Saint Augustine is a location I’ve desired to go to for a really very long time. The primary time I heard about this metropolis was years in the past whereas I used to be in faculty, it was the place the school began earlier than it moved to Miami Florida. I made a decision I used to be going to take the journey this 12 months and so I did. I began out trying to find rooms for five nights however costs had been including up and I began to marvel if there would even be sufficient for me to do in St. Augustine for five days. So I made a decision to remain for much less days. Nicely to my shock there was loads of issues to do and see on this historic metropolis. On this article I’ve put collectively an inventory of issues you are able to do whereas visiting St. Augustine.
Castillo de San Marcos Nationwide Monument
The Castillo de San Marcos (spanish for St. Marks Fortress) is claimed to be the oldest fort of its form in america. This monument has been opened since 1695, yep that lengthy. It was constructed by the Spaniards to guard Florida. It’s open from 9:00 a.m. by 5:00 p.m. every day. In the event you occur to go when it’s closed like I did you’ll be able to nonetheless discover the outside, by taking a stroll across the monument, being attentive to the cannons on website, the furnace the place cannons had been heated earlier than being fired or sit and benefit from the cool ocean breeze. Nonetheless, in case you are interested by what’s inside and wish to study extra concerning the Castillo de San Marcos, the fee to go in is $15 for ages 16 and older. Youngsters 15 and beneath are free.
Take a cruise tour
With the cruise excursions you will have choices. There’s ‘Scenic Cruise’ that takes you out sight seeing on a type of double decker boats, this tour final about 90 minutes, you’ll be able to see locations like Anastasia Island, the lighthouse, the nice cross and environment. You should buy drinks and snacks aboard the Scenic Cruise sightseeing excursions. The present costs are $20.75 for adults, $9.75 for youngsters, and $17.50 for seniors.
Then there’s additionally the Black Raven pirate cruises the place you’ll be able to take the entire household for an journey. The pirate cruises provides actions onboard comparable to treasure hunt, jokes, sword fights between the pirates, and extra. Additionally they provide a Rum Runner cruise however this one is for adults solely 😉. The treasure hunt cruises are $39.95 for adults, $29.95 for youngsters ages 3-12, $9.95 youngsters 2 and beneath, and you can even get the household pack for two adults and a couple of youngsters at $107.85. The rum runner cruise is $29.95. You will need to deliver ID for the rum runner cruise, it’s only on Fridays and Saturdays at 8:15 p.m.
Flagler Faculty
Flagler faculty is a should see. The previous resort turned faculty has a spectacular structure, very interesting to the attention. Atleast it was to my eyes 😀. Flagler Faculty is presently a Liberal Arts Faculty positioned in historic downtown St. Agustine. It was previously the Ponce de Leon resort constructed by Henry Flagler in 1888. The resort was visited by well-known people comparable to Ernest Hemmingway and John F Kennedy (properly he was 13 on the time not but president). In 1968 the resort grew to become Flagler Faculty.
Lightner Museum
Are you an Artwork Buff, if that’s the case then the Lightner Museum is a should see. Earlier than it was the Lightner Museum it was the Alcazar Resort, additionally accomplished in 1888 by Henry Flagler. At first it was to be an extension of Flagler’s different resort the Ponce de Leon, however as an alternative was constructed as an impartial constructing. The resort was closed in 1931 and was purchased by Otto Lightner in 1947, who turned it right into a museum. At this museum you’ll expertise historical past within the type of artwork as you’re taken again centuries by the collections. You can be amazed at what you will discover right here.
Ripley’s Imagine it or not
Get able to discover three tales of the unbelievable at Ripley’s Imagine It or Not in St. Augustine, Florida. Right here you will discover photographs of extraordinary issues and the tales behind them. For instance, the lip disk girl and why it’s performed in sure cultures or Robert Wadlow the tallest man to ever stay.
Ripley’s Imagine It or Not’s historical past goes again so far as 1918. In December of that 12 months the primary Ripley’s Imagine It or Not cartoon was printed, then in 1922 Robert Ripley the founder determined to journey around the globe. He traveled by international locations comparable to Bali, Israel, Iraq, Jordan, and Asia, simply to call a number of. In 1929 the primary Ripley’s Imagine it or not e-book was printed. Within the Nineteen Thirties the primary radio present aired. One of many exhibits was aired 750 ft underground and one other Underwater, then from the Grand Canyon. He went on to publishing extra books. Later in 1933 the primary odditorium was opened in Chicago containing distinctive artifacts that Ripley collected on his world journeys.
Ripley died in 1949 and the primary Museum was opened in Saint Augustine the next 12 months on the Fortress Warden which was previously a resort.
The Outdated Jail
Attempt to not let the 6ft 6 inches tall 300lbs sheriff Joe Perry catch you on the The outdated jail in St. Augustine. The inmates (not likely) provides you with a tour of the jail constructed by Henry Flagler. It is possible for you to hear the story behind the jail that Flagler constructed to seem like a resort and guests would go there knocking on the door hoping to get a room for the night time, solely to seek out out that it isn’t the kind of resort they had been hoping for. It is possible for you to to see the cells and even wax photographs of prisoners contained in the cells, in addition to weapons used throughout that point.
Potter’s Wax Museum
In 1949 George E. Potter made the choice to open America’s very first wax museum in St. Augustine. The concept behind the museum was to show historical past. 90% of the figures are from Potter’s authentic assortment. The figures are so life-like it was a bit spooky. lol. You will discover previous presidents and their wives, in addition to well-known composers, Michael Jordan, Martin Luther and even some ghastly ones just like the Frankenstein Monster. The museum is open each day from 9 a.m. to five p.m. Tickets are $14.16 and youngsters 4-12 $8.08, youngsters beneath 4 are free.
Whetstone Chocolate Tour
Love chocolate or simply curious what goes into making it? Nicely that is the occasion for you. Henry and Esther Whetstone first began out within the Ice cream enterprise after which later the chocolate enterprise. Throughout this tour you’ll take pleasure in strolling by the manufacturing unit and studying about Whetstone’s historical past, whilst you nibble on samples. Excursions can be found each day between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and three:30 p.m. at totally different intervals and is $8.95 for adults, $6.50 for youngsters 5-17, and free for youngsters beneath 5.
Gator Bob’s Buying and selling Publish
Inside Gator Bob’s you will discover souvenirs, items, and clothes, however there’s extra to it than that. Gator Bob’s additionally has a deli inside and the Outdated St. Augustine Museum. As you tour the Outdated St. Augustine Museum, see issues like classic automobiles, popcorn machine, and outdated flicker motion pictures.
Watch a Magic Present
Expertise magic in historic St. Augustine by stopping in at one of many magic exhibits. Simply on the nook of Hypolita and St. George avenue you will discover Theatre Magic. the fee is $10 per individual and the present final half-hour. It’s open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Fountain of Youth
The Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth is an archeological park in Saint Augustine that showcases America’s colonial historical past. No there isn’t any miracle water that may make you keep younger eternally, however there are a number of fountains within the park and particularly Ponce de Leon’s Spring of Everlasting Hope the place you’ll be able to take a sip. On the Fountain of Youth you will discover details about the Timicuan Indians that occupied the realm and there lifestyle. See an precise burying floor, go inside huts, and even take a step inside a church. Additionally, you will discover lovely Indian peacocks (they scream so much). There are displays just like the blacksmith presentation, the planetarium, and the cannon present. You too can climb the commentary tower or take a stroll on the boardwalk whereas there.
The Saint Augustine Distillery
Situated on the ice plant on Riberia avenue the St. Augustine Distillery provides excursions so you’ll be able to see how the liquors are made, study various kinds of liquors and even discover ways to make particular cocktails. Excursions can be found every day from 10:30 a.m. to five:30 p.m. and they’re free.
Alligator Farm
Alligator farm is likely one of the oldest points of interest in St. Augustine. The park was based in 1893. Right here it is possible for you to to view totally different species of crocodiles however not solely that, there are additionally different animals there like birds, lemurs and snakes. You too can go ziplining by the park and revel in wildlife exhibits just like the scales and tails reptile present. The tickets are $28.99 for adults and $17.99 for youngsters 3-11.
Ghost Excursions
There are such a lot of to select from. Whereas going to the totally different points of interest to purchase entry tickets, one factor most of them provide is a ghost tour bundle. No marvel as a result of it’s consider that loads of the buildings in St. Augustine are haunted. Be afraid, very afraid as a tour information takes you on a nightmarish tour of the cities cemeteries and let you know ghost tales concerning the metropolis 😱. There are excursions out there for all ages and a few for adults solely.
Go to the Seashores
Which one ought to I’m going to? 🤔 there are such a lot of to select from. There’s loads of seashore to go round in St. Augustine however plainly Vilano seashore is the most well-liked or busier. There’s a pier there, a marina, and eating places. You possibly can take your canine for a stroll, watch the sundown, take a ship tour, or go fishing. Nonetheless, in case you are in search of someplace a bit extra laid again there’s North Seaside , simply north of Vilano seashore. Don’t overlook your surfboard you perhaps capable of catch a wave or two. There’s free parking out there for the seashore in addition to paid parking.
Take a Guided Trolley Tour
There are two varieties of trolley excursions that that I’ve seen in St. Augustine. There’s the Outdated City Trolley and the Pink Practice Excursions. The Outdated City Trolley appears to the be hottest of the 2. The excursions are guided so the driving force provides you with a background on the totally different points of interest in addition to the town. It is possible for you to to hop on and off the excursions at no matter cease you select. The stops are numbered and you’ll obtain a map that provides you what’s on the totally different stops.
Despite the fact that the resort the place I stayed had an indication that confirmed they offered the Pink Practice Excursions within the foyer I opted for the Outdated City Trolley excursions after I discovered they provided a shuttle that picks you up and drops you again to the resort. You get reductions on the entry charge to sure points of interest once you purchase your ticket from the trolley ticket boots.
Strolling Tour
You too can do your individual strolling tour alongside Avenida Mendez or down the again streets like Saint George avenue, or Aviles Avenue which is claimed to be the oldest avenue within the US. You possibly can see cool issues like a lonely musician enjoying her guitar, an artist drawing a portray, or a man with snakes.
Carriage Journey
So perhaps you don’t need a trolley tour or perhaps a strolling tour, however how a few horse carriage tour round city. It is possible for you to to loosen up and take within the metropolis views whereas the coachman offers you a guided tour of the town. These excursions are primarily out there within the evenings. You possibly can select from shared rides, to non-public ones, or rides for particular events.
Go to the Dolphin Place
Swim with dolphins at Marine Land dolphin journey. You possibly can go for the swim journey the place you maintain on to the dolphin’s flippers whereas they take you for a journey, or the royal swim during which the dolphin will raise you up by pushing from the only real of your ft, or simply have an encounter with the dolphins by interacting with them in case you are not a swimmer.
Water Sports activities
That is Florida and right here the ocean is your enjoying area. There are fairly a number of locations in St. Augustine that gives boat , kayak, and jetski leases. I’ve additionally seen surfers, having a very good time on the waves. Parasailing is one other exercise that you would be able to expertise as properly.
Colonial Quarters
Be entertained with an interactive expertise as you study historical past. It is possible for you to to see a blacksmith demonstration, see a cannon fired and climb a 35ft watch tower the place you’ll be able to overlook Castillo de San Marco and extra of downtown St. Augustine.
Pirate and Treasure Museum
On the pirate treasure museum it is possible for you to to watch and study treasures from the Caribbean, really feel like you’re on an precise pirate ship, really feel the vibration as you hear the sounds of cannons hitting your ship, and hunt to seek out treasures hidden away in drawers. It’s an incredible expertise for the entire household. The children will particularly love enjoying with the interactive cannon. It’s positioned simply throughout the road from the Castillo de San Marcos. The price for adults is $18.99, $9.99 for youngsters 5-12, and $15.99 for seniors.
World Golf Corridor of Fame and Museum
Situated in World Golf Village, between St. Augustine and Jacksonville, the world golf corridor of fame is the place to be in case you are serious about studying one thing concerning the world of golf or in case you are already a fan. Tickets are $20.95 for adults, youngsters 5-12 $5.00, seniors, Florida residents, and army personnel $19.95. College students 13 and over with correct id $10.00. There’s an Imax theatre, guests can strive their hand at a gap in problem. Whereas there additionally, you will be capable of see trophies, and golf sticks that had been used, study concerning the corridor of famers, and climb the tower.
Procuring on the Shops
Get discounted costs on identify manufacturers comparable to Coach, Michael Kors, Nike, Carters, Coach, and Clarks on the St. Augustine Shops. They’re positioned simply off the I-95. Sadly those on the east aspect of the I-95 are presently closed apart from Loft. A consultant at Loft mentioned that the Shops on that aspect had been closed for renovation of the constructing.
Anastasia State Park
Benefit from the lovely white sand seashore at Anastasia State Park. Watch as boaters dock alongside the shore and revel in all that’s right here to do. Beaching isn’t the one factor you are able to do right here although, you can even chicken watch, camp in any of the 139 camps out there, go mountain climbing, journey a motorbike alongside the 4 miles of seashore. Lease a kayak or canoe from contained in the park and get to paddling. There’s simply a lot you are able to do right here.
Torture Museum
Whereas in St. Augustine you might also wish to try the torture museum, properly that’s in case you are into that sort of stuff. See how folks had been tortured in instances previous. Study skinning, witch interrogation, hand torture, neck entice, and extra.
Saint Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
I nearly forgot this one and the way might I. The lighthouse is a really important a part of Florida’s historical past. Situated on Anastasia Island, the lighthouse was constructed across the similar time because the Castillo de San Marcos to be careful for enemy ships. Some of the in style occasions on the St. Augustine lighthouse is to climb the 219 stairs to the highest of the tower, nevertheless, the tower is presently beneath restoration. Don’t fear there are different issues there to do just like the ghost tour, the maritime hammock scavenger hunt, and having fun with the each day demos.
Plaza de la Constitucion
Plaza de la Constitucion or Metropolis Plaza is a park positioned in downtown St. Augstine, simply throughout the road from the Bridge of Lions and the Authorities Home to the west. As you stroll by the park you’ll discover outdated cannons and examine historic occasions. The park has been part of St. Augustine since 1573. Traditionally this was the place occasions comparable to public auctions the place held. At the moment it’s the place public occasions are held like the general public market and concert events, nevertheless it’s additionally an incredible place to loosen up and take some images.
I attempted to place collectively as a lot actions to do in St. Augustine and I’m positive there are some issues lacking from this checklist. There are different museums to go to in Saint Augustine just like the Outdated Faculty, the Oldest Home and even the Civil Rights memorial website. At Outdated City, cease primary for the Outdated City Trolley there are fairly a number of locations to go to, just like the Oldest Retailer museum, the Spice and Tea alternate and another locations that I discussed above.
Many of the actions are positioned in downtown Saint Augustine. The parking there’s paid parking and a few could be fairly dear, so here’s a tip strive in search of a spot to park on the again streets as an alternative of on the principle.
I do know you should have a good time visiting this lovely metropolis. Don’t hesitate to put in writing within the feedback a few of your experiences that you’ve in Saint Augustine.
