St. Augustine

Saint Augustine

America's oldest continuously occupied European settlement, founded in 1565, with cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial architecture throughout its historic district. The town is a charming blend of history, museums, restaurants, and galleries centered around Castillo de San Marcos.

Things to do

• Castillo de San Marcos — Explore this 17th-century Spanish stone fortress with sweeping views of Matanzas Bay and exhibits on colonial military life.
• St. Augustine Historic District Walking Tour — Stroll the original cobblestone streets lined with colonial buildings, galleries, and shops in the heart of the oldest European settlement north of Mexico.
• Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park — Visit this reconstructed 16th-century Timucua village and Spanish colonial settlement with demonstrations of period crafts and native culture.
• Potter's Wax Museum — See lifelike wax figures depicting famous historical figures and scenes from St. Augustine's colonial past in an entertaining museum setting.
• Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium — Browse an eccentric collection of oddities, curiosities, and oddball artifacts housed in the historic Castle Winslow building.
• Anastasia State Park — Relax on pristine beaches, explore salt marshes, and hike trails along the barrier island just south of the historic district.
• Pirate and Treasure Museum — Learn about the Golden Age of Piracy with authentic artifacts, interactive displays, and tales of Caribbean raiders who frequented Florida's coast.

Food to try

• Datil Pepper Cuisine — Seek out local dishes featuring the distinctive small, hot datil pepper that has grown in St. Augustine since Spanish colonial times, used in sauces and seafood.
• Grouper Sandwich — Enjoy fresh Florida grouper breaded and fried on a roll, a regional specialty found in waterfront restaurants throughout the city.
• Stone Crab Claws — Savor the sweet, tender claws of Florida's famous stone crabs, typically served chilled with mustard sauce at upscale seafood establishments.
• Minorcan Clam Chowder — Try this unique local variation of clam chowder influenced by the Minorcan community that settled in St. Augustine, often with a distinctive tomato and datil pepper base.
• Spanish Paella — Experience traditional paella at restaurants throughout the historic district that honor the city's Spanish culinary heritage with seafood and saffron rice.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Historic District's Age — Remember you are walking through a living museum where many buildings date to the 1600s-1700s; move slowly, observe quietly, and be mindful of preservation efforts.
• Visit During Quieter Seasons — Spring and fall offer the best experience with fewer crowds than summer and winter holidays, allowing you to better appreciate the narrow streets and historic ambiance.
• Dress for Heat and Humidity — St. Augustine summers are hot and humid; wear breathable clothing, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring the uneven cobblestone streets.
• Learn About the Minorcan Community — Understand that this city's culture was significantly shaped by Mediterranean immigrants from Minorca who arrived in the 18th century and left lasting culinary and architectural influences.