St. Augustine, founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, is the oldest continuously occupied European-founded settlement in the continental United States. Walking its cobblestone streets brings visitors close to 16th-century Spanish Florida. The Castillo de San Marcos, a coquina fortress that has withstood centuries of sieges, dominates the skyline next to the Atlantic Ocean. Spanish colonial architecture, narrow streets, shaded plazas, and historic buildings tell the story of more than 450 years of Hispanic presence in this region.
Why visit
- Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States
- Historic district with 16th-century Spanish colonial architecture
- St. George Street, a pedestrian street full of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings
- Nearby beaches with white sand and warm Atlantic waters
- Museums that tell the story of Spanish Florida
Top things to do
Explore Castillo de San Marcos
This Spanish fortress built between 1672 and 1695 was never conquered. Built with coquina, a local stone made of compressed shells, its walls absorbed cannon impacts instead of breaking. Walk its ramparts, explore the cells and dungeons, and attend daily cannon demonstrations.
Stroll St. George Street
This historic pedestrian street is the heart of the old town. Spanish colonial buildings house craft shops, art galleries, restaurants, and museums. Street musicians and period-dressed actors recreate colonial life.
Visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
The oldest Catholic parish in the United States, founded in 1565. The current cathedral dates from 1797 and combines Spanish architecture with Victorian elements. Its original Spanish bells still ring.
Discover the Spanish Colonial Quarter
A living museum that recreates life in St. Augustine during the 18th century. Period-dressed interpreters demonstrate colonial trades like blacksmithing, carpentry, and Spanish cooking. Reconstructed houses show how settlers of different social classes lived.
Relax on nearby beaches
St. Augustine Beach and Anastasia State Park offer miles of white sand and warm waters. Anastasia State Park also has dunes, nature trails, and camping areas.
