Things To Do in St. Augustine, Florida

The Nation’s Oldest City offers rich history, attractions, and more.

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OldCity’s guide to things to do in St Augustine Florida

Sun, Fun, History, and Mystery – Your Guide to Things to do in St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine’s attractions bring to life the history, adventure, and romance of the Nation’s Oldest City. There are more than 60 attractions in St. Augustine that explore the rich four and a half century history of the Nation’s Oldest City, each in its own unique way. For the modern adventurer, there are dozens of other activities to fill your time with as well, from art galleries to golf, from surfing to IMAX movies.

By day, you can explore the city’s rich history, spend the day shopping, or enjoy some time outdoors while surfing, fishing, or playing a round of golf. History-minded visitors can explore destinations like these:

Castillo de San MarcosCastillo de San Marcos »

Throughout its history, the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument has been closely intertwined with the city and the neighboring structures which served as the city’s outer defenses – Fort Mose to the north and Fort Matanzas to the south. The Castillo and the town serve as outstanding reminders of the might of the early Spanish empire in the New World. Given the architectural details, it’s hardly surprising that Castillo de San Marcos actually took 23 years to build (from 1672 to 1695). Numerous historic events have taken place within the walls of this ancient stalwart including the imprisonment of Seminole tribe leader Chief Osceola after he was captured in 1837. Fabricated of coquina, a virtually indestructible limestone comprised of broken sea shells and coral, the walls of the fortress remained impenetrable through 300 years of enemy shelling and pounding by violent storms.

Fort Matanzas »

Built from 1740-1742, Fort Matanzas represents a well-preserved masonry watchtower fort built by the Spanish. By providing a perch to observe enemy vessels approaching from the south, the fort played a strategic role in warning St. Augustine of potential enemy advancements from the south via the Matanzas River.

Flagler College
Flagler College »
Celebrating 40 years of providing educational excellence, Flagler College offers 26 majors and 30 minors in selected studies emphasizing liberal arts, education, and business. Located in what was once Henry Flagler’s first St. Augustine hotel, the Ponce de Leon, the college operates tours for both visitors and prospective students. Jaws will drop at the sight of such incredible architecture which has been painstakingly preserved through the years. The campus grounds are equally impressive with their rows of towering palms and well-kept gardens. With the purchase of the Florida East Coast Railway building west of town (now converted into dormitories and offices), the new student center on Sevilla Street, and expansions of the art building and galleries, Flagler College is continually expanding both its presence in town and opportunities for its students.

Lightner MuseumLightner Museum »

History buffs will adore the many museums in the area. The Lightner Museum is among the most unique, featuring an intriguing array of items, from shrunken heads and mummies to stunning collections of stained glass and crystal. When it opened its doors in 1889, Henry Flagler’s Alcazar Hotel delighted guests with its gigantic indoor pool and retractable roof, casino, spa, and movie theater. O.C. Lightner jumped at the opportunity to live in the hotel when it became available for purchase and house his unique collections here.

Shops around the historic district offer everything from souvenirs to antiques, arts and crafts to clothing. St. Augustine is also the ideal location for soaking up the sun along our 43 miles of pristine beaches or on the emerald expanse of a grassy golf course. Stroll the sandy seashore, lay out by the pool or head into the blue waters of the Atlantic for a little deep sea fishing. Whatever your interests are, nature is at its best in St. Augustine.

By night, visitors can enjoy a casual stroll or a carriage ride through the cobblestone streets of St. Augustine, but beware of the spirits that sometimes lurk in the shadows. While The Ancient City can be an ideal spot for romance, it’s also got a history that never sleeps. If candlelight dinners and window-shopping on St. George Street aren’t your thing, you may want to try a ghost tour through the narrow alleys and haunted buildings like the Old Jail.


Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

Visit America's First Colony - the actual site of the first 1565 Menendez settlement! Located on 15 waterfront acres, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is Florida's oldest attraction. Feel a cannon roar in the pit of your stomach. Drink from Ponce's Spring of Eternal Hope. Visit a Living History Timucua Village. Experience the reconstructed 1587 Mission Church of Nombre de Dios. Ready to explore?

Visit Our Site 904-829-3168
Bluewater Adventure

Bluewater Adventure

Looking for a unique boating adventure in St. Augustine? Our state-of-the-art, roomy, interactive small craft catamaran gets you up close and personal with dolphins and other marine life. Experience attractions like the Castillo de San Marcos, the Great Cross, the Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, or Fort Matanzas from a different perspective. Contact us today to book your adventure!

Visit Our Site 904-460-4004
St. Augustine Eco Tours

St. Augustine Eco Tours

DOLPHINS, BIRDING, & EXPLORING with Northeast Florida's premier outdoor adventure company. A professional Naturalist will guide your group on a boating, kayaking, or sailing excursion to explore the beautiful waters surrounding historic St. Augustine. Small groups ensure an unforgettable experience. SERIOUS NATURE - SERIOUS FUN - LET'S GET ON THE WATER! For reservations, please call today.

Visit Our Site 904-377-7245
Ripleys Believe it or Not

Ripleys Believe it or Not

is housed in the Castle Warden built in 1887. In 1950, it became the first permanent Ripley's collection. An avid traveler, Ripley collected unbelievable souvenirs and bizarre artifacts in untouched, primitive areas. Travel the world through the Original Ripley's museum. See extraordinary exhibits including the new Space Oddities Exhibit, amazing facts about world culture, bizarre customs and unique artisanship.

Visit Our Site 904-824-1606
The Golden Gypsy

The Golden Gypsy

We're unlike any experience you will have in St. Augustine. Visit our central location on Cuna Street where we'll share with you our eclectic collection of internationally sourced art, gifts, clothing, jewelry, and household decorative goods. At The Golden Gypsy, we celebrate #LifeAsArt. SPECIAL OFFER: Mention this listing from 'OldCity.com' to receive your free gift.

Visit Our Site 904-417-0094
Ripley's Red Express Tour

Ripley's Red Express Tour

Let the Red Express Train take you on a 60 minute, fully narrated historic tour of our beautiful city. Tours begin and end at Ripley’s Believe It or Not and reservations can be made when you visit our site. Let our experienced and knowledgeable drivers bring the past to life on the Red Express!

Visit Our Site 904-829-6545
St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum

St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum

See the world's largest collection of authentic pirate artifacts and interactive exhibits, including the Book of Pirates and the spine-tingling Disney Imagineer-designed Below Deck sound experience of Blackbeard's last battle; the world's only pirate treasure chest; one of only two Jolly Roger flags; and rare shipwreck treasures from the Florida Division of Historical Resources.

Visit Our Site 904-819-1444
Fiesta Falls Mini Golf

Fiesta Falls Mini Golf

Up for some fun for all ages? Our award winning 18-hole landscaped course features 8 waterfalls, caves, and a 65 ft. Spanish ship. Looking for an extra challenge? Play under the stars on the lighted course. Treat yourself afterwards to delicious soft ice cream, milk shakes and desserts. Open every day and evening, weather permitting. Conveniently 10 minutes from historic area.

Visit Our Site 904-461-5571
Sea Serpent Tours - Pontoon Boat Rentals

Sea Serpent Tours - Pontoon Boat Rentals

Explore the beautiful and historic waterways of the St Johns River and surrounding tributaries for the day on a luxurious pontoon boat. Choose from our 18’, 21’, or 24’ boats accommodating up to 7, 10, or 16 people.

Visit Our Site 904-495-4200
Tarot, Psychic, Palm & Rune Readings at The Golden Gypsy

Tarot, Psychic, Palm & Rune Readings at The Golden Gypsy

Come explore the creative and esoteric worlds at the Golden Gypsy. We’re a Boho Boutique, Art Gallery and Metaphysical Apothecary in the heart of downtown St Augustine. Offering tarot, psychic, palm readings, rune divination, live painting, energy healing and Sunrise and Sunset outdoor Yoga. Appointments recommended. Space is limited. Call today to reserve your spot! 10am-10pm daily.

Visit Our Site 904-417-0094
Seaside Adventures

Seaside Adventures

Tool around St. Augustine exploring in your Moke or Slingshot rental. We'll help plan the perfect trip with a route map with several suggestions to check out. Rentals include unlimited mileage, so no worries about overages. Book now for memories that will last a lifetime! Rent.Ride.Repeat

Visit Our Site 904-923-1010
Sea Serpent Tours - Airboat Adventure

Sea Serpent Tours - Airboat Adventure

Experience the Ultimate Airboat Adventure on our state-of-the-art 6 passenger vessels. Encounter freshwater wildlife and vegetation up close on our St. Johns River Safari. Our Sunset Safari offers incredible sunsets over the St. Johns River as well as an excursion into the wetlands of Six Mile Creek. Located West of St. Augustine. Use OCW20 code for 20% discount.

Visit Our Site 904-495-4200
The Tasting Tours

The Tasting Tours

Savor the flavor and eat like a Local! Whether you’re visiting for the first time, a return guest or even a resident…our tours are the BEST way to TASTE the local culinary scene! Locations are hand selected to ensure the ultimate tour experience. Indulge in some of the best cuisine perfectly paired with delicious wine! A true “foodie” adventure!

Visit Our Site 904-325-3911