With 450 years of rich history, there are plenty of reasons to visit St. Augustine—one of the most historic cities in Florida!

As America’s oldest city, St. Augustine treats its visitors to a wealth of historic landmarks, centuries-old architecture, and more. From a historic schoolhouse to the legendary fountain of youth, there are plenty of venues to tempt history buffs to visit Florida. Here are some of the most popular sites to explore as you visit the ancient city.

1. Colonial Quarter

Travel back in time during a walk down brick-lined pedestrian streets as you explore the city’s storied past.

Each area offers a glimpse into life in the 16th century and beyond, including a distinctive 35-foot watchtower and stunning period architecture. The Colonial Quarter also boasts plenty of fine dining as well as one-of-a-kind shops with period-centric furniture and goods to take home after your trip.

2. Spanish Military Hospital Museum

This living history exhibit lets visitors peek into historic medical practices and “cutting edge” surgical procedures through daily tours. The museum staff offers 30-40 minute guided presentations through virtual surgery on lucky volunteers.

Visit the apothecary to learn how historic medicines and herbs influenced medical knowledge today! You’ll also get to hear how Spanish colonists intertwined practices from Europe and Africa to get better outcomes for their patients.

3. Oldest Wooden School House Historic Museum & Gardens

An architectural feat, this historic schoolhouse was built by hand from local cedar and cypress wood as well as handmade nails. Constructed in 1788, the building is now a museum that helps visitors understand what life was like for early colonists: no running water, bathroom, or electricity.

Take a self-guided tour through the school, kitchen, and gardens, and be sure to pick up your diploma when you’re done!

4. Villa Zorayda Museum

A masterpiece of architecture, Villa Zorayda was built to resemble the famous Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain.

Constructed in 1883 for Franklin Smith, it offers insight into Moorish influence in Spanish architecture, which you’ll see throughout the city. Inside, you can check out fine art, antique furniture, and even a 2,400-year-old rug from ancient Egypt!

5. Fountain of Youth

It would be hard to leave St. Augustine without seeing the legendary Fountain of Youth that spurred so much exploration. This archeological park sits on the original site of the nation’s oldest city, in the area that Juan Ponce de Leon first explored in 1513.

There, you’ll explore the area’s rich history across 15 waterfront acres. Enjoy a range of exhibits, including a blacksmith exhibit, Timucuan village, cannon firing, and more!

Visit St. Augustine

For a deep dive into America’s storied past, the only option is to visit St. Augustine. Nowhere in the country offers such old, scenic streets and historic landmarks.

Combine the sites above with a ghost tour and a visit to the Old Jail after dark for even more historic fun.

For a luxury rental in the heart of the city, consider staying with us!