By Elizabeth Arnold
St. Augustine, Florida, also known as the "Ancient City," is the
United States' oldest city. Located on Florida's central east coast near Jacksonville, St. Augustine offers small town charm with access to big city amenities. The quaint and historic streets are lined with boutiques, specialty shops and intimate cafes. You can explore the area's various historical landmarks, or spend a lazy day relaxing oceanside. St. Augustine offers a little of everything, from top-rated white sand
beaches to arts and and culture.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
Step back in time during a day trip to Castillo de San Marcos, a national stone monument built in the 1600s. The monument site consists of 20 1/2 acres, and memorializes America's early Spanish empire.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
1 South Castillo Drive
St Augustine, FL 32084
(904) 829-6506, ext. 227
The Lightner Museum
Spend an afternoon exploring the Lightner Museum, which features three floors of relics from nineteenth century daily life. The museum collection includes Victorian art glass and Tiffany lamps, along with antique furnishings and clothing.
Lightner Museum
75 King Street
St. Augustine, Florida 32084
(904) 824-2874
St. Augustine Beach
Spend a day in the sun while lounging at St. Augustine beach. The beach, which is located on Anastasia Island, features a fishing pier, volleyball courts and a playground, among other amenities.
St. Augustine Beach
2106 A1A South, St. Johns County Pier
St. Augustine, Florida 32084
(904) 471-1596
St. Augustine Eco Tours
Charter a boat or rent a kayak from St. Augustine Eco Tours to explore the area's natural environment. Certified naturalist guides will point out historic sights and explain marine ecology during narrated tours.
St. Augustine Eco Tours
111 Avenida Menendez
St. Augustine, FL 32084
(904) 377-7245
Resources
About the Author:
Elizabeth Arnold, who studied English at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, has written for a wide variety of publications and websites. Her experience includes writing travel features for "Recommend" magazine and packaging and marketing copy for both Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and Warner Bros. consumer products. Recently, Arnold was a staff writer for "Special Events" magazine.
