Home » Florida » Iconic St Augustine-Why it Needs to Be on Your Radar

If iconic St. Augustine isn’t on your travel bucket list yet, it should be. Legendary for the fountain of youth that Ponce de Leon sought, this city has a well-established history. As the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the U.S., St. Augustine is an unforgettable destination.

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a charming, narrow street in Colonial St. Augustine, featuring a mix of historic architectural styles. The street is lined with buildings showcasing stucco walls and wooden balconies. On the left, a peach-colored building has a sign reading “Spanish Military Hospital Museum,” accompanied by three flags: Spanish, American, and another. Two people are walking along the sidewalk beside this building. On the right side of the street, there are potted plants with colorful flowers lining the walkway. Buildings on this side have archways and hanging flower baskets. The street is paved with cobblestones, and a lamppost is visible. Shops and cafes have umbrellas and small signs visible along the right-hand side.

Traveling to St. Augustine: What You Need to Know

This historic city is less than a 2-hour drive from Orlando in Central Florida, so it was an obvious decision for us to make the drive to getaway one long weekend. Yet many Floridians never take the time to venture to this Sunshine State locale.  

  • St. Augustine is easily accessible from the north and south by Interstate 95, U.S. Highway 1, and scenic Florida Highway A1A. Easily accessible from Amelia Island or Daytona Beach via the Buccaneer Trail.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summers are hot/humid. Winter is cooler but still pleasant, especially for exploring historic sites.
  • Parking: Historic downtown has limited parking—consider the St. Augustine Historic Downtown Parking Facility closest to the Visitor Information Center.
  • What to Pack: Comfortable walking shoes (cobblestone streets!) Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially in summer. A light jacket in winter or rain gear for any season. Reusable water bottle for staying hydrated.
  • Pets: Several outdoor areas and eateries are pet-friendly—check in advance.
  • Save with City Passes: Consider attraction bundles like the St. Augustine All-Inclusive Pass or Trolley combo tickets for savings.
a courtyard at night in St. Augustine, with a prominent stone fountain in the foreground. The fountain has intricate carvings and a small pool of water at its base, reflecting nearby lights. Surrounding the fountain are several metal chairs and tables, some under large burgundy umbrellas. In the background, a two-story building features a row of arched doorways and windows on the ground level, with a covered balcony on the second floor. The building's exterior is painted in warm tones of orange and green. Various lights illuminate the courtyard and building, creating a cozy atmosphere.

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Dominated by charming Spanish Colonial–style architecture, St Augustine is unlike other southern cities, such as Savannah. Spanish conquistador Pedro Menéndez de Avilés founded the city in 1565. St. Augustine is home to an array of historic landmarks that provide glimpses into the city’s past. One such landmark is the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress constructed by the Spanish to protect their interests in the region. It is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States and offers captivating tours and exhibits. Other notable sites include the Lightner Museum, Flagler College, and the St. Augustine Lighthouse.

“The aspect of St Augustine is quaint and strange in harmony with its romantic history.”​ Harriet Beecher Stow

Top Things to Do in Historic St Augustine

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking a picturesque coastal getaway, St. Augustine is a destination that truly deserves to be on your radar.

St. Augustine holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the United States. It was founded by Spanish explorers in 1565, predating the establishment of Jamestown, Virginia, by several decades. The city’s historical significance is evident in its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and various landmarks.

Once you arrive in the city, there’s plenty to see and do. We always feel that the best way to immerse yourself in a new place is to walk it. Walking through the streets of St. Augustine feels like stepping back in time. Talk to the locals, as they can usually provide insight into the best dining and attractions. The following travel guide will help get you started in exploring this historic city.

two people standing in front of the sign for Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. The sign is supported by two stone pillars with decorative tops. Behind the sign, there are tall palm trees, adding a tropical feel to the scene. The grass in the foreground is well-maintained, and the sky appears overcast. A body of water and a lamp post are visible in the background, contributing to the picturesque setting.

tep Inside the Legendary Fort That Defines St. Augustine’s Past

A true gem, the iconic Castillo de San Marcos, sits in the center of the Historic District on the beautiful shores of Matanzas Bay. It is also the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. The fort was a truly unique architecture compared to previous forts we had visited at Fort Malden, Fort Pulaski, and Fort Sumter.

The entrance fee for the Castillo de San Marcos is a reasonable priced. Purchasing America, the Beautiful annual pass gains your entrance into all the National Parks & Monuments and Federal Recreational Lands for one year. While at the fort, try to attend a Ranger-led program and watch either a musket firing demonstration or the firing of the cannons. Don’t forget your passport stamps at the entrance station.

two black cannons mounted on wooden carriages situated on a wooden deck. The cannons are facing a large body of water under a bright blue sky with scattered white clouds. Behind the cannons, there is a low stone wall, and beyond it, three palm trees are visible on the left. Across the water, a distant view includes a bridge connecting land areas. The water is calm, reflecting the clear sky, adding a serene contrast to the historical artillery in the foreground.

Incredible Stories Behind Castillo de San Marcos

The Spanish originally constructed this bastion-style fortress with coquina in 1672. This unique soft pink limestone most commonly comprises coarse shells and shell fragments and corals cemented together and used for building. The fort took 23 years to complete. Unbeknownst to the architects who designed the fort, coquina can withstand the force of cannon fire. The 18-foot thick walls simply absorb the cannonball’s fire, this enabled the fort to withstand any attack.

outdoor scene at a historic location. A person stands smiling next to a large, black, antique cannon mounted on a wooden carriage. The cannon and carriage are positioned on a stone fortification, likely part of a historic fort. The person is wearing a bright red shirt, blue shorts, and a backpack, with a jacket tied around their waist. The sky is bright blue with scattered white clouds, suggesting a sunny day. In the background, several people are seen walking on a wooden pathway, and some trees are visible in the distance.

The fort’s design is unique in that it has a star shape with bastions in each corner. This design allowed the fort to provide a maximum defense against attacks from all angles. We spent a good part of the day exploring the various levels of the fort, including the gun deck, the officers’ quarters, and the courtyard. The fort also features different exhibits and displays that provided us with information about the history.

Interesting fact is pirates, and the British tried to besiege the fort. They attacked it several times during its history, including by the British in 1702 and 1740. Force never took the fort; the British could never seize the fort in battle.

a historical scene at the Castillo de San Marcos, with two large black cannons mounted on wooden carriages atop a stone fort wall. The foreground cannon is prominently displayed, showcasing its metal surface and intricate detail. The stone wall extends into the distance, separating the cannons from a scenic view of a body of water. In the background, several palm trees are dispersed along the coastline, and a broad expanse of blue water stretches towards the horizon under a partly cloudy sky.

Fort Castillo – It was Never Taken by Force

In 1763, the fort was transferred to British control as part of the Treaty of Paris, which ended the Seven Years’ War. The British renamed the fort-Fort St. Mark and made several modifications to the structure. In 1783, the fort was returned to Spanish control under the terms of the Treaty of Paris that ended the American Revolution.

The United States gained the fort in 1821 and they renamed it Fort Marion after Gen. Francis Marion. After the American Civil War, they used the fort as a prison housing Chief Osceola. Walking the 20-acre site is hard to imagine how they must have felt in the super-heated summers in Florida. Then they declared Castillo de San Marcos a National Monument in 1900.

an old wooden building, identified as the oldest wooden schoolhouse in the U.S.A., located in St. Augustine, Florida. The structure is composed of aged, weathered wooden planks with visible horizontal lines. The front of the building features two windows, each with wooden shutters, flanking a central wooden door. Above the door is a small, rectangular sign with white, red, and blue lettering. A chain runs along the perimeter of the roof, contrasting with the muted tones of the weathered wood. The building rests on a concrete surface, and the sky is overcast.

Old Town Trolley: The Easiest Way to Explore Historic St. Augustine

If you don’t feel like walking or have a limited amount of time, try the Old Town Trolley. They have a variety of excellent sightseeing tours. We prefer to walk so we began our day with the Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley. This tour will give you a glimpse into the history of the Old Town. However, the different tours combining attractions for an additional cost. You can even get an evening ghost tour!

  • The oldest Store Museum Experience- Step back in time to a living history of turn of the century inventions come to life! We loved the goat-powered washing machine.
  • Old Jail – check out the gallows and the cell blocks, a look into the working prison of the times.
  • St Augustine History Museum-self-guided tour of 400 years of American history and settlement.
  • Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park-not just the fountain of youth, it is an interactive history lesson-enjoy cannon & musket firings, a reconstructed native Timucuan village, and a planetarium.

If you prefer a more romantic tour of Old Town, maybe a horse-drawn carriage is a better mode of transportation.

the facade of Flagler College in St. Augustine, showcasing a grand and historic architectural style. The building features two prominent red-brick towers with pointed turrets on either side, reaching high into a clear blue sky. The central structure has a large, arched entryway with intricate designs, flanked by symmetrical rows of tall windows. In front of the building is a well-manicured garden with lush green palm trees and various shrubs. A stone pathway leads up to the entrance, and a small fountain is visible in the foreground, adding to the serene and majestic atmosphere.

Flagler College: A Stunning Landmark in Legendary St. Augustine

The college was originally the Hotel Ponce de Leon built by Henry Flagler in 1887 looking to attract wealthy guests that traveled his railroad from the Northeast to Florida. Designed in the neo-Spanish Renaissance style in order to rival the most luxurious hotels of New York, they later converted it into a Liberal Arts school (Flagler College) in 1967. A tour of this small, private Florida college gives you a glimpse into the life and times of Henry Flagler.

the entrance to Flagler College, showcasing a grand architectural structure with red brickwork and ornate detailing. The entrance is marked by a series of arches supported by columns with decorative carvings, including a lion's head. Above the central arch, gold lettering spells "FLAGLER COLLEGE." Overhead, elaborate designs cover the architecture, and a palm tree is visible, adding greenery to the scene. In the foreground, a statue of a person stands on a stone pedestal, adjacent to manicured shrubs in planters. The sky appears slightly cloudy.
Photo Credit: K. Cullinane-Seddon

The beauty of the artwork, from the tiles on the floors to the chandlers to the Tiffany glass windows, is quite impressive. One of the most mystical tidbits given by our student guide was the painting of Henry Flagler’s wife-Mary Lily Kenan. Walking by the large painting from one side of the room to the next, you will see his wife as a young woman, then as you walk, she ages, until she is old and grey. I love stories like this one. Lets your imagination run wild!

The Lightner Museum in St. Augustine, Florida. The structure is a large, historic building painted in white with multiple floors and intricate architectural details. The facade features arched windows, balconies with red railings, and a distinctive roof with red tiles. The building has a symmetrical design, with tall square towers on each end. Several palm trees are in the foreground, adding to the tropical setting. Well-maintained hedges and a neatly trimmed lawn lead up to the building.
The Lightner Museum

Lightner Museum: A Must-See Treasure in Historic St. Augustine

We toured the quaint Lightner Museum, which was originally the Alcazar Hotel, built by Henry Flagler in 1887. Otto C. Lightner was a publisher from Chicago who purchased the Alcazar in 1946 to house his treasures but later gave the museum to the city of St. Augustine. As we strolled from room to room, you get a feel for how the guests of the Alcazar hotel must have felt. The museum covers three floors and contains an eclectic collection of Gilded-Age odds and ends. They give you a view of how the wealthy lived. They have preserved the former steam room and therapeutic shower and soaking tub in all its grandeur. The courtyard showcases a beautiful koi pond fountain and greenery. Very serene.

What was the largest indoor swimming pool in the world, has now been converted into a lovely restaurant-Cafe Alcazar. You could easily spend all day walking around this place exploring Lightner’s hodgepodge of artifacts.

A view underneath the St Augustine pier extending into the ocean. The photograph is taken from the shore, capturing the alignment of weathered, rust-colored metal columns supporting the pier. These columns diminish in perspective towards the center, creating a tunnel-like effect. The ocean appears calm, with gentle waves lapping against the columns and reaching the sandy beach. The sky is visible in the distance, adding a light backdrop to the scene.
St Augustine Ocean Pier

Relax and Recharge at St. Augustine Beach – A Local Favorite

The area is blessed with beautiful stretches of coastline, such as St. Augustine Beach and Anastasia State Park. These pristine beaches are perfect for relaxation, swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. No trip to Saint Augustine would be complete if we did not mention a day on the beach. This is one of the best things about St Augustine is its proximity to the ocean. There is plenty you can visit Vilano Beach, Crescent Beach, or Anastasia State Park.

We took a short detour to St. Augustine Beach for the day. The St Johns County Ocean Pier does have a fee to walk the boardwalk. The public beach has restrooms with outdoor showers, a playground, and picnic tables. We spent a few hours walking the 800 ft. pier watching people fish, took a few photos of surfers, and just enjoyed the sea breeze washing over us.

a wooden boardwalk leading towards a sandy beach, framed by wooden railings on either side. The boardwalk is slightly damp, possibly from recent rain or spray. On either side of the path, green vegetation with tall grass and a few sparse wildflowers grows. In the background, the beach meets a calm ocean under a vibrant sky that transitions from orange near the horizon to a soft blue higher up. The sky is filled with scattered clouds, illuminated by the setting or rising sun, casting a gentle glow over the scene.
Credit: K. Cullinane-Seddon

We have been to several beaches in Florida and Anastasia State Park is one of our favorites, a great place for families or couples. The park has pristine white sand beaches. You can swim, surf, sunbathe, walk, or bicycle without the worry of vehicles as they are off-limits here. Eco tours and kayaks are also available. For us, we simply love walking in the soft sand along the beach looking for that perfect seashell.

an informational sign titled "The Minorcan Heritage" set against a textured, dark stone wall. The sign features the City of St. Augustine's coat of arms at the top, alongside the text "Nation's Oldest City Founded 1565." The main text describes the history of the Minorcans, Mediterranean people brought to Florida in 1768. It details their journey, hardships, and eventual settlement in St. Augustine after leaving New Smyrna. There are two drawings on either side; the left depicts a man with a broad-brimmed hat, a cane, and a simple outfit. The right shows a woman in traditional attire holding a basket. A small colored map in the bottom center illustrates a part of St. Augustine, highlighting areas of importance. A quote by Stephen Vincent Benet, a Minorcan descendant, is at the bottom of the sign.

Step Back in Time at the Colonial Quarter – A St. Augustine Must-See

The historic colonial quarter in the old city center is an authentic reenactment of colonial times. I could see why every Florida 4th grader visits this city as part of their educational experience. The Colonial Quarter tells the story of 3 centuries of colonial history. The tiny village is a compilation of small buildings, including a blacksmith, armory, leather, and boat building. Staff offer guided orientation walks as actors in period costume take on the persona of the colonists. Activities abound-kids will love the demonstrations of the cannon, blacksmith shop, and flintlock gun. Afterward, we walked to the many shops of St George Street. This is the most popular street in the Old Town.

Intrigued by history, we walked the cobblestone streets of St. Augustine, taking the time to read as many of the informational kiosks as possible. Remarkably, St. Augustine had already been a city for 42 years when Jamestown, Virgina, became a settlement. The diverse cultures (Spaniards, British, Native Americans, Africans, and Americans) have all played a role in the history of this city.

the interior of a rustic blacksmith workshop. A man wearing a denim shirt and jeans stands inside, attending to a forge. The structure is open-sided with a wooden, slatted roof supported by wooden beams. Inside, various tools and equipment are visible, including an anvil, barrel, and metalworking tools. The floor is covered in dark material, likely soot or coal. Outside the open-sided building, greenery is visible in the background. A red sign with a schedule is partially visible on the right.

Walk St George’s Street

St. George Street is a pedestrian-only street in the historic district of St. Augustine, Florida. It is a major tourist attraction and a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. The street is a must-see for anyone visiting St. Augustine and is a great way to experience the charm and history of this beautiful city.

We found the street is lined with historic buildings that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. They have converted many into shops, galleries, and restaurants. Any visitor can find a wide variety of souvenirs, crafts, and local specialties, as well as international cuisine and traditional Florida dishes.

In addition to shopping and dining, St. George Street is home to several historic landmarks, including the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, which dates back to the early 18th century, and the Colonial Quarter, a living history museum that recreates life in St. Augustine during the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries.

a man standing beside a vintage wooden boat displayed vertically on a white platform. The boat is secured with metal supports and positioned next to a white wall, showcasing its interior structure. The wooden surface of the boat is weathered, displaying rich brown hues. The man is wearing a red cap, a dark jacket, and denim shorts, with his hands in his pockets. A rope barrier in front separates the display from the walkway, which is laid with red and gray square tiles. A small informational plaque is visible near the base of the boat, giving context to the exhibit.

The St. Augustine Lighthouse And Maritime Museum

The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the lighthouse and the maritime heritage of the region. The museum features exhibits and displays that explore the history of the lighthouse and the maritime culture of St. Augustine. There are hands-on activities for children, guided tours, and special events throughout the year, such as the annual Pirate & Treasure Museum Festival.

he St. Augustine Lighthouse, a tall cylindrical structure with a distinctive black and white spiral pattern. The lighthouse is prominently situated against a cloudy sky. The base of the lighthouse is a white, rectangular building with a red roof and two symmetrical chimneys on each side. A set of stone steps leads up to a black-framed entrance with a small overhang. Two white benches are placed symmetrically on either side of the entrance. A small sign is visible near one of the benches. Surrounding the lighthouse building, there is greenery and a partial view of a low brick wall.

We did a self-guided tour. They built the lighthouse in 1874 and stands 165 feet tall, making it one of the tallest lighthouses in the United States.There are displays of several Fresnel lenses and other historic artifacts. The beautifully restored keeper’s house gave us a glimpse into daily life in the late 1800s. There is also a marine archeological restoration facility on the grounds and you can see them working with marine artifacts. Luckily, today they are soaking two cannons and removing all the crustaceans using electric currents. It was fascinating to watch.

a spiraling metal staircase inside St Augustine lighthouse, viewed from above. The spiral design creates concentric circles that draw the eye towards the center of the image. The stairs are made of dark metal with perforated steps and are bordered by a sturdy handrail. The central column of the staircase is visible, with light filtering through the perforations, casting intricate patterns. The surrounding walls are a smooth, light-colored masonry, adding contrast to the dark staircase. At the bottom, a black and white checkered floor is faintly visible.

Climbing to the top of the 219 steps is quite daunting, however, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Salt Run lagoon. Looking East is the Atlantic Ocean and the beaches. To the west, you see St. Augustine. This is a great way to spend a few hours in the morning.

We’ve visited all three lighthouses—St. Augustine’s historic coastal beacon, Pensacola’s towering Gulf sentinel, and Crooked River’s charming light tucked in Florida’s forested Panhandle—and each offers a distinct and memorable glimpse into maritime history.

a wooden bar display with shelves holding various bottles of alcohol. In the center, there's a chalkboard with the welcoming message "WELCOME! Featured Drinks: Vodka Tonic and Rum Tiki Cocktail" written in a casual, handwritten style. The shelves flanking the chalkboard contain several clear bottles with light-colored labels, arranged neatly in two rows on either side. Below the chalkboard, there are two labeled bottles and two empty glass goblets. The wood has a rich, dark brown finish, giving the display a rustic appearance.

Spirits of the St Augustine Distillery

The St. Augustine Distillery is a craft distillery that produces a variety of small-batch spirits using locally sourced ingredients. The distillery is housed in a historic ice plant that dates back to 1917 and has been carefully restored to its original splendor.

 This is a small, locally owned distillery offers a fully guided free tour of the old building that used to be a former ice plant. The tour includes a visit to the production area, where visitors can see the stills and other equipment used to make the spirits. The guide helped us to learn about the art of craft distilling. We even got to observe the copper stills, and other equipment used to make the spirits. Later, we walked through the barrel room where the spirits are aged.

Next, the crew prepared wonderful cocktails in the tasting room for us to sample. The distillery also provides a cocktail bar where visitors can enjoy handcrafted cocktails made with the distillery’s spirits. In the adjacent gift store, you are able to purchase gin, vodka, rum, bourbon, and mixers & barware. We purchased a bottle of their smooth bourbon, simply priceless! This place was great.

a bar countertop with two bottles and a cocktail. On the left, there is a smaller bottle labeled "Tonic" with a deer icon, featuring a pour spout. Beside it, a taller bottle labeled "St. Augustine Vodka" with an ornate label indicating its craft origin. In front of this bottle is a glass filled with an amber-colored drink and ice cubes, placed on a small wooden pallet. The background features a brick wall and several clear glasses to the right. The countertop appears wooden with a rustic finish.

Supreme San Sebastian Winery Tour

Initially, we thought we would not have time for this tour. However, we found it was possible to take some time for this worthwhile tour of the San Sebastian Winery. The winery is in the heart of downtown St. Augustine and is a great place to spend an afternoon after exploring the historic district, not to mention sampling some of the best wines that Florida offers.

They house the winery in one of Henry Flagler’s old East Coast Railway buildings. This is the sister winery to Lakeridge Winery in Clermont. We find their Southern Red is superb and figured the winery merited a quick tour. The bonus is the tour of the winery building is free! We enjoyed touring of the facility, including the production area and the barrel room.

They offer samples of the various wines that are produced at the winery, including reds, whites, and dessert wines. This informative wine tasting is only $10. We sat with a group of other teachers toasting March break; it was a fun time. If you can be sure, to schedule lunch on the rooftop deck.

a close-up view of a dining table with a pitcher and a glass filled with a red beverage. The pitcher is large and made of transparent glass, containing ice cubes and red fruits, with a wooden stirrer placed inside. In the foreground, a stemmed glass also holds the same red drink. The wooden table surface is visible, and in the background, there are two blurred wine glasses, suggesting a dining or restaurant setting. The overall ambiance appears casual and relaxed.

Enjoy the Holiday Season at the Festival Night of Lights

If you have the chance to visit during the holiday season, you will be wowed by the magical Night of Lights. The Bridge of Lions is beautifully lit at night. They wrap every tree along the Riverwalk in a myriad of bright white lights. We walked the Ancient city streets in awe of the sheer amount of decorations adorning the shops on St. George Street and the courtyard on the plaza. The Nights of Lights traces its origin to the Spanish Christmas tradition of displaying a white candle in the window. Many travelers rather than walk see the trolley as a perfect way to view the lights. Others choose a harbor boat tour as a better option. I prefer to walk the streets admiring the charm of the old town.

a close-up of a big cat with distinct leopard-like spots and a warm, tawny coat. The animal's head is slightly tilted, and it looks directly at the camera with captivating greenish eyes. The background is blurred, comprised of lush greenery, possibly indicating a natural habitat or enclosure setting. The focus of the image is primarily on the face of the animal, highlighting the intricate patterns of its fur and the texture of its whiskers.
Photo Credit: St Augustine Wild Reserve

Support Conservation Efforts at the St. Augustine Reserve

This is a must-do and we highly recommend it. Our VIP Tour at the St. Augustine Wild Reserve was hands down, the highlight of our St. Augustine vacation. On the tour, you are typically no further than 5-feet away from the animals, literally front-row! We watched as they showered affection on each of the beautiful animals. The reserve is home to lions, tigers, leopards, pumas, servals, wolves, a lynx, and a couple of hyenas. It is simply amazing watching one of the big cats take a bubble bath or hearing the tiger roar as he awaits his meal. They rescued the animals from neglectful/abusive situations and will spend their lives here. These dedicated volunteers deeply care for and love these animals. My favorite is always watching the wolves. This is a once in a lifetime experience!

The tour takes a little over 2 hours and is only available on Wednesdays and Saturdays; they require reservations. They do not allow cameras, and they sell you a $5 CD loaded with great pics at the end of the tour. The Reserve is dependent on the donations of its visitors. They send a list of supplies prior to your arrival, so we stopped and purchased a few items on the wish list for the animals. This tour is worth every penny!

an expansive view of the Matanzas river surrounded by lush greenery under a vibrant blue sky partially covered with clouds. In the foreground, there is a white dock extending into the water with a small covered ferry boat moored beside it. The water appears calm and reflective, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere. The surrounding landscape consists of dense green vegetation on the left and stretches into the distance, highlighting the serene natural setting.

Enhance Your St. Augustine Adventure with a Fort Matanzas Excursion

About 15-miles south of the city, this fort is on Rattlesnake island in the inter-coastal waterway. The Spanish built Fort Matanzas in 1742. Specifically, to guard the Matanzas Inlet as part of the early warning system to protect the Castillo de San Marcos from being ambushed. At the visitor center, there is a brief 8-minute video. It gives you an excellent overview of the fort’s history. If you have a National Park Passport Book, you can get your stamp at the visitor’s center. It is open every day except Christmas from 9 am to 5:30 pm. And best of all, there is no admission fee. The park protects 299 acres of pristine dunes, marshland including threatened and endangered species. Be sure to walk the 1/2 mile elevated boardwalk nature trail. Kids can receive Junior Ranger badges and National Passport stamps.

Fort Matanzas, a historic fortification made of coquina stone, located on the edge of a body of water. The fort has a square tower, with a flag flying at the top. The flag is white with a red cross. The tower is fitted with narrow openings and features two visible levels. To the left of the tower, a lower section of the fort displays similar stonework and includes a small dome-like structure. Surrounding the fort are lush green trees and shrubs. The sky above is bright blue with scattered clouds, and the water in the foreground is a clear turquoise, gently lapping against a stone shoreline.

The Park Service boat runs every hour, and the time allowed at the fort is about 30-40 minutes. Once ashore, volunteers in period dress or national park rangers will lead your tour. History buffs will love the brief and informative history of the Fort and the re-enactors’ perspective on the life of soldiers stationed in 1742. If you are able, you can climb a ladder through the hatch to the observation deck. Here there are breathtaking views of Anastasia Island and the Matanzas River. If you are lucky, you may spot dolphins from this vantage point.

Fort Matanzas, featuring a small stone watchtower. A person stands inside the tower doorway, leaning casually against the stone structure. The tower's cylindrical shape is topped with a dome. The surrounding landscape is lush and green, with trees and open fields stretching to the horizon under a partly cloudy blue sky. The foreground showcases the textured stonewalls of the fort, exhibiting wear and natural aging.

Savor the Flavors of Iconic St. Augustine: Best Dining Spots in Town

St. Augustine is a haven for food lovers, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences. From fresh seafood to farm-to-table delights, the city has an impressive array of restaurants, cafes, and food markets. Visitors can savor local specialties like Minorcan clam chowder and Datil pepper-infused dishes. There is something to suit everyone’s tastes. Make sure to look for discount coupons for many of the attractions and restaurants.

  • A1A Burrito Works Taco Shop – One of my favorite restaurants on St. George Street!! Nothing fancy, just good old Mexican fair. You get to choose your favorite meal: meat, fish, or veggies & then add all your favorite toppings. The UFO taco is the best! Very wonderful service.
  • Whetstone Chocolates -Incredible gelato-sample some goodies and has a chocolicious day. Would highly recommend the tour.
  • Florida Cracker Cafe – A nice spot for a light lunch! We both had the shrimp po’boy with fries and coleslaw.
  • Beaches at Vilano – We enjoyed the Mahi Mahi fish tacos and the island vibe. Enjoy a tropical drink with a nice view of the water to watch the sunset.
Delicious Meehan's Irish Pub: a plate of food on a dark, glossy table surface. In the foreground is a black plate with a burger and a side of fries. The burger features a glossy bun with a crisp lettuce leaf and a hint of sauce visible. The fries are golden, with a textured, crispy appearance and sprinkled with seasoning. To the side, there are light-colored vegetable garnishes along with a lemon wedge and a small dish of sauce. In the background, a white bowl contains sausages in a rich brown gravy, topped with green herbs and served over a bed of risotto.

Where We Dine: Top Dinner Picks in Historic St. Augustine

  • Meehan’s Irish Pub – Authentic old-world Irish pub with a gorgeous view of the Bridge of Lions during the Night of Lights. Excellent traditional Irish dishes such as fish n chips, Bangers & Mash, and Shepherd’s Pie.
  • Harry Steak & Seafood – We adore Harry’s authentic Cajun cuisine and dine here whenever we are in the city. They have a magnificent array of cocktails and great seafood choices. We sat out on the enclosed patio on our first visit. Although it was a little cool, the outdoor heaters made it comfortable. The Jambalaya and Crawfish Etouffee, both outstanding, are huge portions. Try the Redfish Alexandria, it’s my favorite! The crab cakes were delish! Finished with bananas foster, which is a must.
  • St Augustine Fish Camp- They have an extensive menu of local fresh seafood and it made it hard to choose. We got two appetizers and split a meal.(had a late lunch). The food was amazing!! The sangria was delicious. In the late afternoon sun, the views over the water and cool breeze helped. Loved that it was away from busy downtown.
a serene beach scene at St. Augustine Beach. In the foreground, gentle waves wash over the wet, dark beige sand, creating a pattern of white foamy water. The middle ground features turquoise sea with small, cresting waves. Above, the sky is mostly cloudy, with patches of blue indicating clearer weather beyond. The scene is tranquil, emphasizing the blend of sea and sky.
Vilano Beach View

We recommend staying at the Ocean Sands Beach Inn on Vilano Beach. We had the most amazing stay. Although not directly in town, I chose this location because it had beach access across the street. Just a few miles from Old Downtown St Augustine, it is very quaint, cozy, and clean. We have always had flawless check-in and the free breakfast buffet waffles are delightful.

the Bridge of Lions in St. Augustine, captured at sunset. The bridge extends across a calm body of water, with its series of arches reflected in the water below. The sky above is a gradient of soft pink and orange hues, indicative of the setting sun. Along the bridge, there are multiple towers, each with a red-tiled roof, evenly spaced along its length. Decorative light posts and railings are visible, casting a warm glow. The foreground showcases the bridge piers, and the background includes a few trees and buildings.

Final Thoughts on Why St Augustine Needs to be on Your Radar

We know this beautiful city for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. There are several compelling reasons why historic St. Augustine deserves to be on your radar.

St Augustine is easily one of the most charming and exceptional cities in the country. Experience St. Augustine in person and discover its old-world charm. There are so many impressive architectural buildings to explore. Strolling the streets of Old Town, you cannot help falling in love with this city. If you haven’t been to St. Augustine yet, what are you waiting for? 

Have you been to this beautiful city? What are some of your favorite things to do? If you have visited, please share with us by commenting below!