St. Augustine, Florida: 500 Years Old and So Much to Offer

The state of Florida celebrated its 500^th anniversary in 2014 and St. Augustine is Florida’s most historic city. With its rich history, there are many surprising things for families to discover there (beyond Walt Disney World). From museums to the shell-filled beach, these stops will help a family relax and celebrate history during a family vacation.

St. Augustine, Florida – A Lesson in History That Kids Will Love

Located only about an hour and a half from the Orlando theme parks, St. Augustine appeals to families looking for an entertaining yet relaxing vacation. If you don’t have the time for an overnight. the 90 minute drive is worth the day trip when you’re looking for an authentic historical experience.

The city is gorgeous and embraces its Spanish heritage while offering plenty of family friendly attractions. Stroll the authentic brick-lined streets, where all major downtown attractions are within easy walking distance.  From living museums, a theater and a unique beach, even the kids will soak up all that St. Augustine has to offer.

St. Augustine Colonial Quarter

The Colonial Quarter is a must-see, a living history museum that spans the 16^th through 18^th centuries. Blacksmiths, leather makers, candle makers and boatwrights reenact that old way of life. Costumed historical figures discuss the meals they are cooking or show other day-to-day activities from that time period. There are also musket drills and a watchtower that you can climb up to look over the bay front and the Castillo de San Marcos.

Don’t miss the 50 foot caravel, a sailing vessel similar to the one navigated by Ponce De Leon in 1513. This is history made fun, with engaging, interactive elements for kids of all ages.

There is a theater show that sneaks in education between laughs. The musical Colonial Crew Revue is a hilarious and entertaining way to learn about Florida’s history.  End the day with bangers & mash at the Bull & Crown Publick House, an authentic British pub where nefarious townspeople like the Governor have been known to pay a visit.

Lightner Museum

Built in 1888 and housed in a former hotel, the stunning Lightner Museum features an eclectic collection from the 19th century, from a mummy and shrunken heads to Tiffany glass and fine art paintings. Costumes, mechanical musical instruments, chandeliers and toys are displayed throughout the four floors of the museum. Children can touch three goblets to help them understand the difference between crystal and ordinary glass.

Instead of being stuffy, the museum lets people wander and view the broad assortment on display. Kids won’t get bored looking at rooms and rooms of paintings or Egyptian statues because there’s an interesting new discovery in every room.

Read More: Free Things to Do in St. Augustine

More to Explore in St. Augustine

There are more living history exhibits at Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth, an archaeological park that offers both musket and cannon firing. Drink from the Fountain of Youth and explore a Timucuan village that is older than the pyramids.

Teens 16 and over can sign up for the cannon shooting class at Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the US, made of coquina, and dating from 1672. They learn how to shoot a real cannon at the fort; younger ones can participate in the Junior Ranger program.

Beach and Marina

The beach here is particularly rich in shells and shark teeth, so you can collect free souvenirs. And the shark teeth are remarkably easy to find. On my recent trip to St. Augustine, we found three teeth in rapid succession.

I stayed at the kitschy Inn at Camachee Harbor, which has a great view of the marina. The small waterfront hotel has 19 suites, some of which are pet-friendly. Included in the room rate is a complimentary breakfast. You could also rent a beach house.

Read More: Everything you need to plan to best family beach vacation

Getting Around

I flew into Jacksonville and once I was in downtown St. Augustine, I never needed a car. All the attractions are within walking distance. However, you will be hoofing it on real brick streets so pack practical shoes because heels will not cut it!

And if you don’t want to walk, The Old Town Trolley Tours offer open air rides throughout the historic sites. You can take the transportation a bit farther from the downtown for more exploration including the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Alligator Farm.