Few places in the world exude the old-world charm of the oldest city: historic St. Augustine. Take a stroll on the ancient cobblestone streets and Spanish Colonial architecture, knowing you’re walking in the steps of thousands of years of history. Tour the military forts like the Castilo de San Marcos, built to protect the ancient city all those centuries ago. Pop into the museums, hop on and off the in-depth trolley tour, stop into the local cafes and restaurants, and soak up this rich vibe of historic St. Augustine.
Florida is a four-season destination, and historic St. Augustine is a lovely year-round vacation location. During the winter, you’ll encounter fewer crowds as tourism slightly slows, but it’s a popular time for the “snowbirds,” also known as the folks who spend their winters in the Sunshine State. For those planning a quicker getaway, our historic St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast is the perfect place to make your home away from home.
St. Francis Inn is a historic gem in the heart of St. Augustine—located on a corner of the famed St. George Street; you’ll be in the ideal spot to head out on foot and discover the stories that built this city one cobblestone brick at a time. Every guest room and suite at our St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast has its own distinct layout and decor. The walled courtyard garden creates a serene and secluded place to relax. Each morning throughout your stay, you’ll be treated to an exquisite full breakfast and a long list of complimentary amenities. Book your lodging today!
The Top Things to do in Historic St. Augustine
A big thing that sets the city of St. Augustine apart from other historic locations is that it was first built between the 16th and early 19th centuries. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970, the historic district encompasses the city’s colonial heart. Be sure to check out the surviving architectural gems, the oldest masonry fort in the U.S., and the stunning bayfront views this area is known for.
While there are so many fantastic things to do in St. Augustine, here are our favorite ten places to check out when you explore historic St. Augustine:
- St. George Street: Step foot just outside our historic St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast, and you’ll be on this ancient pedestrian-only thoroughfare for shopping, dining, and live music.
- Castillo de San Marcos: As the oldest masonry fort in the country, the Castillo de San Marcos is a treasure to explore. Follow along on one of the guided tours for insight and interesting tidbits on the founding and protection of the city throughout the years.
- The Gonzalez-Alvarez House: The oldest house museum complex includes the oldest surviving Spanish colonial dwelling in St. Augustine. Visitors can take a 25-minute guided tour of the home where history comes alive.
- Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine: As designated as one of the oldest locations in the city, this ancient church offers visitors a beautiful glimpse of Spanish Mission-style architecture and stained glass windows.
- The Lightner Museum: Located in the former 1888 Alcazar Hotel, this impressive building is now home to a fine and decorative 19th-century art collection. There are self-guided tours available of this gilded-age treasure trove.
- The Old Jail: Known as one of the most haunted places in St. Augustine, guests can tour this ancient jail led by guides in period attire. The very brave can join the Ghosts and Graveyard tours and experience this adventure in the moonlight.
- Fountain of Youth: This historical waterfront attraction showcases the first Spanish settlers in the 1600s. Visitors can enjoy views of the water from the Riverwalk and sample water from the natural spring—the Fountain of Youth!
- Ximenez-Fatio House Museum: Constructed in 1798 for merchants and later converted to a boarding house, this small museum has been thoughtfully researched and restored. It provides excellent insights into a little-known period of Florida’s history.
- Columbia Restaurant: As one of the oldest restaurants in historic St. Augustine, you’ll love the Spanish fare served in a beautiful space with intricate tiles, woodwork, and marble.
- St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum: Standing as a beacon on the coast, the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum is a must-visit! Take the long steps up to the top and enjoy one of the most beautiful views in the city.
A Winter Getaway at our Historic St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast
One of the perks of staying at our historic St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast in the wintertime is our festive decor! There’s nothing cozier than our Inn decked out in twinkling Christmas lights, a beautiful tree, and garland dressing the railings and mantles of our historic Inn. It sets the mood whether you’re here to celebrate with your partner or have a fun holiday getaway with family and friends.
St. Francis Inn is nothing like a cookie-cutter hotel stay—the major first distinction is our level of hospitality. Our dedicated owners, innkeepers, and staff go above and beyond to ensure our guests are comfortable and have everything they need to enjoy their stay. The layout of our B&B is unique, and this makes each guest room one of a kind. We have cozy rooms perfect for two and larger multi-room suites for those who may be traveling with kids or pets in tow.
For those who may be seeking a more private and romantic getaway to Florida, our sister property, Casa de Sueños, is another historic St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast with character and charm. This smaller boutique property offers a quiet reprieve from the fast-paced day-to-day. We provide the same extensive list of amenities, including breakfast, afternoon wine and snacks, and guests can have pool access at the St. Francis Inn. Start planning your next getaway to St. Augustine and book your lodging today!
