The St. Augustine Historic District, known locally as Old Town St. Augustine, is the premier attraction in this historic city. Cobblestone streets wind through centuries-old architecture, charming courtyards, and iconic St. Augustine landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos and Flagler College. The district is alive with character, featuring stunning Spanish colonial buildings, lively boutiques, and restaurants dishing out fresh seafood and local flavors.

This distinctive district in historic St. Augustine was first built between the 16th and early 19th centuries. Historic downtown St. Augustine was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970 and encompasses the colonial heart of the city. From the oldest surviving residences and the oldest masonry fort in the U.S. to beautiful bayfront views, this area is a must-see part of historic St. Augustine. Though it can sometimes feel like there are endless things to do in St. Augustine Old Town, we’ve helped narrow down your list to the top must-see attractions in the St. Augustine Historic District.

1. One of the most iconic downtown St. Augustine attractions is the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. The Castillo is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States and was constructed to protect and defend Spain’s claims in the New World.
2. The beating heart of St. Augustine downtown is St George Street. This bustling pedestrian street is where you’ll find many of the top restaurants in the St. Augustine Historic District, alongside locally-owned shops and other attractions like the Colonial Quarter and the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse. The Old City Gate is located at the very north end of the street. It’s an excellent place for a photo op as you explore the St. Augustine historic district.
3. Don’t miss The Lightner Museum, housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, built in 1888. This gorgeous building is home to a fine and decorative 19th-century art collection and is one of the most unique museums in the Historic District, St. Augustine.
4. The Gonzalez-Alvarez House, otherwise known as the oldest house museum complex in Old Town St. Augustine, includes the oldest surviving Spanish colonial dwelling in the city. Visitors can take a 25-minute guided tour of the home where history comes alive. The “complex” also contains a museum, a changing exhibition gallery, an ornamental garden, and a gift shop. Guests of St. Francis Inn receive 50% off of admission.
5. First built in 1891, the Old Jail was designed to blend in with the rest of the buildings in downtown St. Augustine. Guides dressed in period attire lead tours that offer a glimpse into the conditions prisoners encountered in jail. The jail is also part of the Ghosts and Graveyards Tour, which includes a night tour.
6. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine is the oldest Catholic church in the city. The walls are adorned with impressive murals and stained glass windows. Guided tours are available, and visitors are welcome to light candles for loved ones anytime.
7. Head to the Colonial Quarter of the St. Augustine Historic District and step into a charming living history museum, complete with costumed actors. It’s one of the best things to do in St. Augustine with kids. You’ll see blacksmiths at work, climb a replica Spanish watchtower, and walk through recreated 16th – 18th-century buildings.
8. Don’t miss your best chance to see the famed Bridge of Lions, one of the most striking St. Augustine historical sites. This historic drawbridge connects St. Augustine to Anastasia Island and features iconic stone lion statues guarding the bridge. The views over the Matanzas River are breathtaking, especially at sunset.
9. The Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse is a charming attraction in the Historic District, St. Augustine. This preserved 18th-century wooden school building is a quirky, quick stop into this city’s unique history.
10. As you explore the St. Augustine historic district, you may find the narrowest street in America, Treasury Street. Local legend says that the Street was designed to be only 7 feet wide so as to make it more difficult for raiders to loot and take off with the treasure! Another notable street you may find as you explore the St. Augustine historic district is Aviles Street, the oldest street in St. Augustine (and the country!). Archeologists have found pottery shards here from the early 1600s! Today, it is known for its art galleries and restaurants.

After you explore the St. Augustine historic district, you may need to sit down for a good meal in a beautiful setting. A number of eateries have excellent views of Matanzas Bay. One of our favorite historic downtown St. Augustine restaurants is Harry’s Seafood. This New Orleans-style restaurant offers jambalaya, etouffee, and gumbo and is a great place to refuel after your adventures.