ST. AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA — We absolutely LOVE this city!
I knew St. Augustine would be historic. I knew it would be beautiful. What I didn’t
expect was just how completely it would charm my wife and I on our recent visit.
There’s something magical about wandering centuries-old streets past grand historic
hotels, hidden courtyards and magnificent architecture—and discovering a city that isn’t
simply preserving its past. St. Augustine is wonderfully alive.
Old Town alone could keep us happily exploring for days. St. George Street and the
surrounding historic district overflow with boutiques, cafés, restaurants and some truly
extraordinary art galleries. And when evening arrives, the city finds its soundtrack. Live
music spills from restaurants, patios and courtyards as people linger over dinner, drinks
and one more stroll through those irresistible old streets.
The Old Town Trolley was the perfect introduction and left us wanting to explore
everything we’d seen. The St. Augustine Lighthouse delivers history, spectacular views
and all the romance of an old coastal beacon, while the Fountain of Youth offers a
fascinating glimpse into the remarkable beginnings of this city with life actor-character
re-enactments. Everywhere you look, another museum, gallery, plaza or landmark
seems to have a story.
Then—because St. Augustine apparently wasn’t already showing off enough—there’s
Anastasia Island. Minutes from Old Town, you’re suddenly walking a gorgeous Atlantic
beachfront with wide stretches of sand, rolling surf and that wonderful Florida sea
breeze. History in the morning, galleries in the afternoon, toes in the sand before
sunset and back downtown for dinner and live music? …what a place!
And during the holidays? The legendary Nights of Lights turns the historic district into
pure magic. Millions of tiny white lights illuminate trees, balconies, plazas and rooftops
while horse-drawn carriages roll past and music drifts through the evening air. Beautiful
in photographs—but so much better in person.
My takeaway? Don’t think of St. Augustine as simply a historic attraction. Think of it as
a destination. Come for the history, but stay for the art, food, music, architecture,
beaches and those wonderful discoveries waiting around EVERY next corner.
We came away fascinated by St. Augustine’s past…and completely in love with the cool
vibe of its present.
Put this one on your Florida list. Right near the top!