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St. Augustine Offers Perfect Family Staycation Opportunity

By Amanda Swank, publisher of MacaroniKID Brandon January 19, 2025

As a Florida resident, you might think you've already seen all there is to see in the Sunshine State. But if you haven't yet made the drive to St. Augustine, you're missing out on one of the most charming and historically rich cities in the state.


A Walk Through History

St. Augustine is often referred to as the "Nation’s Oldest City," for good reason—it was founded in 1565, making it the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental U.S. The city's Historic District is a treasure trove of Spanish colonial architecture and centuries-old landmarks.


A Family Staycation

My family and I traveled to St. Augustine the weekend before Christmas, having heard great things about the holiday celebration in the city. It wasn’t quite beach weather in December, so we didn’t stop at the beach during this trip. But we will be going back in the summer to do just that.


Night of Lights Festival

The Night of Lights is a holiday lights festival in downtown St. Augustine. The area glows with holiday magic – from the ground to the rooftops! Millions of tiny white lights create a magical atmosphere. The best part? It’s FREE to enjoy.

If you’re open to spending a little money, you can see the lights via carriage ride, trolley, or golf cart. During the holidays, there is even a Grinch golf cart ride throughout the city to tour the lights. Book it early, though, as it sells out quickly.


Step Back Into History

Spend your days in St. Augustine wandering the streets of the historic district, including visiting the famous Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, a 17th-century fortress that offers views of the city and the bay. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you explore the beautifully preserved colonial-era architecture. There is a $15 per person admission fee to go in the fort, although you can walk around outside it and see parts of it for free.

The Lightner Museum, located in the former Alcazar Hotel, is another destination to enjoy. Showcasing a collection of 19th-century art and antiques it’s an art-lovers dream. 

Colonial Quarter offers a step back in history that any visitor should see. From colonial buildings to shops and dining, immerse yourself in the history of the area. Take the experience tour while there and you can learn about blacksmithing, see a live musket demonstration, climb 35 feet to the top of the Spanish watchtower, and more. Imagine what life was like hundreds of years ago, and see how citizens lived, worked, and played.

If you’re into the paranormal, consider joining one of the many ghost tours offered around the city. With its centuries-old architecture, it's no surprise that many say St. Augustine is one of the most haunted cities in America. Even if you're not into the supernatural, the tours are a fun way to learn more about the city’s history.

While my family and I stayed across the bridge, a few miles from downtown, we would highly suggest staying downtown if your goal is to spend your time in the downtown area. It is a busy place. It would make it much easier to stay downtown and be able to walk out of your hotel or B&B and be where the action is.

If you’re visiting St. Augustine for the beach, then across the bridge outside of downtown may be the option for you. There are numerous hotels and B&Bs located just steps from the beach. 


St. Augustine Ballet

If you happen to be a fan of the ballet, you’ll want to make a stop at the St. Augustine Ballet to see whatever show is live during your trip. Since our trip was over the Christmas season, we were blessed enough to get to see The Nutcracker live on stage at Flagler College’s Lewis Auditorium. My daughter LOVES The Nutcracker. It’s her favorite show, by far. She’s also never been to a ballet. Full disclosure, neither had I nor my husband. But that all changed during our visit to St. Augustine. The Nutcracker will return to the same location in December of 2025. Other shows throughout the year include Rapunzel and The Dracula Ballet, among others. 

Flagler College's Lewis Auditorium is located at 14 Granada St in St. Augustine.



St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

We've lived in Florida for a couple of years now and had not yet been to an alligator farm prior to this trip. And if you're going to visit one, you might as well make it one of Florida's oldest attractions. This park has been in business since 1893. The park has 24 species of crocodilians, and also a variety of other reptiles, mammals, and birds, as well as exhibits, animal performances, and educational demonstrations. It's a must-see if you visit the St. Augustine area.


Marineland

We also visited Marineland Dolphin Adventure while in St. Augustine. Marineland has been creating unforgettable experiences for more than 80 years. The world’s first oceanarium enchants guests from across the world with one-of-a-kind dolphin experiences that are truly amazing. 


My family got the unique opportunity to interact with one of the dolphins at Marineland up close and personally. Meet our new friend, Ollie. We were in-pool interacting with Ollie for upwards of half an hour and it was one of those bucket list experiences that we will never forget. While there, we were able to view and learn more about sea turtles, sand tiger sharks, and other ocean animals. This facility is truly making a difference in marine life for years to come.

Marineland is located at 

St. Augustine Staycation Does Not Disappoint

As a Central Florida resident, it’s easy to overlook places that are just a short drive away. But St. Augustine is worth the 3-ish hour drive. It’s the perfect family weekend getaway destination. 

Whether you're soaking in history, indulging in great food, or just enjoying the beauty of the Atlantic coast, St. Augustine offers a perfect weekend getaway – no plane required!


#ad; My family was gifted tickets to some of these area attractions in St. Augustine.