Things To Do
Old Town Trolley Tours St Augustine
With nearly 500 years of history, including rule by Spain, Britain, and the U.S., St. Augustine is full of sights and attractions that entertain and educate. For over 30 years, Old Town Trolley has provided tours highlighting the best of the city. 1 day of free unlimited re-boarding. Hop On & Off at 22 Old Town Trolley Stops. Includes free admission to St. Augustine History Museum, and exclusive stops at Old Jail, Potter’s Wax Museum & Old Drug Store.
Saint Augustine Distillery
Whiskey lovers will feel right at home on a trip to St. Augustine, thanks to the St. Augustine Distillery. Founded in 2013, the family-owned and -operated spirit crafter makes whiskey on-site daily. In addition to whiskey, the distillery also produces gin, bourbon, vodka, rum and more. The attraction is housed in St. Augustine's original power and ice complex, built in 1907. Travelers can enjoy free tastings and self-guided tours seven days a week. Voted the #1 Whiskey Tour in North America.
Colonial Quarter
Located on St. George Street in downtown St. Augustine's historic district, the Colonial Quarter offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of 16th-, 17th- and 18th-century residents. The living museum is divided into four areas: the 16th Century Spanish First City, the 17th Century Spanish Fortified Town, the 18th Century Spanish Garrison Town and the 18th Century British The 14th Colony. In each section, travelers can witness activities like the construction of a ship, musket drills, leatherworking and cannon firing demonstrations. The Colonial Quarter is open daily between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Adult tickets cost $14.99, while tickets for children ages 5 to 15 are $8.99. Children 4 and younger get in for free. Tickets can be purchased at 14 S. Castillo Drive or 43 St. George Street. The trolley makes stops near the Colonial Quarter as well.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
Castillo de San Marcos served as a fort for more than 205 years. Built between 1672 and 1695 by the Spanish, it protected the newly established territory of Spanish Florida from the British and pirates. It's the oldest masonry fortification in the U.S., as well as the only surviving 17th-century military site in the country. Additionally, it is one of only two forts in the world constructed from coquina, a semi-rare limestone composed of shell fragments. Though the Spanish maintained control of the Castillo de San Marcos for most of its military career, it was used by the British during the American Revolution and by Confederate and Union soldiers during the Civil War. The fort became a national monument in 1900. Admission for adults 16 and older costs $15, while kids 15 and younger and visitors with National Parks Passes can enter for free. All tickets are valid for seven consecutive days.
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum features shipwreck artifacts, a wooden boat building exhibit and a 165-foot-tall lighthouse. The lighthouse, which was built between 1871 and 1874, is the oldest surviving brick structure in St. Augustine and has 219 steps. You'll find the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum about 2 miles southeast of St. Augustine's historic city center on Anastasia Island. The lighthouse and museum are open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. General admission tickets cost $14.95 for adults and $12.95 for seniors and children 12 and younger.
Old Jail Museum
This historic jail served the city of St. Augustine from 1891 to1953. Visitors can take tours of the jail during the day or night, experiencing history as inmates in period dress guide them through the women's cells, men's cells, and the maximum-security cells where only the most dangerous criminals were kept. The Old Jail's unique history is full of fascinating stories about individual inmates that once occupied the cells and the sheriffs (and their families.) who lived just across the hall from them. Tours depart every 20 minutes from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. every day, and night tours of the Old Jail are offered as part of the Ghosts and Gravestones tour. Tickets for adults is $15.
Historic Tours of Flagler College
Flagler College is located in the heart of downtown St. Augustine. Historic Tours of Flagler College highlight the architectural heritage of the former Hotel Ponce de Leon, listed as a National Historic Landmark. Built by railroad magnate, Henry M. Flagler in 1888, the Ponce is considered one of the finest examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture and was one of the most exclusive resorts of its day. Tours depart daily from the main lobby (Rotunda) of the College located at 74 King Street. It is highly suggested that you purchase tickets before your arrival. Tickets are $16.
Whetstone Chocolates Store and Tasting Tour
St. Augustine’s “Original Chocolate Tour” led by Whetstone Chocolatiers. You will be introduced to the history and making of chocolate and the Whetstone story. Over 45 minutes, you will learn the best ways to understand different types of chocolate, how it should be tasted and what to look out for. As you progress through the tour you will also discover how to pick out the flavors and texture influenced by such things as the type of cocoa used, and other secrets of the trade. Tickets are $10.95.
San Sebastian Winery
San Sebastian ranks as one of Florida's premium wineries, and remains a pioneer in the development of premium, sparkling and dessert wines from Muscadine grapes. Vinifera wines are also produced to include Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon and are marketed along with blended and sparkling wines from native Muscadine grapes. Port and Cream Sherry dessert wines are also produced by and sold under the San Sebastian brand. Complimentary Winery tours and wine tasting are offered 7 days a week: Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5p.m., and Sunday, 11:00 a.m. - 5 p.m. Live Music at "The Cellar Upstairs Bar and Restaurant" is located on the rooftop of the Winery building and is a best kept secret with locals. Open only on weekends.
Vilano Beach Pavilion
Vilano Beach is a five-minute drive from the historic downtown area. Often considered a local best-kept secret for beach combing, Vilano offers several access points including Usina and North Beach, secluded locales south of Ponte Vedra Beach. The area’s main beach is Vilano Beach, which features a fishing pier, waterfront restaurants, town center, pavilion, boardwalk and shops.
St. Augustine Beach
If you’re looking for more vibrant St. Augustine beaches, then head further south to St. Augustine Beach. Anchored by the St. Johns County Ocean Pier, the main part of the beach offers amenities like a splash park for kids, shaded pavilion for picnicking, volleyball courts, pier fishing and bait shop.
Saint George Street
Walk along St. George Street, a brick-paved street that is designated for pedestrians only. Here’s where you’ll find some of the best restaurants and shopping in downtown St. Augustine. At the northern end of the street, you’ll find the Old City Gates and the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, while at the southern end is the Colonial Quarter. In between, there are plenty of cafes, art galleries, antique ships, boutiques and more!