Making History Fun: Comprehensive Guide to Exploring St. Augustine with Kids
- Whitney
- Sep 1, 2024
- 28 min read
As a full-time travel family for the past five years we have seen some incredible places around America! One thing that always piques our interest, though, is when a place is rich in history. When we were planning our journey around the state of Florida, St. Augustine wasn’t even on my list. Honestly, I don’t know why it wasn’t. As I was telling our route to my well-traveled brother he suggested we alter our route to include St. Augustine. I began looking into it, and I was shocked that I hadn’t already planned to visit! It is truly an incredible city! Once we made it there we were all glad we did!
PLANNING THE TRIP
What made the idea of going to St. Augustine so appealing as I looked into it?
The significance this city plays in our nation’s history is remarkable. We tend to think of the early days in our country revolving around the New England states (and we loved learning the history when we toured that area), but St. Augustine, Florida, is actually the oldest city in America with the oldest street in America, the oldest wooden schoolhouse in America, and the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. The history here is so rich, and it dates back to the 16th century when Juan Ponce de Leon landed in the area.
Because our kids are with us every step of the way and we use our travels as part of their school, I knew exploring this town would need to balance education with fun. Thankfully St. Augustine offers a wide variety of activities to suit all ages. However, traveling full-time means we encounter fun activities everywhere we go as part of our day-to-day life. It’s unrealistic to expect to engage in numerous activities at each location due to the cost. So we pick and choose what we believe will give them a well-rounded understanding of the area while still keeping it fun and budget-friendly. Therefore, I will share the activities we did, but I will also include others that we would like to do on a return trip someday.
Creating a Kid-Friendly Itinerary
Identifying the key historical attractions (such as Castillo de San Marcos, St. George Street, the St. Augustine Lighthouse, etc.) that you want to visit on the trip and mixing them with fun activities (Pirate & Treasure Museum, Alligator Farm, etc.) will help keep the kids interested and entertained. Planning downtime at a local park or the beach into the mix will keep them refreshed so they don’t get overwhelmed, and it will give you a chance to unwind a bit, too. To help with your planning we have divided the “Attractions” section of this article into historical, fun, and downtime, so you can pick and choose from each section.
Packing Essentials
CLOTHING: Even if you choose to do a hop-on/hop-off trolly tour (which we highly recommend), you can expect to do an awful lot of walking. Be sure you pack comfortable shoes and clothes. Our visit was in the summer, so our daughter and I wore lightweight sundresses with hiking sandals. Tim and the boys wore comfortable shorts and tees with sneakers. In the winter St. Augustine sees average highs in the 60s and lows dipping into the 40s, so you will want to dress in layers if that is when you visit. If you go when the weather is warm enough, though, be sure to pack a swimsuit for those beach days!
GEAR: Don’t forget hats and refillable water bottles! I forgot my hat, and my nose was quite pink. All the walking in that Florida sun will definitely have you refilling your water bottle. Personally I prefer to wear a light backpack with my water bottle in it as well as a few snacks for my crew. If your kids are smaller you will also want to make sure you have a stroller and/or carrier. Have I mentioned you will do a lot of walking?
ENTERTAINMENT AND EDUCATIONAL MATERIAL: Travel games, books, or tablets/tv (if you do electronics) are always something to remember when traveling with young ones. To combine the entertainment and educational aspect, though, we have created coloring books that would be perfect for a St. Augustine trip! Our book Journey to American Independence: A Learn, Trace, and Color Adventure is filled with the history of American Independence from its first inhabitants to the Declaration of Independence with a biblical worldview. Not only does it teach in a very concise, easy to grasp manner, but it also has corresponding images for kids to trace and color to help solidify the concepts in their minds. It shows how St. Augustine fits into the story of America.
Another book we offer is Florida Adventures for Kids: A Learn, Trace, and Color Adventure. This book briefly teaches about the state of Florida, including pages about St. Augustine. It’s perfect for any trip to the Sunshine State.
Finally we have a book specifically on St. Augustine titled Journey to St. Augustine: America’s Oldest City. This is also a Learn, Trace, and Color Adventure book that teaches about the city with words and images to trace and color.
Be on the lookout for our YouTube video about our trip to St. Augustine with our kids. It’s a great way to give your kids an introduction to the city in advance so they know what to expect.
ATTRACTIONS
Historical Attractions
CASTILLO DE SAN MARCOS
In 1565 King Philip II of Spain ordered his military to overtake the French and set up a settlement of their own.
Spanish forces quickly succeeded and eventually established a fort and colony at St. Augustine.
However, this is not the same fort you see today. The original fort (eventually built in 1569) was more of a watchtower and thatched hut. Over time multiple smaller wooden forts were constructed.
In 1672, more than 100 years later, Governor Manuel Cendoya broke ground for what would become Castillo de San Marcos, a massive fort constructed of coquina. While the choice to build using this semi-rare form of limestone composed of shell fragments was largely due to its availability in the area, it turned out to be the most solid option for the structure.
The shell limestone was harvested in the area where Anastasia State Park currently sits on Anastasia Island. Mortar was made by burning oyster shells into lime, and then mixing that with sand and water. Could a fort built of shell survive attack? Because this had never been done, nobody knew the answer.
The walls were constructed to an average of 12 feet thick, with the exception of the ocean side walls which were up to approximately 19 feet thick. The design followed successful 15th century Italian military fortification structure of a “bastion system,” with a star shaped design with diamond or angle shaped formations projecting from the walls. The original construction took 23 years, giving the Spanish a safe place to retreat by 1695.
In 1702 the fort was put to the test. English forces, led by Governor James Moore of Charleston, attacked St. Augustine, capturing the town. They fired cannons at the fort, but to their surprise the cannon balls bounced off the coquina or, at worst, sunk a few inches into the stone. The English couldn’t conquer the fort, so they retreated, burning down the entire town as they left.
In 1740 St. Augustine was attacked again, this time led by General James Oglethorpe. The attack lasted 27 days, but again the English could not penetrate the fort.
Because of its strength against enemy fire, the Spanish decided to use coquina when they constructed Fort Matanzas 14 miles to the south later that year.
Although the fort was never conquered, power was transferred from the Spanish to the British on July 21, 1763, as the Seven Years’ War (French and Indian War) came to an end. It was a difficult defeat for the Spanish who had made St. Augustine their home for generations and defended the city fiercely.
Over the coming years Castillo de San Marcos (which assumed other names at various times in history) was used for multiple purposes including housing prisoners of war in the American Revolution and Seminole Wars, warehouse for old and outdated arms between wars, and transit point for supplies making their way to confederate soldiers in the Civil War. Later, Cheyenne, Arapaho, Kiowa, Comanche, Caddo, and Apache were incarcerated at the fort when they resisted the U.S. Army’s attempts to push them onto reservations.
By the 1940s Castillo de San Marcos was part of the National Park Service. In fact, the NPS has a picture on their website at https://www.nps.gov/casa/learn/historyculture/florida-in-world-war-ii.htm of both civilians and servicemen visiting the fort on December 7, 1941, completely oblivious to what had happened that morning at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii.
Florida played a vital role in U.S. Military strength during World War II, as you can read more about in our article “Florida Article Name”. As military presence in the state grew, Castillo de San Marcos was used for training new soldiers, offering classrooms and graduation space.
Today this fort still stands as a testament to the strength of not only its construction, but also the men who occupied its walls throughout history. It is the oldest masonry fort in the U.S. and the only fortress in North America from the 1600s that is still standing.
Castillo de San Marcos is open daily (except Thanksgiving and Christmas) from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Entrance rates vary depending on the type of pass you are using. Because it is a part of the National Park Service, all passes used for National Parks are accepted here. If you do not have a pass, standard entrance passes are $15 (adults 16+) and are good for seven consecutive days. Kids 15 and under are free.
Visit https://www.nps.gov/casa/index.htm for more information.
AVILES STREET
While various cities lay claim to the oldest street in America, none date back as far as Aviles Street in St. Augustine. Pottery shards dating from the early 1600s were recently discovered under the brick paving. It would be a tight contender with Leyden Street in Plymouth, Massachusetts, that was built by the pilgrims in 1620, but this recent discovery appears to oust Leyden from the top slot.
Aviles street was once home to the second Spanish Military Hospital (which is now a museum), a church, cemetery, school, and even boarding homes.
This historic area is still thriving today. Walking on the brick pavement is a nostalgic feeling. Be sure to snag a picture or two, as it looks like you’re exploring a European village. Art galleries, cafes, and boutiques are plentiful along Aviles, and the first Friday of every month it is closed down to vehicles, allowing only foot traffic during the city’s First Friday Art Walk.
OLDEST WOODEN SCHOOLHOUSE
While we’re talking about laying claim to various “oldest” locations in America, St. Augustine also has the oldest wooden schoolhouse in the U.S.
Although it is labeled as a schoolhouse (and it was), it was originally a homestead from the 1700s. The home belonged to Jesse Fish beginning in 1740.
In 1768, something occurred over 4000 miles away that would later play into the history of this homestead. A group of over 1400 Minorcans, Greek, Italian, and Corsican who were impoverished in the Mediterranean were taken to New Smyrna, Florida, as indentured servants. They endured nine terrible years where many died, and those who didn’t were severely mistreated by the people overseeing the plantation of a Scottish physician where they worked. In 1777 the ones who survived were able to flee to St. Augustine, 70 miles north of their original Florida home. They were allowed to settle just inside the city gate on St. George Street, officially declaring this area as the Minorcan Quarter.
In 1780 one of the refugees, Juan Genopoly, purchased the home which was in the Minorcan Quarter, and he set up a homestead for his family.
In the early 1800s Genopoly built a new home (the building you still see today) at that location. Immediately inside the front door was a classroom where Genopoly, his wife, and two of his four children taught Minorcan kids reading, writing, and arithmetic. They also added a small family room. There was a detached kitchen and a garden area behind the building. Classes were discontinued in 1864.
In 1931 nine of the students who had attended school there met for a reunion and set the classroom back to the way they remembered it so visitors in the future could witness what it was like for children who attended classes in the oldest wooden schoolhouse in America.
The Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse is open:
Sunday - Thursday 10 AM - 6 PM
Friday - Saturday 10 AM - 8 PM
Closed Christmas Day
Tour Rates:
Adults $7.95
Children 6-12 $6.95
Children 5 & under FREE
Visit https://oldestwoodenschoolhouse.com/ to learn more.
ST. GEORGE STREET
If you do nothing else when you visit St. Augustine you absolutely must walk St. George Street. It was the main thoroughfare in the city in the 1700s, and it is still bustling today. As you enter the city gate on the north end of the street you will be taken aback. The entire strip is a combination of knick knack and souvenir shops, cute cafes, amazing restaurants, and historical sites.
We don’t often eat out on our travels since this is day-to-day life for us and we must stick to a budget, but we thoroughly enjoyed a family lunch at Auggie’s Draft Room on St. George. The burgers were amazing, and they even had delicious gluten-free buns for us! (If you have to avoid gluten like us, you know that’s a rarity to find a good gluten-free bun in a restaurant.) The draft beer options at the pay-by-the-ounce self-serve taproom were right up Tim’s alley.
If you want to get there for pictures without many people in the background, you can arrive around 7am. Since most shops don’t open until later, it allows you to have the street largely to yourself without having to be there too early.
On the south end of the strip is the oldest Catholic Church in America, Cathedral Basilica. They had services going when we were there, so we didn’t see inside it. But even the outside is a sight to behold.
Across the street diagonally from the church is the Governor’s House (the best place to find a good public restroom in the area). They also have exhibits from time to time in this building. We were able to walk through a free art exhibit while we took a break from the heat.
FLAGLER COLLEGE
Originally built in 1888 as Ponce de Leon Hotel, the site of Flagler College became a higher education institution in 1968. Whether you aspire to attend school here someday or you have no interest in higher education, the exquisite Spanish Renaissance architecture set on 19 acres in the middle of this historic city is quite a site to see. It was closed due to renovations when we visited the city, so we did not get to tour it. But just admiring it from the outside is worth it.
In both St. Augustine and Key West you will notice Henry Flagler being a massive part of the history. As the co-founder of an oil company, Flagler invested large sums of money into the advancement of St. Augustine. As you travel around on the Old Town Trolley hop-on/hop-off Tours, you will hear his name repeated over and over. You will see statues of him in both St. Augustine and Key West because of his contributions to these cities.
Dreaming of St. Augustine as an American Riviera, Flagler built Ponce de Leon Hotel on an old orange grove, sparing no expense on the construction. He hired Louis Comfort Tiffany to design the interior, an American artist known for his stained glass, and the first design director at the company founded by his father, Tiffany & Co. The Tiffany stained glass windows still intact in the building were valued more than 10 years ago at over $130 million collectively! They are now surrounded by bulletproof glass to protect them from natural disasters as well as people. Can you imagine eating in the dining hall of your college surrounded by $130 million in artwork?
At the time it was built electricity was not as common. This structure ranks among the first in the nation to have been wired for electricity. In fact, it was such a new concept that guests were often afraid to turn the light switches on and off.
During World War II, when Florida was an epicenter for military training, the hotel was used as a training center for the U.S. Coast Guard. St. Augustine was such a vital part of training during that time that the city, specifically Ponce de Leon Hotel, are widely recognized as the birthplace of the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve.
Later in 1968 the magnificent building was transformed into the liberal arts college it is today.
One hour historic tours of Flagler College typically cost $13 per person, but they are temporarily closed from May through September 2024.
Visit https://legacy.flagler.edu/pages/tours to learn more.
LIGHTNER MUSEUM
Another fabulous hotel by Henry Flagler was the Hotel Alcazar. Also originally opened in 1888, this beautiful building was originally planned to be a recreational annex for Ponce de Leon Hotel, but plans were changed and it became its own hotel. The entertainment aspect of this hotel set it apart from Flagler’s other luxury hotel across from it. Alcazar had a Turkish and Russian steam bath area focusing on health and wellness. It also contained a casino, the world’s largest indoor swimming pool, grand ballroom, bowling alley, croquet lawn, tennis courts, and gymnasium.
Hotel Alcazar fell victim to the Great Depression, and in 1931 its doors were closed, never to be a hotel again.
In 1946 a magazine publisher, Otto C. Lightner, stayed at the Ponce de Leon Hotel. Intrigued by the closed, but magnificent, building across the street, Lightner purchased Hotel Alcazar, and in 1948 he opened it as Lightner Museum of Hobbies.
Today the museum is a mixture of art, architecture, and history. Among its collection are Tiffany lamps, paintings from America and Europe, musical instruments from the Victorian era, geological specimens from around the world, Native American artifacts, an Egyptian mummy, Victorian blown glass, elaborate furniture, and more. They also offer various special exhibits.
Guided tours require a reservation, but they are worth it for both adults and children. To pique the interest of the younger visitors they have a scavenger hunt on the first floor, and there are many touchable items throughout the museum.
The Lightner Museum is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM (except Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day).
Admission Rates:
Adult $19
Senior $16
Student $16
Military $16
St. Johns County Resident $12
Youth (12-17) $12
Children (11 & under) FREE
Visit https://lightnermuseum.org/ to learn more.
ST. AUGUSTINE LIGHTHOUSE AND MARITIME MUSEUM
Situated across the river from downtown St. Augustine is the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum. Operational since 1874, this lighthouse offers a self-guided tour up a 219-step spiral staircase to the top of the tower where you can look across the area. But there’s more to this attraction than simply climbing a tall staircase.
Historical records indicate a watchtower at the north end of Anastasia Island where the lighthouse is currently located as early as 1589. By 1737 the watchtower was upgraded to a 30-foot tower made of coquina and wood. When the British took over the area following the Seven Years’ War they added an additional 30 feet of wooden structure to the existing tower. When the Spanish regained control after the Treaty of Paris in 1783 they replaced the British wooden addition with coquina.
In 1852 another 10 feet were added to the height of the tower, and the following year a new lens was added to make the whale oil fueled lamp more visible by ships. Sea levels were rising, though, and it became apparent by the 1870s that St. Augustine would need a new lighthouse before the existing one fell into the ocean.
On October 15, 1874, the new lighthouse oil lamp was lit for the first time.
During World War II the lighthouse was occupied by U.S. Navy and Coast Guard as a lookout point for all vessels.
In 1991 the lens was replaced with a modern airport beacon, the keepers’ house restoration was completed, and three years later the museum was opened.
Now there is a shipyard playground for the kids, a WRECKED exhibit with shipwreck games and underwater artifacts, demos, nature trails and scavenger hunt, education center with hands-on activities, 1876 Keepers’ House, and conservation lab, all suitable for family learning and entertainment. There is also an onsite educational program called Heritage Boat Works, a canteen on a U.S. Navy vessel, and more!
As of the writing of this article admission prices are:
Adults (13+) $14.95
Children (12 & under) $12.95
Seniors (60+) $12.95
***Note: Children under 44 inches tall are not allowed to climb the tower, therefore they do not need an admission ticket. They are admitted free with a paying adult.
There are additional add-on options.
They are open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas (and sometimes due to weather and other events).
Visit https://www.staugustinelighthouse.org/visit/ to learn more.
FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH ARCHAEOLOGICAL PARK
If you want a fully immersive experience for the entire family while you’re in St. Augustine be sure to visit Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. The location where Europeans first set foot on what became the United States of America, Fountain of Youth is very rich in history and capitalizes on that through living history museums, reenactments, and exhibits.
Originally occupied by the Timucua Native Americans, the area had been long inhabited prior to European arrival. In 1513, though, Juan Ponce de Leon and his three ships, Santiago, Santa Maria, and San Cristobal, were the first Europeans to land in modern day U.S.A. They came ashore in the village where Timucuans lived thinking they were arriving at an island. Legend has it Ponce de Leon believed the spring located in the area was a fountain of youth that would give “eternal youth” to anyone who drank its water. It was during the Easter season (Pascua Florida in Spanish), so he named this beautiful “new” place La Florida.
In 1565 Pedro Menendez de Aviles (recognize that name from the oldest street?) officially founded the city of St. Augustine at the same location where Ponce de Leon had discovered the fountain. Eventually, though, the Timucuans didn’t appreciate him infringing on their territory, so he moved his community to Anastasia Island across the river. Twenty-two years later Catholic missions were established in this “new land” at the same location where Ponce de Leon and Menendez de Aviles had landed.
It wasn’t until 281 years later, in 1868, that the land was purchased to turn into a tourist attraction based on Ponce de Leon’s original landing and the discovery of the fountain of youth.
Over the years the attraction has changed hands a few times, but archaeologists have made numerous discoveries that retell its past. The park aims to provide family fun while offering historical accuracy to all who visit.
They are open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. Be sure to take in the beauty of Magnolia Avenue as you make your way to the park. The canopy of Live Oak trees make a picturesque drive.
Dogs are allowed in the park. Food is available for purchase, but you are also allowed to bring your own food.
Parking is free.
Admission ticket rates:
Adults $22.95
Seniors (60+) $20.95
Children 6-12 $9.95
Children 5 & under FREE
Discounts are available for Active Duty Military, AAA Cardholders, and St. Johns County Residents (with proper identification).
Visit https://www.fountainofyouthflorida.com/ to learn more.
OLDEST HOUSE
In the early 1700s a home was constructed on a site that had been continuously inhabited for about 100 years. Built of coquina and cedar, the house now known as the González-Alvarez House is Florida’s oldest surviving Spanish Colonial dwelling.
Operating as a museum since 1893, the 25-minute tour of this dwelling will open your eyes to what life was like during the different Spanish, British, and American occupations of St. Augustine.
Beyond the house, this attraction provides other historical experiences.
The Manucy Museum will bring history to life even more with over 400 years of Florida history.
The Tovar house gives insight into Florida’s military history.
The Page L. Edwards Gallery offers a look at more artifacts.
The Oldest House Garden is a sight to behold.
Finally, the museum shop will give you an opportunity to take a piece of it home.
The Oldest House is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM (except on Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas).
Admission Rates:
Adults $12.95
Seniors (55+) $ 9.95
Students (with ID) $ 4.00
Children (4+) $ 4.95
Military (with ID) $ 9.95
Family (2 adults + 2 children under 18) $25.95
Discounts for St. Johns County Residents with ID.
Visit www.saintaugustinehistoricalsociety.org to learn more.
CATHEDRAL BASILICA
When Pedro Menendez de Aviles first stepped foot on land in St. Augustine he was presented a cross to kiss by Father Lopez de Mendoza Grajales, officially bringing Catholicism to Florida. Four priests were on that initial expedition. As the settlement was established, so was the Cathedral Parish. The first church on record in the Mainland U.S. was on the southeast corner of Plaza de la Constitución on the north end of Aviles Street. Missions spread north and west from this point, evangelizing to Indians up to St. Catherine’s Island, Georgia, and across to Tallahassee.
In 1586 the parish church along with the city was burned down by the English. The church and city were rebuilt, only to be burned to the ground again in 1702 by the English. For the next 61 years mass was held in the chapel of the La Soledad Hospital. But when Great Britain took over Florida with the First Treaty of Paris at the end of the French and Indian War, Catholicism seemed to be dead in the area.
But God had other plans!
Remember the group of indentured servants made up of Minorcans, Italians, and Greek that we discussed seeking freedom in St. Augustine in 1777? They brought the faith back to the settlement! Seven years later the English returned control of St. Augustine to Spain, and thus Spanish Catholicism made it’s way back, as well.
The Catholic faith was blossoming here, and a new parish church was needed. In 1793 construction began on the current building. However, 94 years later (in 1887 so you don’t have to do fast math) a fire broke out at the nearby St. Augustine Hotel. It spread to the cathedral, causing extensive damage. Thankfully funding was made possible to restore the church as well as enlarge it. A bell tower was added at the time. Various additions and renovations have occurred since then, but St. Augustine’s Cathedral Basilica remains a sight to behold with its exquisite Spanish architecture and beautiful look into the past.
Fun Family Activities
Historical attractions are fascinating for all ages, but sometimes the kids need a break from the learning to explore something directed more toward them. The following museums and parks are sure to catch the interest of kids and their parents.
PIRATE AND TREASURE MUSEUM
While it does educate children, the Pirate and Treasure Museum feels less like learning and more like fun. Your visit will take you back in time more than 300 years to the island of Jamaica with its authentic artifacts. St. Augustine played a role in piracy through the colonial period, so the museum’s location in this city is well-suited.
The Pirate and Treasure Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM (except Christmas Day).
Admission rates vary from $7.99 to $15.99 for a single day, and $49.99 for annual passes, depending on age, residency, and military status. Family annual passes are available for $99.99.
Visit https://www.thepiratemuseum.com/ to learn more.
ALLIGATOR FARM ZOOLOGICAL PARK
Whether your goal is to see alligators or zipline over the zoo, St. Augustine Alligator Fam Zoological Park is sure to please!
Since 1893 this park has been bringing Florida’s reptiles to the public. Initially just offering a small exhibit, Alligator Farm has grown into a full zoo with educational opportunities, fun, research, and more.
If you’re a homeschooling family like us, be sure to look for their dedicated homeschool days. Visiting in the summer? They have single day and week-long camps for kids to learn more about the reptilian community and beyond.
From alligators and crocodiles to pythons, macaws, tortoises, Komodo dragons, and more, every member of your party will see something that interests them.
St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Admission Rates:
Adults (12+) $35.99
Children (3-11). $20.99
Adults in wheelchairs $17.99
Children in wheelchairs $10.49
AAA, Military, and Senior Discounts = 10% off
Visit https://www.alligatorfarm.com/ to learn more.
RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT! MUSEUM
If you’ve ever been to a Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum you will know how much fun they can be! This particular one is unique from others, though. It is housed in a 137-year-old three-story castle. Opening in 1950, shortly after Robert Ripley’s death, it was the very first Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum established. Discovering this building was what made Ripley (who had other temporary exhibits prior) was to open his first permanent collection.
Surrounded by high hedges so as not to distract passersby, an exact replica (one of only two in the world) of Michelangelo’s David stands between Ripley’s building and road. This statue is 17-feet tall, weighs over 10 tons, and carved from the marble of the same quarry as the original.
Throughout the museum you will find countless surprises and interesting artifacts.
Ripley’s is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM.
The museum itself costs $23.99 for adults (12+) and $12.99 for children (4-11). Three and under are free with a paying adult.
Other add-ons are available to add more to the experience, so be sure to check out their website at https://www.ripleys.com/attractions/ripleys-believe-it-or-not-st-augustine to learn more.
VISITING EXHIBITS
Another fun activity to consider in the area is temporary exhibits. Although it is no longer there, a replica of the Nao Trinidad was docked in St. Augustine when we visited. It cost $35 for the family, but it was fun to board and explore.
The original Nao Trinidad was part of the Magellan-Elcano Expedition from 1519 that sailed with three other ships from Spain, across the Atlantic, through the Strait of Magellan (which this expedition discovered), to the Pacific Ocean. By the time they reached what is now the Spice Islands only the Nao Trinidad and Victoria remained. The Victoria went on to be the first ship to completely circumnavigate the globe, but the Nao Trinidad was captured by the Portuguese.
Look for the Nao Trinidad to return to St. Augustine in November during the 2024 Nights of Lights.
To see what traveling exhibits or events may be in the area when you visit, check out
Downtime
ST. AUGUSTINE BEACH
When you need a day to just unwind, plan some fun in the sun on the beach. About five miles southeast of the city of St. Augustine, on the southern end of Anastasia Island, is St. Augustine Beach with beautiful, large beaches. St. Johns County offers 12 miles of beaches that allow vehicular access. Yes! You can drive and park on the beach! A vehicular access pass is needed, but it can be obtained from the attendants at the access points.
You can access an interactive map of beach access points here.
STATE PARKS
Getting out of the city for a day can offer a completely different perspective on the area. Four Florida State Parks are located within a 30 minute drive to St. Augustine. Whether you’re looking for a place to camp or just to get away for the day, these parks can give you a feel for what the area was like before it was inhabited.
Closest to the city limits is Fort Mose Historic State Park, only a few blocks north of the city. This area, known for being one of the first settlements legally sanctioned for free African-Americans, is entrenched in beautiful marshes with exquisite tropical plants. You can visit the visitors center and museum, enjoy birdwatching, kayak the marsh, or (if you time it right) attend the historical re-enactments on the last Sunday of each month. The Flight to Freedom Trail will help you gain an understanding of what life was like for those who fought to live free. On the first Saturday of each month visitors to watch militia weapons demonstrations. Children can join in on militia training for kids.
To the east of St. Augustine city is Anastasia State Park with more than 1600 acres of beaches, marshes, and sand dunes. As of the writing of this article they are undergoing a massive renovation project, so be sure to check before you go. When fully operational, though, you can reserve one of the 139 campsites close to the beach. It’s not uncommon to see osprey and eagles flying through the skies. Enjoy the 4 mile stretch of beautiful beach, rent watersport equipment from Anastasia Watersports, and grab a bite at the Island Beach Grill. Anastasia State Park is also the area where coquina was quarried for the building of Castillo de San Marcos hundreds of years ago.
About 18 miles south of the center of St. Augustine on US 1 is the state park where we stayed while visiting the area, Faver-Dykes State Park. The huge live oak trees offer a gorgeous backdrop for the campsites. Pellicer Creek winds its way along the southern border of the park, and the Matanzas River to the east, making a perfect place for kayaking, birdwatching, and fishing. Over 100 different species of birds have been spotted here, giving hours of enjoyment to the seasoned birdwatcher. As you paddle your way along the Florida Designated Paddling Trail that passes through Faver-Dykes you get a glimpse of the ecosystem that used to cover a large portion of modern-day Florida.
Finally, south on A1A you will find Washington Oaks Garden State Park. This absolutely beautiful park is filled with gorgeous gardens of exotic plants as well as azaleas, roses, camellias, and (my favorite) bird of paradise, live oak trees with Spanish moss draping from them, ponds, woods, and even the beach. Along the beach you will see coquina formations. Short hiking, biking, and picnicking are excellent in this park for those who want a laid back day.
If you seek to venture even further out from the city, more state parks await, some of which contain beautiful springs. Therefore, if you have enough time to spend in the St. Augustine to see all you want to see in town, I would highly recommend planning to visit at least one of these state parks during your stay.
PLAZA DE LA CONSTITUCION
A gathering spot since 1573, this park setting in the middle of St. Augustine is a great place to rest in the middle of the day, enjoy a picnic, and let the kids move around a bit.
It sits between the famous St. George Street and Aviles Street, across from both Cathedral Basilica and the Governor’s House. Across the intersection to the east from this plaza is the St. Augustine Marina.
In the 1500s Plaza de la Constitucion was a place for town residents to gather to trade fish, vegetable, and other goods, and it is still used for that purpose today. It has also become a site for weddings, concerts, Nights of Lights during the Christmas season, and more.
Dining and Accommodations
As we previously stated, and as you will see if you read many of our articles, we don’t eat out very often in our journeys. Because this is a lifestyle for us and not a vacation, the budget does not allow dining out at every location. Thus, we often see where restaurants are conveniently located, which restaurants draw the bigger crowds, and what locals recommend. St. Augustine was no different for us. We did eat at one restaurant, but I was lucky enough that my brother had previously tried a couple of the restaurants we would like to try. So you get his recommendations added into the mix.
THE FLORIDIAN
Located just off St. George Street, but in the same area on nearby Spanish Street, is The Floridian.
My brother thoroughly enjoyed this restaurant, and after talking with him I can say we will definitely try this place the next time we are in St. Augustine! He is vegan, and he was very pleased with all the options available for him. The kids and I are allergic to gluten, and looking over their menu I am quite impressed with how aware they are of special dietary needs. It is a little pricier than we would typically do, but it would be worth it for a special meal out that suits our dietary needs.
Another thing I love about this restaurant is they use local growers and producers for much of their food supply. That means you’re getting your food fresh! I am very focused on eating as fresh as possible, and I love supporting small farms, so this just makes sense to me. According to their website their menu will continuously change because they use what is in season.
As for what style of food they offer, their website says, “Regionally-inspired and fresh from the source, our cuisine is a synthesis of down-home southern comfort foods, and lighter, healthier, vibrant and creative dishes - with many vegetarian options.”
My brother had the Cornbread Panzanella, and he chose tofu as his grilled protein. He said the flavor was amazing!
COLUMBIA RESTAURANT
Although it has only been in St. Augustine since 1983, this restaurant offering Spanish/Cuban cuisine is the third location of a family owned and operated restaurant that began in 1905. In search of the American Dream, Spanish-Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez, Sr., relocated his family to Tampa, FL, in the early 1900s. He opened the Columbia Restaurant in his new town, which over time has grown into the “largest Spanish restaurant in the world.” With seven locations across the state today still operated by Hernandez’s descendants, the Columbia Restaurant is considered Florida’s oldest restaurant.
If you desire authentic Cuban cuisine, you can find it here on St. George Street in the heart of St. Augustine. The menu offers a selection of cocktails, family wines, and sangria, to soups, salads, tapas, and more. Paella, salmon, mahi-mahi, snapper, shrimp, grouper, steak, and chicken are offered in different varieties as entrees, complete with Cuban bread and butter. My brother opted for the vegetarian dish “1905” Black Beans, and he highly recommended it.
AUGGIES DRAFT ROOM
As we were walking down St. George Street we saw Auggie’s Draft Room. We have a nephew named Auggie who is a very close cousin/friend of our kids. We took a picture by the sign, and then we glanced over the menu. We decided it would be our place where we dined in St. Augustine.
We all ended up getting a burger. Their gluten free buns were some of the best we’ve had at a restaurant. The burgers were amazing, and the atmosphere was fun. They have a self-serve, pay-by-the-ounce tap room where Tim was able to try a wide variety of draft beer. Be sure to pick up a discount book at the St. Augustine Visitors Center for a buy one burger, get one free coupon. You can only use one per visit, but it saved us the cost of one burger.
Accommodations
CAMPING
Because we travel full-time in an RV, our focus with accommodations is on campgrounds. Our first choice was Anastasia State Park, and I believe it would be ideal for visiting St. Augustine. However, current renovations had the campground closed at the time of our visit. We ended up at Faver-Dykes State Park, about 18 miles south of the heart of St. Augustine.
The park was beautiful, and so were the sites. It is a smaller campground, and you feel tucked away from everything else. The only downsides we found were the ticks (we’re accustomed to ticks, but there were so many here) and the drive into town. The bathrooms were clean, though, and the camp host and park rangers were very kind and helpful. Overall we would definitely recommend it.
HOTELS
If you’re planning to stay in a hotel, I would recommend trying to get one in the downtown area so you can walk everywhere.
Some of the top rated hotels in the area are St. George Inn, Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront, Bayfront Marin House, Edgewater Inn, and The Old Powder House Inn. I have included links to all of them. Because we have not explored them nor talked to people who have, though, I hesitate to make recommendations. I simply want to offer a starting place for you to look.
My brother stayed at Homewood Suites by Hilton St. Augustine San Sebastián. He recommended it saying, “It was easy walking distance to the historic old town, and there’s a nice little café just across the street and across the river.”
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many things to see and do in the St. Augustine area with (or without) kids. We hope this article gives you plenty of insight into the area and how to prepare a visit, offering links to find all the information you need to plan a trip.
We are firm believers in the benefit of travel for children and how it can bring history to life. The family bonds forged through travel are priceless, and the memories last a lifetime. We are so thankful to have the opportunity to travel with our kids! Our goal is to help ease some of the time it takes for others to plan adventures with their children by creating a one-stop-shop to prepare you for your journey.
Check out our video on YouTube for a closer look at this beautiful city.
Visit the shop section of our website to see the “Learn, Trace, & Color” books we offer that help teach kids about St. Augustine and give them an idea of what to expect on their visit.
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