Considered America’s oldest city, there are numerous historical sites in St. Augustine Florida that are rich in mystery and adventure. Along these brick streets, there is a long history around every corner, still to be discovered. You’ll discover just how deeply relevant the culture and history of this old city are – even today. Let’s unpack the 5 Best Historical Sites in St Augustine, Florida.
#1 Castillo de San Marcus National Monument
Built by the Spaniards to defend Florida and the Atlantic Trade Route, Castillo de San Marcus National Monument represents the oldest masonry fortifications in the United States. Here are just a few things to do here:
- Experience living history with rangers and volunteers in period dress sharing stories and answering questions about the colonials who once lived there.
- Weapon Demonstrations – historic cannon and musket demonstrations go down almost every weekend.
- Explore the fort’s casements and take in the exhibits you’ll find there.
#2 Aviles Street
Aviles Street is veritably the oldest Street in America with pottery recently discovered there that dates all the way back to 1600. One of St. Augustine’s most vibrant arts districts, the street features some very old historical sites. It’s the location of Ximenez-Fatio House Museum and the Father O’Reilly House Museum which we’ll get back to.
#3 Bridge of Lions
The Bridge of Lions links downtown St Augustine to Anastasia Island. It’s also a double-leaf bascule bridge that spans the Intracoastal Waterway in St. Augustine. So, it gets its name from two white marble lion statues guarding the bridge on the west side. And from the bridge, you can take in amazing views like The Castillo de San Marcos at sunrise.
#4 Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
Florida is known for its amazingly clear and cool springs. Well, their discovery began with the Spaniards, right here at Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. It also marks the location where Ponce De Leon discovered the healing waters that supposedly magically maintain a youthful appearance.
#5 The Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum
The Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum sits on the Plaza de la Constitucion, serving colonial governors in St. Augustine for literally centuries. And there is a newly updated lobby that rotates museum space for exhibits. And the museum also presents a great setting for weddings and other events.
#6 Lightner Museum
The Lightner Museum is an archetypal building that sits at the heart of historic St. Augustine within the historic Hotel Alcazar building. And the museum holds within its walls antiques, mostly American Gilded Age pieces.
#7 Father O’Reilly House Museum
One of the oldest structures in St Augustine, the Father O’Reilly House Museum was constructed in 1691. And it also sits in the oldest continuously settled neighborhood in St Augustine. Rich in history, the museum can show visitors exactly how Saint Augustine looked in the days of Father Miguel O’Reilly. O’Reilly, an Irish priest in serving the Spanish crown, purchased the museum from the Spanish in 1785.
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