Everything you can do at St. Augustine in less than 24 hours
A day trip to St. Augustine, Florida, offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
Morning:
- Breakfast at The Blue Hen Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this cozy café known for its farm-to-table fare. Try their signature dishes like the Blue Hen Benedict or the Shrimp & Grits.
- Explore Castillo de San Marcos: Head to the iconic fortress, Castillo de San Marcos, which is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. Explore the fort’s storied history, learn about its role in defending the city, and enjoy panoramic views of the waterfront.
Mid-morning:
- Stroll through St. George Street: Take a leisurely walk along St. George Street, a pedestrian-only thoroughfare lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants. Browse unique boutiques, pick up souvenirs, and soak in the charming atmosphere of this historic district.
- Visit the Lightner Museum: Step inside the former Alcazar Hotel, now home to the Lightner Museum, which showcases an eclectic collection of art, antiques, and artifacts. Marvel at the beautiful architecture of the building and explore exhibits ranging from Gilded Age treasures to Victorian curiosities.
Lunch:
- Lunch at Columbia Restaurant: Enjoy a taste of Spanish cuisine at the Columbia Restaurant, Florida’s oldest restaurant. Indulge in authentic dishes like paella, Cuban sandwiches, and sangria in a vibrant setting filled with colorful tiles and Spanish décor.
- Lunch at Nonnas Trattoria Restaurant: For an authentic taste of Italy in St. Augustine, I highly recommend Nonna’s Trattoria. With its rustic charm, cozy ambiance, and mouthwatering Italian cuisine, dining here is like being transported to a charming trattoria in the heart of Italy. Don’t miss the chance to savor their delicious pasta dishes, hearty meat entrées, and fine selection of wines while soaking in the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
- Tour Flagler College: Take a guided tour of Flagler College, a historic campus known for its stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture. Learn about the college’s rich history, including its origins as a luxury hotel built by railroad magnate Henry Flagler.
- Relax at St. Augustine Beach: Spend the afternoon unwinding at St. Augustine Beach, just a short drive from the city center. Lounge on the sandy shores, take a refreshing dip in the Atlantic Ocean, or try your hand at water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking.
Evening:
- Dinner at The Floridian: End your day with dinner at The Floridian, a beloved restaurant specializing in Southern comfort food with a modern twist. Feast on dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, such as shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and pecan-crusted chicken.
- Ghost Tour: Embark on a ghost tour to delve into the city’s spooky side and hear tales of St. Augustine’s haunted history. Choose from walking tours or trolley tours that explore haunted sites, eerie legends, and paranormal encounters.
Night:
- Stargazing at St. Augustine Lighthouse: Wrap up your day with a visit to the St. Augustine Lighthouse, where you can enjoy stargazing from the grounds surrounding the historic lighthouse. Marvel at the twinkling night sky and reflect on the day’s adventures before heading back to your accommodations.
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