From traditional Spanish-style architecture to the Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine is known for its deep, enduring Spanish heritage and roots. Take this opportunity to dive into our city’s history and get an unprecedented glimpse into where St. Augustine gets its inimitable Spanish flair. This two-day itinerary includes suggestions for drinking, eating, and discovering your way through this colorful cultural community.
DAY ONE
Breakfast & the Castillo de San Marcos
The Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine’s iconic historical site, is a defining landmark of the area’s Spanish heritage. It is one of only two fortifications in the world built out of a semi-rare form of limestone called coquina and also the oldest masonry fort in the United States, completed in 1695.
Step into St. Augustine’s Aussie-American coffee shop serving locally-roasted coffee with housemade syrups. The brekkie pies are perfect for a satisfying breakfast to fuel your Ancient City adventures. Make sure you grab a side of Datil pepper hot sauce!
18 Cathedral Pl., St. Augustine, FL 32084
(904) 209-9391
On Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, park rangers and reenactors in period dress demonstrate historical weapons and present lectures on the life and experiences of the Spanish soldiers stationed in St. Augustine in the 1740s.
1 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084
(904) 829-6506
Lunch & Exploring
A St. Augustine favorite for over 50 years, the cafe serves empanadas, picadillo, and sandwiches made fresh daily. Homemade soup, gazpacho, and salads complement freshly baked bread to satisfy the heartiest of appetites.
42 1/2 St George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
(904) 342-7859
Witness centuries of St. Augustine history come to life with an immersive Historic Adventure Tour, climb a 35-foot watchtower, and savor traditional pub fare or Spanish tapas – all within Colonial Quarter’s captivating 2-acre attraction.
43 St George St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
(904) 824-2806
INSIDER’S TIP:
Come back in the evening to Colonial Oak for free live music under the lantern-lit canopy.
The Cathedral Basilica is America’s first parish and the oldest Catholic church in the city. Its Spanish-style architecture houses exquisite murals and elaborate stained-glass windows. Guided tours are offered, and all are welcome to light a candle in prayer.
38 Cathedral Pl, St. Augustine, FL 32084
(904) 824-2806
Dinner & Cocktails
Wind down with a delicious menu of dinner and craft cocktails while enjoying breathtaking views of St. Augustine’s bayfront. Then, take a walk down pedestrian-friendly St. George Street to shop local boutiques and galleries.
Located in the heart of downtown St. Augustine, River & Fort offers a continental-inspired menu with local seafood, steaks, wine, and craft cocktails. The second and third-floor rooftops boast stunning views of the Castillo de San Marcos and gorgeous Matanzas Bayfront.
12 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084
(904) 481-8396
DAY TWO
Breakfast & The Mission
Back in 1565, Pedro Menéndez de Avilés claimed this site for Spain and the Catholic Church. Father Francisco López de Mendoza Grajales, chaplain of his expedition, celebrated the first parish Mass here and spurred the Spanish settlers’ devotion to Our Lady of La Leche, which continues on today.
Located in St. Augustine’s Uptown district, Sunday is a casual, light-filled eatery specializing in sourdough bread. Enjoy classic cafe fare like shakshuka, desserts, and coffee, and browse items by local artists. Vegan options are available.
12 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084
(904) 481-8825
Stop by the Mission to visit the Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche and experience where some of St. Augustine’s strongest Spanish heritage took root more than 400 years ago. Be sure to check out The Great Cross nearby.
101 San Marco Ave, St. Augustine, FL 32084
(904) 824-2809
Exploring Art & History on Aviles Street
Getting from Uptown to Aviles is about a 25-minute walk or a 7-minute drive. Take advantage of a ride-share service, park along the streets, or at the Historic Downtown Parking Facility at 1 Castillo Drive.
Aviles Street is the oldest platted street in America with its existence recorded on maps since the 1570s. This quaint, brick-lined street is home to the city’s first arts district and continues to thrive with galleries, restaurants, and boutiques amongst traditional Spanish architecture. Take breaks from the Florida heat by popping into the galleries along Aviles Street and meet the artisans.
This 40-minute guided tour will show you authentic medical artifacts and provide insight into historic practices from the Spanish period.
3 Aviles St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
(904) 825-4962
The Ximenez-Fatio House Museum is one of the nation’s best-preserved historic Spanish boarding houses, operated by three successive women. Throughout the 19th Century, it set the standards for tourism and represented a shift in women’s ownership of property.
20 Aviles St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
(904) 829-3575
Tour St. Augustine’s Oldest House with construction history dating back to 1723 and owned by a soldier named Thomas González. In 1812, it was the home of St. Augustine Mayor Geronimo Alvarez. Currently, the house belongs to the St. Augustine Historical Society. It is open daily for tours.
14 St Francis St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
(904) 342-7859
Dinner & Drinks
St. Augustine’s hidden gem offers a modern twist on freshly prepared American fare, an extensive wine list, handcrafted cocktails, and patio seating. Inside, experience a warm, welcoming atmosphere with nods to St. Augustine’s Edwardian and Art Deco past.
6 Aviles St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
(904) 827-9055
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