Downtown St. Augustine is a captivating destination that blends centuries of history with a vibrant, modern atmosphere.1 The pedestrian-friendly historic district is packed with unique restaurants, lively bars, and a wide array of tourist activities that cater to all interests.
Restaurants
Downtown St. Augustine offers a diverse culinary scene, from traditional Southern and fresh seafood to international and farm-to-table cuisine. Many establishments are housed in historic buildings, adding to the city's unique charm.
Seafood and Southern Fare: Enjoy fresh catches and classic Southern dishes at spots like Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille, known for its New Orleans-style cooking with a courtyard setting. River & Fort offers a southern continental menu with local seafood and steaks, plus stunning views from its rooftop lounge.
Unique and Themed Dining: For a taste of the Prohibition era, Prohibition Kitchen is a gastropub with a vintage industrial style, serving elevated bar food and craft cocktails. The Drunken Horse offers an intimate setting for a decadent French culinary experience. For a truly unique experience, visit the Ice Plant, a restaurant and bar located in a century-old factory that once produced ice. It serves farm-to-table cuisine and handcrafted cocktails with unique ice, a nod to the building's history.
Casual Eats: The city has plenty of options for a quick bite, including taquerias, pizzerias, and casual cafes. You'll find everything from classic American fare to international flavors.
Bars
The nightlife in downtown St. Augustine is as varied as its dining scene, with options ranging from historic pubs to modern cocktail lounges.
Craft Cocktails and Distilleries: The Ice Plant Bar is a must-visit for its artisanal cocktails made with house-pressed juices and a focus on different types of ice. Castillo Craft Bar + Kitchen offers custom cocktails in an upscale setting.
Historic and Themed Pubs: Meehan's Irish Pub is a popular spot for a pint and live music. The Well Bar, located within The Collector Inn, offers a welcoming atmosphere and a menu of cocktails made with herb-infused liquors.
Live Music Venues: Many bars and pubs feature live music, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere. The Colonial Oak Music Park is a notable outdoor venue for concerts.
Tourist Activities
The city's rich history is its main attraction, and visitors can easily spend days exploring its historic sites, museums, and hidden streets.
Historic Landmarks:
Castillo de San Marcos: The centerpiece of the city, this 17th-century Spanish stone fortress is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States.
St. George Street: The main pedestrian-only thoroughfare is a hub of activity, lined with boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and historic shops.
Lightner Museum: Housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, this museum features an impressive collection of Gilded Age art and artifacts.
Colonial Quarter: This living history museum offers an immersive journey through different eras of St. Augustine's past, with costumed reenactors and interactive activities.
Oldest Wooden School House: Visitors can step back in time and see what school life was like in the 18th century.
Tours and Experiences:
Trolley and Carriage Tours: Hop-on, hop-off trolleys and horse-drawn carriage rides are a popular way to see the city's main sights and learn about its history.
Ghost Tours: St. Augustine is known as one of the most haunted cities in America, and ghost tours, including those at the Old Jail, are a thrilling and popular nighttime activity.
Distillery and Winery Tours: Visitors can take a free tour and tasting at the St. Augustine Distillery or enjoy a guided tour and wine tasting at San Sebastian Winery.
Waterfront Activities: The city's location on the Matanzas Bay means there are plenty of scenic boat tours, eco-tours, and opportunities for kayaking and sailing.
Magic Hideaway: For a unique evening, a magic show hosted by an award-winning magician provides an intimate and entertaining experience.