Things to do in Historic St. Augustine Florida

Have you ever dreamed of a place that has it all? I’m talking history, beaches, good eats, adventure, literacy, and romance all in one cute little bundle. If so, St. Augustine is the place for you – check out these things to do in St. Augustine, Florida!

This city claims to be the oldest city in America and with much of the old architecture still in place. St. Augustine Florida has an adorable and bustling historic district that could take a whole day to explore just in itself.

But, one of the best parts of St. Augustine Florida is that around this historic district, it is not run down and forgotten, it is modern and restored with plenty to adventure and do while you are visiting the city.

As you read on, you will see that I have listed all of the must sees/eats while you are in St. Augustine Florida, along with some tidbits of information about each place.

The St Augustine Historic District is very walkable and if you are making a day trip, I suggest that you park somewhere close to all the action and take to your feet to explore the area. You really get to see it better when you are walking around and some parts are only accessible by foot.

As you get out of the historic district, a car is pretty much required, but you can rent one or uber around if you are not bringing your car. So, without further ado… the musts of St. Augustine!

Historic District:

The historic district is always my favorite place in any city I go to, because it is so quaint, walkable, and different everywhere you go.

Bridge of Lions :

This is an iconic bridge with two lions guarding each side as you enter and leave the bridge. The bridge is used by cars, but there is a pedestrian path along the side that is separated by a railing.

There are also look out spots on the bridge that you can step into and look over the river at the various boats and enjoy the view of the historic district from afar. I love to stop and take pictures with the lion at the beginning of the bridge. It is so majestic looking and as you get off the bridge, you can take a romantic stroll along the river with you honey.

Take time for some pictures of each other with the boats, bridge, and river in the background to document your travels.

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument :

When you research St. Augustine Florida, this is probably the first place that pops up. It is iconic and a lot of the attractions revolve around this theme.

You can buy a ticket to tour the fort and walk around inside it to see all the details. This does close at night, so if this interests you make sure you visit the fort before sundown.

We normally just walk around the fort, but this is because we have only made day trips. If you are in St. Augustine Florida for the weekend, it is definitely worth touring. They also fire off a canon into the river that you can sit around and watch. It is quite the spectacle and very fun to see.

Love Tree :

The love tree is really quite simple and in the yard of a quaint little shop. It is two different kinds of trees that are intertwined and you cannot separate them without killing both trees in the process.

There is a tale that if you kiss your significant other under the tree you will be together forever and your love will not be separated for all of eternity. It’s a cheesy, but sweet sentiment.

People have also hung hearts, which you can buy in the store, on the tree and arbor beside it with their names on it and when they were at the tree. I enjoyed trying to find the oldest date possible.

Flagler College :

Flagler is a beautiful private college located in the heart of St. Augustine. It has beautiful Spanish inspired architecture that will make you feel like you are in another country.

Flager is open to the public to tour parts of the quaint campus, although there are some parents which are purely residential. It is the perfect place to take some artsy pictures and stop in the shade to relax.

Make sure to look up when you are in the lobby. The gorgeous ceiling will leave you speechless.  

Whetstone Chocolate Factory:

Taste a bit of decadence at the Whetstone Chocolate Factory that originally started in the 1960s. Whether it is just to buy some smooth chocolate or to take a tasting tour, this is a place you have to visit in St. Augustine.

Tasting tours run daily for $8 per adult, last for 55 minutes, and require reservations, so make sure to plan ahead.

Lightner Museum :

Right across the street from Flagler is the Lightner Museum. There is a cost for admission, so if you do not want to spend the money, you can wander around the fountain and read the information signs that are around the museum without going inside.

But, if you do not mind dropping a little bit of cash and time, then take a stroll through the art museum and soak in the culture. The museum actually used to be an old hotel, but was converted to the museum you see today.

Ripley’s :

Explore the oddities with your kids at these popular attractions. There is the Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium, Ripley’s Red Train Tours, Ripley’s Haunted Castle Tour, Ripley’s Bayfront Mini Golf, and more. These are the perfect things to do with kids in St. Augustine. Costs are as follows:

• Odditorium: $10 Child/ $20 Adult
• Red Train: $20
• Haunted House: $25
• Mini Golf: $5 Child/ $7 Adult

Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth :

The famed fountain of youth, drink from it and you will never grow old. An old wives tale, but who doesn’t love a good tradition.

There is an admission to the park, but this is an experience you cannot miss while in St. Augustine Florida. While you are over by the fountain, stop to take a picture along the oak lined street and famous gate.

The Old Jail Museum:

Travel back in time and step into the life of a prisoner in the 19th century. At this Nationally Registered Historic Place, you will find costumed actors and a jail restored replicate it’s original build. Learn about history and inspec the weapons and artifacts on display. Definitely something unique and memorable for your itinerary in St. Augustine.

Rent or bring a bike to ride around :

There is a lot to see in historic St. Augustine and it can be hard to do it all on foot. If you are up to it, you can rent a bike or bring one to ride around and see the sights.

Grab a bite to each at one of the many eateries :

In the historic district, there are a ton of really great places to eat or grab a snack. With all of the walking and unique dining, make sure to take time to splurge. Vacation calories don’t count right?

Historic St. Augustine is known for it’s amazing restaurants. Make sure you get to them all, check out my list of the best places to eat in Historic St. Augustine to help you plan your trip!

Non-Historic District:

The following places are not a part of the downtown St. Augustine Florida life, but are still worthwhile places to visit. If you are only making a day trip, I suggest sticking to the historic area, but if you are able to devote a weekend to your trip, try out these fun places that are a little bit outside of downtown St. Augustine Florida!

Anastasia Island :

Anastasia Island is a small island that is partially located in St. Augustine Florida. You could get there by walking or riding bikes, but it might take you a little bit so driving is probably preferred.

There are many things to do and see on the island so I suggest researching what exactly you want to see on the island. I definitely suggest going to the beach and experiencing the east coast.

World Golf Hall of Fame :

Unfortunately, the World Golf Hall of Fame is not within walking distance of downtown St. Augustine and is about a 20 minute drive, but if you are a golfer or want to do something different, take a trip to the hall.

It is located not far off the main interstate and in a cute community. Admission is required, but if you are an avid golfer this is a cannot miss.

Marineland :

Marineland is another place you will need to drive to while in St. Augustine Florida. It is similar to Sea World, but smaller and great if you have small kids or if you love animals.

With all of the shops, pictures, and meandering in the historic district, sometimes you want to do something more active and involved. Marineland is the place to go.

St. Augustine Beach :

Of course everywhere you go in Florida, there is going to be a beach nearby, so while you’re in St. Augustine, go dip your toes in the sand.

St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum :

I love seeing lighthouses and climbing to the top. Seeing the view of the surrounding area and getting pictures in front of it are the highlights. Tickets are $13 for adults and $11 for chlidren.

St. Augustine Alligator Farm :

If you go to Florida and don’t see an alligator, did you even go? Now, you don’t have to worry about that answer, because you can go visit the St. Augustine Alligator Farm.

It is basically a zoo for alligators and is so Florida that it makes me laugh, but is a great, unique thing to do in St. Augustine. Tickets are $28 for adults and $17 for children.

Of course, there is much more that could be discovered by walking and driving around to find your own adventures. But, if you are planning a trip to St. Augustine or looking for a fun day adventure, these are some of the best and most popular things to do in St. Augustine, Florida.

Day Trips:

There are many cities close to St. Augustine that would make the perfect day trip if you are staying for an extended period of time. Here are a few:

• Jacksonville, Florida: Check out the Jacksonville Zoo, Glass Blowing, and Woodpecker’s (the best BBQ in town).
• Daytona, Florida: Just a little further south and tour the famous International Speedway.
• Orlando, Florida: About two hours away, you can visit Mickey Mouse and friends at Walt Disney World.

Whether you are able to get to all of these adventures on your trip or not, I hope that you are able to make it to some of them and find as much enjoyment as we did exploring the unique town.

Are you familiar with St Augustine or the area? If I missed one of your favorite adventures, let me know!

Lots of Love, Laurel McDaniel

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