Get your comfortable footwear on and take the 219 steps to get to the highest of the 165-foot St. Augustine Lighthouse. Due to a scarcity of staff and funds, it took three years (1871-1874) to construct the lighthouse, which stands on the north finish of Anastasia Island. It’s considered the oldest maritime port within the U.S.
Whereas the view from the remark deck is spectacular, it additionally compares favorably with the view down beneath. St. Augustine is without doubt one of the high vacationer locations in Florida. The sights and sounds vary from the Castillo de San Marcos — a Seventeenth-century Spanish stone fortress with views of the St. Augustine Inlet — to the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park.
Aerial view St. Augustine Lighthouse. Picture by Roberto Gonzalez
Wealthy in historical past, St. Augustine is taken into account to be the oldest metropolis in the US. However the younger at coronary heart could need to go to the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. It marks the spot the place Ponce de León allegedly landed based on promotional literature (though that declare is disputed as a result of it lacks historic or archaeological proof).
You may as well check the waters alongside St. Augustine’s seashores which stretches over 42 miles. One of many extra in style locations is Crescent Seaside which is situated on Anastasia Island. Named as a result of the shoreline has a pure crescent moon form, Crescent Seaside is without doubt one of the most scenic and unspoiled seashores within the space.
St. Augustine is a fun-filled, history-filled metropolis with actions for everybody. Photographs by Roberto Gonzalez
Flagler School is one other must-see. Based in 1968, it was initially constructed as a resort by railroad magnate and industrialist Henry Flagler in 1888. School schedules allowing, guests can take excursions that depart every day from the primary foyer (Rotunda) of the school situated at 74 King St.
If you wish to absorb an encompassing view of what this metropolis affords, Previous City Trolley Excursions is a should. A one-day trolley go means that you can soar on and off 22 trolley stops. It consists of free admission to the St. Augustine Historical past Museum and free shuttle to the Alligator Farm and the seashore.
STAY OVER
Assuming you’re not on a decent finances, go forward and splurge and keep on the
Casa Monica Resort & Spa in downtown St. Augustine. Initially in-built 1888, the resort has been described as having classic Moroccan appeal with luxurious facilities | marriott.com
DINE OUT
Town is stuffed with wonderful eating choices, however Columbia Restaurant (98 St. George St.) is our choose. It combines award-winning Spanish/Cuban delicacies with the ambiance of hand-painted tiles and Spanish-style fountains. The restaurant is owned by the fourth and fifth era of the unique household, which opened the primary Columbia in Tampa’s Ybor Metropolis in 1905 | columbiarestaurant.com
INSIDER TIP
Wait till the vacation crowd subsides and catch the Christmas lights in mid-to late January. Go on a weekday later at evening and you might have town all to your self.
