What to do in St. Augustine, Florida? Your Attractions Guide in St. Augustine

Overview of St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine, Florida is the oldest city in the United States, founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers. It is located on the northeast coast of Florida, and is known for its historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and charming old-world atmosphere. Visitors to St. Augustine can take a step back in time as they explore centuries-old landmarks and attractions, many of which are found in the city’s charming Old Town district. Here are ten of the must-see places to visit, as well as five places to avoid during your trip to St. Augustine.

Places to Visit

Casa Monica Resort & Spa

Casa Monica Resort & Spa is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district. This iconic hotel features 138 rooms and suites, as well as a full-service spa, fitness center, and two award-winning restaurants. The hotel also boasts an enchanting ambiance thanks to its 19th century architecture, antiques, and artwork.

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

The St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is a family-friendly attraction that has been entertaining visitors since 1893. The park is home to hundreds of alligators, crocodiles, and other exotic animals, as well as a zip line, a wading bird rookery, and other fun activities.

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is a historic fort that was built by the Spanish in the 17th century to protect against British invasion. Today, visitors can explore the fort and its beautiful grounds, including the moat and the surrounding park.

St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in maritime history. The museum features exhibits and artifacts related to the city’s seafaring past, including shipwrecks, lighthouses, and pirates.

Flagler College

Flagler College is a beautiful, historic building located in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district. Originally a hotel built by railroad tycoon Henry Flagler in the late 1800s, the building was converted into a college in the 1960s. Visitors can take a guided tour of the campus to learn about its fascinating history and architecture.

Fort Matanzas National Monument

Fort Matanzas National Monument is a historic fort that was built in the 18th century to protect against British invasion. Visitors can explore the fort and its beautiful grounds, including hiking trails and picnic areas.

St. Augustine Beach

St. Augustine Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach is surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a great destination for a day trip.

Lightner Museum

The Lightner Museum is housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, a beautiful 19th century building located in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district. The museum features collections of fine and decorative arts, as well as a beautiful ballroom and a cafe.

St. George Street

St. George Street is a charming, pedestrian-only street in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district. The street is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture.

Anastasia State Park

Anastasia State Park is a beautiful park located on the outskirts of St. Augustine. The park features miles of pristine beaches, as well as hiking trails, camping facilities, and a 1,600-acre estuarine marsh ecosystem.

Places to Avoid

The Old City Jail

The Old City Jail is a haunted attraction that claims to be the most terrifying place in St. Augustine. While it may be popular with thrill-seekers, it is not recommended for families or those who are easily frightened.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum is a popular tourist attraction in St. Augustine that features bizarre and unusual exhibits. While it may be entertaining for some, many visitors find it overpriced and underwhelming.

St. Augustine Ghost Tours

St. Augustine Ghost Tours offer visitors the chance to explore the city’s haunted past. While some visitors may find this type of tour entertaining, others find it to be a gimmick that is not worth the cost.

St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum

The St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum is a museum dedicated to the history of piracy in the region. While it may be interesting for some visitors, others find it to be a bit cheesy and overpriced.

St. Augustine Premium Outlets

The St. Augustine Premium Outlets are a popular destination for shoppers looking for deals on designer brands. However, many visitors find the outlets to be overcrowded and overpriced, and prefer to explore the city’s unique shops and boutiques instead.

Overview of St. Augustine