Secret St. Augustine Historic Walking Tour

St. Augustine , United States

Secret St. Augustine Historic Walking Tour

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About this experience

History should be fun! The tour shares the tantalizing tales of the olde town. Sebastian your tour guide shows you how much fun this city has been and continues to be with local tips and histories. A frolic thru downtown St. Augustine will show you a city you have never seen whether it's your first visit or you're an old hand. This is a 90-minute easy walking tour thru time. We start and end at a wine bar, so you know it's naughty.

Available options

Secret St. Augustine Historic Walking Tour

What's included

walking

Detailed itinerary

We start at the BART art and wine bar and discuss the Fatio house one of the few boarding houses without prostitution, women owned for over 200 years

Sebastian points out the various items in the historic plaza including the monument to Spain's failed constitution. Other stories are shared about the churches, civil rights, and Flagler

Stop 3 Pass by

We enter the "Gilded Age", stories of the "Newport of the South" as well as some naughty behavior of the robber barons of that time.

Sebastian describes the Zorayda house's history and focuses on the naughty things just up the road during prohibition when St Augustine was a center for bootleggers.

Sebastian shares a nice story about one of the inhabitants of this house a contrast to the naughtiness around it.

Here we make two stops, one for a dentist turned taxidermist. The other is about opium dens, casinos and the battle between the locals and the robber barons...the locals won!

We wander back down Aviles Street for that wine bar, but before we do we explain the connection to Juneteenth and a mystery.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

At the BART wine and art gallery just off the Plaza De Constitution on Aviles Street.

Important notes

Just stop by the BART wine and art gallery at 11 Aveles Street St. Augustine Sebastian will be there.

About St. Augustine

St. Augustine, Florida, is the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the contiguous United States, founded in 1565 by Spanish settlers. It's a city rich in history, culture, and charm, offering a unique blend of colonial architecture, scenic waterways, and vibrant arts. Visitors can explore centuries-old fortifications, stroll through historic streets, and enjoy the sunny Florida weather.

Top Attractions

Castillo de San Marcos

This is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States, built by the Spanish in 1672. It offers a glimpse into the city's colonial past and stunning views of the bay.

Historical 1-2 hours $10 (adults), Free (children under 15)

St. George Street

A pedestrian-only street in the heart of the historic district, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to explore (costs vary for shops and restaurants)

Flagler College

A former hotel turned college, known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Guided tours are available.

Historical 1 hour $10 (adults), $5 (children under 12)

Fort Matanzas National Monument

A lesser-known fort built by the Spanish in 1742, offering a quieter and more secluded historical experience.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (park entry), $3 (ferry to the fort)

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

A unique zoo featuring a variety of animals, including alligators, birds, and reptiles. It's also one of the few places where you can see all 24 species of crocodilians.

Nature 1-2 hours $25 (adults), $15 (children 3-12)

Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

A historic park that claims to be the site of the legendary Fountain of Youth. It offers a mix of history, archaeology, and natural beauty.

Historical 1-2 hours $15 (adults), $10 (children 7-12)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Conch Fritters

Deep-fried fritters made from conch meat, often served with a spicy dipping sauce.

Appetizer Contains seafood

Grouper Sandwich

A fresh grouper fillet served on a bun, often with lettuce, tomato, and a tangy sauce.

Lunch Contains seafood, gluten (if served on a bun)

Spanish Bean Soup

A hearty soup made with white beans, sausage, and a variety of spices, reflecting the city's Spanish heritage.

Soup Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Key Lime Pie

A classic Florida dessert made with key lime juice, egg yolks, and condensed milk, served in a graham cracker crust.

Dessert Contains dairy, gluten (if served with a graham cracker crust)

Popular Activities

Kayaking Paddleboarding Hiking Beach lounging Spa treatments Scenic walks Historic site tours Art gallery visits

Best Time to Visit

February to May

This period offers pleasant weather with warm days and cool nights, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with various festivals and events.

15-29°C 60-85°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5:00)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

St. Augustine is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates in most areas. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use reputable tour operators and taxi services.
• Be cautious when walking alone at night, especially in less crowded areas.

Getting there

By air

Jacksonville International Airport • 40 miles (64 km)
St. Augustine Airport • 5 miles (8 km)

By bus

Greyhound Station in St. Augustine

Getting around

Public transport

The local bus service is affordable and convenient for getting around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic District Lincolnville Anastasia Island

Day trips

St. Johns River Cruise

10 miles (16 km) north of St. Augustine • Half day

A scenic cruise along the St. Johns River, offering wildlife viewing and beautiful landscapes.

Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve

15 miles (24 km) south of St. Augustine • Full day

A nature reserve offering hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing in a pristine coastal environment.

Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

City center • Half day

A historic park that claims to be the site of the legendary Fountain of Youth, offering a mix of history, archaeology, and natural beauty.

Festivals

St. Augustine Food & Wine Festival • November Night of Lights • December to January St. Augustine Film Festival • April

Pro tips

Visit historic sites early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Explore the city on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and scenic spots.
Try local cuisine at historic restaurants and cafes for an authentic experience.
Check for special events and festivals during your visit for a unique and memorable experience.
Respect the environment and follow guidelines when visiting natural areas and protected sites.