We love visiting Florida, especially the Orlando area. With its theme parks and year-round warm weather, it is a ‘magical‘ holiday destination. However, if you’ve wondered if there is more to Florida than Orlando, theme parks, alligators and pensioners in golf buggies, there definitely is. Somewhere with a rich history and even a real castle, not just a plastic one.
Just over a hundred miles from Orlando is the historic city of St Augustine. The city was founded by Spanish explorers back in 1565. It is actually described as “the oldest continuously occupied European-established settlement in the continental United States”.
Castillo de San Marcos
You probably thought that only Europe had the castles. However, overlooking the Matanzas Bay is the Castillo de San Marcos dating from 1672. The fort was originally constructed by the Spanish but possession of the fort changed six times. Surprisingly, all peacefully.
The entrance fee is $15 for adults and free of charge for children under 15. It is definitely worth the admission price as there is plenty to see and do. They have many events related to the history of the castle and people in character roaming the grounds. Visit the National Park Service’s Castillo de San Marcos website for the latest info and prices.
St. Augustine’s Historic Streets
In the centre of St Augustine, you’ll find the city’s historic district. Take a walk down Aviles Street, the oldest street in the USA. The street actually dates from the early 1600s. It does feel very European as you walk around its narrow pedestrian-friendly streets.
The historic downtown district is also where you’ll find many of the restaurants, shops and attractions. It’s a great area to explore on foot as everything is relatively close.
Flagler College And The Lightner Museum
During your visit to St Augustine, you must take one of the guided tours of Flagler College. The college was the former Hotel Ponce de Leon which explains its ornate architecture. One of the highlights of the tour is the dining room which features 79 Tiffany stained glass windows.
The Hotel Ponce de Leon and the neighbouring Alcazar Hotel were both built by the American industrialist Henry M. Flagler. He was the founder of Standard Oil and the Florida East Coast Railway.
Across from Flagler college, you’ll find the Lightner Museum (formerly the Alcazar Hotel). The museum houses many pieces from the Victorian era and the heyday of the gilded age.
The hotel once featured the worlds’ largest indoor swimming pool. It has since been drained and is now the home of Café Alcazar, a unique place to eat. You can dine in the deep end.
St Augustine Lighthouse
It’s only a short drive from downtown to St Augustine lighthouse on the north end of Anastasia Island. The 165-foot tall lighthouse was built in 1874 and is now the home to St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum.
Climb the 219 steps to get fantastic views over St Augustine, Matanzas Bay and out to the Atlantic Ocean.
Fountain Of Youth
The Fountain Of Youth Archaeological Park is on the site of the native American Timucua village of Seloy. Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León landed here in 1513 and named this beautiful “new land” La Florida. The legend says he was in search of the “Fountain of Youth”. A mythical spring that restores the youth of anyone who drinks its waters.
We had a drink but unfortunately it didn’t make any difference. We still have the aches and wrinkles.
St Augustine Trolley Tours
There are a couple of trolley tours around St Augustine. However, if you want a bit of fun, why not try the ghost trolley tour. You’re told ghost stories as you tour the city’s graveyards and old jail. Just watch out for some hidden surprises.
Where We Stayed
We stayed in the historic downtown area at the Bayfront Marin House. A historic inn that overlooks Matanzas River. We would definitely recommend staying in this part of St Augustine as many of the attractions are within walking distance.
So, if you’re a regular visiting to Orlando but haven’t yet visited St Augustine, why not make the trip. We’re sure you’ll enjoy some ‘real’ castles, history and genuine pirate stories.
