Saint Augustine Travel Guide and Things to Do
Saint Augustine Travel Guide and Things to Do
Things to Do in St. Augustine Florida
Visitors searching for the best things to do in St. Augustine Florida will discover a city filled with history, coastal charm, and unique attractions. Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established city in the United States, and its historic streets, landmarks, and waterfront make it one of the most fascinating destinations in Florida.
Here are some of the top St. Augustine things to do:
• Visit Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
This massive 17th-century Spanish stone fortress stands along the waterfront and offers incredible views of Matanzas Bay. Visitors can walk along the ramparts, explore the interior rooms, and learn about centuries of battles, colonial life, and the strategic importance of St. Augustine in early American history.
• Walk St. George Street
This pedestrian-only street runs through the heart of the historic district and is lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. As you walk, you’ll pass colonial architecture, hidden courtyards, and local vendors, making it one of the most lively and immersive experiences in the city.
• Explore the Lightner Museum
Housed in the former Alcazar Hotel built by Henry Flagler, this museum features an eclectic collection of art, antiques, and curiosities from the Gilded Age. The building itself is just as impressive as the exhibits, with grand architecture and historic charm.
• Visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Climb the lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline and explore exhibits about shipwrecks, maritime history, and the area’s nautical past.
• Walk the Historic District
The entire downtown area is filled with narrow streets, colonial buildings, and historic landmarks that tell the story of over 450 years of history.
• Relax at St. Augustine Beach
Just a short drive from downtown, the beach offers a relaxing escape with soft sand, ocean views, and opportunities for swimming and sunbathing.
Because of its mix of history, walkability, and coastal beauty, St. Augustine is one of the most unique destinations in Florida.
Explore St. Augustine With a Self-Guided Ghost Tour
One of the best ways to experience St. Augustine is by walking its historic streets after dark, when the city’s long and mysterious past truly comes alive. A self-guided ghost tour lets you explore at your own pace while uncovering the eerie stories hidden behind centuries-old buildings and landmarks.
👻 St. Augustine’s Famous Ghosts Walking Tour
Highlights include:
• Haunted cemeteries where spirits are said to linger long after dark
• Historic buildings tied to tragic events and unexplained sightings
• Streets where visitors report strange sounds, shadows, and encounters
• Stories rooted in over 450 years of real history
This isn’t just a ghost tour — it’s a journey through the darker side of St. Augustine’s past.
Why Take a Self-Guided Tour?
Unlike traditional tours, this experience gives you total flexibility:
• Start anytime — no reservations or schedules
• Explore at your own pace
• Pause for drinks, photos, or exploring
• Avoid large crowds and noisy groups
Whether you’re looking for unique things to do in St. Augustine Florida at night or just want a more immersive way to explore the city, this tour offers a fun, flexible, and unforgettable experience.
What's Free and What has a Fee
St. Augustine offers many free experiences along with several paid attractions.
Free Things to Do
Many of the best things to do in St. Augustine Florida are free.
• Walking the historic district
• Exploring St. George Street
• Visiting public plazas and waterfront areas
• Relaxing at the beach
• Viewing historic landmarks from the outside
Attractions With Fees
Some attractions require admission.
• Castillo de San Marcos (entry fee)
• St. Augustine Lighthouse
• Museums and historic sites
• guided tours and experiences
Visitors can easily enjoy a full day combining free and paid attractions.
How to Get Here
St. Augustine is located on Florida’s northeast coast.
By Air
Closest airports:
• Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) — about 1 hour
• Orlando International Airport (MCO) — about 2 hours
By Car
Driving times:
• Jacksonville — about 1 hour
• Orlando — about 2 hours
Getting Around
The historic district is very walkable, making it easy to explore without a car.
Where to Stay
Hotels in Historic Downtown
Typical price range: $180–$350 per night
• Casa Monica Resort & Spa – Historic luxury hotel
• The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens
• Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront
Boutique & Coastal Stays
Typical price range: $150–$300 per night
• St. Francis Inn – Historic bed and breakfast
• Bayfront Marin House
• Carriage Way Inn
Budget Hotels
Typical price range: $90–$160 per night
• Best Western Bayfront
• Days Inn by Wyndham St. Augustine
• Quality Inn & Suites St. Augustine Beach
When to Visit
St. Augustine is a year-round destination.
Spring
• mild temperatures
• great for walking tours
Summer
• warm weather
• beach activities
Fall
• fewer crowds
• pleasant temperatures
Winter (Best Time to Visit)
• cooler weather
• ideal for exploring
How Much Time You'll Need
Many visitors follow one-day St. Augustine itineraries. You could stay for a day, or you could stay for weeks. There is a lot to do here.
One day:
Morning
• Visit Castillo de San Marcos
• Walk St. George Street. On WalknTours we also have a historical tour, get the app to find out more!
Afternoon
• Explore museums
• Visit the lighthouse
Evening
• Walking tour
• dinner downtown
Two Day St. Augustine Itineraries
With more time visitors can:
• relax at the beach
• explore additional historic sites
• enjoy local dining and shopping
What are the best things to do in St. Augustine Florida?
Top activities include visiting historic landmarks, walking the downtown area, and relaxing at the beach.
Is St. Augustine walkable?
Yes. The historic district is very walkable.
What is St. Augustine known for?
It is known as the oldest city in the United States and for its Spanish colonial history.
