Discover St Augustine With Google Maps
St Augustine, Florida, is a city rich in history and natural beauty. It’s the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the United States, founded by Spanish explorers in 1565. Today, St Augustine is a thriving tourist destination that attracts visitors from around the world. With Google Maps, you can explore all the city has to offer, from its top attractions to its hidden gems.
Top Attractions
St Augustine is home to many must-see attractions, including the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fort that played a crucial role in the city’s history. Another popular attraction is the St Augustine Lighthouse, which offers spectacular views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. Other top attractions include the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth, and the Lightner Museum.
Hidden Gems
St Augustine is full of hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. One of the city’s best-kept secrets is the St Augustine Distillery, where visitors can tour the facility and sample locally made spirits. Another hidden gem is the St Augustine Wild Reserve, a non-profit organization that houses exotic animals rescued from the entertainment industry. For a unique shopping experience, visit the St George Street Arcade, a collection of small shops and galleries.
Food Scene
St Augustine’s food scene is a blend of southern comfort food and fresh seafood. For a taste of the Deep South, head to The Floridian, where you can enjoy classic dishes like fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits. For seafood lovers, try Catch 27, a restaurant that specializes in locally sourced seafood. For a quick bite, stop by The Hyppo, a local favorite known for its gourmet popsicles.
Budget-Friendly Tips
St Augustine can be an expensive city to visit, but there are ways to save money without sacrificing the experience. Many of the city’s top attractions offer discounted admission for seniors, students, and military personnel. You can also save money on food by eating at local food trucks and markets. For a free activity, take a stroll through the historic district and admire the beautiful architecture.
Outdoor Adventures
St Augustine’s natural beauty makes it the perfect destination for outdoor adventures. Take a kayak tour of the Matanzas River, where you’ll see dolphins and other wildlife up close. For a more challenging adventure, hike the trails at Anastasia State Park, which offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. You can also rent a bike and explore the city’s many bike-friendly routes.
Historical Landmarks
As the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the United States, St Augustine is full of historical landmarks. In addition to the Castillo de San Marcos, other important sites include the Cathedral Basilica of St Augustine, the oldest Catholic church in Florida, and the Oldest House Museum Complex, a collection of historic homes dating back to the 18th century.
Family-Friendly Activities
St Augustine is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids of all ages will enjoy. Take a pirate-themed tour of the city with Black Raven Adventures, or explore the interactive exhibits at the St Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum. For a fun day at the beach, head to St Augustine Beach, which offers miles of sandy shoreline and plenty of water activities.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
For those who want to explore beyond the city’s main attractions, St Augustine offers plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences. For a spooky adventure, take a ghost tour of the city’s haunted sites with Ghosts & Gravestones. You can also visit the St Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, where you’ll see hundreds of alligators and other wildlife. For a more peaceful experience, take a yoga class at the St Augustine Lighthouse.
Natural Wonders
St Augustine is home to many natural wonders, including the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, a protected wetland area that is home to hundreds of species of wildlife. You can also visit the St Augustine Wildflower Park, a beautiful garden that showcases Florida’s native plants. For a unique experience, take a sunset sail on the Matanzas Bay and watch the dolphins play.
Vibrant Nightlife
St Augustine may be a historic city, but it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. For live music, head to the St Augustine Amphitheatre, which hosts concerts and events throughout the year. You can also sample local craft beer at the St Augustine Brewing Company, or enjoy a cocktail at The Ice Plant, a bar housed in a historic ice factory.
Local Markets
For a taste of St Augustine’s local flavor, visit one of the city’s many markets. The St Augustine Farmers Market offers fresh produce and artisanal products from local farmers and vendors. For a more eclectic shopping experience, visit the First Friday Art Walk, a monthly event that showcases local art and music.
Beaches and Mountains
St Augustine may be known for its beaches, but it also offers stunning mountain views. Take a drive along the scenic A1A highway, which offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway. For a day at the beach, head to Anastasia State Park, which offers miles of sandy shoreline and plenty of water activities.
Cultural Immersion
St Augustine’s rich history and diverse culture make it a great destination for cultural immersion. Visit the Fort Mose Historic State Park, the site of the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in the United States. You can also take a tour of the Lincolnville Historic District, a neighborhood that played an important role in the civil rights movement. For a taste of St Augustine’s Spanish heritage, visit the Cathedral Basilica of St Augustine.
Art and Music Scene
St Augustine has a thriving art and music scene, with many galleries and venues showcasing local talent. Visit the St Augustine Art Association, which hosts exhibits and events throughout the year, or catch a concert at the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall. For a unique experience, take a tour of the St Augustine Music Hall, a venue housed in a historic church.
Walking Tours
St Augustine’s compact size makes it the perfect destination for walking tours. Take a self-guided tour of the city’s historic district and admire the Spanish colonial architecture. You can also take a guided tour of the city’s haunted sites with Ghosts & Gravestones, or explore the city’s culinary scene with a food tour.
Architectural Marvels
St Augustine is home to many architectural marvels, from the Spanish colonial buildings of the historic district to the modern architecture of the St Augustine Amphitheatre. Visit the Villa Zorayda Museum, a Moorish Revival mansion that is a masterpiece of architectural design. You can also take a tour of the Lightner Museum, a beautiful Beaux-Arts building that showcases the city’s Gilded Age history.
Historical Sites
St Augustine’s history is on full display at its many historical sites. Visit the Government House Museum, a historic building that served as the seat of Spanish colonial government in the 18th century. You can also tour the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum, a restored boarding house that dates back to the early 19th century. For a taste of the city’s military history, visit the St Augustine National Cemetery.
Biking Routes
St Augustine’s many bike-friendly routes make it easy to explore the city on two wheels. Take a leisurely ride along the St Augustine Bayfront, which offers stunning views of the city’s skyline. You can also explore the city’s many parks and nature trails, or take a bike tour of the city’s historic district.
Wellness Retreats
St Augustine’s natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it the perfect destination for wellness retreats. Visit the St Augustine Healing Arts Center, which offers a range of holistic treatments and classes. For a more active experience, take a yoga class on the beach or join a meditation retreat at a local spa.
Adventure Sports
St Augustine’s natural beauty also makes it a great destination for adventure sports. Try your hand at surfing or paddleboarding on the Atlantic Ocean, or take a parasailing tour of the city’s coastline. For a more challenging adventure, take a zipline tour of the St Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park or go skydiving with Skydive Palatka.
With its rich history, natural beauty, and diverse culture, St Augustine is a destination that has something for everyone. With Google Maps, you can plan your trip and discover all the city has to offer. From its top attractions to its hidden gems, St Augustine is a city that will leave you wanting more.