5 Things for the St. Augustine History Buff to Do

Image courtesy of Kristin Wilson via Unsplash.

St. Augustine is Known as Florida’s Historic Coast—For Good Reason!

The east coast of Florida contains many different locations for out-of-state visitors to explore, but there are an abundance of activities located in St. Augustine for the history lover in any vacation group. From historic locations to reenactments, it is easy to discover the rich and fascinating history of America’s Oldest City. There is a little something for everyone with a variety of tours, events, and activities.

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

The Castillo de San Marcos is an important landmark within St. Augustine while also being the oldest masonry fortification in the continental United States. Built by the Spanish to defend Florida from invaders, anyone would love to explore its many rooms and courtyards. Any history lover will particularly enjoy taking their time through the self-guided tour, historical weapons demonstrations and talking with the many volunteers dressed as colonists.

Image courtesy of Sahi S via Unsplash.

Colonial Quarter

Located across from Castillo De San Marcos, there is so much to experience within the Colonial Quarter. This walk-through attraction lets you experience different time periods within St. Augustine’s history. Some exciting activities include: live musket firings, three themed restaurants, and replicas of old shops and homes. For a memorable experience, take a walk down the Flags Over St. Augustine boardwalk, which provides visitors information with all of the nations that controlled St. Augustine throughout its long history. The Colonial Quarter also offers year round events and concerts.

Villa Zorayda Museum

Residing within St. Augustine is a quirky, yet beautiful building known as the Villa Zorayda Museum. Built in 1883, what makes this home unique is its architecture inspired by the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain. A self-guided audio tour is offered that explores its surprising history as a home, then later as a nightclub. Another highlight of this museum is its art collection, where each piece has its own story and history just as distinctive as the museum itself. This is an exciting stop on any tour that you will not want to miss.

Image courtesy of Philip Arambula via Unsplash.

St. Augustine Old Town Trolley Tours

Want an overview of St. Augustine’s most famous sights? In search of a quick way to get around the city? Tired of walking in the hot Florida sun? Look no further than the Old Town Trolley Tours. With 22 stops and over 100 points of interest, all tours provide passengers with interesting tidbits about St Augustine’s history by knowledgeable guides. With the freedom to jump on and off at every stop and free admission to the St. Augustine History Museum, the Old Town Trolley Tours will keep you entertained all day.

Marineland Dolphin Adventure

Slightly south from St. Augustine is Marineland Dolphin Adventure. While its history doesn’t go back quite as far as the Castillo de San Marcos, Marineland has its own star-worthy history. Learn about Marineland’s history through its dolphin shows, which not only give an amazing and up close encounter with their star animals, but also give a deep dive into the rich history of Marineland as the world’s first underwater movie studio and oceanarium. For an added fee, you and your travel party can even take a swim with these majestic creatures.

Fuel Up with Timoti’s Seafood Shak

With so much to do and see, make sure you’re ready for a full day of exploring St. Augustine with a healthy and tasty meal of wild-caught seafood from Timoti’s Seafood Shak.