city. Located at 8 Carrera Street, the Church was built in the late 1800’s, and was added to the United States National Register of Historic Places in the 1970’s. Services are held here throughout the week and visitors are welcome.

Fernando-Lambias House

Built in 1763, the Fernando-Lambias House is one of the many original coquina structures in the city. Its charming setting and pretty design make it a special place for weddings and other events. Visitors can enjoy its lovely exterior and during the third week of every month are able to tour the interior.

Oldest House

A St. Augustine attraction for history enthusiasts, curious souls and those who enjoy marvelous architecture, The Oldest House Museum Complex offers many things for many people. Owned and operated by the St. Augustine Historical Society, the complex includes Florida’s Oldest House, two museums, a changing exhibition gallery, an ornamental garden, and a museum store.

Ancient City Baptist Church

Ancient City Baptist Church was organized January 20, 1887 with 18 charter members. The tan brick sanctuary with its Norman tower and oval stained glass windows was dedicated on February 2, 1896.

Pirate & Treasure Museum

An incredible adventure for kids and adults of all ages, the Pirate & Treasure Museum offers visitors a chance to journey back to the era of the Golden Age of Piracy. This unique museum showcases one of the largest collections of rare pirate artifacts in the world including Captain Thomas Tew’s 17th Century Treasure Chest and the Journal of Captain Kidd’s Final Voyage in 1699.

Scenic Cruise

The Scenic Cruise company was founded more than a century ago when Frank Usina and his wife settled in North Beach, which at the time was only accessible by boat. In the early days, Frank would ferry guests of the Ponce de Leon Hotel and Alcazar Hotel back and forth from St. Augustine to North Beach, showing them the beautiful sites along the way and treating them to oysters, Minorcan cuisine, music and dancing.

Ripleys Believe It Or Not

Walk in amazement and wonder as you see more than 800 exhibits at Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum. Everything from the weird and unusual to the exotic is on display and ready to excite and entertain people of all ages. The museum is the original Ripley’s Believe it or Not, opening in 1950 just a few months after Robert Ripley’s death. Here, people can explore and interact, witness incredible illusions and see for themselves what Ripley collected from his travels around the world—many too outlandish to believe.

Flagler Memorial Presbyterian Church

Visually exquisite, the Flagler Memorial Presbyterian Church was built by Henry Flagler in 1889. It is one of his most significant projects, because it was constructed as a memorial to Flagler’s only daughter, Jenny. The mausoleum adjacent to the church is where Flagler, his daughter, granddaughter and first wife are buried.

St. Augustine Lighthouse

Like so many other sites in St. Augustine, the Lighthouse is a cherished landmark from another era. It’s significant for two main reasons—first because of its role as a vital watchtower that led ships safely into the St. Augustine port for more than a hundred years and second because of its longstanding survival as an architectural icon to the city. The original lighthouse was closed in 1874 on the same day that the new one was completed.

St. George Street

A pedestrian-only thoroughfare, bustling St. George Street is the epicenter of downtown St. Augustine. Chock full of shops, restaurants, art galleries and attractions, this historic street is a must for any visitor to the Nation’s Oldest City.

Alligator Farm

Visit the Alligator Farm in St. Augustine to be amazed, intrigued and thoroughly entertained. Do things like pet an alligator, watch a feeding and see wild species like Albino Alligators, herons, spoonbills and woodstorks. You’ll also get a gander at toucans, parrots, Australian emus and seven different types of monkeys. Gaze in amazement at Maximo, a 36-year-old, 15 foot, 1,250 pound Crocodile. If his massive size and weight don’t astound you, the story of his life, so far, probably will. He was captured as an egg in Australia and was donated to the United States.

Carriage Rides

For a truly memorable experience while visiting St. Augustine, take a whimsical ride on one of the various Horse-drawn carriages. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Castillo de San Marcos and the activity in the picturesque harbor as you enjoy a nostalgic step back to a simpler time—horse-drawn carriage rides throughout St. Augustine are just one of the many ways visitors can relive the history of our nation’s oldest city.

Oldest Wooden School House

Made completely by hand, the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse is an architectural and historical icon in St. Augustine. Dating back to the early 18th century, a visit to the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse is an inspiring experience.

Colonial Quarter

The Spanish Quarter, also known as the Colonial Quarter, captures the essence of St. Augustine’s rich heritage. A visit here takes you back more than 300 years and offers you a chance to engage in a variety of interesting activities and see numerous points of interest. There is much to do and see in and around this historic area.

Black Raven

The Pirate Ship Black Raven is a one-of-a-kind live pirate show full of music, thrills and pure entertainment! Participate in our adventure, sing along with our crew, and find your inner pirate while you see the beautiful sights of the Matanzas River.

Schooner Freedom

The Schooner Freedom gives its guests an opportunity to experience a sail reminiscent of an authentic 19th century Blockade Runner. St. Augustine’s own tall ship, the Freedom was constructed in 1982 and is a double masted 72’ replica of the topsail ships of that time. Choose a fun-filled day sail or relaxing evening cruise—your two hours on board this spectacular vessel will include music, sightseeing and perhaps even manatees, dolphins and other friendly wildlife.

Best Beaches In St. Augustine

Situated along the Atlantic Ocean, St. Augustine’s pristine beaches stretch from Vilano Beach north of the city to Crescent Beach in the south. With dozens of public beach access points peppered along the coastline, there is a bit of something for everyone. From horseback riding, sunbathing and stand-up paddle boarding to fishing, diving and volleyball, the endless miles of white, sandy beaches have made St. Augustine a go-to destination for water lovers and beachgoers.

Ximenez-Fatio House

While in the oldest city, you won’t want to miss one of the oldest structures still standing. Made of coquina stone, it’s a lovely example of both Spanish and English architecture. What makes this spot even more exciting is the detached kitchen, the only original 18th century building of its kind. Take the guided tour to learn about the home’s fascinating past, how it became an Inn and then a historic museum.

Spanish Military Hospital Museum

The Spanish Military Hospital Museum offers visitors a look into how healthcare operated during the Spanish Colonial Period. The building that the museum is housed in is a reconstruction of a Military Hospital that was on the same site in the late 1700s. As you tour the museum, you’ll be given an inside look into how patients were treated here. From the ward beds to the surgeon’s tools and even the mourning room where patient’s last rites were given by Priests, the museum is an interesting and unique spot to see.

Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine

A visit to the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine is an inspirational experience for people of all faiths. The Church was founded in 1565 and was rebuilt many times. Through the age of exploration, pirates and the Flagler years, the church has been a vital part of the religious community in the city. The Church is located on Cathedral Street in the heart of downtown St. Augustine and is a designated National Historical Landmark. Today, its amazing past and exquisite Spanish architecture both inside and out awe visitors from around the world.

City Gates

The Old City Gates are a striking site toward the north end of St. George Street. The Old City Gates were at one time the only entrance into St. Augustine. The two ancient columns made of stone were built in 1808 as a line of defense for the city. Visiting the Oldest City in the United States would not be complete without taking a moment to see the Old City Gates. They are a symbol of the turbulent times faced by the original American colonists and a truly memorable landmark.

Government House

The Government House has long been the home to many administrative and political offices. Throughout its many centuries of existence (the earliest records date back to the late 16th century), it has been a residence for Governors, a courthouse, a post office, government offices and more. Following the plans of the royal decree from Spain, it along with other major buildings in town, faces the central plaza. Visitors of all ages benefit from the many exhibits and learning activities available in the museum.

Tolomato Cemetery

As with many of the significant sites in our nation’s oldest city, the Tolomato Cemetery offers visitors a glimpse into the diverse history of the people who lived and died in St. Augustine. It’s one of Florida’s oldest cemeteries, and is known to be the final resting place of many confederate soldiers. Before 1763, the Cemetery was the site of the Christian Indian Village of Tolomato.

Whetstone Chocolates Tasting Tours

Henry and Esther Whetstone are Florida natives and lifelong residents of northeast Florida. After they married, they longed to own and operate their own business. Operating from their kitchen each night, Henry and Esther first opened their small ice cream store on St. George Street in the historic business district of St. Augustine in 1966. They entered the chocolate market when they created a home-made fudge recipe, again in the family’s small kitchen.

Potter’s Wax Museum

Potter’s Wax Museum is located on Orange Avenue in historic St. Augustine and offers visitors a unique opportunity to see some of the world’s most famous people up close. The figures are known for their remarkable likeness to the characters they represent due to the process that’s used to create them. The eyes are handmade in Germany and the hands are sculpted in Belgium.

San Sebastian Winery

According to historians, St. Augustine is believed to be the birthplace of American wine dating back to 1562. And so it only makes sense that one of the country’s premier wineries, San Sebastian Winery, would call the Nation’s Oldest City home.

Old Drug Store

For a contrast to today’s high-tech pharmacies, stop in at the Oldest Drug Store located in Historic downtown. You won’t see any computers – instead, antique cash registers, wood floors and bottles of remedies, elixirs and tonics are a charming representation of an era gone by. Be sure to visit the gift shop where you can pick up collectibles, jewelry and seasonal items.

St. Augustine Distillery

The St. Augustine Distillery, housed in a historic ice manufacturing plant built in 1917, is now meticulously restored as a working distillery. The Distillery’s opening in March, 2014, coincided with the release of the first spirit produced legally in northeast Florida since Prohibition. Free daily public tours include information about Florida’s distilling heritage and the building’s former life as an ice plant, as well as a tasting room and a chance to watch spirits being made from scratch using age-old techniques in two copper pot stills.

St. Augustine History Museum

Henry Flagler was a powerhouse and catalyst for change in the real estate and transportation industries. His contributions to Florida are documented and displayed throughout the St. Augustine History Museum. As you tour through, you’ll also see authentic artifacts, unpublished photographs and learn about the evolution of St. Augustine and Florida under Spanish and British rule.

St. Augustine Travel Planner