Make time to see some of the finest historic sites, or you’ll be missing out on the real appeal of Florida’s ancient city. Fortunately, St. Augustine has plenty of places where you can take a serious deep dive into the region’s history. From pirates to settlers, schools to jails, St. Augustine historical sites are varied and enthralling. Book your family’s two-bedroom St. Augustine rental today and explore them for yourself.
Castillo de San Marcos
This national monument is a crowning achievement, and one that has stood as an icon for the ancient city for centuries. It is, unsurprisingly, a very popular historical attraction. Guests can venture throughout rooms which once housed soldiers, from the sleeping quarters to the isolation area, the main hall, to the rooftop. Cannon demonstrations and group formations and reenactments give you a look at warfare in the 1700’s.
Ages 16 and older are $15 and children under 15 are free. The fort is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. While the Castillo de San Marcos has one of the best tours in St. Augustine, they, unfortunately, are not offered at this time, you and your group can explore all areas of the grounds at your leisure.
Fort Matanzas National Monument
Fort Matanzas National Monument is a bit south of St. Augustine downtown, where it is less rambunctious and bit quieter. Visitors who make the 20-minute trek from downtown will appreciate the relaxed nature and close proximity to the beach and Matanzas River.
Fort Matanzas has stood as a protective beacon for St. Augustine for over 250 years. Securing the city from its southern water entrance at the Matanzas River, this classic historical watchtower and fort gorgeously looms over the nearby maritime hammocks. It is made of coquina, a naturally occurring rock made of shell fragments and debris. You can access the fort via the free ferry pass. The grounds also feature hiking trails, Spanish moss, and a small beach.
Fort Matanzas is near a number of top-rated St. Augustine vacation rentals by the water. You will find the fort and historical grounds open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Mission of Nombre de Dios
The Mission of Nombre de Dios church sits off San Marco Avenue, less than a mile north of the historic district. The church dates back to the city’s origins, immortalizing the claim of Pedro Menéndez de Avilés in 1565 right where the church sits.
To further honor this moment, locals built a massive white cross hovering overhead and illuminating the skyline. At the site, you can visit the gardens, see history drenched statues, and pray at the rustic altar. Admission to the area is free.
Colonial Quarter
The Colonial Quarter at 33 St. George Street provides a deep dive into British and colonial history. Featuring recreated homes and cottages along with tools for crafting, visions of the past are brought to life via living history demonstrations. At the Colonial Quarter visitors can see what it was like to live in St. Augustine in the 1600’s.
The Colonial Quarter is $12.99 for ages 16 and older and $6.99 for ages 5-15.
Old Jail
The Old Jail is spooky- and amazing! This historic jail at 167 San Marco Ave takes you back to a time where hangings were public and jail cells were cold, pitch black, and barren. The Old Jail offers a worthwhile look into the eerier side of the city’s history. In the same block area, you’ll find the Oldest Store Museum and the St. Augustine History Museum. The Old Jail is about $14 for adults and $7 for ages 6-12. It is open daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., though tours with the scary Ghosts and Gravestones may take you around the Old Jail during special evening hour tours.
The main red trolley stop is right across the street from the Old Jail. The parking lot is large enough to accommodate any vehicle for the day. We encourage you to use trolley transportation to get through the city.
Of course, you can’t experience any of these places if you don’t have a place to stay! Our St. Augustine Beach rentals offer comfort and relaxation for your trip. Contact our team today to book your stay and come to see what makes St. Augustine so magical.
