Historic Wonders & Modern Thrills: Discover St. Augustine

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Nestled along Florida’s Northeastern Coast, St. Augustine is a treasure trove abounding with historical charm, family-friendly fun, and scenic nature excursions. Whether you're traveling with kids, a proud history buff, or an outdoor enthusiast, this enchanting city has something for everyone! Here are Staylah’s top recommended “Things to Do” in St. Augustine, FL:

 

Family-Friendly Activities

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum

Address: 19 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Dive into the bizarre and extraordinary at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum. This attraction is a favorite for kids and adults alike, featuring over 800 exhibits of oddities and curiosities from around the world.

 

St. Augustine Wild Reserve

Address: 5190 Farm Creek Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32092
For an unforgettable wildlife experience, visit the St. Augustine Wild Reserve. This rescue center provides sanctuary for exotic animals, including big cats and wolves, offering guided tours that educate and inspire visitors.

 

Potter’s Wax Museum

Address: 31 Orange St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Step into a world of lifelike figures at Potter’s Wax Museum, the first established wax museum in America! From historical figures to modern celebrities, this museum provides a unique and entertaining experience for the whole family.

 

Fiesta Falls Miniature Golf

Address: 818 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080
Score a hole-in-one at Fiesta Falls Miniature Golf, a fun and dynamic mini-golf park equipped with waterfalls, a 65ft Spanish ship, ice cream, and ocean views! This well-maintained course perfect for a relaxing family outing.

 

Escape U – Adventure Games + Escape Rooms

Address: 525 FL-16 Suite 104, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Challenge your problem-solving skills at Escape U, where you can participate in themed escape rooms and adventure games. It’s a thrilling experience that fosters teamwork and creativity!

 

Limelight Theatre

Address: 11 Old Mission Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Catch a family-friendly play or musical at the Limelight Theatre, located in the heart of St. Augustine. Check their schedule for performances suitable for all ages.

 

Whetstone Chocolates Factory Tour

Address: 139 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Take a guided tour of the Whetstone Chocolates Factory to see how chocolate is made from bean to bar! Sample delicious chocolates and learn about the history of chocolate making.

 

St. Augustine Aquarium

Address: 2045 FL-16, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Explore the St. Augustine Aquarium to see a variety of marine life; including sharks, rays, and turtles. Kids can touch stingrays in the touch tanks and learn about ocean conservation.

 

Historical Hot-Spots

St. Augustine Old Trolley Tours

Address: 167 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084
To get a comprehensive overview of the city’s rich history, hop on a St. Augustine Old Trolley Tour. This guided tour provides fascinating insights into the city’s past while allowing you to explore its historic streets.

 

Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

Address: 11 Magnolia Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Discover the legend of the Fountain of Youth at this historic site! The park offers a glimpse into St. Augustine’s earliest days with exhibits, demonstrations, and beautiful grounds to explore.

 

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument - Historical Fort

Address: 11 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Visit the iconic Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. This impressive fortress offers stunning views of the waterfront and a deep dive into the city’s colonial history.

 

Lightner Museum

Address: 75 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, the Lightner Museum showcases a vast collection of art and antiques. The museum’s elegant setting and diverse exhibits make it a must-see for history and art enthusiasts!

 

St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

Address: 100 Red Cox Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32080
Climb the 219 steps to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse for breathtaking views of the coastline! The maritime museum offers engaging exhibits on the region’s nautical history, shipwrecks, and lighthouse keepers.

 

Flagler College

Address: 74 King St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Take a tour of this beautiful historic college, once the Ponce de León Hotel, showcasing stunning architecture.

 

Colonial Quarter

Address: 14 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Step back in time and experience life in the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.

 

The Oldest Wooden School House

Address: 20-30 St George St, Augustine, FL 32084
Tucked away on St. George Street, The Oldest Wooden School House stands as a testament to St. Augustine's early educational efforts. Dating back to the early 18th century, this charming structure showcases period furnishings and offers insights into colonial-era schooling. Its preserved architecture and quirky legends make it a delightful stop for history enthusiasts of all ages.

 

Lincolnville Historic District

Address: 120 M L King Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Venture into the Lincolnville Historic District, just south of downtown, to discover a neighborhood steeped in African American heritage and civil rights history. This vibrant community was home to notable figures like civil rights leader Dr. Robert Hayling and author Zora Neale Hurston. Wander its quaint streets lined with colorful Victorian homes, visit the ACCORD Civil Rights Museum, and immerse yourself in the resilience and contributions of its residents.

 

The Spanish Military Hospital Museum

Address: 3 Aviles St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Step back in time at the Spanish Military Hospital Museum on Aviles Street. This living history museum recreates a military hospital from the Second Spanish Period (1784-1821). Explore exhibits on colonial medicine, surgical practices, and the lives of patients and caregivers in Spanish Florida. Interact with costumed interpreters who demonstrate medical treatments and remedies used during that era.

 

The Old Jail

Address: 167 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Visit the Old Jail on San Marco Avenue for a guided tour of this historic 19th-century prison. Kids can experience life behind bars, learn about local crime history, and even participate in a mock trial.

 

Recreational Adventures

Anastasia State Park Camping

Address: 300 Anastasia Park Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32080
Immerse yourself in nature at Anastasia State Park, which offers camping, hiking, and bird-watching opportunities. With miles of pristine beaches and scenic trails, it’s a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

 

St. Augustine Scenic Cruise

Address: 111 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Experience the beauty of St. Augustine from the water on a scenic cruise. These boat tours provide stunning views of the city’s skyline, historic landmarks, and abundant wildlife.

 

Anastasia Watersports

Address: 850 Anastasia Park Rd, St. Augustine, FL 32080
For those who love water activities, Anastasia Watersports offers rentals for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. Enjoy the serene waters of Salt Run and the surrounding natural beauty.

 

Fishing

Address: 3070 Harbor Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084
St. Augustine is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. Whether you prefer fishing from the pier, joining a charter boat, or casting your line from the shore, the area offers abundant opportunities to catch a variety of fish. Aloha Fishing Charters is a great place to start!

 

Bike Downtown St. Augustine

Address: 645 A1A Beach Blvd, St. Augustine, FL
Explore the charming streets of downtown St. Augustine on a bike. This eco-friendly mode of transportation allows you to discover the city’s historic sites, boutique shops, and vibrant cafes at your own pace. Check out Drifters Beach + Bike Rentals to get your ride started!

 

Crocodile Crossing – Zip Through the Zoo

Address: 999 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080
For an adrenaline-pumping adventure, visit Crocodile Crossing at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. This zip line course takes you over the zoo’s exhibits, providing a unique perspective on the animals below.

 

Matanzas Inlet

Address: 8635 A1A S, St. Augustine, FL 32080 (Beach Drive Access)
Another Prime location perfect for fishing, kayaking, beach driving, and exploring tidal pools!

 

Marineland Dolphin Adventure

Address: 9600 N Ocean Shore Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080
Take a short drive south of St. Augustine to Marineland Dolphin Adventure. Kids can interact with dolphins, learn about marine mammals, and watch educational presentations.

 

Unique Attractions

Ghost Tours

Address: 32 Charlotte St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Discover the haunted history of St. Augustine with a spooky ghost tour through its historic streets and buildings. Enjoy listening to educated guides and watch out for the ghouls!

 

St. Augustine truly has it all, from family-friendly attractions and historical landmarks, to outdoor adventures and scenic beauty! Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, this captivating city promises to leave you with lasting memories. Plan your trip to St. Augustine today and discover why it remains a beloved destination for travelers of all ages.

 

Lodging – LET US HOST YOUR STAY

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