st augustine day trip ideas

One Day in St. Augustine Itinerary – Top Things to do in St Augustine, Florida

A charming town with loads of history that’s also located right on the Atlantic coast of Florida seems like a great destination for a vacation, doesn’t it? Yes, your one day in St. Augustine can’t be anything else than fabulous as you enjoy the sun and the beaches this part of the Sunshine State has to offer. No matter if you’re traveling alone or with your whole family, this is a place you won’t soon forget. But wouldn’t it be great to have some sort of itinerary to help you make the most of your time here? Don’t worry, we’re way ahead of you!

What’s the best time to visit St. Augustine, Florida?

The best time to visit St. Augustine, Florida is easy to define – whenever you come here, you’ll have a great time! This is Florida, after all, so you can expect warm and mild winters and fairly hot summers. Do note, however, that the period from June to October has substantially more rain, which combined with high temperatures may be tough to endure for some people. So, the months of April and May or even October seem to be the best time to visit as they offer the best mixture of warm but bearable temperatures and don’t see too much rain.

As for the events held here, Nights of Lights sees St. Augustine adorned with millions of festive lights during the Christmas period. Celtic Music and Heritage Festival (usually in March) is also very popular, and there are also many events involving food, culture, and history of this town you can enjoy throughout the year.

A few facts about St. Augustine

St. Augustine has a remarkably long history when compared to other US towns and cities. It was founded by the Spaniards way back in 1565, which makes it the very oldest continuously inhabited town founded by the Europeans in the whole country!

The city was also the capital of Florida at the beginning of the 19th century but was succeeded by Tallahassee in 1824.

Today, St. Augustine proper numbers only approximately 15,000 people, with the wider city area totaling about 70,000 inhabitants.

Interestingly, St. Augustine is also home to the narrowest street in the United States – Treasury Street is only about two meters (under 7 feet) wide.

Tourism started to develop very early here, and there is evidence of guests coming to visit The Fountain of Youth National Archaeological Park all the way back from the 1860s. So, this is definitely a place with a lot of tourist pedigree.

Henry Flagler single-handedly turned the city into the tourist center that it is today. In the 1880s, this tycoon decided to come here and build a number of luxurious hotels. St. Augustine became a popular resort, especially during winters, and this changed the city forever. Today, the city is also extremely popular among retirees who are more than willing to spend their retirement here.

One day in St. Augustine Itinerary

Start with coffee and breakfast on st. george street.

St. George Street is the place to be in this town. Loads of charming souvenirs and coffee shops in combination with the intriguing architecture create a very special vibe in the v . So, why not start your one day in St. Augustine with a cup of joe and a nice breakfast here?

The Cuban Cafe and Bakery is a great place for that, for example, as is The Florida Cracker Cafe , but do go and explore the area – you’re bound to find loads of interesting places. Oh, and don’t forget to check out some of the souvenirs!

Check out the pirate museum

Yes, the pirate museum! As you’re walking down St. George Street, the chances are you’ll see it, so it’s a perfect way to continue this itinerary. It is also a great place to visit if you have kids along.

St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum has an amazing interior that both kids and adults will love. Go back in time to the years when pirates ruled the seas and see what it was like for Sir Francis Drake and other outlaws as they pillaged and plundered.

Visit Castillo de San Marcos

Now, this really is a must. Built at the end of the 17th century, Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest fort in the continental US and a National Monument. The place has had a rich and tumultuous history, but it was also vital in the founding of the first free Black town in the United States (Fort Mose).

Interestingly, the fort is often rumored to be haunted by the ghosts of various prisoners and officers that resided here in the centuries past, so you can come here at night for a ghost tour . If you dare, that is.

Sit down for a nice lunch

If you’ve been following this St. Augustine itinerary, all of the locations mentioned so far have been easy to reach. Still, it’s quite possible you’re getting hungry at this point, and if that’s the case, it’s time to find a nice restaurant.

Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille is one of the best places around if you’re in the mood for Creole-style seafood, something St. Augustine is famous for, and The Floridian Restaurant serves excellent Southern dishes. Back 40 Urban Cafe and Pizzaley’s Chianti Room are also great choices.

Climb the St. Augustine Lighthouse

After you’ve had your fill, it’s time to visit another major St. Augustine attraction – St. Augustine Lighthouse. This amazing place is almost 150 years old and houses a wonderful maritime museum that works on preserving the history of the oldest port in the US.

You can climb to the top of the lighthouse and get an incredible view of the ocean, but you can also come back here in the evening for a night tour. Why? Well, legends say that the lighthouse is haunted… So, come when the sun sets if you dare.

Hit the beach

No one day in St. Augustine would be complete without visiting the beach, so go ahead and spend the rest of the afternoon at one. There are two main choices that stand out from the rest around here – St. Augustine Beach and Vilano Beach .

The former offers plenty of activities you can enjoy, from all kinds of boarding to a splash park, whereas the latter boasts amazing sunsets and great boat tours. Either way, you can’t go wrong – both places guarantee plenty of fun.

Treat yourself to an evening drink

At the end of your day, treat yourself to a nice drink in one of St. Augustine’s bars. The Tini Martini Bar comes highly recommended as a place for great cocktails, whereas Stogies Jazz Club & Listening provides more of a pub experience. The Bar With No Name also needs to be mentioned here as it offers a spectacular background of Castillo de San Marcos.

There are also plenty of venues for live music (with many different genres represented), as well as a whole lot of great nightclubs. Naturally, you can also enjoy a dinner under the stars because, as we’ve already said, there are some really good restaurants here. So, whatever you’re looking for in the evening, you should have no problems finding it!

Where to stay in St. Augustine?

St. George Inn

4 Saint George Street # 101, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Staying in St. Augustine can be an amazing experience if you book a room in the right place. And St. George Inn is certainly one such accommodation. Not only does it look amazing both inside and outside, but it also has a great location in the Colonial Quarter, so you’ll be able to walk to many great places. The rooms look amazing, and some even come with a spa bath, and it should be mentioned that they accept pets here, too. A paragraph this short doesn’t do this great place justice, so check it out and prepare to be amazed.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Bayfront Marine House

142 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Bayfront Marine House  is a charming bed and breakfast with a great location, close to many sights. The place also looks excellent and provides a beautiful view of the surroundings. Its rooms are spacious, clean, and very comfortable, guests can enjoy a happy hour at 5 p.m., and the breakfast offers plenty of choices. Add to that the dedicated staff you have here, and you get a stay that will make you want to come back again and again. 

Marker 8 Hotel and Marina

1 Dolphin Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Marker 8 Hotel and Marina delights its guests every time, and it’s very easy to see why. The first thing you will note here is the amazing view of the marina, but the location is also excellent seeing how you’re very close to the town. The whole place exudes a very calming and relaxing atmosphere, and the breakfast they serve here is nothing short of amazing. A bar and a fitness center and an outdoor pool are also here, so it’s really hard to ask for anything more from a St. Augustine hotel.

Historic Waterfront Marion Motor Lodge

120 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084

A motel can make your trip to St. Augustine much more affordable, so if you’re looking for this kind of accommodation, Historic Waterfront Marion Motor Lodge is the place to choose. As you can see from the name, you will be located very close to the historic part of St. Augustine, and the rooms offer a lot of comfort for a great price. They serve complimentary coffee in the morning here, plus there’s a huge outdoor pool to enjoy, which makes all of this excellent value for your money.

Day trips from St. Augustine

When you come to St. Augustine, you can be sure you will want to stay more than just one day there. And if you decide to treat yourself to a few more days in this wonderful place, you will have plenty of great options for day trips from St. Augustine. Here are a few places that can serve as perfect destinations.

Jacksonville

The most obvious choice for a day trip from St. Augustine is Jacksonville. Less than one hour away, this city is easy to reach and offers plenty of history, culture and great restaurants. Yes, you can really enjoy your one day in Jacksonville , and the ride to and from it won’t be too demanding. There are even shuttles running between the two places.

If you don’t mind going for a slightly longer drive, Orlando is an excellent choice, especially if you have the whole family with you. It takes less than two hours to reach it, which is still fairly reasonable, and we don’t have to tell you what kind of wonders you’ll see there. But apart from incredible theme parks, the city offers loads of museums and other places to visit. Yes, your one day in Orlando will be full of excitement.

Daytona Beach

Fancy a day at the beach? If you’ve checked out everything St. Augustine has to offer, why not take a day trip to Daytona Beach? This world-famous stretch of sand is just over an hour away and offers plenty of fun things to do. Concerts, performances, and good food guarantee a good time, and the place is also a dream come true for every car racing enthusiast.

Blue Grotto

For nature lovers, a trip to the Blue Grotto will be a fantastic day trip from St. Augustine. Not only is the nature there absolutely stunning and the park has a lovely picnic area, but you can also dive into the Grotto more than 100 feet. You will need a certificate that you’re a trained diver for this, though, but even if it’s just for enjoying the park, the two-hour drive to this place will be well worth it!

Extra tips for visiting St. Augustine

• Trolleys are a very popular and convenient mode of transport in St. Augustine. Hop on one of them to get to your desired attraction faster or book a tour package to save extra.
• You will also be doing a lot of walking, and many streets here are cobblestone streets, so comfortable shoes become very important.
• St. Augustine offers some excellent seafood! If you’re a fan of this type of dish, you’re in for a treat. But even if you’re not, you’ll find plenty of great places to eat.
• You may want to leave some room or bring an extra bag for all the souvenirs you can get here, especially if you’re on St. George Street. It’s very hard to resist picking up things like antiques, for example, in this kind of environment.

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

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A Day Trip in St. Augustine, Florida: 8 Things To Do and Eat

By: Author Raymond Cua

Posted on Last updated: September 2, 2020

With being America’s oldest city along the beautiful coast and natural surroundings, St. Augustine, Florida definitely offers a lot of unique attractions and things to do. Here’s we’re discussing how to spend a day trip in St. Augustine.

Did you know? St. Augustine is listed among the 33 Amazing U.S. Cities to Visit in 2018 by Time Inc.

Dating back to 1565, Spanish-colonial architecture, historic sites and homes, and brick-paved streets are all over the city’s historic district where most attractions reside.

But, the beauty doesn’t stop there. The Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal that surrounds Florida’s Historic Coast bring a beautiful backdrop of nature, water and wildlife to such a historic setting.

More behind the scenes on Travelling Foodie Instagram: @TravellingFoodie for Food and @JourneyTraveler for Travel

This itinerary will showcase some of the best restaurants and things to do in St. Augustine in one day that makes it such a well-rounded destination for all ages!

Everything in the historic district is walkable, but you’ll need to drive to Anastasia Island for the other spots.

And, if you’re looking for more dining options for the itinerary, check out this St. Augustine Food Guide .

Also Read: A Day Trip in Jacksonville, Florida

Day Trip in St. Augustine Itinerary

Flagler legacy tour.

Start your day trip in St. Augustine by heading over to Flagler College at 10am for the Flagler Legacy Tour. If you walked around the historic district, you were probably intrigued why a college can look so beautiful.

Flagler College used to be the Hotel Ponce de Leon, built by railroad and Standard Oil magnate Henry Flagler in 1888.

Did you know? Ponce de Leon was the Spanish explorer that claimed Florida for Spain in 1513.

The Hotel Ponce de Leon was one of the most exclusive resorts at that time. People wanting to stay here were required to book for the entire season at USD1000/night.

Listed as a National Historic Landmark, this luxurious hotel with bulletproof Tiffany windows is considered one of the finest examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture.

Though it’s free to walk the grounds and enter inside, I highly recommend the tour because you get to enter other parts of the college that are restricted to the regular public like the dining room and the Flagler Room, formerly the Women’s Grand Parlor.

Our tour guide Maria, who is also a student at the college, was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic in sharing about the college’s history, architectural heritage and influences while also giving some perspective on what it’s like living there as a student.

Did you know? The hotel is actually now used as the women’s dormitory for Flagler College.

One very interesting to learn is that the hotel was built with four themes in mind: Spanish, nautical, lion and religion. This helps you be more aware of what you’re seeing during the tour.

Also Read: 2 Day Trip in Daytona Beach, Florida

Website / Address : 74 King St, St Augustine, FL 32084 Price : $10/adult, $1/Kids 4-12

St. Augustine Eco Tours

Right after the tour, head over to the City Marina for the 11am Dolphin, Birding and Nature Tour with St. Augustine Eco Tours. The tour ends around 12:30pm.

Founded as an educational resource, St. Augustine Eco Tours sets itself apart by incorporating on-water interpretive experiences in their boat tours.

Aside from just taking the boats to see sights and wildlife, you also learn about environmental education, conservation, and wildlife and habitat protection.

Did you know? All their guides are interpretive naturalists and USCG licensed captains.

Our guide was Captain Zach McKenna, who was super knowledgeable not only about the waters and natural environment but also the history behind St. Augustine and its natural surroundings. He had answers to all my questions!

Because Captain Zach is so familiar with the waters in the area, he has an idea where it’s best to spot the dolphins, which we were able to do!

He also has a strong knowledge of ornithology (the study of birds) with a keen eye for identifying them from a distance. We spotted some Eastern Brown Pelicans lounging around during our tour.

When we spotted some egrets, he noted how egrets were becoming extinct from being hunted for their plumage (feathers) for women’s feather hats. Luckily, Audubon societies helped save them from extinction.

One thing I also enjoy about boat rides is being able to see sights from a different perspective. This is the case for Castillo de San Marcos which you can see completely – a view you can only see through a boat tour.

As we passed close to the fort, Zach explained that a lot of boat renters aren’t aware that they should slow down at this part of the river because the water is actually quite shallow. Driving fast can actually injure or kill animals under the water.

Hearing this made me realize how important it is to learn these things because we may not be aware of how our actions are actually affecting the marine ecosystem, even something as simple as the speed of the boat.

Also Read: Best Things To Do in West Volusia for Nature Lovers

Website / Address : 111 Avenida Menendez, St Augustine, FL 32084 Price : $40/adult, $35/Kids 3-12

Lunch at Meehan’s Irish Pub

Lunch for your St. Augustine day trip is at Meehan’s Irish Pub & Seafood House, which used to be the construction storage site during the building of the infamous Castillo de San Marcos.

Did you know? The Meehan clan originates from the county Leitrim in Ireland.

Enjoy waterfront views of the Matanzas while having some traditional Irish fare like some delicious Fish and Chips or Reuben Sandwich. And it’s 150 feet away from the next stop in the itinerary.

Website / Address : 20 Avenida Menendez, St Augustine, FL 32084

Castillo de San Marcos

After lunch, walk nearby to the oldest masonry fort in the US. Completed by the Spanish in 1695, Castillo de San Marcos was built to protect St. Augustine and its treasure fleets from the British and pirates.

Did you know? The fort was constructed with coquina, a locally sourced material that allows the fort to last for so long.

Similar to the Halifax Citadel and Kingston’s Fort Henry , this national monument features a living history where park rangers and reenactors are dressed up in costume and sharing history and stories of daily life in the 17th century.

Be sure to make it for the 1:30/2:30pm weapons demonstration. I got to witness the musket firing demonstration, which was pretty cool as they had five people do it instead of just one.

There is also a cannon firing demonstration.

Website / Address : 1 S Castillo Dr, St Augustine, Florida 32084 Price : $15/adult, free/Kids under 16

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

Next stop is St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, the most popular attraction in the city with millions of visitors annually.

Did you know? The park is one of the oldest zoos in the country having been founded in 1893.

This is the only place in the world where you can see every living species of crocodilian: 24 species from various parts of the world like Africa, Australia, Asia and the Americas.

They even have rare Albino Alligators out of the bayous of Louisiana, and a giant crocodile from Australia called Maximo.

Be sure to catch the 3PM alligator feeding demonstration! This will be the best time to see some crazy action for photos!

I found it very interesting when the alligators swarmed around the feeding area because they already knew it’s that time of day.

If you’re into adventure activities, the park offers two zip line courses that have you crossing seven acres with living alligators and crocodiles underneath you.

One misconception about this place is that you’ll only see crocodiles and alligators because it’s called Alligator Farm.

There are actually a lot of rare and exotic birds, mammals and reptiles to see here.

A great time to visit the St. Augustine Alligator Farm and Zoological Park is from March to June when thousands of coastal birds make the Rookery their home.

Did you know? The Rookery is perfect for the birds because the alligators protect them from tree-climbing predators.

One thing I loved about the native bird rookery is that birds in the rookery are completely wild and free to come and go as they please. The park does not feed them or interact with them in any way.

You’ll get amazing photo opportunities during this time because there are so many birds for you to capture the most beautiful and random moments.

Watch the video to see what it’s like inside St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, including the alligator feeding!

Also Read: 2 Day Trip in Ocala/Marion County, Florida

Website / Address : 999 Anastasia Blvd, St Augustine, FL 32080 Price : $25.99/adult, $14.99/Kids 3-11

St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum

Head to the nearby St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum, which closes at 6PM. At the oldest maritime port in the USA, the lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in Florida built in 1874.

Did you know? The St. Augustine Lighthouse is still an active working lighthouse.

The lighthouse is one of 30 lighthouses standing in Florida, and one of just 6 that’s open to the public.

I highly recommend you to climb the 219 cast iron steps to the top of the 140-feet tall lighthouse.

You’ll get to see some amazing panoramic views of St. Augustine, plus get a good exercise to be able to eat more for dinner!

The museum has different exhibits including the keeper’s house and office across the lighthouse where you get to see tools of the trade and learn about their life at the lighthouse.

Website / Address : 81 Lighthouse Avenue, St Augustine, FL 32080 Price : $12.95/adult, $10.95/Kids under 13

Dinner at Preserved

Head back to the historic district for dinner inside one of the city’s oldest houses, Preserved, for some delicious Southern cuisine.

This was my favourite restaurant in St. Augustine so I highly recommend checking this place out.

Must orders include the House Charcuterie Board and, for something Southern, the Local Caught Fish.

Also Read: Where To Eat in Tampa Bay, Florida

Website / Address : 102 Bridge St, St Augustine, FL 32084

The “Ghostly Experience” Ghost Tour

Head to the Ghost Tours of St. Augustine Inc. by 7:45PM. Their “Ghostly Experience” Ghost Tour is award-winning and has been featured by Travel Channel, Discovery Channel, and more.

It’s quite a popular tour so expect a large group (15+ people). This walking tour lasts for about 75 minutes.

Travelling Foodie Tip : If you’re tired from walking the entire day, they have a ghost tour using a trolley car called Ghosts & Gravestones ‘Trolley of the Doomed’.

Being the oldest city brings a lot of history and with it comes death and ghost stories! I loved how our tour guide was very fun and animated in sharing the stories.

I find this quite important for this type of tours where storytelling is the main driver.

She also shared her own personal ghost stories which added a nice personal touch. As to whether they are true or not, you be the judge!

The ghost tour is a great way to explore St. Augustine’s historic district at night thru interesting ghost stories that incorporate real history.

You’ll be stopping by some popular attractions like the Flagler College where Henry Flagler’s second wife Ida Alice is said to be haunting the dorm.

One thing they asked us to do to capture the paranormal activity was to take burst photos of the same shot with the flash on.

In this way, you can see from the series of photos if a ghostly activity occurred (e.g. if the second photo shows something that the first and third photo didn’t).

This was my first time doing a ghost tour so I didn’t know what to expect. I came out enjoying it as it was really entertaining.

It was also a good exercise to walk all over the district. You don’t need to be a believer in ghosts to appreciate this tour.

The tour ends near St. George Street which you should check out after. This pedestrian-only street is bustling at night with a variety of music emanating from restaurants and taverns.

Enjoying sangria while people-watching in one of the taverns is a great way to end the day trip in St. Augustine!

Website / Address : 4 Granada St, St Augustine, FL 32084 Price : $20/adult, free/Kids under 7

If You’re Planning To Stay The Night in St. Augustine…

During my St. Augustine trip, I stayed at the Marker 8 Hotel & Marina, which is one of the best hotels in St. Augustine with awesome views of the marina and Matanzas Bay and is only a 10-minute walk to historic downtown across the Bridge of Lions.

It’s one of the best places to stay in St. Augustine if you’re doing the St. Johns River-to-Sea Loop since it’s along the route and the east end of the Bridge of Lions.

Check availability and pricing of Marker 8 Hotel & Marina on Booking.com / Agoda

MAP: St. Augustine Day Trip

Here’s the map with all the places to eat, play, stay in St. Augustine covered in this day trip guide.

Hope this travel guide gives you an idea on the best things to do and best places to eat in St. Augustine! Looking forward to the next time I’ll be back in Florida’s Historic Coast.

I would love know what you find are the best attractions and restaurants in St. Augustine.

Huge thanks to St Augustine, Ponte Vedra, & The Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau for sponsoring this post. As usual, reviews and opinions are entirely my own.

You can learn more about Florida’s Historic Coast thru their website , or find them in Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .

Enjoy the content and want to support? Buy me a coffee ☕

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , TikTok , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Sunday 19th of August 2018

Super awesome write up about our wonderful city! St Augustine has such a rich history and so much to see!

Updated: September 2, 2020 by Raymond Cua

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One Day in St. Augustine, Florida (The best things to do!)

Last updated on October 13th, 2023

In this one day in St. Augustine guide we’re sharing a detailed St. Augustine itinerary, plus everything you need to know before you visit including where to stay, the best food, the top things to do in St. Augustine, and more! Ready to plan your St. Augustine adventure? Keep on reading!

Our last stop on our Florida adventure was the beautiful and historic city of St. Augustine. We spent one day wandering around the city, eating delicious treats, soaking up the views, and learning about the history. And wow, what a special place!

St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the contiguous United States, established in 1565. It is full of old world charm and as you walk around the cobblestone streets and admire the old buildings, you feel like you have been transported to the past. 

If you’re looking for a destination that combines history, a small town feel, beaches, and lots of things to do, then we highly recommend checking out St. Augustine!

We’re excited to share some of our favorite spots, places to eat, and things to do if you only have one day in St Augustine. We’d highly recommend spending more than one day in St. Augustine, so we’re also including some extra ideas if you have more time to explore!

Looking for more things to do in Florida? Check out these guides:

• 18 Things to do in Orlando Besides Theme Parks
• Hollywood Studios
• Magic Kingdom
• 7 Things to do in the Everglades
• 2 Days in Miami

When to visit St. Augustine

St. Augustine is a year round destination with mild winters and hot summers. We visited St. Augustine in the winter (February 2020) and the weather was amazing! It was chilly in the morning, but partly sunny and in the 60’s in the afternoon, which may not have been beach weather, but it made it extremely comfortable to be outside for hours exploring. We can only imagine that spring would’ve been just as great, or even better!

If you’re looking to spend time laying out at the beach, then the summer may be the best time to visit for you. However, it is the rainiest time of the year and also the busiest time of the year, so be prepared for larger crowds, higher prices, and possible rainstorms.

The fall months are also a great time to visit, as the highs are still good for visiting the beach, but not too brutal that you’ll sweat like crazy walking around town. We also hear that the holiday lights, starting in late November, are gorgeous! No matter what time of the year you choose, there are always plenty of things to do in St. Augustine!

Getting to St. Augustine

If visiting St. Augustine by plane, then you’ll likely fly into the Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) , which is 55 miles north of St. Augustine (a 1 hour drive). Most major airlines fly into JAX, which will make finding a flight to and from there a bit easier.

You can also fly into the Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) , which is 60 miles south of St. Augustine (a 1 hour drive). While the distance is about the same, not as many airlines fly directly there, so you may have to spend a bit more for a flight to and from DAB.

If you live in or are already visiting Florida, then St. Augustine is only 2 hours from Orlando, 3.5 hours from Tampa, and 5 hours from Miami.

Getting around St. Augustine

One of the things we loved about St. Augustine is how walkable the city is! Although getting from the airport to the city would require renting a car (or a very expensive Uber ride), once you’re in the city, you can walk almost anywhere on this one day in St. Augustine guide.

If you are renting a car and staying away from the old city area of St. Augustine, you can either try to find street parking which is more limited (we parked here all day during a holiday for free) or you can park in the parking garage located across from Ripley’s Believe it or Not. We believe this garage is $15 for the entire day.

You can also take Uber or Lyft around town. Getting to the major spots around town wouldn’t be that pricey, but we always recommend looking at their fare estimator tools ( Uber , Lyft ) to see how much you’d expect to spend.

Another option to get around town is to take a trolley tour , which costs $25.26 for a 1 day pass that allows you to hop off and on unlimited times at the 22 different stops around town. This pass also gives you free admission to the St. Augustine History Museum and the St. Augustine Beach Bus , which takes you to the alligator farm, beach, and St. Augustine lighthouse, all located on nearby Anastasia Island.

Where to Stay in St. Augustine

As we mentioned above, St. Augustine is super walkable, especially in the Old City. We’d highly recommend staying near the Old City so you can be close to all of the main sights! Here are some suggestions of Vacation Rentals and hotels in the area to check out, as well as a few options outside of the Old City.

Old City Vacation Rentals

• Option #1 : A 1 bed, 1 bath apartment in a historic home 2 blocks from attractions
• Option #2 : A 2 bed, 1 bath cottage that’s pet friendly
• Option #3 : A 2 bed, 1 bath house that’s beautifully renovated and has a shared pool

Old City Hotels

• The Collector Inn (Adults only)
• Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront

Other Vacation Rentals

• Option #1 : A 1 bed, 1 bath apartment across the bridge from the Old City
• Option #2 : A 1 bed, 2 bath apartment in downtown
• Option #3 : A 2 bed, 2 bath condo on St. Augustine Beach

Other Hotels

• Embassy Suites St. Augustine Beach  
• Guy Harvey Resort on Saint Augustine Beach

One day in St. Augustine itinerary

If you only have one day in St. Augustine and want to see as much as possible, we’ve gotcha covered! Looking for more ideas? Check out our “if you have extra time” section for additional things to do in St. Augustine!

• Start your day with coffee and meat pies at The Kookaburra ! This Australian coffee shop makes a delicious flat white and a variety of different meat pies, some of which don’t have any meat at all. We also loved their gluten-free, vegan pumpkin donut!   Another good breakfast spot to look into is Maple Street Biscuit Company !  
• Check out the Lightner Museum , which is the former Alcazar Hotel built in 1888. We didn’t actually go into the museum, but we walked around the grounds, which were beautiful! If you do want to go inside the museum, then it costs $15/adult.   A big highlight of the museum is the restaurant on site, Cafe Alcazar , which is located in the former indoor swimming pool of the hotel. You do not need a ticket for the museum to dine here, but if you do have a ticket, you can get 10% off your bill.  
• While you’re by the Lightner Museum, check out Flagler College . This college is gorgeous and fun to quickly explore and snap photos of.  
• Wander around St. George St and the historic Old City of St. Augustine. This area is a tad touristy, but also so charming! While you’re in the area, make sure to check out the city gates , which are made of coquina blocks and at one point were the only way to get into St. Augustine.  
• For lunch , grab a quick bite at St. Augustine Seafood Company or for a cool experience, head to the Prohibition Kitchen .  
• After lunch, treat yourself to a delicious popsicle at The Hyppo ! Y’all! These popsicles are SO good! I had the peanut butter pie, which was layered with chocolate, peanut butter, and coconut flavors and it was amazing!  
• Visit Castillo de San Marcos National Monument , which is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. It’s $15 per adult to enter (or free with a National Parks pass!) and a ton of fun to explore. Try to catch one of the ranger talks to learn some history about St. Augustine and Castillo de San Marcos!  
• After exploring Castillo de San Marcos, spend the rest of the day at the St. Augustine Lighthouse or at St. Augustine Beach !   The St. Augustine Lighthouse is a 165 ft tall lighthouse located on Anastasia Island. It costs $12.95/adult ($10.95 for kids and seniors) to climb the 219 steps to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with 360 degree views of St. Augustine.   If you’re looking for a free activity, then go relax at St. Augustine Beach ! The beach is located on Anastasia Island and has miles of beach to explore.  
• End the day with dinner at The Ice Plant or The Floridian , both of which have great food and cocktails!

If you have extra time…

Looking for more things to do in St. Augustine? If you have more than one day in St. Augustine, or just want some other ideas, then here are our suggestions!

• Osprey Tacos
• The Blue Hen Cafe
• Playa Chac Mool
• Gaufres and Goods
• Swillerbees
• Crucial Coffee Cafe
• City Perks Coffee
• Mayday Ice Cream
• Cousteau’s Waffle And Milkshake Bar
• The Donut Experiment
• 904 Churros
• Visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not . This location is the oldest Ripley’s Odditoreum!
• See the gators at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm . They have a zipline too! 
• Want to see some pirate artifacts? Head to the St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum !
• Learn about the process to make vodka, gin, rum, and whiskey on a St. Augustine Distillery tour  
• If you’re a golf fan, then go visit the World Golf Hall of Fame
• Want to be spooked? Go on a Secrets of St Augustine Ghost Tour !
• While a bit touristy, the Fountain of Youth is a popular tourist attraction in St. Augustine. Learn about the colonization of St. Augustine, drink from the Fountain of Youth, see peacocks, walk the riverwalk, and more!

If you’re looking for more, Check out some of these activities and tours

Ready to explore st. augustine.

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5 thoughts on “ one day in st. augustine, florida (the best things to do) ”.

Great suggestions. I always want to eat at all the places suggested. ?

Everything was delicious–especially the popsicles!

I live in Saint Augustine and these are all excellent suggestions. Gaufres and Goodes is amazing… try the pierogi!! I would also suggest Georgie’s Diner and a tour with tasting at San Sebastián Winery. Nights of Lights runs from Thanksgiving to sometime in January. The entire downtown is lit with thousands of lights.

Thank you for reading Laura and for the additional suggestions as well!

Is everything to see and do walking from one to another . If you had to tell us one restaurant that the best which one would it be ? Is everything alright for a scooter ?

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St. Augustine   Travel Guide

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19 Best Things To Do in St. Augustine

With a nickname like the Ancient City, you better believe this seaside destination is filled with historic sights.

Fifty-five years before the Pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock, Spanish admiral Pedro Menéndez de Avilés founded St. Augustine. It'

• All Things To Do

St. George Street St. George Street free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Through a small alleyway of shops called St. George's Row, Rendezvous Imported Beers is a hidden gem. Located at 106 St. George St., you will have to weave your way past several storefronts before you find the entrance. The selection of more than a hundred different craft beers will make it worth your while. – Casey Feindt

Antiquities, historic attractions and delectable cuisine are just a few of the things you'll find on St. George Street, the city's central pedestrian thoroughfare. At the northern end of the street, visitors can explore boutiques like Sunburst Crystal and Tillie's Bath Cottage, as well as historic sites like the Huguenot Cemetery and the Oldest Wooden School House. The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum are within walking distance. You'll also find additional shops and cafes, plus art galleries and the Colonial Quarter .

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Built between 1672 and 1695 by the Spanish, The Castillo de San Marcos served as a fort for more than 205 years.  It's the oldest masonry fortification in the U.S.

What is now a picturesque attraction in downtown St. Augustine once protected the newly established territory of Spanish Florida from the British and pirates. Additionally, it is one of only two forts in the world constructed from coquina, a semirare limestone composed of shell fragments.

Colonial Quarter Colonial Quarter

Located on St. George Street in downtown St. Augustine's historic district, the Colonial Quarter offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of 16th-, 17th- and 18th-century residents. The living museum is divided into four areas: the 16th Century Spanish First City, the 17th Century Spanish Fortified Town, the 18th Century Spanish Garrison Town and the 18th Century British Colony. In each section, depending on the day, travelers can witness activities like the construction of a ship and musket drills.

Previous visitors praised the property for being a great experience for families. While some said the prices were a bit steep, they said overall the demonstrations were informative and that the employees were entertaining.

Popular Tours

St. Augustine Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

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Sunset Cruise of St. Augustine

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Anastasia State Park Anastasia State Park

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you are planning to see a show at the St. Augustine Amphitheater, this park a great place to camp for the night. There's even a walking trail that connects the two through the woods near the campground area by Sand Dollar Loop. – Casey Feindt

Part of the Florida State Park system, Anastasia State Park features 1,600 acres of white sand beaches, marshes and sand dunes. It's an ideal spot to disconnect from the outside world and immerse yourself in nature. Visitors can spend as little or as much time as they'd like bird-watching, kayaking and hiking through nature trails. Travelers of all ages can also enjoy riding bicycles on the beach, boating, fishing and swimming; however, know that lifeguards are only present between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Anastasia Watersports is on hand for visitors who'd like to rent water sports equipment like kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, as well as bicycles.

St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum features shipwreck artifacts, a wooden boat building exhibit and a 165-foot-tall lighthouse. The lighthouse, which was built between 1871 and 1874, is the oldest surviving brick structure in St. Augustine and has 219 steps. Some believe the site is haunted by several former lighthouse keepers and two young girls who died on-site in the late 1800s. This could be part of the reason why the lighthouse is visited by many of the city's ghost tours and has even been featured on the TV show "Ghost Hunters."

Recent travelers say one of the best parts of visiting the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is climbing to the top to admire the scenery. You may want to bring a camera since you'll find breathtaking views of St. Augustine. However, there is a height requirement to climb (44 inches minimum), which some visitors with small children found frustrating.

St. Augustine Beach St. Augustine Beach free

Situated about 5 miles southeast of St. Augustine's historic district, St. Augustine Beach features roughly 4 miles of white-sand coastline. The beach is popular with families, thanks to its kid-friendly splash pad. If fishing or a relaxing stroll is what you're after, visit the St. Johns County Ocean and Fishing Pier, which sits at the north end of the beach.

Past visitors praised St. Augustine Beach's scenery and uncrowded atmosphere. Most days, the ocean offers small waves that are suitable for children, though some days will bring larger waves that are ideal for surfing and bodyboarding.

Lightner Museum Lightner Museum

The eclectic Lightner Museum is located just south of Flagler College near St. Augustine's historic city center. Housed within the former Alcazar Hotel, which was built by Henry Flagler in 1888, the museum features an impressive collection of 19th-century art. Notable exhibits include unconventional items like shrunken heads, salt and pepper shakers, human hair and cigar labels. You'll also find traditional art pieces and collections with glass and antique furniture. The exhibits rotate, so even if you've been before, it may be worth visiting again.

Recent travelers said the museum's Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture and collections are a must-see. With four floors of exhibits, you can easily spend several hours exploring the property. And if you're hungry, grab a bite in the museum's cafe. Although it's only open for lunch, visitors say the food is delicious.

Vilano Beach Vilano Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Did you know Vilano Beach has a castle? Your best vantage point of Castle Otttis will be from the window of a vehicle traveling on A1A as there is no public parking at or near the castle. The best address for a GPS is 4286 A1A Scenic and Historic Coastal Byway – Casey Feindt

Just over the Francis and Mary Usina Bridge, the small town of Vilano Beach beckons. Visitors can enjoy strolling along the Vilano Beach Fishing Pier, dining at a handful of great restaurants and catching some rays at the usually uncrowded beaches (which you can drive on in some areas).

Dolphin, Manatee and Sea Turtle Adventure Tour of St. Augustine

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Dolphin and Wildlife Adventure of St. Augustine

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from $ 39.00

Airboat Adventure in Saint Augustine with a Guide

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St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

Animal lovers of all ages will enjoy a visit to the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. The park was founded in 1893, but has been in its current location since 1920. It was accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in 1989. It's home to alligators, snakes, lemurs, sloths and many types of birds. It's also considered the only facility on Earth to house all 24 living crocodile species. While here, visitors can explore the exhibits on their own and enjoy interactive wildlife shows and animal feedings, which are offered throughout the day. For an extra thrilling experience, be sure to pay a visit to Crocodile Crossing, a 7-acre, 35-foot zip line course that soars over alligators and crocodiles (additional fees apply).

Recent visitors said this attraction was better than they anticipated, noting it was an especially fun stop for young children. Kids will love running around the KidZone where there's a playground, small climbing wall and interactive play structures.

Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: After your tour, take a short drive over to Magnolia Avenue. With dangling moss and towering oaks that lean over the roadway, it's often been called one of the most photographed streets in America. – Casey Feindt

Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is the site of St. Augustine's original settlement. Here, you'll learn about the Spanish settlers who arrived in the 1500s, as well as the Timucua, a group of Native Americans who resided in current-day southern Georgia and northern Florida. The Fountain of Youth, a mythical spring believed to have anti-aging properties, can be found in the park, as well as a planetarium, a blacksmith shop and a replica Timucua village. On the park's grounds, visitors will find white and blue peacocks (nearly 30 reside within the park).

Flagler College Flagler College

A private institution founded in 1968, Flagler College boasts lush gardens, sparkling fountains and stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture that St. Augustine travelers can explore. Built by Henry Flagler in 1888, the college was originally the Hotel Ponce de Leon and is a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can sign up for a guided tour through the school. Additionally, some trolley and historical sightseeing tours include stops at Flagler College.

Recent visitors were fascinated by the incredibly unique buildings and noted that their tour guides were knowledgeable and friendly. They were also impressed by the intricate, well-maintained Tiffany windows in the dining area.

Ximenez-Fatio House Museum Ximenez-Fatio House Museum

The Ximenez-Fatio House Museum is a historic former boarding home that brings history to life through impressive recreations and fascinating artifacts.

In 1798, Don Andres Ximenez initially built the stunning two-story home out of coquina rock for his wife, Juana Pellicer. It 1830, when Margaret Cook purchased the building from the Pellicer family, it became a boarding house that was run by women for decades.

St. Augustine Distillery St. Augustine Distillery free

Bourbon lovers will feel right at home on a trip to St. Augustine, thanks to the St. Augustine Distillery. Founded in 2013, the family-owned and -operated spirit crafter makes bourbon on-site daily. The distillery also produces gin, vodka and rum. The attraction is housed in St. Augustine's original power and ice complex, which was built in 1907. Travelers can enjoy free tastings and self-guided tours seven days a week.

Recent visitors reported having a great time at the distillery, and they were especially impressed by the knowledgeable staff. Others liked that they were able to explore the premises at their own pace, which made for a more adaptable experience. For an extra special trip, there is the Fill Your Own Bottle Experience, where you can fill and personalize a bottle with a bourbon of your choosing (fees apply).

: Step back in time with pastime private historical tours

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Haunted Trolley Tour of St Augustine

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Guided Historical Tour of St. Augustine Per Person

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Fort Mose Historic State Park Fort Mose Historic State Park free

Most St. Augustine visitors are familiar with the town's past as a Spanish colony from 1565 to 1760s, but few are aware of its role in America's Black history. Fort Mose was the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in the U.S., established in 1738.

During this time, Florida was governed by the Spanish, who had a long history of owning enslaved people. But slavery in Spain and its colonies looked different than it did in Britain's colonies. To Spain, slavery was primarily a political tool, so its views on slavery were flexible. As a result, people enslaved by the Spanish generally had some legal rights, including the ability to eventually purchase their freedom.

Villa Zorayda Museum Villa Zorayda Museum

Step into a faraway land at the Villa Zorayda Museum, which features Moorish Revival architecture largely inspired by Islamic culture. Eccentric, colorful and all-around striking, the Villa Zorayda Museum fuses Florida history with unconventional style.

The museum was built in 1883 by Franklin Smith, a Boston businessman, as a vacation home, and its unique design helped inspire much of the architecture in the surrounding City of St. Augustine. Art lovers will appreciate the museum's private collection of works and artifacts that have been curated for decades by the property various owners, including a rug crafted from Egyptian cat hair that's more than 2,000 years old.

St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum

St. Augustine has a vibrant history rooted in piracy, and, as its name suggests, the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum showcases stories from some of those very swashbucklers. The museum displays a variety of pirate artifacts, including the world's oldest "Wanted" poster, the world's only pirate treasure chest, and one of two surviving 17th-century Jolly Roger flags (that familiar black flag featuring a skull and crossbones). At the center of the museum, travelers can climb aboard a replica pirate ship with a helm and cannons.

Recent museumgoers say the attraction is fun and interactive. Others thought the small space was often too crowded and felt it wasn't worth the pricey admission.

Old Jail Old Jail

St. Augustine's Old Jail was built in 1891 to accommodate the city's criminals. Financed by railroad giant Henry Flagler, the jail was designed to blend in with the rest of the Ancient City's buildings and features Romanesque Revival-style architecture. In 1954, a year after the jail closed, the property reopened as a historic attraction. The facility was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.

You'll be able to explore the different types of cells that inmates were housed in, including the maximum-security and solitary confinement areas. Interestingly, the sheriffs and their families lived at the facility when it was in operation; those quarters are also available to view as part of the tour.

Gonzalez-Alvarez House Gonzalez-Alvarez House

Despite a turbulent past plagued by enemy invasions, pirates and sometimes catastrophic weather, the González-Alvarez House is the oldest surviving Spanish colonial dwelling in the Ancient City.

Construction began on the González-Alvarez House in 1723, and by 1892, it was known by many as "the Oldest House in America," a title that is now heavily contested among historians. Semantics aside, experts agree that the home is one of the most historic sites in all of St. Augustine and offers a glimpse into what life was like in the colonial era.

Private Historical Tour of Saint Augustine Florida

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St. Augustine Ghost Tour: A Ghostly Encounter

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Corks & Forks Tour (Strolling)

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St. Augustine Wild Reserve St. Augustine Wild Reserve

For an up-close look at exotic animals, check out the St. Augustine Wild Reserve. This nonprofit sanctuary was established in 1995 as a care center for rescued exotic animals. Mountain lions, bears, ligers (a cross between a male lion and female tiger) and leopards are just some of the animals housed here. 

Previous visitors praised the St. Augustine Wild Reserve for its treatment of the animals and informative volunteers. Though you may want to take pictures of the animals, leave the camera at your hotel: Photography (including cellphone photography) is not allowed at the property.

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1 Day in St. Augustine, Florida: A Quick Trip to America’s Oldest City

Last Updated: June 29, 2022 //  by  Ashley Smith 6 Comments

As someone who used to live in Florida and who still visits multiple times a year, I’ve had this 1 day in St. Augustine on the back burner for years. I typically spend my time on the southern, more Gulf Coast-ier side of things and had never made it that far north.

I’d always been drawn to the history (forts!), the mystery (ghosts!), and the fact that it’s America’s oldest continuously settled city (men in wigs!). This year I finally decided to make a special trip to the top of Florida to check out the Ancient City. Read on to see how you can organize your own jam-packed 1 day in St. Augustine.

1 Day in St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine’s location makes it a perfect day trip destination . It’s less than a 2-hour drive from Orlando and only 45 minutes from Jacksonville, which it’s technically part of. Needless to say, there are a lot of people spending just 1 day in St. Augustine.

That being said, if St. Augustine is the first destination on your Florida itinerary, you’ll want to fly into Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) for the most convenience. For my 1 day in St. Augustine I:

• flew into Jacksonville late at night,
• rented a car,
• stayed at a hotel near the Jacksonville airport,
• spent the whole next day exploring St. Augustine,
• and then drove to Orlando to stay the night at my friend’s house.

Where to stay in St. Augustine

I’m lucky in that I have best friends all over Florida who routinely open their hearts and guest bedrooms up to me. However, St. Augustine has plenty of great places to stay before and after a jam-packed day in America’s oldest city. (So you don’t have to spend as much time on the road both early as hell and late at night like I did.)

For St. Augustine, I recommend staying as close to the downtown area as possible for the best (and fastest and easiest) access to everything. Here are 3 recommendations for where to stay in St. Augustine on your next visit:

Named after the year of St. Augustine’s founding, Villa 1565 is located in a great spot just around the corner from some of St. Augustine’s top attractions. (And walkable to almost all the others.)

It offers free WiFi, an outdoor pool, plenty of free on-site parking, and a free breakfast buffet. But really, you can’t beat the fact that its location has scored a 9.5 out of 10 with past reviewers.

Book your stay here: Villa 1565

voco St. Augustine

The voco St. Augustine historic area hotel is located on Anastasia Island, just a few minutes from the St. Augustine Lighthouse. They, too, offer free buffet breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking.

This hotel is across the bridge from downtown St. Augustine but is still just a short walk from all the most popular things to do during your 1 day in St. Augustine.

Book your stay here: voco St. Augustine

Casa Monica Resort & Spa

Or, if you feel like pampering yourself in St. Augustine, stay at Casa Monica . This is one of St. Augustine’s most iconic hotels and it’s right in the center of everything. The entire place is a looker and that outdoor pool is calling my name! 

It’s got all the amenities, great reviews, and would be the perfect way to splurge during your 1 day in St. Augustine.

Book your stay here: Casa Monica

Is 1 day in St. Augustine worth it?

So is 1 day in St. Augustine even worth it? Absolutely. Seeing everything you can in a city in just one day can be a challenge, but with enough planning (and the right destination) it’s not hard at all.

Plus, St. Augustine is a compact and incredibly walkable city. You can see a ton of what St. Augustine has to offer in even just a short amount of time. You’ll spend almost zero time behind the wheel, waiting in traffic, getting lost, or worrying about finding your way around. I’d say St. Augustine, Florida is one of the most easily navigable cities I’ve visited .

Obviously you could always spend more time here, but you definitely won’t feel cheated spending just 1 day in St. Augustine.

Why visit St. Augustine, Florida?

For me, I always wanted to visit St. Augustine, Florida to learn about its history as the “oldest city in the United States.” The city was founded in 1565 and has gone through so many transformations.

And being someone who spends a lot of time in Florida, I was interested to visit a place that is so unlike the Gulf Coast where I usually spend my time.

Otherwise, 1 day in St. Augustine, Florida is perfect for:

• History lovers
• Architecture nerds
• Foodies and craft beer enthusiasts
• Those who want to experience Old Florida
• Day trippers

How to get around St. Augustine

St. Augustine is compact and one of the most walkable cities I’ve ever visited. However, during my 1 day in St. Augustine I booked a spot on the Old Town Trolley tour . 

These trolley tours are one of the most popular things to do in St. Augustine (and many other cities like Key West, Nashville , and Boston ). I wanted to save time and money and thought this was my best option to see everything I needed to see. Was I right? Meh, not entirely. 

Check out my entire St. Augustine Old Town Trolley tour review here. It includes pros and cons, helpful tips, things you should know before you book, and compares it to its competitor. 

1 day in St. Augustine itinerary

During my 1 day in St. Augustine I did a mix of taking the trolley around town, driving when I had to, but mostly walking. I based what I did and when on a site’s opening and closing times as well as tour times and the rumbling of my stomach. Adjust yours accordingly!

Old Town Trolley tour

I started off my 1 day in St. Augustine at the Old Jail where I parked my car (for free) and jumped on the next available Old Town Trolley tour . I’d pre-purchased my ticket so I was ready to go when I got there. (And by that I mean, on my phone from my car in the parking lot.)

The Old Jail operated from 1891-1953 and was constructed by the same company that built Alcatraz. They offer tours to highlight the jail’s history and tell some of its more interesting stories. I checked it out from the outside and didn’t go in, but if that sounds like something you’d like to see, check out this St. Augustine Old Jail tour .

Pro Tip ─ Pre-purchasing your Old Town Trolley tour ticket(s) online is cheaper than if you purchase them in person. Save some cash – get your tickets here .

Old City Gates

I hopped off the trolley at stop #5 for my first stop of the day: the Old City Gates and the perfect place to start your 1 day in St. Augustine. The Old City Gates were once the official entrance into the city of St. Augustine and were constructed in 1808. They stand right at the end of St. George’s Street, an important site of its own.

Huguenot Cemetery

Heading north through the Gate and across the tiny street you’ll find the Huguenot Cemetery –a Protestant burial ground used between 1821-1884. Until this time, the only cemetery in town was reserved for Catholics. The boys in charge, realizing they had a desperate situation on their hands—all those Protestants and all—designated this piece of land for Protestant burials.

And just in time too as a large number of the city’s inhabitants was, soon after, wiped out by a yellow fever epidemic.

Spanish Trail marker

And just a little past that sits the Old Spanish Trail marker. This big round ball/tiny Death Star marks mile zero of the Old Spanish Trail. The end of the trail is in San Diego, California.

The Old Spanish Trail is a 20th-century auto route that mimics the same trade route used by Spanish conquistadores 400 years ago. Allegedly. 

Regardless, you can get from this marker to the one in San Diego along this route that crosses 8 states and 67 counties along the southern border of the United States. 

You might like ─ If you’re looking to spend more time in Florida, consider checking out the beautiful Gulf Coast. I’ve got itineraries and guides for a weekend in Clearwater , 3 days in Sarasota , and 2 days in Fort Myers to get you started!

Castillo de San Marcos

From there, walk 7 minutes along the coast to Castillo de San Marcos , arguably the #1 attraction in all of St. Augustine.

Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest and largest masonry fort in the United States , constructed between 1672 – 1695. It was built as a defensive fort and is, today, the only surviving 17 th -century military construction in the country.

Castillo de San Marcos is operated by the National Park Service and you can visit and tour it every day of the year, unless your 1 day in St. Augustine happens to be Thanksgiving or Christmas. They offer insightful ranger programs and the park rangers on site are eager to tell you all of the Castillo’s history. (There will be quizzes.)

You can visit all the rooms of the fort like the storage rooms, chapels, living quarters, the jail, and walk along the top to see the cannons and the views.

St. George Street

Back across the main road you’ll find St. George Street. St. George Street is a really old pedestrian-only street lined with restaurants, shops, and other historical landmarks. Walk down St. George Street and be sure to check out:

• The country’s oldest wooden school house , built over 200 years ago
• The Colonial Quarter to immerse yourself in the city’s history
• Columbia Restaurant, which I’ll get to in a bit

Flagler College

Besides Castillo de San Marcos, Flagler College is the other iconic St. Augustine attraction. Though it’s a college today, it opened as the groundbreaking Ponce de Leon Hotel in 1888. By 1967 the hotel was suffering for business and closed down temporarily—until it reopened a year later as Flagler College.

Besides being an absolutely gorgeous piece of property, Flagler College is full of fun facts :

• It was the first hotel of its kind to be constructed entirely of poured concrete.
• It was one of the first buildings in the U.S. to be wired for electricity. (40 years before the White House actually)
• The hotel had running water when it opened—a true innovation that other hotels didn’t have yet.
• Thomas Edison installed the electricity here himself.
• It possesses the world’s largest private collection of Tiffany stained glass (worth an estimated $130 million). If this interests you, you can visit the Morse Museum in Orlando to see the rest of the world’s largest collection of Tiffany art.
• And the ceiling of its Flagler Room is painted in the original Tiffany blue.

You see, oil tycoon Henry Flagler, scientist extraordinaire Thomas Edison, and fancy man Charles Lewis Tiffany = all buddies. That equals one beautiful, cutting-edge building.

Flagler College tour

The place is definitely worth checking out, but its bread and butter lie in its guided tours which are offered a couple times a day. The tours are led by current Flagler College students and they’ll be the most entertaining thing you do during your 1 day in St. Augustine!

You’ll learn so much about the weird and awesome history of this building—like how the Coast Guard took up residence in this building for the duration of World War II—and see some really cool stuff. On a Flagler College tour you’ll get to:

• See the incredible main lobby and learn all about its art and murals
• Visit the dining room where you’ll see the famous stained glass and see how unbelievably different these kids have it from your college dining days
• And the cool leather staircase you’ll take to get there
• Tour the courtyard and get insight into so many of its quirks and hidden little secrets
• Visit the former Women’s Grand Parlor to learn more about Henry Flagler’s interesting life and see a variety of historical artifacts

Tour details

Flagler College tours are offered 7 days a week at 10 AM and 2 PM. Admission is $14 for adults and free for children under 10 and residents of St. Johns County.

Tickets can only be purchased in the gift shop inside the main entrance. (Buy them early in the day since tours often sell out.)

Tours to take in Tampa ─ If you enjoy taking awesome tours and you’re headed south, check out my post on 7 terrific tours to take in Tampa . It’s got such a variety: big cats, beers, Buccaneers, and beyond!

Memorial Presbyterian Church

Like with the Huguenot Cemetery, there weren’t any places for non-Catholics to worship either. So, they built their own and it’s beautiful ! The Memorial Presbyterian Church was founded in 1824 and built by none other than Henry Flagler. St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice inspired its unique look.

I love visiting churches when I travel and this has to be the most unique in St. Augustine. It sits just behind (and diagonal from) Flagler College and you’re welcome to go in and check it out.

Back on the trolley

From outside the Presbyterian Church I hopped back on the Old Town Trolley to catch a breeze and see some more of St. Augustine from the comfort of my own butt. 

I blew by the St. Augustine distillery and the highly recommended Ice Plant bar. I learned about St. Augustine’s Civil Rights history and about MLK’s visits to the city. And I hopped off at the Lightner Museum for a look around.

Lunch at Gaufre and Goods

After checking out the grounds of the Lightner Museum, I walked the short walk to lunch at Gaufres and Goods. Gaufres and Goods is a locally-owned Polish and Greek restaurant located in a vintage former bakery. 

The place was popular, the service was great, and the best-selling pierogies were fantastic !

Plaza de la Constitución

From there, backtrack to Plaza de la Constitución, St. Augustine’s main square. Plaza de la Constitución is the center of St. Augustine’s downtown area and is surrounded by restaurants and shops, memorials, monuments, trolley stops, and the coast on one side. 

There are historical markers all over the area to catch up on some of the city’s history. This plaza hosts festivals and regular art walks, and is all lit up at night. 

Bridge of Lions

Across the street from Plaza de la Constitución is the Bridge of Lions. This bridge, now on the National Register of Historic Places, was built in the mid-1920s.

The Bridge of Lions is a drawbridge connecting Anastasia Island to the mainland and is capped off by two lion statues–exact replicas of the Medici lions outside Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, Italy. (One of my favorite palazzos!)

Back over in Plaza Constitución I caught the Old Town Trolley again to head back towards my car at the Old Jail. On the way there I saw Aviles Street, the Oldest House, and the Fountain of Youth.

Aviles Street

Back across the street, you’ll find Aviles Street shooting off south from Plaza Constitución. Aviles Street is the oldest street in the oldest city. Ergo, the oldest street in the United States.

This cobblestone street is–you guessed it–lined with restaurants and shops and historical markers, as well as several bed and breakfasts. 

The Oldest House

The Oldest House (officially known as the González-Alvarez House) was built back in 1723 and is the oldest house in St. Augustine. This is a pretty big deal for Florida but… where I live in Massachusetts I’m literally surrounded on all sides by houses a hundred years older than that. 

Regardless, it’s a National Historic Landmark and is open for public tours. 

Fountain of Youth

I rode the trolley back towards the start until we got to the Fountain of Youth where I hopped off again. 

The Fountain of Youth (yes, that Fountain of Youth) is a natural spring that is believed to restore the youth of anyone who drinks from it. Though the legend of the Fountain of Youth goes back ages and ages, it’s most famously connected to Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon. (It’s also believed to be located on one of The Bahamas’s 700 islands , so whatev.)

Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

The location of the Fountain of Youth in St. Augustine is the spot where Ponce de Leon landed in the area. Allegedly. Actually, there’s a lot of alleged history involved here, as you can imagine. 

Today, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is a whole complex of old settlements, missions, Native American villages, and other historical spots. And… the Fountain of Youth, which is little more than gross-smelling water trickling from what looks like a street gutter. 

Personally, I decided not to go in to drink the famously stinky water, but my BFF just did. Her verdict: actual fountain? Lame. Rest of the site? Cool. 

Heading to Disney? ─ If you’re planning to head south to Disney World after your day in St. Augustine, check out my post on visiting all 4 Disney World parks in 1 day . Even if you plan to split up your time at the Happiest Place on Earth, it still has plenty of helpful tips for maximizing your time!

Magnolia Avenue

From there I exited the Fountain of Youth parking lot onto Magnolia Avenue, listed as one of the 10 most beautiful streets in America by National Geographic. 

Magnolia Avenue is a short road dividing the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park and a residential neighborhood. It’s lined top to bottom with–nope, not Magnolias–live oak trees drenched in Spanish moss. And it’s beautiful .

From there, it was just a few minutes’ walk back to my car at the Old Jail. By now, the Old Town Trolley had made its last pickup and dropoff so I’d have to drive myself over the Bridge of Lions to Anastasia Island. 

St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

The St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum was probably my favorite stop during my 1 day in St. Augustine. Mostly because I love to climb tall towers, but also because there’s just so much to see and do here.

The St. Augustine Lighthouse dates back to 1874 and was even used by the U.S. Coast Guard during WWII to watch for German U-boats.

At the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum you can:

• Climb to the top of the lighthouse for great views and a cool breeze (219 steps)
• Explore the museum that covers the history of the lighthouse,
• Walk the property’s many nature trails
• Grab a snack at the Tin Pickle, their WWII-themed eatery
• Visit the lighthouse keeper’s house
• Watch small wooden water crafts get built by volunteers using only historic tools and plans
• And a ton of stuff for kids I know nothing about.

WWII in St. Augustine ─ There’s actually a lot of cool World War II stuff to check out at the St. Augustine Lighthouse. For more on that, check out my post on WWII sites in St. Augustine .

Ancient City Brewing

From the lighthouse, drive back across the Bridge of Lions and grab a parking spot in the area around Plaza de la Constitución. Right there on the north side of the plaza is the downtown taproom for Ancient City Brewing .

Visiting local breweries when I travel is another habit of mine and this was one of the best! All the beers have St. Augustine-y, Florida-y, historical names and I loved them all. Their Galleon’s Golden Ale is so incredibly drinkable but their best, by far, is the Castillo Coconut Porter . 

I tried five beers as a flight, enjoyed talking to the beertender, and met some really friendly locals excited to talk about their historic hometown. 

Dinner at Columbia

For dinner, head back to St. George Street to end your 1 day in St Augustine at Columbia Restaurant . 

Columbia is an amazing Spanish restaurant known for their Cuban sandwiches and their signature 1905 salad. (My name is Ashley Smith and I approve this meal.)

Columbia Restaurant is a favorite of mine and I’m known to visit the Tampa and Sarasota locations every now and then. Their Ybor City location is the original and is also the oldest and largest Spanish restaurant in the country. It’s a must-visit and I talk more about it in my post on how to spend a day in Ybor City .

At the St. Augustine location, the place is beautiful and they’re open 365 days a year. They make sangria and salads at your table. And they brag about their century-old family recipes for paella, their red snapper, and their Cuban roasted pork.

Popular Tours in St. Augustine

If the hop on/hop off trolley isn’t your thing, there are still plenty of ways to see and learn about America’s oldest city. Check out these popular St. Augustine tours:

Secrets of St Augustine Ghost Tours

Ghost tours are one of the most popular activities to end your 1 day in St. Augustine. I mean, it’s no surprise given the age of this city and all the cRaZy things that must have happened here over the centuries. 

This 75-minute walking tour comes highly reviewed and will take you all around downtown and tell you some really interesting and probably totally terrifying stories you won’t soon forget. (If you’re as highly traumatized by ghosts as I am.)

St. Augustine Boat and Walking Tour

If it looks like I'm just trying to see this city without using my legs at all, you're almost right. Catching a boat ride whenever possible is something else I do when I travel. It's such a fun and different way to see a city! 

This 2.5-hour tour starts with a relaxing boat ride through Matanzas Bay then caps off with a walking tour where you'll see many of the sites mentioned in this post.

Sunset Cruise of St. Augustine

One thing Florida does better than everywhere else in the US is sunsets! To end your 1 day in St. Augustine, hop aboard a scenic cruise boat to take in the sunset and views of Castillo San Marcos, the Bridge of Lions, the Lighthouse, and more.

There's a bar on board for all your beer and wine needs and the tour includes a local guide and free parking. This is the perfect way to spend an hour and a half after a busy day of walking and exploring.

Spirits with the Spirits

For something a little bit different but a lot of fun, check out this haunted bar crawl. On this 2-hour tour you'll visit four venues (drinks included!) and hear St. Augustine's most haunting stories.

You'll get to enjoy booze + boos in some of St. Augustine's most interesting neighborhoods.

More info for your 1 day in St. Augustine

› Heading to St. Augustine? Find great places to stay here . › Don’t forget a Florida guidebook for the rest of your Florida sightseeing! › What else have I covered in the area? Check out  these posts . › Like this post? Have questions? Reach out on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

What will you do with your 1 day in St. Augustine? Let me know below!

But first, pin me ⇣⇣⇣

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About Ashley Smith

Ashley is a historian and Oktoberfest expert & tour guide. She has traveled to 33 countries and specializes in quick trips throughout Europe and the Americas that prioritize hiking adventures, museums of all kinds, cultural experiences, and jam-packed itineraries. She hails from Memphis, TN and currently lives in Boston with her husband and two feline sidekicks.

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22 Best Things To Do In St. Augustine, Florida

Known as the Ancient City, St. Augustine features centuries-old architecture, iconic cultural sites, and unspoiled beaches.

A leader in the travel and tourism industry, Kara Franker has served in executive leadership roles for several destination organizations. A seasoned journalist, Kara has been featured as a travel expert for Southern Living, Coastal Living, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Travel Channel, Travelocity, Orbitz, HGTV, Huffington Post and more. Additionally, she serves as Editor-in-Chief of several luxury lifestyle print magazines in the Miami, Palm Beach and Aspen markets for Modern Luxury.

• Florida's Historic Coast
• Historical Icons
• Best Beaches

Where to Eat

Where to stay, when to visit.

The Fountain of Youth is calling your name—just like it called to the Spanish colonizers more than 500 years ago. Maybe it's those gorgeous beaches, or maybe it is something in the water. Either way, there is lots to explore in this charming city on Florida's Atlantic coast. Check out this travel guide for St. Augustine before your next Florida trip.

What to Know About Florida's Historic Coast

Most people don't realize St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the United States. (It was preceded by Puerto Rican colonies; Pensacola, which was destroyed in 1559; and Fort Caroline in Jacksonville, Florida, destroyed in 1565.) Ponce de León claimed "La Florida" for Spain in 1513, decades before the Jamestown colony of Virginia, and long before the Pilgrims arrived at Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts. Over the centuries, many cultures have called the city on Florida's Historic Coast home, including Native American, Spanish, British, French, and African.

Where to Find Historical Icons

Explore a historic fort.

One of the city's most architecturally significant structures, and also the oldest masonry fort in the country, the waterfront Castillo de San Marcos is truly a sight to behold. Built in the 17th century, the national monument is made of native coquina stones, which absorbed or deflected enemy projectiles, giving the Spanish an advantage. Climb to the top of the fort to see the incredible views of the city and waterfront.

nps.gov/casa , 11 South Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Visit a Free-Slave Settlement

Just two miles north of Castillo de San Marcos, Fort Mose Historic State Park is the location of the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in North America. Learn about this important 40-acre historical site at the interactive museum, and stick around to spot bald eagles and blue herons.

floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/fort-mose-historic-state-park , 15 Fort Mose Trail, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Sip From the Fountain of Youth

Take a sip from the legendary fountain at Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park , which tells about the birth of St. Augustine, as well as the Timucuan people who preceded the Spanish by thousands of years. Walk through the lushly landscaped park (dogs are also allowed) to sample water from the bubbling fountains. Stroll the 15 acres of waterfront while you're there.

fountainofyouthflorida.com , 11 Magnolia Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Step Back in Time

History comes alive in the Colonial Quarter in St. Augustine's historic district along St. George Street. Journey through the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries to learn about blacksmithing, watch a live musket demo, and climb the 35-foot watchtower for panoramic views of St. Augustine's bayfront and the historic Castillo de San Marcos.

colonialquarter.com , 14 South Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Discover Flagler College's Historic Past

Fast forward to the early 20th century, when oil tycoon Henry Flagler developed St. Augustine into one of the country's first winter resort destinations. Paying homage to the city's past, the millionaire developer built the stunning Hotel Ponce de Leon (now Flagler College), with its opulent 80-foot domed ceiling and Spanish Renaissance architecture. In 1967, the hotel closed its doors, and the building opened as Flagler College in 1968. While the property is an active college campus, visitors can take a historic tour to learn about the architecture, stand in the domed grand lobby, and view 79 Tiffany windows in the dining room.

flagler.edu/about/our-history/hotel-college , 74 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Take a Guided Tour

Explore St. Augustine by a horse-drawn carriage ride , historic walking tour , or hop-on-and-off trolley ride . Many tour operators can craft an experience to fit any taste, whether culinary, historic, or even paranormal (yes, we're talking ghosts ). Legend has it that St. Augustine is one of the most haunted cities in America. Whether you're a believer or a skeptic, prepare to be entertained (and maybe a little frightened) on Ripley's Haunted Castle Tour , Old Town Trolley's Ghost & Gravestones Tour , or Ghost Tours of St. Augustine .

ripleys.com/staugustine/haunts-and-history , 19 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084

trolleytours.com/st-augustine , 167 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084

ghosttoursofstaugustine.net , 4 Granada St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Climb the Lighthouse

St. Augustine Lighthouse is rumored to be haunted too, but during the day it's perfectly ghost-free (they only come out at night, right?) and a gorgeous site to see. Halfway between downtown St. Augustine and the beaches of Anastasia Island, it's the oldest navigational site in North America and home to a maritime museum. If you're feeling energetic, climb 219 steps to the top of the lighthouse for incredible views.

staugustinelighthouse.org , 100 Red Cox Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Set Sail on an Offshore Adventure

Enjoy the sea and year-round balmy weather. Help hoist the sails of the Schooner Freedom , a massive topsail schooner captained by John and Sarah Zaruba. If you'd like to try your luck with a rod and reel, get offshore or on the flats on a fishing excursion with professional guides like Sea Love Charters or Drum Man Fishing Charters .

schoonerfreedom.com , 111 Avenida Menendez Suite D, St. Augustine, FL 32084

sealovefishing.com , 220 Nix Boat Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32084

drummancharters.com , 57 Comares Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Spend an Evening Listening to Live Music

For live music in the oldest city, walk along the downtown streets where a variety of restaurants host bands. The St. Augustine Seafood Company hosts free concerts at its on-site Colonial Oak Music Park . Known as The Amp, the nearly 5,000-seat St. Augustine Amphitheatre hosts ticketed live music performances. A little farther north, the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall is another popular performing arts venue.

saseafoodco.com , 33 St. George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

theamp.com , 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine, FL 32080

pvconcerthall.com , 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

Where to Find the Best Beaches

Kick off your shoes on unspoiled beaches.

While Florida's Historic Coast is most famous for its storied past, leave plenty of time to kick back on the area's unspoiled beaches. Home to the popular St. Johns County Ocean and Fishing Pier , St. Augustine Beach offers a large oceanfront pavilion, splash and play park, sand volleyball courts, and plenty of seaside restaurants like Salt Life Food Shack .

Get in Touch with Nature

Just north of St. Augustine Beach, Anastasia State Park is a pristine stretch of sand with abundant wildlife and natural tidal marshes. There's a coquina quarry where laborers mined stones to build the majestic Castillo de San Marcos and other historic structures downtown.

In northern St. Johns County, Ponte Vedra Beach is famous for its historic and luxurious resort town feel. It's also the site where, according to navigational records, Ponce de Leon first set foot on Florida sand. View the exact spot at the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve , with more than 76,000 acres of protected coastal dunes, tidal lagoons, and forests. It's a gorgeous location to hike, bike, fish, kayak, picnic, and ride horseback. There are over nine miles of nature trails, as well as a prehistoric earthen burial mound, and 60 additional archaeological sites.

gtmnerr.org , 505 Guana River Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

Tour the Food Scene

There are plenty of options to taste local flavors along Florida's Historic Coast. Culinary tours allow you to sample cuisine from the many destinations that have influenced the city's history, including Spain, France, Italy, Asia, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Check out The Tasting Tours and City Walks Food and Wine Tours . And you'll want to tour the St. Augustine Distillery , where you can sample small batch spirits in a restored ice plant dating back to 1917.

Dine with a Water View

Two crowd favorites equally famous for their water views and oyster bars are Meehan's Irish Pub & Seafood House in the heart of the historic district, and Cap's On The Water in Vilano Beach, which has killer sunset views of the Intracoastal Waterway to the west. The waterfront Aunt Kate's is a family-owned eatery with a tradition of serving Menorcan dishes, fresh seafood, and famous clam chowder for more than 100 years. The family's history dates back to Menorca island residents brought to New Smyrna as indentured servants. They fled the failed English Colony to safety in St. Augustine in 1768. And while the original restaurant succumbed to fire, the new building serves up the same great recipes right on the water.

facebook.com/MeehansIrishPub , 20 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084

capsonthewater.com , 4325 Myrtle St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

aunt-kates.com , 612 Euclid Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Sample Southern Cuisine

And, of course, delectable Southern-style cooking is what many food lovers have grown to know and love about St. Augustine. Supporting local growers and producers, The Floridian features a regional take on traditional fare like fried green tomatoes, peppered shrimp, and barbecue pulled pork and waffles. Another local favorite, Catch 27 serves up hefty helpings of blackened chicken, grits, and deviled eggs.

thefloridianstaug.com , 72 Spanish St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

catchtwentyseven.com , 40 Charlotte St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

For an artisan-style after-dinner treat, head to Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops where flavors like Dragonfruit and Granny's Apple Pie are crafted with fresh fruit, spices, and herbs, or venture over to Peace Pie in the historic district for unique homemade ice-cream sandwiches, or nearby Whetstone Chocolates of St. Augustine , which offers a chocolate tasting tour.

thehyppo.com , 48 Charlotte St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

peacepieworld.com , 8 Aviles St, St Augustine, FL 32084

whetstonechocolates.com , 139 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Stay in a Historic Luxury Inn

Blending romance and history seamlessly, The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens is a high-end bed and breakfast with the ambiance of a luxury boutique hotel. Located in the heart of downtown St. Augustine, the inn features elegant guest rooms and suites that have been completely restored inside nine vintage structures—the oldest dating back to 1790. A Colonial-era Revival residence built in 1909 once welcomed visitors like Mark Twain and Sinclair Lewis.

thecollectorinn.com , 149 Cordova St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Book a Room in the Historic Spanish Quarter

A waterfront gem located within walking distance of historic downtown sites, restaurants, and shopping, the Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront hotel offers great views of the Bridge of Lions and Matanzas River. Many rooms in the Spanish Colonial cottage-style buildings provide views of the bay.

hilton.com/en/hotels/usthdhf-hilton-st-augustine-historic-bayfront , 32 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Wake Up to Ocean Views

For a lavish beachside escape, the Ponte Vedra Inn & Club is a AAA Five-Diamond stunner that originally opened in 1928 and has been attracting well-heeled guests for nearly a century. A major perk is the resort's 36 holes of serene seaside golf. Plus, there's tennis, kid's activities, a beautiful spa, and lots to do on the beach. Many rooms offer ocean views and walkout access to the beach. Make reservations at the upscale on-site Seahorse Grille for coastal cuisine.

pontevedra.com/stay/inn-club , 200 Ponte Vedra Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082

Fall Asleep to the Sounds of Nature

Nestled between the St. Augustine Beach Pier Park and the 1,600-acre Anastasia State Park, Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach Oceanfront Resort provides opportunities for water sports, nature hikes, and access to miles of pristine undeveloped beaches. Wake up steps from the beach, or enjoy coffee with views of St. Augustine beach from your balcony.

hilton.com/en/hotels/ustboes-embassy-suites-st-augustine-beach-oceanfront-resort , 300 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Savor the St. Augustine Spanish Food and Wine Festival

Since Pedro Menéndez and the first European settlers arrived in St. Augustine more than 450 years ago carrying loads of wine from Spain, the historic city has become known as America's Spanish wine capital. Celebrating this unique heritage, the St. Augustine Spanish Food and Wine Festival in February features a series of special events at various venues that feature Spanish wine, cuisine, and culture. And all proceeds from the festival benefit local charities.

Enjoy a Month of Music

Let the rhythm move you at the annual Sing Out Loud Festival throughout September. Including big-name headliners and local talent and songwriters, the event features live music performances at venues around the city. The best part? It's the largest free music festival in Florida.

Experience Nights of Lights

St. Augustine transforms during the holidays for the annual Nights of Lights celebration. Wander through the historic district and witness magical displays of millions of Christmas lights. Enjoy Light-Up! Night, the beer-infused Nights of Pints, Villa Zorayda's annual Candlelight Tour, holiday concerts, craft festivals, boat parades, and more. The festival kicks off the Saturday before Thanksgiving and continues nightly through January.

Whenever you choose to visit, and however you fill your days, Florida's Historic Coast is a great place for a family vacation or solo trip.

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How To Spend One Day in St. Augustine

If you’re hoping to visit St. Augustine, Florida but only have one day to check things out – the truth is, you’ll be able to do quite a bit. St. Augustine, known as both the oldest city in Florida and often referred to as the oldest city in America, is extremely walkable and pretty easy to navigate. In this post, I’ll share some of the experiences I was able to accomplish and make a few suggestions to get you the most out of your time here.

1. Jump On That Trolley!

This is a no-brainer. The Old Town Trolley is without a doubt the best way to make the most of your limited time in St. Augustine. You can hop on the trolley, jump off at any of the more than 20 designated stops, and then get back on again whenever you want. (Last pick-up is at 4:30pm, so be sure to start using it early in the day to get your money’s worth.) It takes about 70 minutes to go all the way around if you’re wanting to get an overview of the city before you begin to explore.

You’ll get some great knowledge about the city’s history and plenty of sightseeing suggestions from your guide along the way. As much as I hate the stereotypical cheesy tour guide, the guides for Old Town Trolley were pretty good.

2. Climb To The Top Of St. Augustine Lighthouse

Get yourself a workout by climbing the 219 steps to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse. You’ll be rewarded with a beautiful panoramic view of the area and the Atlantic Ocean. The original watchtower was erected in 1586, and became a lighthouse in 1824. In 1871, the current tower was built. Your ticket also gets you admission to the Keeper’s house museum and several other sites on the property. If you’re looking to visit quickly – the trek to the top (and back down) is relatively quick depending on crowd size.

3. Explore Historic Buildings Around Town

You could spend an entire week trying to see all of the beautiful old buildings around St. Augustine. To get a good sampling of historic sites – consider popping into Flagler College (which used to be a ritzy hotel that welcomed celebrities and even former presidents until World War II) and taking a peek around the courtyard and lobby. A full tour is offered twice per day if you’re interested. Other notable historic buildings to keep on your radar include the oldest house of the English era, the nation’s oldest wooden schoolhouse, the Alcazar Hotel, and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine.

4. Walk On The Oldest Street in America

Aviles is the oldest street in America – and the early home to St. Augustine’s arts district. The street dates back to the 16th Century and was known as “hospital street” as the second Spanish military hospital was located here. These days, you’ll find a handful of shops and amazingly, most tourists have no idea of the street’s significance.

5. Walk Through The Gates Of St. Augustine!

This one won’t take but a minute but it’s worth it! The original “gates to the city” on the north end of George Street were nearly destroyed by city planners that wanted to rid the area of this “eyesore”. Thankfully a few locals stepped up to demand the gates remain as is. They were constructed in 1808 and at one time were the only way to enter St. Augustine.

6. Take A Chocolate Tour

If you only have one day to explore St. Augustine, you’ll have to make some decisions about what types of tours you want to spend your time on. It was an easy choice for me to pick the tasting tour offered by Whetstone Chocolates on King Street. It lasts about an hour and gives you a brief understanding of how chocolate is produced and the various methods used by Whetstone that sets them apart from some of the more well-known chocolate producers.

“I have to apologize for the freshness of the chocolate. It was made yesterday.” Whetstone Chocolate Tour Guide

The tour guide, who sounded a bit like Tim Conway from The Carol Burnette Show, was pretty amusing. It’s not a large factory but you get a fun look at how their chocolate is produced. By my count, you get at least six samples. Their products are often on the store shelves within a week or two as opposed to other companies that generally take as long as six months to get into stores. Plus you get to wear a hair net!

7. Sneak In A Meal Or Two!

I didn’t have a lot of time to check out the local cuisine – but none of you come to my site for restaurant recommendations anyway. The kind folks at the St. Augustine Convention & Visitors Office were nice enough to offer me a gift certificate to enjoy one of the area’s local eateries. I chose a place called Amici – a highly rated Italian restaurant in St. Augustine Beach. I’m a sucker for good lasagna – and this place nails it. Sorry I can’t transport the taste or smell – but I think the photo will work for now. Shout out to my fun server, Andrew!

8. And Of Course, Check Out The Beach!

During my visit, I stayed a short walk away from the water at a place called Our Beach Cottage . It’s maintained by the historic St. Francis Inn in St. Augustine. The house is located just six miles from that location and less than 15 minutes to downtown. It had a full kitchen, two bedrooms and bathrooms, a living room, a sauna, and dining room table. The parking was simple, too – a long lot that could easily fit several cars if need be.

Breakfast is offered each morning at the St. Francis Inn – though I decided to utilize the kitchen instead. The house was super clean and the staff was incredibly friendly.

Hopefully you’ve picked up a handful of ideas to fill your 24 hours in St. Augustine but rest assured – there are lots of other things to do if time permits. From the local alligator farm to Florida’s oldest tourist attraction – The Fountain of Youth, you’re sure to have a terrific time enjoying this beautiful and friendly Florida town.

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How To Spend One Day In St.Augustine Itinerary

Here’s how to spend one day in St. Augustine, Florida .

The high Florida sun bakes over the roof of our car as we slowly drive into St. Augustine. The air is hot and sticky. Tourists color the streets.

After spending a crazy morning in Daytona, this part of Florida’s coast, a soft grayish-blue stretch washed in time, is welcoming.

St. Augustine started off as a day trip but as I fell more and more in love with the city, one night quickly turned into two and two quickly turned into three.

So this one day in St. Augustine itinerary is a patchwork quilt of our trip highlights.

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One Day In St. Augustine Travel Guide

St. Augustine is the oldest continuously-inhabited European-established settlement within the borders of the continental United States .

The real history of St. Augustine begins with the Natives in the area ( called Timucua by the Spanish and French ). But in a whitewashed version of St. Augustine’s past, Pedro Menéndez de Avilés’ arrival pinpoints the start of St. Augustine’s story.

Menéndez sculpted St. Augustine, t he town, the community. But St. Augustine, the land, was occupied well before then ( a fact that most attractions in the city, unfortunately, gloss over ).

In fact, historical inaccuracies are pretty common amongst several popular St. Augustine exhibits. The story of St. Augustine is constantly changing as new evidence surfaces under the harsh Florida sun.

It’s hard to keep up. And some tales popular amongst tourists bring the city good money. So the town rolls with them.

If you’re a history buff, complement your trip with a little extra research . Suspend your disbelief whilst visiting the attractions. Have fun. Play along with the kitsch. But know that what’s marketed as the truth is occasionally just fiction.

When To Visit

Summer is peak season in St. Augustine.

If you’re looking for a quiet weekend getaway ( and have flexible dates ), head to St. Augustine in early fall or late spring . There’s less traffic, as school is back in session. But you’ll also have standard beach weather with just a pinch of chill.

Where To Stay

I ended up staying at Holiday Inn in St. Augustine as that was one of the few properties available last-minute ( we booked late in the evening, well after arriving in the city ).

Located near Mission Nombre De Dios Museum, the hotel was clean and unfussy (t he kind good for just kicking up your feet after a long day walking ).

• Old City House: set in a Spanish revival building, Old City House is a cute inn perfect for a romantic weekend escape
• St. George Inn: a conveniently-located property right in the heart of the most popular sightseeing spots in St. Augustine

One Day In St. Augustine Itinerary

At the start of our one day in St. Augustine, we head out to St. George Street, a long straight road riddled with meandering alleys and side-streets.

In the small of the morning, the footsteps that trace the pathway are soft echoes but by the time night falls, they march to drumbeats.

You could easily spend a whole ( scratch that – two ) days on St. George Street , getting to know it intimately.

Grab An Aussie Pie At The Kookaburra

After strolling through St. George Street in the heat, I was craving something intensely cold.

When I saw the sign for Kookaburra, a coffee shop by the Cathedral Basilica Of St. Augustine, I entered without hesitation ( I mean, I’ve never seen my feet move so fast . You’d think I was planning on competing in the Olympics ).

I ordered the Alaskan Hot Chocolate ( because of the name alone ). It’s a frozen hot chocolate, heavy on the chocolate, light on the ice .

The cup was so perfectly frosty that I didn’t even want the semi-solid liquid inside, I just wanted to hold the cup in my hand as I walked. But after taking a sip, the rest was history ( that drink did not last long ).

At first glance, Kookaburra, a St. Augustine chain , seems like a small hole-in-the-wall shop ( but there’s a spacious room next door ).

And it’s an Aussie-American espresso bar so picking up an Aussie pie is non-negotiable ( I loved the Thai Chicken Chili ).

General Info

Address: 24 Cathedral Place St. Augustine, FL

Visit The Lightner Museum

The architecture of The Lightner Museum – Spanish renaissance revival – drew me in immediately.

It’s an art museum, multiple-floors , dressed head-to-toe in quirky displays and rich works.

You enter through a quasi-hedge maze, neatly trimmed. The path leads into a lush, palm-decorated indoor courtyard. Circle the courtyard and you’ll find the door to the Lightner Museum.

A lot of the works inside are conversation pieces , making this attraction one of the best things to do in St. Augustine in one day for couples.

Quick note: If you aren’t a fan of art galleries, I also published a list of twenty-three museums in St. Augustine a short while ago ( hopefully, you can find one that aligns with your interests ).

Address: 75 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084 Cost: $17

Take A Walk Along St. George Street

St. George Street is the heart of St. Augustine.

A footpath styled like a road, St. George Street, a thread of colorful boutiques and restaurants ( think bright oranges, greens, yellows, and reds ), is easy to fall in love with.

Although touristy, this lane is what gives St. Augustine its quintessential small-town vibe.

There’s a certain hum to the bakeshops ( so. many. sweets ), a lilt to the museums, and calm to the sea breeze that makes St. George Street addictive .

Grab A Bite By Colonial Oak

Colonial Oak is a live music venue . A swath of picnic tables and benches cubby-holed by tall trees, Colonial Oak has a hidden gem vibe. And it’s 100% free to visit .

If you’re craving lunch, hit up St. Augustine Seafood Company next door.

St. Augustine Seafood Company is a fast food joint . The food is good, local-inspired. Fair warning, it’s a bit on the expensive side for the portions ( I loved St. George Street so much, I forgot I was smack in the tourist district ).

But if you’re searching for a quick bite that’s freshly made and in a great location, you can’t beat St. Augustine Seafood Company.

Address: 21 St George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Castillo De San Marcos

Castillo De San Marcos is built from coquina , a porous limestone of broken shells.

It’s a fort and National Monument . It’s 300 years of history and more.

By the time you touch the inside corners of Castillo De San Marcos, you’ll have walked past a wide drawbridge into a dark unlit room.

Room to room, you’ll find the story of Castillo De San Marcos , unearthed bit by bit. As I made my way to the top, I could see the grayish blue of a rougher patch of water slap against the shore.

On the opposite side was all of St. Augustine, doll-sized. Flagler College. The Lightner Museum. St. George Street.

So I decided to pause. Sit down. And enjoy the view.

Address: 1 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084 Cost: $15

Bridge Of Lions

When I travel, I’m an early sleeper. But the glitz of St. Augustine pulled me deep into the night.

I wanted to feel the riverside winds against my skin and music rumble through my veins. So I strolled along the tiny sliver of a sidewalk that connected Castillo De San Marcos to the Bridge Of Lions, a double-leaf bascule.

The lights, a soft glow of yellows and reds, reflected in little swirls across the waves. Shadows of boats and ( the occasional ) yacht lightened the black waters.

Across the sidewalk was St. George Street. Laughter and chatter carried over quaint buildings.

By the time I got back to the hotel, it was midnight. And as my feet fell onto the bed, I realized one day in St. Augustine wasn’t enough. I was already hungry for day two.

Did you enjoy this one day in St. Augustine itinerary? How would you spend one day in St. Augustine? Let me know in the comments below!

Editor-In-Chief

Anshula grew up with a love of stories and places. Thirty-five states and 100 bookstores later, she's made her hobbit home in Middle Tennessee. Her Tookish side still takes over and leaves her chasing window seats, literary destinations, adventure books, sunrise coffee, and indie bookshops. She's appeared as a travel source on HuffPost, Reader's Digest, and MSN.

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I stumbled upon this while looking for virtual tours. Love this series! I feel like I’m traveling with you. Will be bingeing.

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Weekend in St. Augustine: Perfect 2 or 3 Day Itinerary

As you may know, St. Augustine is the oldest continually inhabited city in the United States , which makes it a historically important city. While history class may have made you yawn as a student, you’ll find that there’s nothing boring about St. Augustine! It’s a quaint city with a lot of charm. In order to ensure that you have a fabulous time in St. Augustine, I have put together the perfect 3 day itinerary ! This itinerary will make sure you see the best of everything St. Augustine has to offer! So, let’s get started!

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a booking after clicking on these links, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you) which helps pay for the running of this blog.

St. Augustine Itinerary – Day 1

Take a tour of flagler college.

Flagler College is spread out over multiple buildings, many of which were built by Henry Flagler. The tour focuses on Ponce Hall, which used to be the main building for Flagler’s Ponce de Leon Hotel. In its day, the hotel was the pinnacle of luxury, which was reflected in every aspect of the architecture. On the tour, you will get to see Henry Flagler’s attention to detail in every room.

• Explore the Castillo de San Marco

This is the fort that the Spanish built shortly after settling in St. Augustine. The fort is made from coquina, which you will learn a lot about while in St. Augustine–it was the Spanish setteler’s favorite building material in St. Augustine. Perhaps one of the coolest parts about this fort is that it saw battle many years and you can still see evidence of that today! This doesn’t mean that the fort is crumbling–it’s actually in fantastic shape. It means that you can see impressions of cannonballs on the side of the fort! Yeah, seriously. In addition to seeing inside, make sure you take a walk around the fort so you can see them! Also, the fort does scheduled cannon firings on the weekend, which is always fun to see!

Learn more about the Castillo de San Marco here .

• Walk Down St. George Street

St. George Street is likely the most popular street in all of St. Augustine. It is a street lined with shops and restaurants and ice cream parlors. If you’re interested in finding a souvenir, this is where you’ll want to shop. You can find almost anything on St. George Street. It’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat for lunch or dinner. There are many awesome, small restaurants, and a few nice restaurants as well. (I’ll give you specific recommendations below!) While exploring St. George Street, you should stop by one of the many sweet shops and grab a treat! You can find gelato, ice cream, fudge, coffee, Dole Whip (yeah, you read that correctly!), popsicles, and so much more.

Get a Photo at the Original City Gate

At the north end of St. George Street, you will find St. Augustine’s original city gates! Definitely don’t leave without grabbing a photo of you and your family/friends at this historical site!

• Take a Ghost Tour

Because of St. Augustine’s history, the city is rumored to be haunted! So, of course, you absolutely must go on a ghost tour!

There are a two types: walking tours and trolley tours . On a walking tour, the tour guide will lead you to multiple haunted spots around the city, give you some history (which usually ties in with why it’s supposedly haunted), and then essentially tells you a ghost story. The trolley tours are similar to a walking tour except that you get to ride instead of walk. Personally, I thoroughly enjoyed the walking ghost tour I took of St. Augustine. There was a great balance of history and ghost stories. Plus, it was interactive because you could actually converse with your guide and try and capture ghosts with your camera, which is difficult to do on a moving trolley.

Just know that there is a ghost tour for everyone!

St. Augustine Itinerary – Day 2

• Go to the Beach

Can you honestly vacation in Florida without going to the beach? I didn’t think so!

St. Augustine has multiple lovely beaches just a short drive away from the historic district. So jump in your car or order an Uber! If you’re visiting during a warm time of year, definitely visit the beach in the morning! Grab a towel and lay out on the sand and soak up the sun! If you plan on getting in the water, make sure you’re paying attention to the flags!

However, if it’s winter, you might want to take a walk along the beach in the afternoon instead.

You can visit Vilano Beach , Crescent Beach , or Anastasia State Park .

• Climb the St. Augustine Lighthouse

The St. Augustine Lighthouse is located on Anastasia Island, which is just a short drive away from St. Augustine’s historic district. The lighthouse has a lot of history, which you can learn about at the museum and on the tour! Then, you can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a spectacular view!

Learn more about the St. Augustine Lighthouse here .

(If you are traveling with children, you might want to skip the next 2 suggestions unless you have a sitter. Instead check out this guide to traveling to St. Augustine with kids .)

Tour San Sebastian Winery and Taste the Wine (For Free!)

You probably don’t think of Florida when you think of wine. However, you may begin to think differently after you taste the wine at San Sebastian Winery! I recently took a tour and fell in love with two of their wines: Vinter’s Red and Rosa. The tour is surprisingly informative. If you don’t know much about how wine is made, you will definitely know after the tour!

• Enjoy the Nightlife

St. Augustine is full of college students and tourists, so there are tons of fun, bustling bars! You can grab a cheap bear at Scarlet O’Hara’s, or you can spend your time in a modern cocktail bar, such as Odd Birds Bar. The possibilities are nearly endless! I definitely recommend using google maps to pick a few bars that look particularly interesting to you, and stopping by each for a drink! This way, you’ll get to experience the best of St. Augustine’s nightlife! No matter where you go, you’re sure to have a great time!

St. Augustine Itinerary – Day 3

• Visit the Alligator Farm

You can’t visit Florida without seeing some alligators! Spend a few hours learning all about the different species of alligator and seeing real live gators! Plus, you can even watch a caretaker feed them. It’s pretty awesome! You can easily spend at least half of a day at the Alligator Farm, so make sure you wear sunscreen!

Learn more about the Alligator Farm and read reviews here .

• Take a Sunset Cruise

After a long (but fun!) day at the Alligator Farm, you should take a relaxing sunset cruise. On board, you’ll have the opportunity to see some beautiful views and take some awesome pictures! You have a lot of different options when it comes to choosing a sunset cruise . You can take an adult only cruise or a kid-friendly cruise. It’s really up to you!

Don’t forget to check groupon because they often have awesome deals on a few sunset cruises! (Just make sure you read the fine print!)

Where to Stay in St. Augustine

Casa monica resort & spa.

This hotel can be a bit pricey, but it’s definitely worth it! You will be in the heart of the historic district, and you’ll be staying in a luxurious, historic building. With top-notch guest services, you will feel like royalty. In fact, the King of Spain stayed there during St. Augustine’s 450th year celebration a few years back! So, if it’s good enough for the King of Spain, I think you’ll love it!

Click here to see latest prices and click here to read reviews here .

• Bed & Breakfast

Okay, so if the Casa Monica isn’t quite your speed, you should definitely stay at a Bed & Breakfast! There are plenty of them located in and within walking distance of the historic district of St. Augustine. However, during popular times, they all book up quickly, so make sure you plan your trip in advance.

Bed & Breakfasts are fantastic because they are just as cozy and cute as the city of St. Augustine, which makes them compliment each other nicely!

Plus, Bed & Breakfasts are a lot more personal than hotels, so you’ll likely get to know the owners and other guests, which can greatly improve your experience in St. Augustine.

Where to Eat in St. Augustine

Ah, it’s the moment you’ve been waiting for: we’re going to talk about food!

Counter-Service Restaurants

• Burrito Works Taco Shop

It’s a little hole in the wall Taco Shop, so be careful, you might walk right by it. They serve great food, and they make it there right in front of you, which is always nice! This restaurant is located right on St. George Street, which makes it conveniently located! The one downside to Burrito Works Taco Shop is that there’s not much seating, so when it’s busy, you might have a difficult time finding a seat.

Pizza Time is located on St. George Street and serves great pizza by the slice! They are highly rated by visitors, which is why they have a line out the door during meal times. Don’t fret though! A line out the door doesn’t mean it’s that long considering the ordering process will start as soon as you walk in. I personally didn’t like that I was asked what I wanted right when I walked in because I wasn’t able to see all of my options. (The pizza you can choose from are spread out on the counter.) So, I just ordered something. However, once I tasted the pizza, I quickly got over it. If you visit Pizza Time, just remember to bring cash as they don’t take credit cards.

Pizza Time is another destination where you might have trouble finding a place to sit. Unfortunately, the shop sizes on St. George Street can be pretty small, and two of the most popular spots just so happen to have really small spaces.

Table-Service Restaurants

• Prohibition Kitchen

This restaurant doesn’t have a dress code or anything like that. The only reasons it’s in this category is because it’s table service and a bit pricey. However, the food and atmosphere is incredible. If you don’t want to spend money on dinner here, you should at least stop by for a drink at the bar! They did such a great job with the decorations and the ambiance. Plus, they frequently have live music!

• The Columbia

The Columbia serves traditional Spanish food, and it is amazing! Seriously, you need to order your favorite Spanish dish (or try something new!) and order a glass (or a pitcher) of sangria. The atmosphere is cozy but fancy. Feel free to get dressed up! However, they’ll let you eat in your shorts too!

• The Floridian

The Floridian serves an interesting collection of fantastic dishes. I have eaten there multiple times and have loved everything I’ve tried! Although, I will admit that their menu can be a little intimidating when you first look at it.

What You Need to Know Before You Go

Visit in the early-mid spring and fall unless….

St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights has become a famous event that takes place between mid-November and the end of January. People come from around the world to see the city all lit up during those 2 1/2 months. If you’re interested in seeing the Nights of Lights, I highly encourage you to go. However, you should know that it’s incredibly busy!

I recommend visiting in January because it’s less busy. It’s still busy, just less busy. Otherwise, in order to avoid the crowds (and the heat), I would recommend visiting in the early to mid spring and fall .

Consider Taking an Old Town Trolley Tour

Here’s the deal: Typically, I wouldn’t recommend taking a trolley around a destination because I believe that you get a more authentic and exciting experience by wandering through a city. However, since you’re only spending 3 days in St. Augustine, you don’t have much time to wander and still see all of the amazing attractions. The trolley tours in St. Augustine are great because you’ll learn the history behind just about every building in the city. While there are plenty of plaques with historical information sprinkled around St. Augustine, you will definitely learn more from the trolley tour . Plus, the trolley is flexible; you can get off at multiple destinations to explore the historical sites, and, once you’re done, you can board the next one that comes by. While you can walk to pretty much everything in St. Augustine, the trolley can be especially nice if you are traveling with children.

3 Days in St. Augustine Itinerary Recap

Just to make sure you don’t forget any of this awesome information, let’s quickly go over it again.

• Tour Flagler College
• Take You Photo by the Original City Gate
• Tour San Sebastian Winery and Taste the Wine (for FREE)

Where to Stay

• Casa Monica

Where to Eat

Things You Need to Know

• Visit in Early-Mid Spring and Fall or January
• Consider Purchasing Green Trolley Tickets

So there you have it! That was your ideal 3 day St. Augustine itinerary! Aren’t you just totally excited to go now?! I sure hope so!

Author Bio: Jennifer Meyer is a travel blogger who shares her best budget travel tips and destination guides on her blog, Roads We Wander. She loves helping people explore the world on a tight budget. Follow her on Pinterest , Instagram , Facebook and Twitter .

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savvyglobetrotter

We’ve been several times and have never done a Flager Tour or the lighthouse. Definitely on the list for the next time driving out of FL!

How cool! I never really thought of visiting here but it sounds and looks wonderful

We LOVE St. Augustine! The winery is great! Just down the street is the distillery, which offers a really fun, free tour if you make it back! The Ice Plant restaurant attached to it is also really good (pricey, but amazing). Would love to try the Prohibition Kitchen! That sounds like my kind of place 🙂

Thank you! We’re making a list of things to do and wanted just a few days plan and have two kiddos. This is perfect

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St Augustine Day Trip – Top 6 Family Friendly Favorite Things To Do

This post may contain compensated links. Refer to my  disclaimer  for more info.

We had yet another St Augustine day trip on our way to a recent press event at Marineland Dolphin Adventure .  I say “yet another” because our family has been to weddings and other events and I was even invited by a historic hotel during the annual Nights of Lights celebration, but couldn’t stay due to other commitments.  Because Saint Augustine Florida is such a fascinating city, we never hesitate to visit every chance we get. I’ve compiled a top 6 list of things to do in St Augustine with your people when you are nearby – even if it’s for just a few hours.

St Augustine Day Trip Ideas

St. Augustine, Florida is unmatched in Spanish colonial architecture as it lays claim to being the oldest city in the U.S.  Not only is this incredibly walkable city full of stunning historical structures at every turn, there’s also the fabulous waterfront, shopping, food and quirky museums. What more could you ask for on a St Augustine day trip with the family?

Here are six family favorites not to miss if you only have a few hours in this remarkable Florida town. Click To Tweet

STROLL AROUND ST AUGUSTINE

One of our favorite attributes of St. Augustine is the walkability and layout.  This colonial planned city was laid out in a logical grid pattern with a gorgeous town square in the center.  Surrounding the town center are lovely views of the statues, the Bridge of Lions, unique shops, and churches.  The narrow, brick-lined Aviles Street and its counterparts are my favorites because you can just envision the bustling colonial life of years past as you stroll along them.

SEE ST AUGUSTINE HISTORY

During busy seasons, driving around the blocks a couple times may be necessary to find a parking space.  This time around we easily pulled into the small parking lot on Orange Street – close to Cordova Street.  I love how many historical buildings and attractions there are to see in such close proximity to each other.  For instance, I spotted four cool things to do immediately upon exiting our car in the parking lot.

Right in front of my eyes was the Potter’s Wax Museum, a stop for the Old Town Trolley Tour and the Tolomato Cemetery Tour.  I immediately walked over to the cemetery to check it out.

Nearby our coveted parking spot we found Castillo de San Marcos , the oldest wooden school house, the colonial quarter and the first parish of the new world, Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine , to name a few.  It’s so neat to learn in a fun way about St. Augustine’s rich history in becoming a city that truly changed America.

TASTE ST AUGUSTINE FOOD

I don’t know about you, but one of the things our family looks most forward to is searching for the best food when visiting new places.  Another great thing about the place we parked is that we noticed a super cute burger joint on our way into the city.  After walking through the historic treats and stopping in for fudge and salt water taffy samples, it’s was time to have lunch.

We really enjoyed our sitdown meal at Burger Buckets on Cordova Street.  Our meal started out with fried dill pickles and very yummy burgers and fries.  The menu boasts some pretty crazy burger combinations and a fun kick-the-bucket eating challenge.  One of the waiters let us try a free key lime pie slice (shipped in from Key West), so we were stuffed, to say the least.  My advice is to sit in the front room unless you want to be in the warmest spot and in a dog-friendly area.

We stumbled into a neat little store that was down one of the narrow streets called Olde Town Jerky that had the tagline on their sign, “A real taste of the Old West.”  We were able to choose a jerky sample from all sorts of meat/game choices: beef, buffalo, elk, or alligator.  They even had jerky made from rattlesnake and rabbit!  The cool thing is that they are made the old-fashioned way without preservatives or MSG.

Lastly, since it was warm weather, we started to get a little toasty and in need of refreshment.  We decided to stop at a little kiosk-type stand named Likit Dole Whip on George Street so Superman and Princess could get some dole whip soft serve ice cream.  Although this cute little counter service place served lots of choices, E and I only wanted a couple sodas.

ENJOY ST AUGUSTINE SHOPPING

On this recent trip to St. Augustine, Florida, us girls really hit as many shops as we could.  There were so many unique shops with one-of-a-kind items.  There are many little nooks and crannies to duck into along the Colonial Quarter, but we found some new favorites alongside the St Augustine City Square Plaza on King Street.

First, we met an inspiring woman who worked for two of the side-by-side stores, So Mermazing and Artsy Adode Boutique.  She shared that her Grandfather had been instrumental in building Marineland eighty years ago.  Both of these stores were just delightful and had us all smiling.  Be sure to look for a coupon book in the front of the Artsy  Abode Boutique when you visit.

The winner of our favorite store of the day definitely went to a charming little shop called Two Sparrows.  Y’all.  This store is not only stunning but it’s one of the most peaceful places I’ve had the privilege of walking into.  After viewing many of the beautiful clothing and houseware items, my daughter-in-love called me over to see something special.  She was giving me one of those looks that meant, “You aren’t going to believe this!”  It was a lovely prayer wall where visitors and locals to St. Augustine can leave prayer requests and/or praises.  The staff said they pray over them daily.  If you shop nowhere else on your trip to this historic city, you have to check out Two Sparrows .

TAKE A ST AUGUSTINE TOUR

If you followed The How-to Guru for long, you know I always suggest taking some sort of “big picture” tour around a new city as soon after you arrive as possible.  There’s no better way to get the lay of the land and get your bearings as a city tour.  During tours of new cities, our family makes mental notes of which spots we’ve like to discover later on foot.  For a St Augustine day trip, you can take a fun trolley tour from one of the two companies!  There are also two wax museums in the city for those that enjoy quirky family attractions.

EXPERIENCE ST AUGUSTINE ON THE WATER

Not only are there are the family friendly activities listed above for a St Augustine day trip in the downtown area, the St. Johns River and Intracoastal Waterway is nearby too.  There are many things to do on or near the water like fishing from the pier, chartering a boat, or riding on jet skis.

I purposely left off the option of a St Augustine day trip to the beaches near the top of the list for two reasons.  Firstly, some people don’t enjoy going to the beach for just the day and leaving with sand all over them.  The second reason is that I haven’t visited St. Augustine beaches yet (but I have many friends that ADORE St. Augustine beaches)!  I’m excited to report though that we will have our toes in the sand of St. Augustine beaches within days and I’ll be sharing all of that with you as well.

Saint Augustine, Florida is one of those lovely places where there is always more to do than you could ever accomplish in one trip.  Every time we spend time in the area, time flies faster than we desire and it’s always sad to say goodbye.  One last travel tip for a fabulous St Augustine day trip is to visit the St. Augustine & St. Johns County Visitor Information Center as soon as you roll into town for loads of help and possibly some discounts too!

Location: 21 King St, St Augustine, FL 32084

CLICK HERE FOR GREAT ST AUGUSTINE HOTEL OPTIONS

What are your favorite things to do on a St Augustine day trip?  I’d love to hear about it in the comments !

Published on HuffPost, Okefenokee Living Magazine, and more, Shan is a Family Travel Journalist with a passion for helping women lose the overwhelm of planning family-friendly trips in the south. She shares travel reviews & insider secrets that Women REALLY want to know about Georgia, Florida, & the Carolinas vacations.

☕️ It’s THE REAL DEAL around here ☕️

17 Comments

How fun! I just love St. Augustine! So much to do, so much to learn, such a beautiful beach. 🙂 I’m pinning for later…for when I am brave enough to pack my big ole crew up and head South.

The entire list sounds great! I now have to add St. Augustine to the list of places I would someday life to visit. I love places where I can delve into the history and it seems like the city has so much to offer. Thank you for sharing your experiences (and wonderful photographs!).

Thank you so much for your kind words, Kristen! We LOVE St. Auggie! 😉

much love, Shan

Awe, Ashley, Florida is SO much more than Spring Break. Yes, there are well-known Spring Break hang-outs and it’s pretty humid during June + July + August, but there are more lovely, under-the-radar spots to enjoy with family than I could list here. Be sure to see the articles under my Florida Travel link. We love St. Augustine, Fernandina Beach, Palm Coast, the Forgotten Coast, the Keys, Orlando, and the Space Coast, just to name a few. Florida is a big, beautiful state with lots of nature as well.

much love, shan

Oh that looks like fun! I love visiting new cities and taking in the gorgeous views and getting to know the history. I also like asking locals about things to do and see from a local perspective.

Yes to all you said, Leslie! I am obsessed with talking to the locals about their new (to us) towns. Such a fun adventure for our family!

This is a great list I’ll have to check out with my family. We live only 30-45 minutes away from St. Augustine! We’d been a few times many years ago but not with the kids.

Lucky You! This would be perfect for a day trip then! Glad you liked it, Brandi!

Love St. Augustine! I’m only a hour away!

I’m kind of jealous, Jasmine! I love St. Auggie so much.

This looks like a lovely little place to visit. That prayer and praises wall is adorable.

I love St Augustine! This review brought back great memories. I totally agree with you that “big picture” tours are the best way to start out a trip. We did the on and off trolley in St. Augustine and it picked up right in front of our campground.

Me too, Julie! Glad to share great memories with you! Where did you camp?

We love to visit St Augustine! It’s our go to stop when we are Driving out of the state. So many things to do and such charm!

The cemetery and the schoolhouse are awesome! Well, not so much the death part of the cemetary, but the history! Far out, I’d not heard of St Augustine before, it sounds like an amazing place to visit with so much to do! You’re so lucky to have been so many times 🙂

I have wanted to visit St Augustine for years! I would love to stop here and see the historical sites sometime when I go back to Florida.

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13 Best Day Trips From St. Augustine, Florida

Looking for some fun and exciting ideas for day trips from St. Augustine, Florida? Look no further!

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, more historic landmarks and sites, or beach days there is something for everyone in and around the area. From bike trails to wildlife refuges to lighthouses and more, the St. Augustine area has plenty of great day trips that are sure to be unforgettable experiences.

St. Augustine is a great historic town to visit, but with a day trip outside the main tourist area, you can see more of Florida and its amazing landscape and cities.

For more help planning your trip, see my recommended St. Augustine itinerary .

The day trip ideas in this article are arranged in order of distance from St. Augustine (from the closest to the farthest). All are about 2 hours away or less and many are quite a bit less. And distances are calculated from downtown St. Augustine.

Listed drive times are approximations. The time it takes you to drive to the suggested day trip destination will depend upon several factors including your exact starting point, the time of day, weather, etc.

Plan the perfect trip to St. Augustine, Florida, with this free printable travel planner .

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See disclaimer.

Anastasia Island

Distance from St. Augustine: 2 miles Approximate drive time: 5 minutes

Located only a few miles outside St. Augustine (just over the Bridge of Lions), Anastasia Island is easy to access and full of exciting sights and activities.

You can explore the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, get up close with wildlife at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, or simply enjoy a leisurely day at Anastasia State Park, all in one day.

The Alligator Farm is especially popular with families. End your day with a show at The Amp (St. Augustine Amphitheater).

And we haven’t even talked about all of the beautiful beaches you can explore on Anastasia Island. Don’t forget to pack all of your beach essentials .

TIP: Keep track of all of your important travel details with a digital travel planner like this .

Ravine Gardens State Park

Distance from St. Augustine: 31 miles Approximate drive time: 40 minutes

A day trip to Ravine Gardens State Park is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the historic center of St. Augustine, Florida.

Located just over 30 miles outside the city, Ravine Gardens State Park offers visitors an array of scenery that is sure to make for an unforgettable experience.

Ravine Gardens State Park is an iconic New Deal-era state park located in Florida (one of nine). It features two 120-foot ravines.

In 1933, the Works Progress Administration was tasked with transforming these 45-degree ravines into a picturesque garden that could be enjoyed for generations. Some of their designs have been retained as formal gardens and unique trails.

Jacksonville

Distance from St. Augustine: 41 miles Approximate drive time: 45 minutes

At only about a 45-minute drive from St. Augustine, Jacksonville makes a great option for a city break day trip.  Jacksonville, Florida, is the largest city by landmass in the United States. It also claims to have the largest urban park system and the most shoreline of any city in Florida.

Popular sites and attractions in “Jax” include the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, Friendship Fountain, the Museum of Science and History, Riverside Arts Market, and the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.

Enjoy a picturesque River Walk stroll along the St. Johns River, try the St. Johns River Taxi, or check out some of their 22 miles of beaches.

Daytona Beach

Distance from St. Augustine: 55 miles Approximate drive time: 1 hour+

Iconic Daytona Beach is a day trip from St. Augustine destination that offers visitors plenty of activities and attractions. You’ll definitely see why it’s one of Florida’s top tourist destinations…and only a little over an hour’s drive from St. Augustine.

Dubbed “the most famous beach in the world,” Daytona is known for its hard-packed sand. Explore the 750-foot Main Street pier and boardwalk or get out on the water for some boating or parasailing.

Try this dolphin and manatee paddle board tour so you can see these amazing creatures in their natural habitat.

For those looking for some motorsports excitement, be sure to check out the world-famous Daytona International Speedway where you can watch world-class races, take a tour, or visit the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America.

Amelia Island

Distance from St. Augustine: 70 miles Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

A popular beach vacation destination in Florida, Amelia Island boasts 13 miles of beaches. You’ll find Amelia Island in North Florida and surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, Intracoastal Waterway, Nassau Sound, and Cumberland Sound. 

In 2020, Travel + Leisure put Amelia Island at number 6 on its list of the top 15 islands in the United States. Conde Nast named Amelia Island one of the best islands in the U.S. in its Reader’s Choice awards. Southern Living also named it one of the 10 most romantic destinations in Florida.

Explore Fernandina Beach (and more!) on this CraigCat boat tour .

Or enjoy touring Amelia Island (and beyond) by electric bike .

Ocala National Forest

Distance from St. Augustine: 70 miles Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Ocala National Forest is a great day trip destination for anyone looking to escape the city. This picturesque natural area provides a chance to take in the beautiful forests and pristine lakes while engaging in numerous outdoor activities.

From swimming to fishing and from snorkeling to canoeing or boating, this paradise has it all. Explore an impressive 600 lakes and rivers in one mesmerizing location.

New Smyrna Beach

Distance from St. Augustine: 72 miles Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

New Smyrna Beach is a great destination for those looking for some fun in the sun. The beach is one of the top draws on the entire east coast for surfers. From its mesmerizing beaches to the abundance of water sports activities, this place is sure to have something that piques everyone’s interest.

Try this dolphin and manatee adventure tour to get up close and personal with local wildlife.

New Smyrna Beach is renowned for more than just its aquatic activities, it also offers a superb food scene and is known for its arts offerings as well. And don’t miss your chance to see the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse. It’s the tallest lighthouse in Florida.

Blue Spring State Park

Distance from St. Augustine: 80 miles Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 20 minutes

Spending a day at Blue Spring State Park is a great way to escape the busyness of the tourists bustling about St. Augustine.

Visitors to the park can take advantage of recreational activities such as manatee encounter kayak tours , canoeing, swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and hiking trails.

One of the best things about this park is that it is home to a large number of manatees. Please note that manatee conservation initiatives may necessitate closure to water activities during particular times of the year.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Distance from St. Augustine: 80 miles Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 20 minutes (plus ferry ride)

Cumberland Island National Seashore in Georgia is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for some amazing sandy beaches. The island has a rich history and is perfect for a day trip or even an overnight camping excursion.

Access to the Seashore is by ferry or private boat. Plan to make your ferry reservations in advance.

With over 50 miles of nature trails and roads as well as 18 miles of beaches available to explore, there are plenty of things to do.

PRO TIP: If you have flexible travel dates you need to check out Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). You get amazing flight deals sent straight to your inbox with instructions on how to book directly with the airlines. Check out Going here. Going is my favorite way to find great travel deals. 

Canaveral National Seashore

Distance from St. Augustine: 80 miles Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 25 minutes

For a day of relaxation and exploration with a touch of rocket science, head to Canaveral National Seashore. Perched along the eastern shore of Florida, this beautiful seashore boasts awe-inspiring vistas of the Atlantic and its incessant waves.

It’s an ideal day trip destination for nature lovers. Guests can enjoy horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, fishing, surfing, swimming, boating, and birdwatching. Enthusiasts of space exploration should take advantage of this unique opportunity to view rocket launches from Playalinda Beach.

Wekiwa Springs State Park

Distance from St. Augustine: 100 miles Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 40 minutes

Wekiwa Springs State Park is the perfect day trip for anyone looking for a natural oasis.

Home to lush greenery and its famous natural springs, Wekiwa Springs State Park offers visitors a chance to relax in nature and take advantage of a variety of recreational activities such as swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and hiking trails.

The popular swimming destination features spring waters that are a remarkable 72 degrees all year round.

Distance from St. Augustine: 105 miles Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 45 minutes

Orlando is a great destination for those looking for an exciting day trip. While it’s known as the home of world-famous theme parks, there’s much more to do in this fun city.

From exploring its greenspaces like Lake Eola Park to shopping and dining at Disney Springs, you’ll find something that appeals to everyone here. Try Andretti Indoor Karting, the Crayola Experience, or Gatorland. Venture outside of the major tourist areas to do things like exploring the West Orange Trail or Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve.

Kennedy Space Center

Distance from St. Augustine: 115 miles Approximate drive time: 2 hours

Visiting the Kennedy Space Center is a great way to get an up-close look at one of mankind’s greatest achievements, space exploration. This iconic attraction offers visitors the chance to explore and learn more about American history in spaceflight. There are a variety of Kennedy Space Center tour options.

Where to stay in St. Augustine, Florida

There are many hotels or inns in St. Augustine you could choose from. Here are some of the top-rated for their cleanliness, friendly staff, and location.

Casa Monica : This iconic resort and spa in the historic district is a popular high-end place to stay. It’s located very near Plaza de la Constitución.

Penny Farthing Inn : This Bed & Breakfast is located in historic St. Augustine near the popular Lightner Museum.

Holiday Inn St. Augustine – Historic District : This affordable hotel option is located about a 6-minute drive from Castillo de San Marcos National Monument.

Top tours and activities in St. Augustine

• Private guided historic St. Augustine tour (electric cart)
• Sunset cruise
• Old Jail museum tour
• St. Augustine food experience
• Dolphin and wildlife adventure

The bottom line

St. Augustine, Florida, is a great place to visit for its rich history and culture, but it’s also an ideal location from which you can take day trips to explore other exciting places in the state.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there are plenty of destinations near St. Augustine that provide experiences like wildlife viewing at Anastasia Island or hiking trails at Ravine Gardens State Park.

From nearby towns such as Jacksonville and Daytona Beach to farther away sites like the Kennedy Space Center and Ocala National Forest, there’s something suitable for everyone within easy driving distance of St. Augustine.

What’s your favorite day trip from St. Augustine, FL?

More articles about Florida

• Day trips from Orlando
• The perfect St. Augustine weekend itinerary
• How to spend one day in St. Augustine
• Day bag packing list essentials
• Essential travel resources

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Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

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How to Spend 3 Days in the Vibrant St. Augustine

Are you planning 3 days in St. Augustine and feeling overwhelmed by all the options of things to do and see? I know I was! There are so many things to experience in this Old City; whether you like history, food, adventure, nature, art, music, or photography, there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

Contrary to being the oldest continuously occupied European-founded city in America, I think of youthfulness when I hear St. Augustine. Not only because it is a dynamic city but because it’s also the first location in the United States that my husband and I traveled to not long after our wedding.

At 23, I was fresh out of college with big dreams, and exploring as many places as possible was one of those. I like to say St. Augustine contributed to my desire and love for travel since I haven’t stopped since our first long-ago visit. Now, 12 years later, we found ourselves back in St. Augustine, seeing familiar places while seeking new adventures. 

This time, it took me a little while to figure out what we wanted to do to make the most of our 3 days in St. Augustine. This city has many possibilities, and even though you’ll want to do them all, it’s impossible to squeeze everything in 3 days. 

To help you decide what to see or do, I’ve created this itinerary on how to spend 3 days in St. Augustine. Plus, I’ve included a few visiting tips to help you navigate this fun-loving city! 

Table of Contents

Who Should Use Itinerary for 3 Days in St. Augustine?

We’ve all been there before. Sometimes the best vacations are the most spontaneous with on-a-whim decisions. And while I love to plan, I am hesitant to write itineraries because sometimes life happens and things change. For example, unexpected travel delays, closures, and long wait times can cause havoc in a well-thought-out travel plan. 

Regardless, this 3 days in St. Augustine guide will give you great suggestions and options on what to do in St. Augustine, even if you don’t have enough time to see everything or simply don’t want to do it all. If you have young children, you may also need to cut or change some of these places in the schedule depending on their needs.

Some people, including my husband, might even think this itinerary is too ambitious, but I love to make the most of my vacations by seeing as much as possible!

The good news is that St. Augustine is a very walkable city, making it easy to get to many destinations. It’s possible to walk or bike to many of these places on this itinerary, but you can also call an Uber or rent a car for locations a little further from the heart of downtown. 

This 3 days in St. Augustine itinerary is also great if you love: 

• History 
• Nature 
• Travel photography 
• Looking for ideas for a long weekend getaway
• Seeing the most you can in a short amount of time

Is 3 Days in St. Augustine Enough? 

Yes and no. Honestly, I find it challenging to see St. Augustine in three days. There are many things to do and see, but if you only have three days, it’s possible to see the main points of interest. Just prepare that you may have little downtime if you plan to see all the highlights.

What is the ideal amount of time to visit St. Augustine? That’s hard to say, depending on what you want to do, but five days at least will give you an excellent taste of the city with a less jammed-packed schedule. 

St. Augustine’s Rich Historical Past 

You’ll hear many tour guides say this: St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied European-founded city in the United States. It dates back to the 16th century and is steeped in history, with several cultures shaping what St. Augustine is today.

If you sat in an American high school history class, you already know all about European colonization in North America and the power struggles for the new territories between the major European powers: French, Dutch, Portuguese, British, and Spanish. The founding of St. Augustine is one of many examples of these territorial conflicts, as the Spanish weren’t happy, to say the least, when the French Huguenots moved into Northern Florida.

To resolve this conflict, Spain commissioned conquistador and officer Pedro Menéndez de Avilés to maintain control and drive out the French, which he successfully did so. Pedro Menéndez de Avilés founded St. Augustine in 1865 in response to the growing French threat. 

You can still see the Spanish influence in St. Augustine’s culture, architecture, and cuisine present-day. But it wasn’t just the Spanish who influenced the “Nation’s Oldest City.” The Native Americans, Irish, Africans, Minorcans, British, Greeks, and others have all had their hands in shaping the city we love today.

The Spanish, Native Americans, Irish, Minorcans, Africans, British, Greeks, and others have shaped and influenced the city we see and love today.

When is the Best Time to Visit? 

We’ve been to St. Augustine in mid-April and early September; both times were pretty toasty, although April is usually milder than September. Plus, there is less risk of a hurricane in spring than in summer and fall. Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30.

Usually, you’ll have cooler temperatures, less rain, and fewer crowds if you go during March through May. Hotels are typically cheaper during this time, too. School is only out of session if you visit St. Augustine during spring break (usually around late March and early April). We’ve been towards the end of spring break, but it was relatively quiet in the city compared to Florida’s beaches. 

Some might disagree with me, but summer in Florida is miserable unless you are at the beach or near a pool. Anything from late May to early October is too humid. Average summer temperatures can range from the 80s to upper 90 degrees Fahrenheit. But the humidity makes it feel like it is 1000 degrees outside.

If you go during the warmer months, bring tons of water, sunscreen with a high SPF, a hat, and an umbrella for pop-up showers. The sea breeze near the water may be pleasant, but it can get hot quickly in downtown St. Augustine. 

I’ve yet to make it to St. Augustine from November through March, but there is less precipitation and cooler temperatures during this timeframe. Unless you visit during the major holidays such as Christmas, hotels might be cheaper in winter than in summer. Plus, I’ve heard that Christmastime in St. Augustine is dazzling and magical with all the lights around the city!

Typically, March through May is the best time to visit St. Augustine for cooler temperatures, less rain, and fewer crowds.

Getting Around St. Augustine 

As mentioned earlier, it’s easy to visit many places of interest in St. Augustine by walking or biking. However, you’ll probably want a vehicle to see beyond the historic downtown. 

Parking can be a nightmare depending on when you go, but luckily, I’ve had no issues (yet) finding a spot. Many public metered lots have free parking after 5pm and on Sundays, but if you arrive between 8am and 5pm on all other days, expect to pay around $10-$18 a day. Some lots are $15 for just three hours!

We parked a few times at Trinity Parish near Plaza de la Constitución. It’s $15 for a day with in-and-out privileges. But if you park there, you may have to leave early or return at a specific time if they have a special event, such as a wedding. Also, the Historic Downtown Parking Facility is near St. George Street, which costs $15 per vehicle per entry. 

Many first-timers to St. Augustine will take the trolley. The Old Town Trolley tour gives an excellent overview of St. Augustine, with 22 hop on and off stops. Tickets are pricey, but you can see many St. Augustine highlights if you plan your day in advance. They also have a 2-day trolley ticket for a discounted price. 

You can utilize and rearrange this 3 days in St. Augustine itinerary based on the trolley schedule if you aren’t driving. For more information and ticket prices regarding the Old Town Trolley tours, visit their website here .  

Address for the Old Town Trolley (where it starts) : 167 San Marco Avenue at the Old Jail Museum

Main Highlights of this 3 Days in St. Augustine Itinerary (Excluding Restaurants)

• Day 1 : Flagler College, History Walk or Trolley Loop, St. Augustine Pirate Treasure & Museum, St. George Street, Optional Ghost Walk Tour
• Day 2 : Old Jail Museum, Castillo de San Marcos, Lightner Museum, Aviles Street, Sunset Sail
• Day 3 : Sunrise at St. Johns County Ocean & Fishing Pier, St. Augustine Lighthouse, Choose Your Afternoon Adventure (see St. Augustine Churches & Cemeteries, relax on St. Augustine Beach, explore Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, have fun at St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, or visit Anastasia State Park)

Have a Bruncharcuterie at Ancient City Brunch

Address : 210 St. George Street C3, St. Augustine, FL 32084

For day one of your 3 days in St. Augustine, start with a hearty brunch at Ancient City Brunch . You’ll probably want to wake up early to grab a seat at this well-liked St. Augustine restaurant.

Ancient City Brunch Bar can be expensive, depending on what you order, but it’s a fun place that many people rave about and is one of the best places to grab brunch in St. Augustine. They create a fun twist to the charcuterie board by creating a “bruncharcuterie.” 

They have many choices to build your bruncharcuterie, including favorites such as Belgium waffles, bagels, bacon, fruit, gouda pimento cheese, veggies, and more. 

At first glance, there are so many options that their menu can be slightly confusing. We had to ask for clarification and still managed to order the wrong thing, but it didn’t matter because the breakfast sandwich we received was tasty.

The restaurant is tiny, so you may have to wait to get a table or take your food to go. There are also tables you can share with people you don’t know, giving you an opportunity to talk with the locals!

Stand in Awe at Flagler College’s Spanish Renaissance Architecture

Address : 74 King Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 Cost : $17 per person for the guided tour

I wish I had discovered Flagler College before making my college selection, as this campus would have been my number one pick. If you walk around Flagler College, you’ll understand why. The campus has beautiful Spanish Renaissance architecture, tall towers, an impressive Rotunda, and a stately courtyard. 

Flagler College wasn’t always a college, however. It was once Hotel Ponce de Leon. Industrialist and business owner Henry Flagler came to St. Augustine due to his wife’s poor health and, in doing so, noticed St. Augustine’s growing potential. He started building luxury hotels, including Hotel Ponce de Leon, constructed in 1885 through 1886. 

This expensive hotel was for the wealthy and famous, with notable guests, including President Teddy Roosevelt, Mark Twain, Andrew Carnegie, Joseph Pulitzer, and more. Throughout the campus are lavish furnishings, woodwork, and 40 stunning Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass windows in the ornate dining room. 

While touring Flagler College, you may also notice outside the tall smokestack used to generate electricity. With the Edison Electric Company, Hotel Ponce de Leon was one of the first buildings in America to have electricity. I can’t even imagine the news that must have made back then! 

Today, you can walk around this decorous college on your own or take a guided tour. If you choose to see it on your own, just be aware that your tour will mostly be limited to outside because this is an active campus with limited access to many interior rooms.

Daily guided tours start in the Rotunda located at 74 King Street. This one-hour guided tour will allow you to go beyond the lobby and see the dining room and Flagler room. Find more information about Flagler’s Legacy Tours here . 

Take a History Walk or Complete the Trolley Loop 

If this is your first time going to St. Augustine, take a historic walking tour or the approximate 80-minute narrated Old Time Trolley tour that takes you around the main points of interest in St. Augustine. 

Departing every 15 to 20 minutes at each stop, the trolley tour gives you an overview of St. Augustine with an option to hop off the trolley if a particular place piques your interest. Find more information about the trolley tours  here . 

We opted for a historical walking tour for our latest trip to St. Augustine. The tour was a bit more intimate than the trolley since they limited it to 10 people or fewer (we only had four people, including me and my husband, on the day we went). 

There are several historical walking tours in St. Augustine, but we went with the tour given by St. Augustine Experiences . The hour-long tour covered over a mile of walking on flat terrain. While it is not a challenging walk, you’ll still want to bring comfortable walking shoes.

We learned about Aviles Street, the city’s grid system, Henry Flagler’s luxury hotels, Flagler College, Treasury Street, and the civil rights movement in St. Augustine while walking by some of the oldest homes in the city. Our tour guide also kindly recommended some of the best places to eat while staying in St. Augustine.

Tours are $25 per person. Find more information on tours with St. Augustine Experiences by clicking here .  

Get Lunch and a Miami Vice at Boat Drinks 

Address : 56 St. George Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084

This vibrant, colorful bar and restaurant was a suggestion from a friend that lives near St. Augustine. Boat Drinks is your place if you love a fun tropical atmosphere or rum. They have an excellent selection of rum and is considered one of the top cocktail bars in the United States. 

Getting a drink at Boat Drinks is also refreshing after a morning full of walking. They don’t have an extensive food menu, especially if you don’t care for seafood like me. I ended up with a double cheeseburger and rasta pasta, which was delicious, paired with a Miami Vice.

The tavern is small, and on the busy St. George Street, so you may have to wait for a table. They do have an upstairs bar, but it’s not always open.

Oh! And if time permits, come back for happy hour to get discounted drinks. Happy hour is Monday all day and Thursday – Friday from 3pm to 6pm. 

Find Buried Treasure at the St. Augustine Pirate Treasure & Museum 

Address : 12 South Castillo Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32084 Cost : Regular admission is $18.99 for an adult, $15.99 for a senior (ages 60+), and $9.99 for a child (ages 5-12). They also have annual passes and discounted tickets for military and Florida residents. Prices are subject to change.

After you’ve had your share of rum at Boat Drinks, make your way to the St. Augustine Pirate Treasure & Museum for an adventure. This museum may not be your cup of tea (or rum?), but we’ve been twice and always have a good time. 

You will learn all about legalized privateers, what we call today “pirates,” Discover the infamous lives of Sir Francis Drake, Robert Searles, William Kidd, Thomas Tew, and Edward Teach, who you may know as “Blackbeard.”

You’ll see a wooden remnant from Sir Francis Drake’s shipwreck, Captain Kidd’s chest, one of two Jolly Roger flags that still exist, recovered treasure, and famous pirate movie memorabilia, including my favorite –  Captain Hook . 

The museum takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to visit. Ticket prices are a little high, given it’s a smaller museum, but worth the visit if you enjoy pirate history and treasure. 

Children will also have fun since there are interactive exhibits, including a “treasure hunt,” where they can receive a small prize if they find all the items. However, you may want to skip the exhibit on torture and punishment. It’s interesting, but maybe a bit too much for small children. 

There is also an option to do a combo ticket that includes the St. Augustine Pirate Treasure & Museum and the Colonial Experience, giving you a chance to experience what life was like in the early days of St. Augustine. You’ll see a live musket demonstration, learn about blacksmithing, and climb a watchtower. 

Find more information about the St. Augustine Pirate Treasure & Museum, including ticket prices and combo information here . 

Explore the Famous and Lively St. George Street in the Historic District 

You cannot miss this street during your 3 days in St. Augustine. It’s a bit touristy, but it’s worth the stop, especially if you are a first-time visitor to St. Augustine. Lined with boutique shops, older homes, restaurants, cafés, and more, St. George Street is the most visited street in downtown St. Augustine. It’s a pedestrian-only street, although cars can drive on the roads that intersect with St. George.

You can easily spend a whole afternoon exploring all the stores on the street. It’s also about a 1-2-minute walk to St. George if you are coming from the St. Augustine Pirate Treasure & Museum. Many people, however, will start at the Old City Gates at the northern end and make their way down the street.

Old City Gates

The Old City Gates was the entrance to St. Augustine during colonial America and provided a means of defense to protect the city. Built in 1808, the stone and coquina pillars still stand today and make an excellent spot for a photo opportunity as you begin your journey down St. George Street. 

Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse in America and the Minorcans

Walking through the Old City Gates and continuing down St. George Street, you might notice a small wooden house on the right side of the road. This building is known as the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse in America. Although the construction date is unknown, tax records show the house was there in the early 1700s. Today you can walk into this schoolhouse for a small fee.

During the early 1700s, the schoolhouse was located in the Minorcan Quarter of St. Augustine. Who were the Minorcans? They were people of Mediterranean origins who came to Florida as indentured servants to work on the New Smyrna plantation south of St. Augustine. After years of working on the plantation, the Minorcans moved northward to St. Augustine to establish a new life. Today, many people in St. Augustine are descendants of the Minorcans. 

Read more about the Minorcans and early Greek settlers at the St. Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine on St. George Street. It’s easy to miss, so you’ll probably want to pull it up on the map below or your GPS as you walk down the street. 

Colonial Oak Music Park

Another popular place on St. George Street is the Colonial Oak Music Park . Sometimes, live performances occur here in the afternoon or evening under a massive 300-year-old oak tree. You can view the performance schedule on their website here . 

Lined with boutique shops, older homes, restaurants, cafés, and more, St. George Street is the most visited street in downtown St. Augustine.

Grab Dinner at Casa Reina

Address : 1 Anderson Circle, St. Augustine, FL 32084

This may be unfair or not the best way to judge a taqueria, but I think if they have good salsa, then the rest of the food will probably be pretty darn good. I can easily devour a whole bowl of Casa Reina’s fresh medium-spicy salsa. With that said, Casa Reina has really good drinks and food, especially their tacos.

Casa Reina is just a short distance from St. George Street, about a two-minute walk if you head directly east from the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine. Indoor and outdoor seating provides a pleasant view of the marina and the famous Bridge of Lions. We were lucky to arrive after a brief rain shower with the sun finally peeking through, creating a beautiful rainbow over the blue Matanzas River. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a good photo of it!

“Wine” Down at Casa De Vino 57

Address : 57 Treasury Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Casa De Vino 57 is a cozy wine bar with outdoor seating in a covered courtyard. You can rest your feet here while sipping savory wine and listening to live music. And it’s only a few minutes’ walk from Casa Reina.

If you love red wine, try the Rawen Reserva Merlot from Chile. It’s delicious and bold. You can order by the glass or the bottle on select wines, but we decided to celebrate our first night in St. Augustine with a bottle. Cheers! 

Optional: Delve Into the Spooky Side of St. Augustine with a Ghost Walk 

Address : 76 Spanish Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 Cost : $30 per person; the tour is only for ages 13 and up

After enjoying some wine, walk about thirty or so steps on Spanish Street to reach your next destination: The Odd Macabre. This quirky, small shop is in the cutest little building in St. Augustine, and inside, you’ll find many unique items. And as the name suggests, odd. You’ll also notice the wonderful fragrance when you walk through the door, as you can make candles here, too.

But we weren’t here for candle making. Instead, we booked the late-night Ghostorian’s Grimoire ghost walk (the North Route) for 9:30pm . I say “late” because anything past 9pm is usually bedtime for me. 

Regardless of the time, I booked this guided tour because of three things: it has good reviews, they keep the group size small, and I didn’t want something theatrical or kitschy. And there are many, many ghost tour options in St. Augustine. I mean, it’s expected in the United States oldest continuously occupied European-founded city. 

I’m happy with my well-researched decision because we had an outstanding tour with our guide, learning all about the creepy and mysterious things that went down in St. Augustine. 

On the northern ghost tour route, you’ll most likely see the following:

• A bed & breakfast, formerly a funeral home
• The oldest cemeteries in the city
• Flagler College
• Plaza de la Constitución
• A love tree

You might ask: what the heck is a love tree? A love tree is where two different trees grow together. In this case, a palm tree and an oak. Legends vary, but it’s said that if two lovers kiss beneath the tree, their love will be eternal. However, if they separate for some reason, death awaits the doomed lovers—a sweet but possibly tragic tale. 

You can also book a southern route tour for 8pm if you want to do something earlier. Both tours are $30 per person and only for those 13 and older. You’ll want to arrive at least 15 minutes before the start time. Please find more information on their website here .

Oh, you might ask…did I experience something spooky or paranormal? Yes, I did! We’ve done many ghost tours in various locations with no ghostly activity. So, I wasn’t expecting anything different for this tour, but I was dead wrong.

At the beginning of the walk, they’ll give you glow stick lanyards to wear around your neck. These glow sticks will relate to a story the guide shares at the first stop. 

Now I tied my purple glowing lanyard in three tight knots. Part of me really wants to believe it wasn’t tied as tight as I thought, but I felt a little tug shortly after our guide concluded his story, almost as if the lanyard was pulled by someone or something…

Try an Aussie Pie and Kookaburra Coffee

Address : 24 Cathedral Place, St. Augustine, FL 32084

To start your second day in St. Augustine, snooze a bit and then grab an Aussie pie! 

What is an Aussie pie? I had no idea until I stepped into Kookaburra Coffee , but it’s a pie no larger than your hand (think of a pot pie, but smaller). You can fill these baby pies with meat, veggies, gravy, cheese, and whatever your heart desires. 

We ordered the coffee barista’s recommendation, “True Blue,” containing egg, cheese, and a sprinkle of rosemary. Pair it with one of their coffees, and it’s scrumptious! 

There might be a line out the door for Kookaburra Coffee, but I promise it’s worth the wait! 

Go Behind Bars at the Old Jail Museum 

Address : 167 San Marco Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084 Cost : An adult ticket (ages 13+) can range from $16.99 to $18.99, depending on which day you go. A child’s ticket is $8.99 (under 4 is free). Prices are subject to change.

The Old Jail Museum is a short drive from Kookaburra Coffee; if you go there in the morning, there should be plenty of parking spaces. Or you can take an Uber or the trolley if you have tickets. 

A very pink building will greet you once you enter the parking lot. You might even think you’re in the wrong spot, but you are not. That pink building is the Old City Jail, constructed by a company that later built the infamous Alcatraz prison. 

Why does the Old Jail look this way? Well, Henry Flagler, you know, the same wealthy man who owned the hotel that later became Flagler College, knew that a jail was necessary for St. Augustine, but he didn’t want it to be downtown since it was not pleasing to the eyes. Plus, who would invest in a city with an ugly jail right in the heart of it? 

His resolution to the eyesore issue: place the jail a little north of downtown St. Augustine on San Marco Avenue and make it look less like a jail and more like a hotel. In some ways, his plan was successful. 

Today, 30-minute tours of the jail occur every 20 minutes starting at 9am on most days of the year. Guides dressed as inmates narrate the tour providing information about the jail’s history, including its notorious inmates. You’ll even get a chance to participate when they book you for jail!

While some topics covered may not be suitable for kids, they keep the tour entertaining and informative.

For information about the Old Jail and admission prices, visit their website here . 

Take a Step Into the Past at Castillo de San Marcos: St. Augustine’s Early Defense 

Address : 11 South Castillo Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32084 Cost : $15 per adult (ages 16 and up). Children 15 and under get in free. Only debit or credit cards are accepted. See their website for additional pass info. Prices are subject to change.

For your 3 days in St. Augustine vacation, you must visit the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States, the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. The fort is just a short distance drive from the Old Jail Museum.

This fort helped protect St. Augustine in its early infancy. It is currently maintained by the National Park Services, with hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. 

Dating back to 1672, the construction of the stone fort began due to the failures of wooden forts protecting the people of St. Augustine and Spain’s ships from enemy attacks.

The defense was a military base and was especially important in protecting Spain’s trade routes. It wasn’t until the late 1730s that plans were made to fortify the fort, including raising the walls to 35 feet. 

Over the following decades, control and ownership of the fort passed from Spain to Great Britain, back to Spain, eventually landing in the hands of the United States. Castillo de San Marcos became “Fort Marion,” serving again as a military base and prison until the army left for the last time in 1900. After years of nonuse, the National Park Service took over the fort in 1933, and Congress restored its name to Castillo de San Marcos in 1942. 

Today, you can walk around the fort’s walls and visit many interior rooms, including the old power magazine room, where you must crawl on your hands and feet (or squat really low) to reach. We call it the “creepy room” as it is dark, tiny, and feels slightly eerie as soon as you step inside. 

Castillo de San Marcos is not free. Plan about 1 to 3 hours for your visit. You may want to visit early in the day as the fort is mostly outdoors without air conditioning. 

Visitor Tip : There is a cannon demonstration, and many people will gather to watch it on the terreplein (the second floor of the fort). But along the outside of the East wall, you’ll get a better view of the demonstration with fewer people. 

Devour Some BBQ for Lunch

Address : 5 Cordova Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Head on over to Mojo Old City BBQ for some southern cuisine, barbeque, and a chilled afternoon beer or cocktail. The restaurant is only a few steps away from Tolomato Cemetery and about a 5-minute walk from Castillo de San Marcos.

Their sauces are delicious on almost anything, especially the sweet and chipotle mixed on their beef brisket. 

Immerse Yourself Into History at the Lightner Museum 

Address : 75 King Street, Saint Augustine, FL Cost : Adult tickets are $17. College students, military, and senior tickets (65+) are $14. Youth tickets are $10. Children 11 and under get in free. Prices are subject to change.

The next stop, the Lightner Museum , is a little further away – about an 8-minute walk straight down Cordova Street, or you can take a short drive there. 

They have plenty of parking behind the museum in the public lot, but you must pay unless it’s after 5pm, a Sunday, or a holiday. Keep in mind that the museum is open from 9am to 5pm (the last admission is at 4pm), so it might be best to visit on a Sunday if you are driving and do not want to pay for parking. 

We did not have time to see this historical gem on our last stop in St. Augustine. For this visit, I wanted to dedicate at least 2 to 3 hours to seeing the museum, which is probably the average time many people spend here. 

This museum has temporary exhibits and permanent collections on multiple floors that include many beautiful works of art, Tiffany stained glass, an American Cut Glass Gallery, Gilded Age furniture and objects, and Otto Lightner’s (founder of the museum) collection of hobbies and curiosities. 

The Lightner Museum was originally the Alcazar Hotel, and its large pool hosted many events. You can have lunch and step into what was formerly the biggest indoor swimming pool in the world in 1888. Traces of the former hotel can also be seen in the Russian and Turkish Baths on the second floor and the ballroom on the third floor. 

Who commissioned this hotel’s construction? It’s none other than the same person who oversaw the construction of St. Augustine’s other opulent hotels during this time – Henry Flagler. 

Find admission information and pricing for the Lightner Museum here . 

Walk Down the Oldest Street in St. Augustine 

Walking down St. George Street, you may think it’s the oldest street in St. Augustine because of its colonial architecture. That was my thought at first, but another road holds that title: Aviles Street . It’s a charming brick street with boutique shops, restaurants, and museums.

You’ll locate Aviles off the Plaza de la Constitución. Notice when you get to Aviles that it’s shorter and narrower than St. George and takes less time to explore. 

If you don’t have time to explore these locations, at least walk down Aviles since it’s very picturesque with its colorful bricks and buildings. 

The oldest street in St. Augustine is not St. George Street. It’s the charming and beautiful Aviles Street.

Have Dinner at Historical O.C. White’s

Address : 118 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084

O.C. White’s dates back to the late 18th century and was one of St. Augustine’s first hotels. Today you can enjoy dinner inside or on their lovely, shaded patio near the marina. My husband enjoyed the shrimp, and I had a scrumptious southern-inspired meal: collard greens, brisket, and mac and cheese. You can’t go wrong at O.C. White’s! 

Take a Sunset Sail on the Matanzas River 

A sunset sail on a catamaran is the perfect way to end the second day of your 3 days in St. Augustine vacation. Cruise on the Matanzas River under the famous Bride of Lions, passing downtown St. Augustine and Castillo de San Marcos. If the waves aren’t too choppy, the catamaran might even take you close to Anastasia State Park and the St. Augustine Inlet that opens to the vast Atlantic Ocean.

You’ll see lots of wildlife, including dolphins and various species of birds. We were fortunate to see a dolphin pod up close; they were peeking their long snouts above the water, allowing me to capture a few shots with my film camera. 

Multiple businesses offer these excursions, but we went with St. Augustine ECO Tours . We chose the catamaran for a more intimate setting, but they also provide boating expeditions if you are okay with being in a larger group setting. 

The cost per person was $65 per adult, but well worth it to see St. Augustine from a different viewpoint.

Find more information about St. Augustine ECO tours here . 

Pop In For a Quick Dessert at Le Macaron 

Address : 8 Cathedral Place, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Oh, my goodness! I cannot say enough good things about Le Macaron French Pastries , which is a short walking distance from the marina. Their little macaroons are the perfect sweetness and not cloying. 

But I really fell in love with their Nutella French beignets. Since we went to New Orleans, I’ve had a strong appetite for these delectable French pastries. Add Nutella to it, and I’m in Heaven. You have to stop and try one of these! 

Plus, it’s fun to admire their hand-painted creations. They have desserts that resemble shoes, lipstick, bears, lips, hearts, and more!

Optional: Greet Dawn at St. Johns County Ocean & Fishing Pier

Address for the pier : 350 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine Beach, FL 32080

If you are a morning person or don’t mind waking up a few hours earlier, visiting St. Johns Pier will reward you with a spectacular sunrise. Even if it is cloudy, the beach is still lovely for an early morning stroll. Plus, it’s a good way to start the last day of your 3 days in St. Augustine vacation.

The morning we went was magical and dynamic – storm clouds were in the far distance while the sun rose over the horizon, creating pink and golden hues. Many surfers were riding the glassy and dreamlike waves. 

Given that it was around 6:45am, I was surprised by the number of people on the beach to see this incredible sight. We got some fantastic images with the pier in our frame. 

It is possible to go on the pier, but they charge a $2 fee for sightseeing , so we opted to walk around instead. Also, parking is free and easy to find in the morning. You can park in the public lot next to the pier. 

Visitor Tip : At the pier, the tide might be too high for you to walk down to the beach. If you want to sit on the beach to watch the sunrise, you may need to park further away from the pier. We parked on the side street near Island Donuts (16th Street). From there, it was a short walk down to the sand. 

Grab Some Amazing Donuts and Coffee at Island Donuts

Address : 400 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080

I didn’t think I would find a glazed donut as good as Krispy Kreme’s, but I was wrong! Island Donuts fresh donuts have the right softness, fluffiness, and sweetness. And they have many varieties too: glazed cinnamon roll, strawberry iced, Boston creme, orange creamsicle, s’mores, and old-fashioned, to name a few. They also have fritters, including a pineapple fritter, which many people rave about. 

Grab a box of these fantastic donuts before heading to the lighthouse, or enjoy them in their small seating area. If you plan to watch the sunrise, you may be able to grab a box depending on when daybreak occurs. 

They are open daily from 6am to 1pm. 

Visitor Tip : The Bridge of Lions is a drawbridge. It opens to allow boat traffic, happening multiple times a day. You’ll want to factor this into your schedule when going to St. Augustine Beach (Anastasia Island). Traffic can sometimes back up.

Climb 219 Steps for a Panoramic View at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

Address : 100 Red Cox Road, St. Augustine, FL 32080 General Admission Cost : Adult tickets are $14.95. Senior tickets (60+) are $12.95. Tickets for children (age 12 and under) are $12.95. You must be at least 44 inches tall to climb the lighthouse. Check their website for promo codes for a discounted ticket (must be purchased online). Prices are subject to change.

A long time ago, a cat named Smokey parachuted off this lighthouse. Yes, you read that right. The lighthouse keeper’s son had this idea to see if cats could float. A terrible idea.

Thankfully, the kitty was okay but didn’t return for quite some time, and I don’t blame him. If I were the cat, I would never return!

And it’s a long, long way down. The St. Augustine Lighthouse is 165 feet high with 219 steps (14 stories!). It’s not a straight shot to the top, however. There are some landings where you can rest and catch your breath.  

But when you make it up the 219 stairs, you’ll be rewarded with a pleasant view of St. Augustine. I’m afraid of heights, so I take my pictures quickly and go. Of course, coming back down is a lot easier than going back up.

What you see today is not the first St. Augustine Lighthouse. Its predecessor stood 350 closer to the Atlantic Ocean but tumbled into the sea because of shoreline erosion. The one you see standing was completed in 1874 and still shines today.  

Also on the property are the keeper’s house, various exhibits, and nature trails. Parking is free, and there is an excellent gift shop to buy souvenirs. They even have plush stuffed animals named Smokey the Cat. Poor Smokey.

Visitor Tip : You must be at least 44″ or taller to climb the lighthouse. Also, if you are allergic to wasps, you’ll want to be careful since paper wasps are sometimes at the top. You’ll want to read the safety pamphlet they give you before starting your ascent. 

Eat Lunch at the Salt Life Food Shack 

Address : 321 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080

You may have worked up an appetite after walking up all those steps at the St. Augustine Lighthouse. Recharge at the Salt Life Food Shack , a popular restaurant and beachgoer favorite. 

My main reason to go: obtain a Salt Life car decal. I’ve always wanted this decal, but my husband wasn’t thrilled about the idea. He doesn’t generally like car decals, but this eventually became a silly joke between us. 

And I am a beach girl. If I could, I would pack up everything and live the “salt life” with a colorful seaside house on the sand. Having never eaten at Salt Life before, I wanted the sticker purely for what it says. 

Unfortunately, that dream of living on the coast isn’t feasible right now, but my eyes lit up when I saw that St. Augustine has a Salt Life. Finally, I could try this popular restaurant and get my decal, which my car proudly displays today (and still very much to my husband’s playful objection). 

I wasn’t disappointed with the restaurant either. We sat on the completely outside second floor with a partial ocean view. The food and drinks were delicious – especially the rum runner and the Category 5 cocktail that accurately lives up to its name. I can’t speak for their seafood since I don’t eat it, but the queso and the chicken tenders were appetizing. 

Consider These Options For Your Afternoon

After finishing lunch, you can head back downtown or stay on Anastasia Island. I’ve listed below a few options depending on where you want to go or what you prefer to do for the last day of your 3 days in St. Augustine:

If You Stay on Anastasia Island

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

Address : 999 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, FL 32080 General Admission Cost : Adult tickets are $34.99. A ticket for a child (ages 3-11) is $19.99. See additional tickets and discounted rates here . Prices are subject to change.

My father remembers visiting the Alligator Farm in the 1960s with his mom and dad. Back then, it wasn’t as nearly as big as it is today. Kids love the Alligator Farm and will probably make memories that will last a lifetime like my dad did. 

The park began in the 1890s as a small exhibit, different from what you see in the present day, a modern zoo with many exhibits: Birds of Africa, Alligator Lagoon, Land of Crocodiles, Pacific Island Reptiles and Birds, Komodo, South American Birds, Lemurs of Madagascar, to name a few. 

They have over 20 species of crocodilians, including a massive 15-foot saltwater crocodile named Maximo, his name somewhat reminding me of Maximus from the movie  Gladiator . You can even get an aerial view of the zoo with the zip line adventure. Or, if heights don’t bother you, you can scale a climbing wall. 

Tickets are a bit pricey but well worth the fun of what you’ll do and see. They are open daily from 9am to 5pm or until 6pm in the summer.

Soak in the Sunshine and Relax at the St. Augustine Beach 

It’s the last day of your 3 days in St. Augustine vacation, and you may just want an afternoon to chill, prop up your feet, and relax. I can’t think of a better way to do this than spend the afternoon at St. Augustine Beach . 

Besides laying out on the sand or splashing in the saltwater, St. Augustine Beach has other activities, including fishing, surfing, volleyball, bicycle riding, and driving your car on some parts of the beach.

There are many public places to park at St. Augustine Beach. View where to park by clicking here .

Find Nature at Anastasia State Park 

Cost : $8 per vehicle (up to 8 people); $4 for single-occupant vehicle; $2 for pedestrian, bicyclist, and extra passengers. Prices are subject to change.

If the weather cooperates and you love nature, consider spending the afternoon at the gorgeous Anastasia State Park . 

Walk amongst sand dunes and pristine beaches while admiring several species of birds. More activities include bicycling, hiking, picnicking, fishing, paddling, and surfing. You can even visit the coquina quarry, where coquina was mined to build the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. 

The park is open daily from 8am to sundown and is not too expensive to visit . See additional admission information  here .

If You Head Back to Downtown

See Beautiful Stained Glass Windows at Trinity Parish and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine

Address for Trinity Parish : 215 Saint George Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 Address for Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine : 38 Cathedral Place, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Located off the Plaza de la Constitución are the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine and Trinity Parish churches. Seeing them wasn’t originally on our 3 days in St. Augustine itinerary, but they welcomed us with open doors. And we were immediately awed by the magnificent architecture and colorful stained glass windows that depict biblical stories. 

Trinity Parish has a rare Louis Tiffany stained glass and a massive circular stained glass above the front door. You may miss it if you don’t look up. My favorite is the angel that appears headless when looking at the window from the outside in the plaza. The way that the stained glass is made only allows you to view her head from inside the sanctuary. It’s a magnificent piece of glass, but a bit chilling to see it from the outside.

The churches are absolutely worth a stop if they are open and service is not in session. We spent around 30 minutes learning about each church’s history and talking to congregation members. Their love and enthusiasm for their church are evident in how they spoke to us.

Marvel at the Beauty at Huguenot and Tolomato Cemeteries 

Address for Tolomato Cemetery : 14 Cordova Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084 Address for Huguenot Cemetery : 3 Cordova Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084

If you visit St. Augustine on the third Saturday of the month, consider doing a free tour of St. Augustine’s oldest cemeteries. These tours give you a glimpse of the life stories of those interred there. 

Both cemeteries are gorgeous and peaceful, especially Tolomato Cemetery , the oldest cemetery in St. Augustine. It’s the final resting place for around 1000 people between the 18th century and 1884.

Huguenot Cemetery was a Protestant Cemetery burial ground from 1821 to 1884, and you can find this cemetery north of the Old City Gates.

You can only go inside the cemeteries if it’s a tour , and the two cemeteries are worth a stop as you walk downtown. While there is no charge, donations are greatly appreciated.

The free tours are from 11am to 2pm (the last tour starts at 1:30pm) every third Saturday of the month.

Explore Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park 

Address : 11 Magnolia Avenue, St. Augustine, FL Cost : An adult ticket is $19.95. Senior ticket (60+) is $17.95. A ticket for a child (age 6-12) is $9.95. Children 5 and under get in free. Prices are subject to change.

At Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park , you can drink water from a spring discovered in 1513 by early Spanish settlers and Ponce de Leon. The water comes from an underground aquifer containing several minerals, but it definitely isn’t Fiji! I think tasting the water is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. After that, I’m good. 

In addition to learning about the early Spanish settlers and sipping the “fountain of youth,” you’ll learn about the Timucua, a group of Native Americans that settled in Florida thousands of years before the Spanish arrived. You’ll see a reconstructed Timucua village showing their way of life, including an anoti, a large family house. 

And one of my favorite things is the planetarium show that gives you a glimpse of the night sky when Ponce de Leon’s ships landed off the coast. I think seeing something the way it would have been centuries before is incredible.

Some people might find this place to be a bit touristy, but children and history lovers might have fun exploring. We visited here during our first trip to St. Augustine, and while it was interesting to see, it was probably my least favorite place on the itinerary, but I am happy I still went.

To see the archaeological park, visit their website here for more information. 

Have 1950s-style Fried Shrimp at O’steen’s 

You might have returned to downtown St. Augustine instead of staying on Anastasia Island. However, if you are okay with the short drive back to Anastasia Island, consider having 1950s-style fried shrimp at the famous O’steen’s Restaurant. 

Everyone we spoke with beforehand and in St. Augustine recommended Osteen’s. It’s a smaller restaurant but a favorite among locals and tourists for over 50 years. 

And it’s a great way to wrap up an amazing 3 days in St. Augustine! 

Where We Stayed During Our 3 Days in St. Augustine

There are many accommodation options in historic downtown St. Augustine and the surrounding area. You’ll probably want to find a hotel or bed & breakfast near or on St. George Street to be close to the major action and attractions. 

But to maybe save a little money, consider the surrounding area or St. Augustine Beach on Anastasia Island. We chose the latter and stayed at the Courtyard by Marriott , a few steps from the ocean. The beach is also just a short distance from the heart of downtown – about a 12-minute drive.

From the Locals 

We had many recommendations on where to eat or drink from friends living in the surrounding area and from talking to locals we met during our 3 days in St. Augustine. After all, the best way to get to know a place is to talk to the locals!

While we really wanted to try them all, it wasn’t possible during our 3 days in St. Augustine, but if you have extra time or if you want to try something different other than what is listed above, check out these:

In or Near the Heart of Downtown:

River & Fort

River & Fort is a newer southern-inspired restaurant in downtown St. Augustine. They have a rooftop lounge and serve seafood, steaks, cocktails, and more. 

Columbia Restaurant 

Located on St. George Street, the Spanish-styled Columbia Restaurant serves Spanish and Cuban cuisine at lunch or dinner. 

Prohibition Kitchen 

This vintage gastropub and lounge were jammed-packed when we walked by it on St. George Street. Prohibition Kitchen’s interior is pretty cool with its industrial-vintage decor and style. 

PK’s Roosevelt Room 

Right next door to Prohibition Kitchen is their Roosevelt Room . Come here in the morning as they serve a variety of breakfast and brunch items. 

This Tuscan Coast-inspired restaurant serves northern Italian seafood and pasta dishes. Alta Marea is also on the beautiful, historic Aviles Street. 

Ice Plant  

Go to Ice Plant for a nice dinner. This industrial-style restaurant serves local food and fancy cocktails. Plus, the name of this restaurant is pretty stellar. 

The Floridian

We actually tried this modern Southern fare restaurant during our 3 days in St. Augustine. I don’t like to talk negatively about a brand, but I was not a fan of my meal at The Floridian . It could have just been what I ordered, or maybe it was an “off night” for them. Despite my experience, several locals told us to go here because of the fantastic food. Due to this, I am listing this restaurant here so you can decide for yourself! 

San Sebastian Winery 

We went here on our first trip to St. Augustine and enjoyed their award-winning wines on their open-air deck while listening to live music. The view at San Sebastian is pretty good too. 

On Anastasia Island (St. Augustine Beach):

Terra & Acqua 

The sister restaurant to Alta Marea, Terra & Acqua also serves northern-Italian food and pizza in a more casual setting. 

Osprey Tacos 

I love tacos and firmly believe you can’t go wrong with a restaurant that primarily serves tacos. Osprey Tacos’ choices of what they put in their tacos are endless: chicken, soy protein, carne asada, shrimp, pork, tofu, veggies, and chorizo, to name a few. 

Blackfly 

Located on Anastasia Island near the Bridge of Lions, the Blackfly serves seafood, steaks, veggies, and more. They also have a long list of wines! 

Did you find this 3 days in St. Augustine itinerary helpful? If so, please comment and share below!

A Note on My Photos

All images in this article except three photos were shot on 35mm film. Can you guess which three are not on film?

For our 3 days in St. Augustine, I used Atlanta Film Co.’s 250D, 500T, and their newly limited-released Koji 125T. I also used my usual go-to, Portra 400.

I tried the SantaColor 100 color-negative film for fun and experimentation, and I loved the results! See my article SantaColor 100: Bold Reds in Beautiful St. Augustine for more!

If you like this content, please share and pin it for later!

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2 thoughts on “how to spend 3 days in the vibrant st. augustine”.

I have enjoyed your trip so much. Makes me wish we had taken the time to visit when we were in Flordia. I felt like I was taking it with you. You do a great job and keep it up you are doing great. I do not care for anything but shrimp. Give me real food instead. LOL

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Thank you for your comment and kind feedback!

Jessica Travel by Grain

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4-Day St. Augustine Itinerary

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• St. Augustine in 4 days
• 1-Day St. Augustine Itinerary
• 2-Day St. Augustine Itinerary
• 3-Day St. Augustine Itinerary
• 5-Day St. Augustine Itinerary

Table of contents

Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: center of town, day 3: off the beaten path, day 4: proximity is everything, castillo de san marcos national monument.

St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum

Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Potter's wax museum, cathedral basilica of st. augustine, medieval torture museum, bridge of lions, where to eat, columbia restaurant, st. augustine seafood company, the kookaburra downtown.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

St. augustine alligator farm zoological park, the st. augustine amphitheatre, anastasia state park, black raven pirate ship, a1a ale works restaurant & taproom, costa brava, mojo's tacos, amici italian restaurant.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

Old jail museum, national shrine of our lady of la leche, st. augustine and st. johns county visitor information center, spanish military hospital museum, villa zorayda museum, sainte-george restaurant, old city house inn & restaurant, raintree restaurant.

All travel reservations in 1 place

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St. Johns County Ocean & Fishing Pier

San sebastian winery, saint augustine distillery, flagler college, lightner museum, plaza de la constitución, oldest house museum complex, colonial quarter, café alcazar, ice plant bar, taberna del caballo, michael's st. augustine.

Perfect for road trips

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Top searches in St. Augustine

Popular road trips from st. augustine, what's the weather like in st. augustine.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in St. Augustine for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in St. Augustine in January
• Weather in St. Augustine in February
• Weather in St. Augustine in March
• Weather in St. Augustine in April
• Weather in St. Augustine in May
• Weather in St. Augustine in June
• Weather in St. Augustine in July
• Weather in St. Augustine in August
• Weather in St. Augustine in September
• Weather in St. Augustine in October
• Weather in St. Augustine in November
• Weather in St. Augustine in December

All road trips from St. Augustine

• St. Augustine to Orlando drive
• St. Augustine to New York City drive
• St. Augustine to Savannah drive
• St. Augustine to Washington DC drive
• St. Augustine to New Orleans drive
• St. Augustine to Tampa drive
• St. Augustine to Miami Beach drive
• St. Augustine to Charleston drive
• St. Augustine to Atlanta drive
• St. Augustine to Chicago drive
• St. Augustine to Titusville drive
• St. Augustine to Nashville drive
• St. Augustine to Sarasota drive
• St. Augustine to Gatlinburg drive
• St. Augustine to Toronto drive
• St. Augustine to Boston drive
• St. Augustine to Myrtle Beach drive
• St. Augustine to Philadelphia drive
• St. Augustine to Niagara Falls drive
• St. Augustine to Memphis drive
• St. Augustine to San Antonio drive
• St. Augustine to Baltimore drive
• St. Augustine to Montreal drive
• St. Augustine to Branson drive
• St. Augustine to Chattanooga drive
• St. Augustine to Naples drive
• St. Augustine to Saint Louis drive
• St. Augustine to Williamsburg drive
• St. Augustine to Miami drive
• St. Augustine to Panama City Beach drive

Explore nearby places

• St. Augustine
• Vilano Beach
• Saint Augustine Beach
• Crescent Beach
• Green Cove Springs
• Ponte Vedra Beach
• Switzerland
• East Palatka
• the Palm Coast
• Fleming Island
• Jacksonville Beach
• Orange Park
• Penney Farms
• Neptune Beach
• Flagler Beach
• Atlantic Beach
• Pomona Park
• Crescent City

All related maps of St. Augustine

• Map of St. Augustine
• Map of Vilano Beach
• Map of Saint Augustine Beach
• Map of Crescent Beach
• Map of Elkton
• Map of Marineland
• Map of Hastings
• Map of St. Johns
• Map of Green Cove Springs
• Map of Ponte Vedra Beach
• Map of Switzerland
• Map of East Palatka
• Map of the Palm Coast
• Map of Fruit Cove
• Map of San Mateo
• Map of Palatka
• Map of Fleming Island
• Map of Jacksonville Beach
• Map of Bunnell
• Map of Orange Park
• Map of Penney Farms
• Map of Neptune Beach
• Map of Flagler Beach
• Map of Atlantic Beach
• Map of Satsuma
• Map of Southside
• Map of Lake Como
• Map of Pomona Park
• Map of Crescent City
• Map of Middleburg
• Map of Welaka

St. Augustine throughout the year

• St. Augustine in January
• St. Augustine in February
• St. Augustine in March
• St. Augustine in April
• St. Augustine in May
• St. Augustine in June
• St. Augustine in July
• St. Augustine in August
• St. Augustine in September
• St. Augustine in October
• St. Augustine in November
• St. Augustine in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in St. Augustine?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

Day itineraries for nearby cities

• 4-Day Jacksonville Beach Itinerary
• 4-Day Flagler Beach Itinerary
• 4-Day Marineland Itinerary
• 4-Day Saint Augustine Beach Itinerary
• 4-Day Vilano Beach Itinerary

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This Charming Florida City Has Quaint Inns, Pristine Beaches, and Year-round Appeal

Here's what you need to know for a fun trip to St. Augustine, Florida.

Best Things to Do in St. Augustine

St. augustine hotels, best times to visit st. augustine, where to eat and drink, getting there.

Some Florida destinations are beloved for their white-sand beaches , while others are known for their history, food scene, or plentiful attractions. St. Augustine covers all those bases and more. This historic city is near the spot where Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León, supposedly on a quest to find the fabled Fountain of Youth, landed in 1513. A permanent settlement was established a few decades later, making St. Augustine the oldest city in the mainland U.S. to be inhabited continuously since its establishment by European settlers.

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More than 450 years since its founding, St. Augustine remains one of the most beautiful cities in Florida. It's also a lively destination with tons of things to see, do, and explore.

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While strolling the historic streets of St. Augustine is a worthwhile activity in and of itself, there are many ways to dig deeper beneath the surface of this spellbinding city.

A good way to start is by taking a trolley tour to get the lay of the land. Old Town Trolley Tours operate in seven historic cities across America, and on their St. Augustine tours, you’ll hear fascinating tales of the city’s past and present while hitting 21 hop-on, hop-off stops. The trolley passes by more than 100 points of interest around the city, including Ponce de León’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, the Old Jail, the Oldest House Museum Complex, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, and more. 

Plus, you can return by night for the Ghosts & Gravestones iteration of the tour, filled with tales of the spooky, macabre, and paranormal. A “frightseeing” tour is a must in a city with ghosts as old as St. Augustine's.

Shopping in the historic district is another popular activity. The pedestrian-only central thoroughfare, St. George Street, is loaded with shops, restaurants, attractions, funky boutiques, and antiquities. You can easily spend a day getting lost in and around this charming part of town.

As you wander, you won’t be able to miss the massive Castillo de San Marcos , a Spanish stone fortress dating back to the 1600s. Stop in for a tour, colonial history, and views of the St. Augustine Inlet.

For more historical eye candy, tour the stunning Flagler College and the Lightner Museum . Both were founded by Henry Flagler, a railroad magnate who spent many of his later years in St. Augustine — and they both have an architectural grandeur befitting Flagler's Gilded Age wealth. At Flagler College, you can admire the 79 (!) Tiffany stained-glass windows that illuminate the hand-painted murals adorning the university’s dining room, among other highlights. The Lightner, meanwhile, occupies the former Hotel Alcázar, making it a great place to see both an impressive art collection and the architecture of one of St. Augustine's first grand resorts.

Not into history? Outdoorsy types love St. Augustine’s beautiful Atlantic Ocean beaches, which aren’t far from the historic downtown. St. Augustine Beach and tranquil Crescent Beach are two favorites, complete with grassy dunes and windswept stretches of sand, but the protected wildlife sanctuary of Anastasia State Park is one of the area’s most peaceful destinations.

In St. Augustine, boutique inns and historic hotels are the name of the game. There are chain hotels in the area, which may be better for large groups or those on a strict budget, but for everyone else, staying in one of the city’s quaint inns is part of the fun. Best of all, the following properties are all located downtown, putting the whole of the historic district within easy walking distance.

The romantic St. Francis Inn on St. George Street is consistently popular among visitors and replete with historic charm. In addition to 19 elegant guest rooms and suites, the inn features a walled courtyard garden, a swimming pool, bicycles, cozy living and dining rooms, and, of course, full gourmet breakfasts every morning.

Another favorite is The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens , a charming, upscale property on Cordova Street at the edge of St. Augustine’s Old Town. The hotel is within walking distance of all the main attractions yet offers a peaceful getaway from the crowds. Rooms are modern yet plush, and shared spaces include a stunning courtyard, cozy bar, and heated pool.

You’re sure to spot the Casa Monica Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection on your visit to St. Augustine. Built in 1888, this Moroccan-inspired property occupies a prime position in the heart of the historic district. A spa, an event space, and an on-site Mediterranean restaurant are among its impressive amenities.

Other top-rated lodgings in St. Augustine include the Historic Sevilla House , Old Powder House Inn , Casa De Solana Bed and Breakfast , 44 Spanish Street Inn , and the Bayfront Marin House Historic Inn & Cottages , which is located across from Matanzas Bay (and is arguably the best waterfront hotel in St. Augustine) but also has off-property beach cottages and Caribbean-style homes on the ocean.

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There’s no bad time to visit St. Augustine. The city experiences more seasonal changes than many other parts of Florida since it’s located in the state’s north, but there are appealing reasons to visit year-round. 

For thinner crowds in the historic district, go during the summer. There are disadvantages to this time of year — beaches will be crowded thanks to school breaks, and hurricanes can blow through and dampen plans — but, with few in-town visitors and lots of sunny days, it's undeniably a pleasant time for a trip. Springtime is also nice, with warm, breezy weather and lots of festivals. 

In the fall, family tourism is minimal as school starts back up, so you might be able to snag some good prices and even enjoy some changing leaves (yes, St. Augustine is far enough north to have some colorful foliage). With mild weather, minimal rain and humidity, and fewer crowds, fall is the perfect time of year to stroll in the historic district, browse the many shops, and attend cultural festivals.

Another good time to visit is winter, thanks to the comfortable weather — temperatures rarely dip below 50 and are often as high as the low 70s — and Nights of Lights . From mid-November to the end of January, this award-winning festival illuminates the city with more than three million lights. It's one of the top Christmastime attractions in Florida , so to avoid the crowds, try to time your visit outside of weekends and holidays.

No matter where you get a table, it’s hard to go wrong in St. Augustine. The city is one of the best foodie destinations in Florida, with restaurants that boast incredible ambience as well as mouthwatering food. St. Augustine is a great place to try typical Florida cuisine, like fresh seafood and Latin fare, but the mix of classic and modern eateries offers something for all to enjoy.

Ice Plant Bar , which presents farm-to-table food and craft cocktails in a renovated 1927 building, is just outside the historic district but beloved by visitors. A1A Ale Works is another memorable spot. Snag a table on the second floor of this restaurant and bar, where you can drink from a lengthy beer list while enjoying panoramic views of Matanzas Bay.

Other popular options in St. Augustine’s historic district include The Floridian , which serves regionally inspired Southern fare; Columbia Restaurant , part of a Florida chain of Spanish eateries established in 1905; the New Orleans-inspired Harry’s Seafood, Bar & Grille (get a table in the stunning courtyard); Prohibition Kitchen gastropub; and Catch 27 , which specializes in local seafood. 

Located on Anastasia Island, across the Bridge of Lions from the historic downtown, Gypsy Cab Company is a laid-back locals’ haunt with a large and eclectic menu. It has a peanut butter pie you will dream about forevermore. 

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Once you arrive in St. Augustine, transportation is easy: You basically don't need any beyond your own two feet. The historic district is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, and the narrow streets can make car travel more trouble than it's worth (some streets forbid cars altogether). Trolleys connect the city if you need to cover lots of ground, but most of the best spots are easily reachable on foot.

To get to the city, though, a car — or a lengthy taxi or Uber ride — will probably be required. The closest major airports are Jacksonville International (JAX) to the north and Daytona Beach International (DAB) to the south, and both are about an hour's drive away. Northeast Florida Regional Airport (UST) is about 10 minutes from the historic district, but it serves only private planes.

If you plan to drive to St. Augustine, you can do so easily via Interstate 95, U.S. Highway 1, and scenic Florida Highway A1A. These routes all approach St. Augustine from both north and south, making it easy to get here from a number of major cities in the region. Orlando is about two hours away, and Savannah, Georgia, is about three hours away.

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