St. Augustine, FL Review

Sometimes its hard to believe, but not everyone who travels to Florida goes to visit the Mouse. Long before Walt picked the perfect spot on which to build his dream, another Florida city was welcoming visitors to it's gates with history and hospitality. Today, St. Augustine is referred to as a Florida hidden secret.  It is an enchanting destination that transports you back in time and offers a trip you will remember for years to come.

Can you possibly be educated and entertained on vacation? And enjoy it? You bet - just don't tell the kids! History is this city's claim to fame. St. Augustine dates back to 1565 and has the distinction of being America's oldest city. It was founded almost 50 years before the settlement at Jamestown and went through decades of change and turmoil with Spanish and British occupation, and later, Union Army troops.  As you cross the exquisite Bridge of Lions into the heart of the city, you'll be sure to notice Castillo de San Marcos. It's the oldest remaining fortification in the continental US and is a great place to explore.  Kids and adults alike enjoy the cannon fire demonstrations, held most weekends throughout the year. 

At Old St. Augustine Village you'll find a block of houses dating back to 1790 with lots of old world charm and the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse. If your kids think school is rough today, they'll get a real eye opener here, as an animated teacher and students give an idea of what education was like in the 1700s. The Old Florida Museum allows you to experience life as the early settlers did with many hands-on activities and exhibits. 

Once everyone has had their fill of history check out some weird and wacky stuff at Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum or the likenesses at Potter's Wax Museum - the first of its kind in the United States.  

Of course, St. Augustine wouldn't be a true Florida hot spot without ocean access and miles of beautiful beach - they're waiting at St. Augustine Beach on Anastasia Island. Stay at one of the wonderful bed and breakfasts (many of which are landmarks themselves) or ocean side condominiums and hotels are also widely available, giving easy access to all St. Augustine has to offer.

When it comes to shopping and dining, you'll be delighted by all of the quaint options, especially along St. George Street in the Historic District. Whether you are looking for traditional souvenirs or a special antique, you can certainly find it here.

The Bottom Line:
No matter if you're looking for a quick break from the hustle and bustle or for a longer "something different vacation", St. Augustine delivers.