//
City in Florida, United States
Photo: via Wikimedia Commons, Public domain
St. Augustine lays claim to being the oldest city in the United States. It is 30 minutes south of Jacksonville in the First Coast, and is full of romantic ambiance and old world charm. It is best known for its remarkable historic streets and attractions, Spanish-style architecture, and panoramic bayfront views.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
A large coquina limestone fort constructed by the Spanish in the late 1600s to defend their small colony. Inside, certain rooms are open to the public, including the chapel, guard quarters, and the powder magazine. The top deck of the Castillo is also open to visitors and allows great views of the city and the bay, as well as up-close encounters with authentic cannons. There are living history demonstrations on weekends, including the firing of those cannons—an incredibly powerful (and loud!) experience. Lower level is handicapped accessible. Parking $2.50/hr.
Located on 19 acres (7.7 hectares) downtown, this college campus' Spanish Renaissance architecture is highlighted by the grand Ponce De Leon Hotel building. Built in 1885 by Henry Flagler, with an interior designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany, the hotel faced years of decline in the mid-20th century before being saved and converted into the liberal arts college in 1968.
A historic house just south of downtown that is believed to be the oldest house in the city, constructed under Spanish rule in 1723. The property, run by the St. Augustine Historical Society, also includes two museums, an exhibition gallery, an ornamental garden, and a store.
Over 300 years old, this one-room schoolhouse has stood through the rise and fall of two empires and the birth of the United States. Self-guided tours are offered daily, and an animatronic teacher and student provide a history of the building.
Built in the 1870s on the northern end of Anastasia Island, this working lighthouse sat abandoned for many years before restoration efforts in the 1990s. Today, visitors can climb the 219 steps to the top for a stunning view of the city and the surrounding waters, including the Atlantic Ocean. The associated museum is located in the former Keeper's House at the base of the tower and contains exhibits about living and working at the light station.
This historic house includes some old furniture, including from Arabia and the Far East. There is an "audio tour," or speaker system, that you can take with you as you go around the house.
It is the largest interactive torture museum in the United States, displaying a private collection of torture, execution and restraint devices. Visitors can play the role of executioners and their victims. They are able to sit in the spiked chair of inquiries, pose in a “barrel for drunkards” or weigh themselves on special scales to see if they are too heavy to be deemed a witch. Among other things the visitor is able to try on the Spanish boot, stand in the pillory, drown a witch in a barrel of water, lead the guillotine, the pendulum and other deadly torture devices.
A fun and educational family attraction with over 160 wax figures, including a wide range of fictional characters, famous politicians, Hollywood celebrities, sports stars, and more, both past and present. Established in 1948, Potter's is the oldest wax museum in the United States.
The original Odditorium of the famed American purveyor of the strange and unusual was opened in the historic Castle Warden hotel in 1950. Three stories worth of exhibits include a mummified cat, a two-story scale model Ferris wheel made out of Erector sets, life and death masks of famous celebrities (including Abe Lincoln), shrunken heads, and an iron maiden. Rumored to be haunted, the opening credits and various segments of the most recent Ripley's TV series were filmed here.
Pirate Soul Museum
Previously operated in Key West, the museum was moved to St. Augustine in 2010. It is the largest collection of pirate artifacts in any one museum, with notable artifacts including a gun owned by Blackbeard himself and an authentic treasure chest belonging to Thomas Tew.
Covers the Second Spanish Period (1784-1821) medical practices.
Restored jail with sheriff's living quarters. It also contains a display of weaponry and a pictorial history of the hangings carried out at the Old Jail, with emphasis on the time the Sheriff CJ Perry was in residence with his family. The Jail is only accessible by guided tour,
Spanish Quarter
This recreated garrison town allows guests to visit with a blacksmith, learn to fire a musket, and stand watch on a lookout tower. You'll see costumed historical interpreters tell the story of everyday life when the city was a remote outpost of the Spanish Empire. The property also includes a British pub, a Spanish taverna, and a seafood restaurant, all of which do not require admission. A rustic outdoor stage set under an old oak tree hosts free weekend concerts also open to the public.
A 15 acre (6.1 hectares) waterfront attraction touted as the 1513 landing site of Ponce de Leon, the discoverer of Florida. Although no evidence has been found to support this, the park is the location of the first Spanish settlement in St. Augustine. Guests can explore a recreation of a Timucuan Native American village, witness a cannon firing, view archeological digs, and even drink from the supposed "Fountain of Youth", a natural spring.
The centerpiece of the master-planned World Golf Village, this hall of fame and museum center celebrates the greats of golf history. The expansive property located about 15 minutes north of the city also includes a hotel, convention center, an IMAX movie theater, two award-winning golf courses, and a restaurant owned by actor Bill Murray and his brothers.
One of Florida's oldest continuously running attractions, this zoo features all 24 species of crocodile (including the American alligator) in addition to a range of other reptiles, mammals and birds. Educational demonstrations and activities like zip-lining are also offered.
The park has a variety of wildlife, birds and plants in a setting of beaches, tidal salt marsh, and hammock. Recreational activities include bird watching, camping, fishing, sun bathing, surfing, sail boarding, swimming, kayaking, hiking and picnicking. Amenities include a campground and nature trails.
Gracia Real de Santa Teresa de Mose
This park preserves the site of the first legal free black settlement in America. It was established in 1738 by the Spanish for escaped black slaves seeking asylum from the British colonies. The former site of the community, long forgotten but rediscovered in 1968, is located about two miles north of St. Augustine. Also spelled Fort Moosa or Fort Mossa.
One of the oldest Catholic sites in the Americas, the mission was founded in 1565 and further developed in 1587. It developed into an important site for the Mocama Tribe during the following century, but the chapel was destroyed in 1728 during a British siege. The chapel was rebuilt multiple times, with the ultimate structure being constructed in 1914. In 1966, a cross — one of the tallest in the world at 208 ft — was dedicated at the mission. The shrine was upgraded to national status in 2019. A museum at the mission, opened in 2010, houses artifacts including Spanish documents dating to the 12th century.
Built in 1899.
The current building dates back to 1797 but the congregation is the oldest in United States, dating back to 1565.
Constructed in the local architectural style during the 1880s, the church was added to the National Register in 1979. Notably for its time, the building was made of concrete, and incorporated influences from Moorish architecture.
Oldest Protestant church in Florida, built in 1834.
Great for kids, this family fun park located behind the larger outlet mall off of I-95 offers miniature golf, an arcade, batting cages, go-karts, and a roller coaster simulator.
A shack in the state park offering affordable kayak, paddleboard, and sailboat rentals, as well as rentals of bikes and beach equipment like umbrellas and surfboards. A nearby park store sells snacks and fishing bait.
Activities include fishing, picnicking, boating, canoeing, camping and wildlife viewing.
Home to one of the oldest arts organizations in the Sunshine State, this is the premier gallery in the historic district. The 5,000 square foot landmark features a permanent collection of "Lost Colony" art from the 1930s as well as monthly juried exhibits of local art.
Including the St. Patrick's Day Parade.
A parade downtown of marching bands, floats, drill teams, clowns, Royal Family and the city's carriage horses wearing hats.
The last weekend of March at Francis Field on Castillo Drive. Features championship BBQ and musical entertainment.
Commercial and pleasure craft alike receive a blessing from the Bishop of the Diocese of St. Augustine. Ceremony begins at noon with a procession from the Cathedral Basilica.
This three-day musical event features a variety of local and national bands, storytelling and songwriting workshops. A celebration of the music, stories and dance by local and national artists celebrating the Gamble Rogers legacy.
A Southern Kingfish competition held at the St. Augustine Municipal Marina.
Local restaurants compete in various categories for the best chowder, with samples tasted by the public. Proceeds benefit The Shriner's Children's hospital.
Hosted by the St. Augustine Art Association for over 70 years, this premier festival is held twice a year: Thanksgiving weekend, and the weekend after Easter. See the works of over 150 top artists from across the country displaying painting, sculpture, jewelry, pottery, photography, fiber arts, glass and a variety of 2D & 3D works. Food, a KidZone, Festival Paint Out, entertainment, art demos, prizes and more.
More than a million little white lights outline the bayfront, Plaza de la Constiución, and buildings of the historic downtown for the entirety of the holiday season and beyond. Both sightseeing trams coordinate seasonal festive nighttime tours of the lights, complete with music and special light-viewing glasses.
A spectacular and colorful parade of sailboats, trawlers, shrimp boats and many other vessels decorated with the festive lights, held on the bay between the Bridge of Lions and Castillo de San Marcos.
Floats, bands, cars, and horses preclude the arrival of Santa Claus, who is available for pictures immediately after.
The city welcomes filmmakers from around the world to showcase their work in theaters around the city. Various parties occur in different locations all four nights of the festival.
Brunch 1920s style.
Gourmet popsicle outlet started by students from Flagler College; sells a variety of funky flavors at two locations in town.
Small Australian-inspired coffeehouse offering meat pies with savory fillings.
This two-story, diner-style restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and has a full bar and huge windows on the upper deck.
Ranked as one of the best pizza places in the country, this parlor owned by Brooklyn transplants serves up a mean slice that rivals those in New York.
Serves breakfast and lunch featuring freshly-baked authentic Spanish pastries, bread, and soups. Outdoor seating only.
This casual spot serves lunch and dinner in a unique atmosphere with an open deck just steps from the beach.
Classic Southern comfort food is served up for breakfast and lunch and this bright and airy neighborhood cafe.
Higher-end authentic Latin dishes served in a converted house located in the center of downtown.
Look for the distinctive 1950s-era silver exterior of this authentic diner, serving breakfast all day and lunch and dinner daily, with popular Greek specialties offered alongside the comfort food you would expect.
Traditional Creole dishes and seafood are served in a converted house and tree-covered outdoor courtyard.
The "local" favorite and regular winner of Best Seafood Restaurant, this family restaurant features their famous fried shrimp dinner. No alcohol, cash only, long lines outside.
American and seafood cuisines.
Authentic Italian specialties.
Artful global cuisine.
Enjoy waterfront dining inside or outside on the decks overlooking tropical Salt Run. Featuring seafood, Caribbean cuisine, steaks, salads, and award-winning conch chowder, The Conch House Lounge offers the best in tropical specialty drinks served in a Caribbean atmosphere over the water and features live entertainment.
Serves "Urban Cuisine," an eclectic mix of seafood, steaks, poultry, pork, vegetarian items, and pasta dishes influenced by international cooking styles.
World cuisine with Mediterranean and Southern influences served in an 1873 house turned bed & breakfast, with both indoor seating and an outdoor landscaped patio.
Florida Trend's 10 Best in Florida Golden Spoon award.
On the intracoastal waterway in a casual, recreated, turn-of-the-century fish camp surrounded by saltwater marshes. Specialties including fresh seafood, delicious ribs, and chicken specialties.
Live music and sports bar.
Traditional American bar/Irish pub.
American but European-influenced cuisine. About $30 for an entree.
Cigar room and jazz club.
Bar with views of downtown St. Augustine.
Opened in 2014 in a hundred-year-old ice plant, this working distillery crafts small batch whiskey, rum, gin, and vodka, as well as Florida's first bourbon. All spirits have won numerous awards and are made using locally grown, Florida agriculture. Free tours and tastings are offered daily. A "fill your own bottle" experience is available with Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon.
A few blocks from downtown, this winery was opened in 1996 in a restored railroad building and offers award-winning American wines dating back to 1562. Tours are offered seven days a week, leaving every 20-25 minutes and lasting for about 45 minutes. Wines are for sale at the on-site retail store, and a rooftop wine bar overlooking the San Sebastian River offers live jazz and blues on weekend nights.
American cuisine. Hosts live music and private events.
No pets.
On the shore of Matanzas Bay. 59 rooms.
About a block from the coast in St. Augustine Beach, the hotel does not allow pets and is smoke-free.
Marina on-site.
Twenty-five hotel rooms and suites, many with balconies and views of the Intercoastal Waterway, the Castillo de San Marcos and the City Gate. Facilities: internet access, private baths, and a complimentary continental breakfast.
A historical hotel built in 1888, it has 138 rooms and suites in a Spanish-style décor. The hotel is in St Augustine historic district.
Awarded "best resort in Florida" in 2022. The resort has also received awards from USA Today, the AAA, U.S. News & World Report, and TripAdvisor Traveler's Choice.
Close to numerous Saint Augustine attractions and dining, with reasonable prices for business and leisure travelers.
Constructed in 1920, the inn received the "Best of St. Augustine" award from Folio Magazine.
This grand 1884 home offers a comfortable combination of charming, elegant Victorian antiques and 21st-century amenities with full breakfast.
Bayfront Marin House
An historic inn, named after Francisco Marin, a Spanish immigrant in the 1700s, who built a house on the property. Old part of house (painted a brick color) is the original building.
This bed and breakfast was built in 2008 and is in the historic district. Weekday rates start at $99. Rates include a full breakfast, beverages, afternoon desserts and parking is on-site.
A 1893 Victorian home was restored by the Terrell Family to reflect the style and architecture of the Gilded Age. Bed and breakfast.
Pirate-themed inn, is in the middle of the Historic District. All you can eat Pirate Pancakes for breakfast, pirate toys and pirate bedtime reading for the kids. Private room rates from $50, and include free parking. Dorm beds from $20. Right in the middle of the historic district, 150 feet to the bay and 150 feet to St. George Street.
A historic bed-and-breakfast located at the corner of St. Francis and St. George Streets, built in 1791. Private courtyard with gardens, balconies, whirlpool tubs, breakfast, fireplaces, quiet location, free parking and swimming pool.
Located on the oldest street in St. Augustine, this beautiful Victorian house was built 1885. Guest rooms have private baths and are furnished with antiques. Guests are welcomed to a full hot breakfast, wifi, and free parking.
The more upscale of the area's two outlet centers, this one is an outdoor center with 85 stores including Polo Ralph Lauren, Nike, Gap, Coach, and Under Armour.
By car
St. Augustine can easily be reached by car, as Interstate 95 passes just west of the city.R.S.S. 1, then turn right.R.S. 1 and turn left to reach the downtown/attractions area.
By bus
By train
Jacksonville is the nearest large city with a full-service Amtrak station; it is served by the Silver Meteor routes that connect Miami to New York City.
By boat
Various private marinas, and the city's Municipal Marina, operate docks both near downtown and on nearby Anastasia Island.
By bike
St. Augustine offers an electric bike progam. Available to visitors and locals, the bike sharing is accessible by downloading the "Gotcha Powered by BOLT" app in the Apple Store or Android Play Store.
By trolley
There are two main tourist trolleys that provide guided tours of the historic downtown area.
By car
Downtown St. Augustine is rather inhospitable to cars, as the streets are narrow and often clogged with trolleys, horse-drawn carriages, and tourists on foot and bike all sharing the same roadway.
By bus
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
St Augustine · Regional · UST
Loading places around the airport…
Articles and travel topics about St. Augustine and United States.
Travel tipsFind the cheapest countries to fly to from the US and UK in 2026. Compare realistic round-trip flight deals, budget airlines, and prime booking windows.
8 min read
Travel tipsFind the best time to visit Hawaii in 2026. Compare whale seasons, big-wave surf, dry shoulder months, hotel rates, and island microclimates.
9 min read
InspirationDiscover the best places to visit in April. Compare Dutch tulip fields, Thailand's Songkran water festival, Roman spring gardens, and cherry blossoms.
7 min read
Travel tipsA practical guide to travelling with medication and refrigerated drugs like insulin and GLP-1s. Learn airline rules, customs papers, and cooling tips.
7 min read
Every section of the guide. Open one to read it in full.