The Lightner Museum in the St. Augustine Historic District is one of the city’s most iconic cultural landmarks and a highlight for history and art lovers alike. Located in the former Alcazar Hotel St. Augustine, a lavish Gilded Age resort built by railroad tycoon Henry Flagler in 1888, the museum offers a one-of-a-kind experience. As you explore the museum’s elegant galleries, you’ll find an eclectic array of Lightner Museum exhibits—from fine art and antique furnishings to delicate glasswork, vintage costumes, and rare mechanical musical instruments that come to life during scheduled demonstrations.
With its fascinating Lightner Museum history and stunning architecture, including the famous Lightner Museum pool that once served as the largest indoor swimming pool of its time, this destination easily earns its spot as one of the best things to do in St. Augustine. Of course, St. Augustine’s charm doesn’t end at the Lightner. As the oldest continuously inhabited European-established city in the U.S., it’s filled with rich history and scenic spots to discover.
Visit the Castillo de San Marcos, explore the cobblestone streets of the Old City, and take a stroll across the Bridge of Lions. The city also offers a variety of other noteworthy St. Augustine museums, including the Colonial Quarter, the Pirate & Treasure Museum, and the Oldest House Museum. Whether you’re touring historic landmarks, enjoying waterfront views, or browsing local boutiques and cafes, there’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do in St. Augustine.
After a day of exploration, retreat to the historic St. Francis Inn, a charming St. Augustine bed and breakfast that perfectly blends Old World elegance and modern comfort. Located just a short walk from the Lightner Museum St. Augustine, this romantic Florida Inn features inviting guest rooms, a peaceful courtyard garden, and a gourmet breakfast served each morning. It’s the ideal home base for your St. Augustine getaway, providing both convenience and a sense of timeless hospitality. Book a stay today!
Why Visit the Lightner Museum, St. Augustine
The Lightner Museum is not only one of the most architecturally stunning landmarks in Florida, but it’s also one of the most unique museums in St. Augustine. Housed in the former Alcazar Hotel St. Augustine, this grand building was originally constructed in 1888 as part of Henry Flagler’s vision to transform the city into a luxurious winter retreat for the elite. Today, the Lightner is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and offers an immersive glimpse into the extravagance of the Gilded Age.
As you explore all four levels of the remarkable Lightner Museum, you’ll encounter everything from intricate stained glass and elaborate Victorian furniture to curious contraptions and mechanized musical instruments that still play. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or just looking for memorable things to do in St. Augustine, a visit here is a must.
One of the biggest draws is the museum’s impressive permanent collection of more than 20,000 objects curated by Otto Lightner, a passionate collector and former publisher. After the Alcazar closed during the Great Depression, Lightner purchased the building and filled it with treasures from the Victorian and Gilded Ages. The result is a richly layered experience that spans Lightner Museum exhibits ranging from 19th-century decorative art and sculpture to vintage scientific instruments and fine art paintings from around the world.
Each floor offers a different lens into the past: the first floor includes exhibits on science and industry, while the upper galleries showcase elaborate ballrooms, formal dining spaces, and a stunning music room. Don’t miss the rotating special exhibitions either! This June, a dazzling exhibit featuring fine art photography by Lenny Foster features the intrinsic beauty of a seven-year study of the Magnolia flower.
Beyond the exhibits, the Lightner Museum experience is as much about the setting as the artifacts. The building’s Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture, graceful courtyards, and preserved historical details bring the legacy of the Alcazar Hotel St. Augustine to life. You can explore the museum your way by choosing from three different Lightner Museum tickets: a self-guided tour, a docent-led experience for a deeper dive into the collection, or a curator-led tour that shares insights into both the artwork and the building’s architecture.
When your tour ends, take a moment to relax in the former hotel’s pool area—now an airy courtyard café named Cafe Alcazar—which is a highlight for many visitors curious about the Lightner Museum pool. Whether planning a day of St. Augustine museums or just looking for a place where history and beauty meet, the Lightner delivers a truly unforgettable experience.
The Best St. Augustine Lodging
After a full day of sightseeing at unforgettable landmarks like the Lightner Museum, you’ll want a place to relax and recharge, preferably in a place that matches the charm and historic elegance of the city itself. The St. Francis Inn, a romantic and historic St. Augustine bed and breakfast, offers exactly that. Located just minutes from the city’s most celebrated attractions, our historic Bed and Breakfast provides the perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and ambiance.
Each guest room at the St. Francis Inn is unique, with its own layout, décor, and personality, yet all share a sense of timeless style and thoughtful amenities. You’ll find everything you need for a restful stay, including a king or queen-sized bed with luxury linens, private bathrooms, heating and air conditioning, and modern comforts that don’t compromise the inn’s old-world charm. Whether you prefer a cozy, intimate space or a larger suite for extended stays, the accommodations are designed with relaxation in mind and curated for a truly memorable escape.
What sets this St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast apart isn’t just its historic charm. Rather, it’s the attention to detail and hospitality that make guests feel truly pampered. Begin your day with a gourmet breakfast served in the peaceful courtyard garden, linger over brunch on weekends, and treat yourself to decadent evening social hour and desserts. The St. Francis Inn offers complimentary amenities that elevate your stay and give you a sense of what Southern hospitality is all about. Book your stay at our top-rated Bed and Breakfast in St. Augustine today!
