St. Augustine, Florida
Do you have a favorite place in the world? One that you can visit over and over and see something new just about everytime? Where your soul feels at home and you can’t help it but smile as you walk down the street? For me, this place is Saint Augustine, Florida.
I am so fortunate to live just a short drive away from the oldest city, so I can come here and have a fun-filled day with my family or enjoy a weekend getaway. Either way, I always leave with my heart full and secretly planning when I’ll be back.
You will enjoy St. Augustine if you like: history, architecture, local music and entertainment, ghost tours, unique experiences, the beach, sunshine, bed and breakfasts, fun people, just to name a few.
I have visited the oldest city prior to my son being born, and of course now the 3 of us get to come enjoy it. My son even says this is his second home (he knows how to melt my heart!). Some of the things we did just the two of us are a bit different than what we get to do now, but nonetheless you’ll always find something to do no matter your mood or who’s with you!
Here are my favorite things to do and places to go:
72 Spanish St.
Great selection of drinks and lots of vegan options. We had some champagne and enjoyed the hummus and black bean dip platter with lots of veggies and potato chips, the soup of the day with bread (I believe it was kale and potato soup), and fried green tomatoes with a vegan sauce.
It was the perfect pick me up so we could continue checking out the city afterwards.
37 St George St
Cuisine: Spanish-American Tavern
Here you will find the best sangrias! Vegan eats include hummus platter with veggies and flatbread, St. George salad, Margherita Flat (without cheese). If not too hot, the patio has a wonderful atmosphere.
Update 1/17/2019 – They changed the menu and most of their vegan items are gone! They have a buffalo cauliflower taco, guacamole, salsa, rice and a few salads that can be made vegan. The beans unfortunately are not vegetarian. They still have the best margaritas but if you are hungry, it might not be the best place to eat anymore.
224 West King St, St. Augustine, FL
Vegans rejoice! This fully vegan, cozy café offers amazing meals that are made fresh with organic ingredients. I’ve been here several times and have loved everything I’ve tried: from the sandwiches, salads and juices to desserts! They also have an awesome kid’s menu.
Columbia Restaurant
98 St. George St.
This Spanish restaurant is conveniently located on St. George Street in a beautiful historical building. I loved everything about our dining experience with them, from the decor to the food and customer service.
They had lots of vegan options including rice and beans, vegetable paella, salads and bean cakes. And we each got a mini loaf of Cuban warm Cuban bread, which was absolutely divine.
We didn’t try their sangria but it looked divine. Next time!
P.S. I highly recommend making reservations, for lunch and dinner.
Train Tours
Red Train Tours – 170 San Marco Ave, St Augustine, FL 32084
Old Town Trolley Tours – 167 San Marco Ave, St Augustine, FL 32084
Riding one of the trains around town is not only fun, but a great way to get to just about any location without having to worry about parking, since you can hop on and off the train all day. And the best part is that the driver will explain the history of the town as they drive by different city landmarks.
Both operators are very comparable in what they offer. My son usually prefers the train because you know, it looks like a train. This is by far my son’s favorite attraction.
Ghost Tours
4 Granada St, St. Augustine, FL
It’s been years since I’ve been on this ghost tour, but I’ve attended several and the walking tour has always been a favorite. You get to learn so much about the history, local stories, and you might even see a ghost or two! Leave the kids with the babysitter for this one!
6 St George St #107, St Augustine, FL
Best London fog I’ve ever had! They offer almond and soy milk in this cozy coffee shop. Grab your drink and start your way down the famous St. George Street.
City Gates and St. George Street
102 Orange Street, St. Augustine, FL
Start at the ancient city gates that was once completely walled, then continue down for a stroll on St. George Street. Explore the shops, the old buildings and narrow streets. And don’t forget to stop at Ben and Jerry’s ice cream shop for some dairy-free options!
11 Magnolia Ave., St. Augustine, FL
I have to say I avoided Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth for the longest time because I didn’t think there was much to it. I was so wrong! This is now one of my favorites spots; starting with the beautiful oak-filled street, the peacocks that roam the property, and all the artifacts found from the native Americans and Spanish settlements.
75 King St.
As the home of the former Hotel Alcazar, built by Henry Flagler in 1888, just the building alone is enough to take your breath away. The lightner museum offers amazing events and tours as well. They also hosted the Downton Abbey exhibit which I describe in detail here.
Bed and Breakfasts
115 Cordova St, St. Augustine, FL
If you like bed and breakfasts, St. Augustine won’t disappoint. You can experience the charm of a historical property while enjoying modern comforts. We stayed at the Old City House Inn last year and loved it! The gardens and property were beautiful, and we were from walking distance of just about anything we wanted to see. Plus, the complimentary wine reception did not disappoint.
Have you been to St. Augustine? If so, what is your favorite thing to do? Let me know in the comments!
Much love,
Angélica Renée
