You may have thought that all of our nation’s European roots were tucked away in the northeast, but Florida holds a great surprise for you. Welcome to St. Augustine, America’s oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement.
In September of 1565, Pedro Menéndez de Avilés founded what was then known as San Agustín. San Agustín then served as the capital of Spanish Florida for two hundred years. It remained the capital of Florida Territory until 1824, when the capital was moved to Tallahassee.
Rich with beauty and history, St. Augustine is a perfect vacation destination for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts alike. Come learn about the historical significance of this port city during the Spanish settlement, British settlement, Flagler Era and the Civil Rights Movement. Relax on the beach and enjoy a stroll through the cities beautiful streets and view its many architectural masterpieces.
For a journey back in time, explore the city on a chronological trip through the cities historical points of interest.
Spanish Era
- Avero house
- Catillo de San Marcos National Monument
- Fort Matanzas
- Fort Mose State Park
- Nombre de Dios, Gonzalez-Alvarez House
- Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
British Era
- The King’s Bakery
Flager Era
- Ponce de León Hotel
- Hotel Alcazar
- Zorayda Castle
- Bridge of Lions
- J & S Carousel
Civil Rights Era
- Freedom Trail of Historic Sites
- Excelsior School Museum of African American History
Don’t Miss it!
Faver-Daykes State Park – Praised as pristine and tranquil, Faver-Dykes State Park is a great place for a family getaway day. The park is famous for its large bird population, making it a great place for bird watching and exploring. The park also offers hiking, fishing, picnicking and canoeing.
- Pirate and Treasure Museum – The St. Augustine Pirate Museum boasts the largest collection of authentic pirate artifacts in the world. With interactive and educational exhibits this is a great place for a day of adventure. Put on your pirate hat and fire a real cannon, enjoy rarely seen shipwreck treasures, marvel in one of only two existing 17th century Jolly Rogers and be blown away by the Below Deck Sound Experience of Blackbeard’s last battle, presented by Disney. For more information check out www.thepiratemuseum.com.
- Fort Mendez – Be a Spanish settler for a day! A visit to this living, breathing Spanish settlement is like taking a trip back in time. Visitors can simply observe and enjoy or take on a job and earn gold coins by truly immersing in the experience. Ticket prices are affordable and discounted for families and Florida residents. Adventure is out there at www.oldfloridamuseum.com
- The Old Jail – The Old Jail is one of the few surviving 19th century prisons. Learn the history of the prison as you are escorted through the site by costumed “deputies” and take the opportunity to lock up any party pooping family members along the way. The tour lasts about seventy minutes .The Old Jail is listed as one of the most haunted sites on the National Register of Historic Places so watch out for some great ghost stories too!
- Anastasia Islands – Just a short distance away from historic St. Augustine you can find peace and relaxation on the pearl white beaches of the Anastasia Islands.