Fora’s Take
St Augustine is an awesome city to visit during the weekdays for those who are looking to just get away and stay away from the hustle and bustle. But, if you do travel here on the weekends, plan to fight the crowds. St Augustine has a small-town, historic charm to it and offers just enough activity to keep you busy but not stuck in the craziness of a major city.
You are also free to just hop on or off one of its many shuttles and you can find yourself at one of its many beaches pretty easily. St George Street offers enough bars and restaurants to keep you preoccupied in the evening hours, whether you are looking for a nice bite to eat or a few drinks to wash away the day.
I highly recommend this stop for couples or families. The history behind America’s oldest city is also extremely fascinating. Happy travels everyone!
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Things to do in St. Augustine
Guided Ghost Tour: Take a guided ghost tour of the oldest city of European origin in the United States, which harbors a fascinating history haunted by the restless souls of its former residents.
Sunset Cruise: See St. Augustine from a new perspective on a leisurely sunset cruise.
Hop-On Hop-Off Tour: Take advantage of the hop-on hop-off trolley tour and hit all the main attractions in the city.
Guide Walking Tour: Take a guided walking tour to get to know the city.
Airboat Safari: Explore the St. Johns River on a thrilling airboat ride that skims through a maze of shallow waterways. Getting glimpses of alligators, manatees, birds and snakes.
St. Augustine Distillery: Locally owned and operated, artisanal spirits distillery in historic downtown St. Augustine.
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: Climb 219 steps for a breathtaking view of both St. Augustine and the beaches, or go below to discover a 1782 British shipwreck.
St. George Street: Considered the heart of the city, where you can find historic attractions, restaurants, galleries, bakeries and shops.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument: The oldest masonry fort in the continental United States, located on the western shore of Matanzas Bay.
St. Augustine Beach: One of the best beaches in St. Augustine; It contains sunny accommodations, seaside restaurants, a beachfront park, fishing pier, pavilion and sand volleyball.
St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum: Contains the world's largest collection of authentic pirate artifacts.
Lightner Museum: Home to one of the premier collections of 19th and early 20th century fine and decorative art in the country.
Old Jail: Take a tour of the old jail that was constructed in 1891 by the same people who constructed Alcatraz.
Anastasia State Park: Explore up to four miles of pristine beach, the estuarine tidal marsh teeming with plant and animal life, or the self-guided nature trail, which takes you through the maritime hammock and onto ancient sand dunes.
Fountain of Youth Archeological Park: Explore the 1565 Birthplace of St. Augustine and Colonial European America. While drinking from the legendary waters of the fountain of youth.
Places to eat & drink in St. Augustine
Beachside Diner, located near St. Augustine Beach, offers a relaxed dining experience with quick seating despite its busy atmosphere. Embracing a casual ambiance, it's a spot where beachwear is the norm. The diner presents a menu with satisfying choices at fair prices, making it an ideal recommendation for a meal by the sea. The menu also features enticing breakfast and brunch options with unique Bloody Marys. This diner serves as a great beach-adjacent option for breakfast or lunch.
Caps On the Water is a stunning waterside restaurant renowned for its spectacular sunset views. Arriving about 30 minutes before sunset is highly recommended to fully enjoy the scenic beauty. In case of a wait, grabbing a drink from the bar and watching the sunset from the dock is a perfect way to unwind. The restaurant doesn't just impress with its ambiance but also with its culinary offerings. The smoked fish dip makes for a flavorful appetizer, while the crusted catch is a superb choice for the main course. For those who might prefer something other than fish, the chicken gnocchi is an irresistible option; it's a hearty dish that's sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Floridian: Here you will find standout cocktails. The 'Swamp Pony' offers a refreshing twist on a mojito, while the 'Saturn in the Crosshairs'—a green tea-infused gin drink with passion fruit—is notably superior, stirring a bit of drink envy. Both the drinks and food at this spot are commendable for their quality and creativity.
Prohibition Kitchen turns into a lively spot with live music at night, making for a fun atmosphere. The bar, full of energy and packed with an enthusiastic crowd, offered a vibrant scene that complemented the live band's performance, creating a memorable experience.
Catch 27: The patio seating offers a cozy and inviting ambiance, accentuated by soft lighting from hanging lights. Start with the deviled egg BLT and a fried oyster platter as appetizers, both of which we strongly recommend for their delicious uniqueness. Our main dish was the Rustic Fish, paired with an Old Fashioned, enhancing the meal's flavors. The dining experience here was exceptional, fully meeting our expectations with its combination of atmosphere, innovative dishes and quality drinks.
St. Augustine Distillery, set in a restored 1917 ice plant, offers free tours that delve into Florida's distillation history and the building's past. Our guided tour included tasting their finely crafted mixed drinks and spirits, with the distillery's exceptional liquors standing out, particularly the whiskey. This place is a perfect blend of history, craftsmanship and quality spirits.
San Sebastian Winery: Get ready to savor a remarkable wine tasting experience. Learning that St. Augustine is considered the birthplace of American wine since 1562 enriched the visit, highlighting San Sebastian Winery's significant place in the nation's viticultural history. This winery stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of American wine-making in the heart of the Nation's Oldest City.
Bourbon & Boards: At this cozy, rustic venue, the smoked old-fashioned is a standout, highly recommended for its distinctive taste. The bartender's suggestions of ribeye mac n' cheese and chorizo meatballs suggest a menu that focuses on quality, flavorful options.
Barley’s Republic Public House: This Irish pub, with its late hours, is a great spot for late-night beer and food. "The Harp" beer is a favorite, and the lamb burger is nothing short of phenomenal, making it a standout choice for both drinks and dining.
The Ice Plant: The Ice Plant in St. Augustine entices visitors with its blend of historical ambiance and culinary excellence. Housed in a preserved 1927 building, it offers an immersive experience into the early 20th century. The restaurant is lauded for its farm-to-table cuisine, featuring local seafood and grass-fed beef and its craft cocktails that emphasize fresh, house-pressed juices and hand-carved ice, ensuring drinks maintain their flavor from start to finish. This dedication to quality, both in its menu and the preservation of its unique setting, makes the Ice Plant a must-visit for those seeking a distinctive dining experience in St. Augustine.
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Florida. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Michelle Zelena’s guide, See & Be Seen in Miami, Florida.