One of the most iconic landmarks in St. Augustine is the Bridge of Lions. This double-leaf bascule bridge spans the Intracoastal waterway connecting the historical downtown area to Anastasia Island. The bridge was completed in 1927, but the structure saw a renovation in 2010, maintaining its position as a major thoroughfare in St. Augustine. Two replicas of the Roman Medici lions guard the entrance, hence its name, the Bridge of Lions.
As a guest at our St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast, you’ll want to add a stroll or drive across the Bridge of Lions to your itinerary. If you’re there at the right time, the drawbridge will rise to allow recreational and commercial vessels to pass underneath. The Bridge of Lions is just one of the famous landmarks to visit during your stay; the oldest city is filled with historical markers and points of interest. The St. Francis Inn is one of them! Dating back to 1791, our Inn has long been a destination in Florida for history buffs, honeymooners, and those seeking a romantic getaway in the tropics.
Book your next stay at our St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast, and let the fun begin!
Explore the Bridge of Lions & More Historic Landmarks
- Bridge of Lions: Taking a stroll across the Bridge of Lions (just under a mile round trip) is almost mandatory for those visiting St. Augustine. You’ll see the sweeping views of the oldest city from the bridge, including the historic fort Castillo de San Marcos. During the winter season, the city is awash in twinkling bulbs for our annual “Night of Lights” festival—thousands of strands adorn every structure and palm tree in the city, creating an everlasting glow into the new year.
- Anastasia Island: Head across the Bridge of Lions, and you’ll find yourself on Anastasia Island, home to a beautiful state park and stunning beachfront recreation. Walk along the pristine, white sand, gaze out across the vast Atlantic ocean, and hike through tidal marshes and maritime hammocks.
- Castillo de San Marcos: As the oldest masonry fort in the US, Castillo de San Marcos is one of the most visited landmarks in St. Augustine. On a tour, you’ll learn all the dark details about the fort’s history—either on a self-guided exploration or follow along with a park ranger.
- Historic Old Churches: Sites like the Catholic Cathedral Basilica (dating back to the late 1700s), the Methodist church, and the Greek Orthodox shrine offer a window into the past and what life was like all those years ago. Several local touring groups offer routes with these landmarks in mind if you’d like to explore these old churches.
Tour the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum
One of our favorite historical stops just a quick drive from the Inn is the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum. In fact, all of our guests receive complimentary tickets and discounts to redeem at the gift shop. The Lighthouse itself is one of the most iconic landmarks in St. Augustine due to its black, white, and bright red striped exterior; inside, you’ll head up to 65 feet above sea level, with 219 steps with eight landings along the way. Check out the museum to learn more about this port city, the workings of the Lighthouse, and other maritime tales and lore. Take a peek at the website before you go for hours and tours.
Beautiful Lodging at our St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast
As a historical landmark in St. Augustine, the rooms and suites at our St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast combine the atmosphere of the olden days but are equipped with all of the modern comforts of the present. All guest rooms and suites have private baths, antiques or reproduction furniture, central heat and air-conditioning, queen or king beds, and cable TV. Several choice suites offer fireplaces and spacious whirlpool tubs—the best pick for a romantic getaway or honeymoon. We’ll treat you to a beautiful seasonal breakfast each morning and a fun happy hour for wine and snacks in the afternoon. All are included with the price of your room rate!
Head over to our availability calendar and explore the history of the oldest city in the US!
