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When you think of Florida, you probably envision things like beautiful beaches, sparkling blue water and decorative palm trees beneath a clear, sunny sky. But don’t forget how much history there is in this state, beginning with enchanting St. Augustine.

The Castillo de San Marcos

The fort, dating from the 1660s, is usually the first thing visitors to St. Augustine want to see. By 1668, the wooden structure erected to guard the San Agustin settlement was dilapidated. There was no money, and the people were starving. To make matters worse, pirates executed a surprise attack, sacking the town and killing anyone in sight before sailing away. Hearing of the attack, the Spanish Queen Regent Mariana sent funds and troops with orders to build a permanent fortress. The result is what visitors see today: the Castillo de San Marcos, now a national monument.

More history

While you’re in St. Augustine, you can join a tour of Flagler College, another historic landmark building that began life as Hotel Ponce de Leon. Built by Standard Oil magnate Henry Flagler in 1888, this is a wonderful example of Spanish Revival architecture. Features include an 80-foot domed Rotunda and an 800-seat dining hall with a barrel-vaulted ceiling and Tiffany stained-glass windows.

You might also be interested in visiting Lincolnville (formerly Little Africa), a  St. Augustine neighborhood, which was developed by freedmen and women after the Civil War. Lincolnville was designated a historic district in 1991 and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Where to stay

For a boutique hotel experience, consider the charming St. George Inn located on pedestrian-only St. George Street in the historic district. Choose a room or a suite; some offer a view of the nearby Castillo de San Marcos, which is within walking distance. The Inn provides continental breakfast, and, after a busy day sightseeing you may want to sample a glass of wine at Bin 39 located in the lobby just off a lovely patio.

The DoubleTree by Hilton St. Augustine is another historic district option. Here you and your family can enjoy the outdoor pool, the fitness center and casual dining onsite at the Oak Room and Lounge. The hotel is just over a mile from Flagler College and a short drive to both the St. Augustine Lighthouse and the Alligator Farm Zoological Park.

Where to eat

The Blue Hen Café can provide you with a hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch. For dinner, try Collage for house-made pasta, but make reservations in advance. If you’re in the historic district, relax at Boat Drinks on St. George Street, then enjoy Catch 27 for fresh seafood.

How to get there

The Northeast Florida Regional Airport is the closest airport to St. Augustine but used mainly for small commuter flights and private aircraft. However, if you are flying commercial, you will probably come into Jacksonville International Airport. From there, the drive time to St. Augustine is about an hour.

Note: All travel is subject to frequently changing governmental restrictions—please check government advisories before scheduling trips.

At the end of the day, a trip to St. Augustine will provide all the sunshine, palm trees and inviting blue water you could possibly want along with a side of history to round out your stay. 

Enjoy your visit as you travel into history!