25 Amazing Things to Do and See in St. Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine, Florida, is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the United States, founded in 1565. Over the centuries, the city has flown under the flags of Spain, Great Britain, and the United States. Known as the Ancient City, St. Augustine is filled with charm, history, and adventure.
Surrounded by the Atlantic beaches to the east and the St. Johns River to the west, this destination offers something special for every traveler — from families to history buffs and ghost enthusiasts alike.
Exploring the Old Town
The Old Town is the heart and soul of St. Augustine. As one of only three walled cities in North America, it feels like stepping into an old European village. Stroll the narrow, cobblestone streets, listen to the echo of church bells, and discover the stories behind every historic building.
Whether you’re here for romance, history, or haunted tales, here are 25 incredible things to do and see in St. Augustine.
1. St. Augustine Visitor’s Information Center
Begin your visit at the Visitor’s Information Center (VIC). It’s the perfect place to get brochures, attraction passes, and local event details. There’s also convenient parking just behind the center.
2. Public Burying Grounds
This half-acre cemetery dates back to the 1821 yellow fever epidemic. Many early Protestant pioneers of Florida rest here — most in unmarked graves. Maintained by the Presbyterian Church since 1832, it’s a peaceful but hauntingly historic stop.
Explore the haunted history of St. Augustine’s oldest cemeteries on a guided ghost tour.
3. Castillo de San Marcos
Built in 1672 by the Spanish, Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the U.S. Made from coquina stone (“little shells” in Spanish), this fortress has survived sieges and centuries of change.
4. Waterfront Views
Take in the stunning Matanzas Bay vistas that once made St. Augustine a crucial strategic port.
5. Bridge of Lions
Guarded by two marble lions, this elegant bridge connects downtown St. Augustine to Anastasia Island. Originally built in 1927, it’s still one of the most photographed landmarks in town.
6. Ponce de Leon Statue
Standing just 4’11”, the statue of Ponce de Leon honors the explorer who first discovered Florida. He points toward the sea — a symbol of Spain’s maritime ambitions.
7. Florida National Guard Headquarters
Since the city’s founding, a military presence has always been part of St. Augustine’s history. The National Guard headquarters continues that tradition.
8. St. Augustine National Cemetery
Established in the early 1800s, this cemetery holds the remains of soldiers from the Seminole Wars and other conflicts. A solemn reminder of the city’s storied past.
9. The Oldest House Museum
This historic home dates back to the early 1700s, after the English burned much of St. Augustine. Explore centuries of living history here.
10. Aviles Street
The oldest street in St. Augustine, Aviles Street transports visitors to another era with its quaint galleries, shops, and cafés.
At night, the area transforms during haunted walking tours where guides share the ghostly legends of downtown.
11. Spanish Military Hospital Museum
Step back in time to the Second Spanish Colonial Period (1784–1821). Learn about 18th-century medical practices and how patients were treated long before modern science.
12. Cathedral Basilica
Home to the oldest Catholic parish in the U.S., this cathedral features exquisite Spanish Colonial architecture and centuries of faith-filled history.
13. Potter’s Wax Museum
St. Augustine’s Potter’s Wax Museum showcases lifelike figures of celebrities and historical icons — a local favorite for families.
14. Public Market
Dating back to 1598, the Plaza Market was the first organized public marketplace in America, introducing standardized weights and measures for trade.
15. Plaza de la Constitución
This lively plaza was once a commercial hub — even serving as a slave market centuries ago. Today, it’s a peaceful park filled with history, restaurants, and shaded benches.
16. St. George Street
A pedestrian-only main street packed with shops, cafés, and historic sites. It’s also one of the most popular spots for ghost tours at night.
Join a US Ghost Adventures tour here after sunset to uncover chilling tales of the city’s restless spirits.
17. Government House Museum and Visitor’s Center
Dating to the late 1500s, this building once served as a governor’s residence and courthouse. Today, it’s a museum dedicated to St. Augustine’s colonial heritage.
18. Flagler College
Once the Ponce de Leon Hotel, this masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture was built in 1888 by railroad magnate Henry Flagler. The interior’s Tiffany glass and carved woodwork are stunning.
19. Lightner Museum
Located across from Flagler College, the Lightner Museum displays 19th-century decorative arts, housed in what was once the luxurious Alcazar Hotel.
20. Villa Zorayda
Built in 1883 and inspired by Spain’s Alhambra Palace, this mansion showcases Moorish-style architecture and fascinating antiques.
21. Memorial Presbyterian Church
Constructed by Henry Flagler in memory of his daughter, this ornate church is his final resting place.
22. Spanish Quarter Museum
A living history museum that immerses visitors in 17th- and 18th-century life with costumed interpreters and hands-on exhibits.
23. Oldest Wooden School House
Built in the early 1700s, this tiny red cedar and cypress building offers a glimpse into colonial education.
24. Old City Gates
Once the only way into St. Augustine, the Old City Gates (built in 1808) mark the entrance to the historic district.
25. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum
The original Ripley’s Museum, established shortly after Robert Ripley’s death, continues to amaze visitors with oddities and curiosities.
Bonus Adventures
Of course, there’s much more to see — the beaches, Fort Menendez, Marineland, the Alligator Farm, and the legendary Fountain of Youth.
Getting Around
A great way to explore St. Augustine is aboard the Old Town Trolley. This hop-on, hop-off service stops at most major attractions, helping visitors get familiar with the layout of the city quickly and comfortably.
St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park and Scavenger Hunt Printable
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