Must-Do Things in St. Augustine
St. Augustine, the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the continental United States, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From its ancient architecture to its vibrant arts scene, St. Augustine is a destination that has something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to this charming city, here are the must-do things to add to your itinerary.
Historic Downtown St. Augustine
The historic downtown area of St. Augustine is a must-visit destination, with its well-preserved 17th-century architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Take a self-guided walking tour of the city’s historic district, which includes:
• Calle Boricua: A picturesque street lined with colonial-era buildings, shops, and restaurants.
• St. George Street: The oldest street in the United States, with shops, galleries, and restaurants.
• The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park: A 400-acre park dedicated to the city’s famous past, featuring a replica of the 16th-century fortress.
Beaches and Waterfront
St. Augustine’s beaches offer a tranquil escape from the city’s bustle. Here are some must-visit beaches:
• St. Augustine Beach: A family-friendly beach with calm waters and a historic pier.
• New Smyrna Beach: A popular beach town with a vibrant arts scene and water sports.
• Yulee Bridge Beach: A quiet beach with crystal-clear waters and a historic bridge.
Eating and Drinking
St. Augustine is renowned for its seafood, and you’ll find plenty of options for dining and drinking:
• The Floridian: A historic restaurant serving up Southern cuisine since 1927.
• The Columbia Restaurant: A St. Augustine institution since 1905, offering Cuban cuisine and live music.
• Blue Coyote Lounge: A popular spot for cocktails and live music, with a trendy atmosphere.
Arts and Culture
St. Augustine’s arts scene is thriving, with numerous galleries and performance venues:
• St. Augustine Art Association: A non-profit organization showcasing local and international art.
• Lightner Museum: A historic museum featuring art and artifacts from the 19th century.
• New World Avenue Studios: A former train depot turned arts center, hosting live music and performances.
Outdoor Activities
St. Augustine’s natural beauty offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration:
• St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: A historic lighthouse with stunning views of the Matanzas Bay.
• Anastasia State Park: A scenic park with beaches, hiking trails, and historic sites.
• St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park: A unique park featuring alligators, birds, and other animals.
Additional Tips and Recommendations
• Best Time to Visit: September to November and March to May, when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller.
• Getting Around: The city has a bike-share program and public transportation, making it easy to get around.
• Accommodations: From historic bed-and-breakfasts to modern hotels, St. Augustine has plenty of options to suit every budget.
Top 10 Must-Do Things in St. Augustine
• Explore the Historic Downtown Area: Take a self-guided walking tour to discover the city’s charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
• Visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: Marvel at the stunning views of the Matanzas Bay and learn about the city’s maritime history.
• Relax on St. Augustine Beach: Enjoy the calm waters and scenic views of the beach.
• Explore the New World Avenue Studios: Visit this former train depot turned arts center to see local and international art.
• Take a Food Tour: Sample the city’s famous seafood and explore the local culinary scene.
• Visit the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park: Get up close and personal with alligators, birds, and other animals.
• Walk or Bike the Historic Downtown Stroll: Take a leisurely walk or bike ride through the historic district to discover the city’s hidden gems.
• Attend a Festival or Event: St. Augustine hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the St. Augustine Festival of the Arts and the Lightner Museum’s Christmas exhibit.
• Visit the St. Augustine Art Association: See local and international art in a beautiful setting.
In conclusion, St. Augustine is a city that has something for everyone. From its historic architecture to its vibrant arts scene, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this charming city. By incorporating these must-do things into your itinerary, you’ll create an unforgettable experience in St. Augustine.