The very first time I heard about this city was 10 years ago. My husband and I were given the option to choose a resort for one week stay as a wedding gift from a family member. We didn’t want to fly and wanted to go somewhere within driving distance. but with a short notice, there were not many options available so we chose World Golf resort which is located just a couple of miles west of St Augustine. We didn’t know what to expect and I am talking about times before Instagram. I remember upon arrival we were offered to purchase some tickets for local attractions so we did and this is when all magic began.
We spent a wonderful week full of different activities, discovered many charming spots and spoke to many warm and kind people. Every resident seemed to know the history of the place and will gladly tell you stories.
For those of you who don’t know, St Augustine is the oldest city in the continental US. It was established in 1565 and it is very well preserved. They have laws and regulations for any new construction within the old city limits to be developed under strict architectonic rules and guidelines to be consistent with the rest.
Since then we have been back many times while driving back home from our road trips. I really feel it be my special place. it is one of those places where once you step in you get transported to a different time and all your worries go away.
However, we haven’t been there for longer than a day since then- until our recent visit.
St Augustine has changed since then but it is still the same old city. Many places were restored, some of them are undergoing restoration now ( as Castillo San Marcos)
Best time for visiting? I would say year around (if you can handle heat) I love it in summer, there is always a rain that will come in the afternoon to refresh everything. There are fewer people in Summertime because of the heat. City gets filled with visitors also over weekends. so personally for me, Monday-Friday are the best days to just walk around, explore and meet locals, who are really warm people.
The city is not big and parking can come at a high price.
The purchase of a trolley tour, besides being a great way of transportation with hop on/off style offers free parking in their main station. You can rent a scooter (pricey… I thought South Beach had high prices, but St Augustine beat it) so a great way to explore the city is by bicycle. Distances are not big and even if you get a place closed for the vehicular traffic you still can walk your bike.
For the rest, the walk is also good.
Let’s talk about attractions:
My favorites are the Old Jail (they will literally put you into a cell and also give you a tour through sheriff’s house), The Lighthouse with their high stair where you will even get a certificate of completion if you get all way up. there is also a ghost tour (actually several, but I was told the lighthouse one is the scariest) Ripley’s Believe it or not museum comes with tons of fun for little ones as well as grown-ups, and St Sebastian winery… because I just love their wines so much!
Where to stay? There are plenty for all tastes and budgets. Beginning with Casa Monica Resort & Spa Autograph Collection® ( Marriot Group) built in , right next door you have Hilton and Best Western and if you want to experience the feeling of the old city, even more, there are many Bed & breakfast as well as many little inns with creatively designed rooms to transport you to a different era.
Something you have to know, mostly if you are coming from Miami, everything closes early. We did find a bar, ODD BIRDS read more here… that was open until 2 am.
We were told to walk through Aviles street at night and we might see a ghost. we didn’t see a ghost but did discover a nightclub that opens at around 10 pm and offers free drinks and no cover for ladies before 12 am. so if you are a night owl check those places out. During the day it becomes a nice restaurant/ piano bar
Afternoon drinks, head to Sangrias on Hypolita street, located on a second floor offers live music and you can overlook St George street while sipping Sangrias (they have several types to offer)
Or get to any wine shop tasting that you will find along St George street.
Seriously, if you are on a diet, just don’t go to St George Street. On every corner, you will see and smell fudge, they make it in front of you. as well as candy popcorn in every place, it will taste different as they all have their own recipes. (my favorite is the one that is sold in the lighthouse)
If you are looking for a quick but well-done breakfast before getting on those tours, I highly suggest Mary’s Harborview Cafe read more here…
If you are not in a hurry and just want a good brunch style relaxed breakfast with friends, then get to Casa Maya read more here… get yourself some Margaritas and relax
Tip: get your tours early in the morning and go for a walk around a city in the afternoon, the sun gets hotter in the afternoon (even in Florida’s winter)so you will want to be in a shade. Get into small stores and talk to locals!
Overall if you are into history and architecture, this is a must visit place for you.
