Top 10 Things to Do in St. Augustine for Families

feedingsSt. Augustine is the oldest European settlement in the United States. Its Spanish architecture, galleries and boutiques have an Old World Charm. Consider these top 10 family friendly attractions when visiting this jewel on Florida’s First Coast.

  1. The St. Augustine History Museum has artifacts that chronicle more than 400 years of history. Visitors will learn about colonial life, Native Americans, Florida Crackers, pirates and sunken treasure. Find out how the railroad influenced the development of Florida. The story of St. Augustine comes alive through interactive displays and programs.
  2. The Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest fort in the United States. It served as a defensive bastion and prison. Park rangers will describe the fort’s construction and armaments as well the sieges and bombardments that it withstood. The park stages historical reenactments, period demonstrations and cannon firings throughout the year.
  3. With nearly 500 years of history, St. Augustine is full of sights and attractions that entertain and educate. Immerse yourself in history with the Old Jail tour and the Oldest Store Museum Experience and the History Museum. This history also has a darker side that you will experience on the Ghosts and Gravestones tour.
  4. The St. Augustine Alligator Farm is one of the country’s oldest zoological parks. In addition to alligators and crocodiles, the park features the exotic birds and mammals that inhabit swamps and jungles around the world. Children can view an albino alligator, colorful toucans and the pygmy marmoset. The park has reptile shows, gator feedings and performances by beautiful parrots.
  5. St. Augustine Beach is a wonderful place to enjoy Florida’s east coast. Families can swim in the ocean, fish from the pier or surf excellent breaks like Blowholes and Middles. Head out on the water in a kayak or aboard a Jet Ski. The 7-mile beach also has an assortment of eateries and shops.
  6. The St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum has an award-winning interactive exhibit that preserves the city’s buccaneer past. Visitors will see a collection of authentic artifacts and pieces of sunken treasure. The amazing exhibit explores the legacy of Hollywood pirates and real life brigands who plundered the Spanish Main.
  7. Anastasia Island is home to the St. Augustine Lighthouse and the quarry where coquina was mined to build Castillo de San Marcos. Anastasia State Park has beaches, hiking trails and campsites. Families can swim, surf, kayak and watch birds. The lighthouse provides a panoramic view of the area.
  8. Jax Water Tours takes passengers on a sightseeing trip offshore and along the inter-coastal waterway. The pontoon boat affords panoramic visibility. During the excursion, you will get an up-close look at dolphins, manatees, aquatic birds and other marine wildlife. The trip includes beverages and light snacks.
  9. Adventure Landing is a family-oriented recreation center. You can choose from a variety of activities, including miniature golf and batting cages for all skill levels. There is also an arcade and a quarter mile go-kart track. The roller coaster simulator is a chamber that has 360?degree range of motion.
  10. The Ripley’s Believe It or Not! “Odditorium” is housed in the historic Castle Warden, built in 1880s. It was the first Ripley’s museum. Exhibits include artifacts, memorabilia and oddities, such as shrunken heads, pirate treasure and a one-door micro-car.

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