St Augustine - America's Oldest City
Landmarks and attractions abound in and around the nation's oldest city. St Augustine is a wonderful place for a romantic escape.
Restaurants
Denoel French Pastry Shop
Well into four decades now, Donoel's brings old-world - and out of this world - French baked goods to those seeking authentic pastries. Everything is made on-site and stopping in just to savor the aroma is pure joy. 212 Charlotte Ave.
Raintree Restaurant
This favorite features expertly prepared and served Continental Cuisine within the 1879 Victorian with brick courtyard, private gazebo seating. 102 San Marco Avenue.
Places to Stay
Casa Monica Hotel
This historic hotel was built in 1888 and whose beauty caught the eye of Henry Flagler. Located in downtown, and within just a few blocks to most of the sights of St Augustine. Fresh-cut flowers and artworks adorn this true classic. While most of the individual rooms are on the smaller side, the furnishings, appointments and public areas overshadow. 95 Cordova Street.
Beachfront Bed & Breakfast
With only 8 rooms, you can rest assured that the service is impressive. Rich and inviting, this BnB dates back to 1820 and is furnished with antiques - combine that with an oceanfront setting and it's very inviting. 1 F Street, St. Augustine Beach.
Attractions
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
This 17th century Spanish Fortress - a castle - is the oldest stone fort in the United States. It served as Spain's northern anchor in defense of her New World Empire. Much restoration has taken place, and interpretive exhibits and tours offer a valuable insight to our nation's past. On the water at Castillo Drive and Avenida Menendez.
Cathedral-Basilica of St. Augustine
Originally constructed in the 1790's, the Cathedral-Basilica of St. Augustine is the oldest Catholic Church in the United States. Open daily, the Church was expanded after a fire in 1887, but many portions of the original structure are intact. In the center of town on Cathedral Place on the Plaza.
Lightner Museum
This site is the former Alcazar Hotel built by Henry Flagler in 1888 and was purchased in 1948 by Otto Lightner and converted into a museum to showcase his collection of antiques and artworks. At the intersection of King and Cordova Streets.
Oldest House
Having endured the centuries, this site was originally inhabited by Spanish settlers in the early 1600s. Numerous owners and nationalities have brought renovations and alterations to the original. The structure reflects both Spanish and British design. Within the structure period furnishing reflecting both styles and on exhibit. 14 St Francis Street.
St Augustine Premium Outlets
Outlet shopping and factory stores can be found at this popular shopping area. Not to be outdone, across the Interstate are the Prime Outlets. Taken together, these two outlets pretty much cover most designer names and brands. Just off I-95 at exit 318 on SR 16.
Local Resources
St Augustine and St Johns County Visitors Information Center
10 Castillo Drive.
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