50 Free Things To Do

50 Free Things To Do in St. Augustine and St. Johns County

History, Arts, & Culture

1. Explore St. Augustine's Catholic Roots at the Father O'Reilly House
Explore this free museum for a fascinating look at St. Augustine’s early religious roots.

2. Pass Through the Old City Gates 
Walk through these iconic gates that once protected the city and begin your adventure on St. George Street.

3. Learn About Spanish Colonial History at the Governor’s House 
Tour this free cultural center and learn about St. Augustine’s colonial past.

4. Visit the Historic Plaza de la Constitución
This historic public square is the heart of the city and a hub for free events and monuments.

5. Walk the Sacred Grounds of Mission Nombre de Dios
Visit the grounds where the first Catholic Mass was held in the U.S. and explore centuries of faith.

6. Explore Historic Lincolnville 
Stroll through this historic district known for its role in the Civil Rights Movement.

7. Tour the Tolomato Cemetery
Take a free tour of this historic cemetery and learn about the people who shaped St. Augustine.

8. Tour the Peña-Peck House and Garden
Stroll through the historic gardens of this iconic St. Augustine landmark.

9. Admire Local Art at the St. Augustine Art Association
View rotating exhibits by local artists in a free, community-focused gallery.

10. Experience St. Augustine's Thriving Art Scene During the First Friday Art Walk 
Explore the city’s galleries and street performances on the first Friday of each month.

11. Enjoy Free Music at Colonial Oak Music Park
Catch live music at this outdoor venue under the shade of a historic oak tree.

12. Cross the Iconic Bridge of Lions 
Take a walk across this picturesque bridge connecting downtown to Anastasia Island.

13. Experience Greek Heritage at the St. Photios Shrine 
Learn about Greek history and culture at this peaceful shrine and museum.

14. Explore Rare Manuscripts at Karpeles Library Museum 
Browse historical manuscripts and unique exhibits for a rare and educational experience.

15. Tour the Cathedral Basilica
Step inside the stunning Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, an architectural masterpiece.

16. Learn About Writer Stetson Kennedy at Beluthahatchee Park 
Explore the park and learn about the life of this famous author and civil rights activist.

Music

17. Wander Down St. George Street
Take a leisurely stroll down St. George Street and enjoy the sounds of live music from nearby performers in Historic Downtown.

18. Catch a Concert in the Plaza
Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy free live music at the Plaza de la Constitución on Thursday evenings during the summer.

Nature

19. Take in Bayfront Views on a Scenic Jog
Enjoy stunning waterfront views as you jog or walk along the Matanzas Bay.

20. Watch the Sunrise at Vilano Beach
Catch the serene beauty of a sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean at this peaceful beach.

21. Relax and Watch the World Go By at Rose of Sharon Pier
Watch boats and wildlife from this peaceful and scenic spot.

22. Try Nature Journaling at the GTM Reserve
Unleash your creativity and connect with nature at the GTM Research Reserve's monthly nature journaling event.

23. Bike Through Nature at the Nocatee Preserve
Explore miles of trails in the Nocatee Preserve on your bike for a free, outdoor adventure.

24. Visit the Butterfly Garden at Nease Beachfront Park
Visit the peaceful butterfly garden at Nease Beachfront Park and reconnect with nature.

25. Explore the Grounds at Fort Mose
Discover the rich history of this park while enjoying birdwatching and outdoor exploration.

26. Admire Sculptures at Lakeside Park  
Take a walk through this local park, featuring sculptures and natural beauty.

27. Cast a Line at Vilano Beach Pier Pavilion
Enjoy a relaxing day of fishing at the Vilano Beach Pier Pavilion with stunning views of the water and plenty of space to cast your line.

28. Watch Boats Pass Through Matanzas Inlet
Relax by the inlet and watch the boats sail through this picturesque waterway.

For Families

29. Enjoy Family Fun at Project SWING Playground
This large, family-friendly wooden playground is perfect for kids to explore and play.

30. Hunt for Shark Teeth at Mussallem Beachfront Park
Enjoy a day at the beach while searching for fossilized shark teeth — a fun activity for all ages.

31. Experience Nature Up Close with Family Seining at GTM Reserve
Join the fun as you and your family wade into the water with nets to catch and learn about local fish, crabs, and other aquatic creatures.

Local Life & Hidden Gems

32. Break Out Your Pickleball Racquet
Grab your racquet and head to one of St. Augustine’s local courts for a game of St. Augustine's fastest-growing sport.

33. Find Your Way Through the Turtle Maze at Bird Island Park 
Have fun exploring this quirky and unique park feature with family and friends.

34. Experience Local Barrel Racing at the Drum Runners Series 
Catch local barrel races and enjoy the excitement of the competition.

35. Join Cars and Coffee Meetups for Car Enthusiasts
Meet fellow car lovers at these casual meetups in the Classic Car Museum parking lot.

36. Let Loose at the Uptown Block Party
Join the fun at the monthly Uptown Block Party, as you shop local and enjoy food and drink, as well as live music.

37. Take A Mid-week Break at West King Wednesdays
Explore West King Street and discover live music, art, unique shops, and local food on third Wednesday evenings.

38. Kiss Your Sweetie Under a Love Tree
Share a romantic moment under one of St. Augustine’s legendary Love Trees.

Annual Events

39. Experience the Magic of Nights of Lights
Stroll through millions of sparkling lights from November to January in this annual holiday tradition.

40. Celebrate Independence with Fourth of July Fireworks  
Watch a dazzling free fireworks display over the Matanzas River on the Fourth of July.

41. Join the Festivities at the St. Augustine Christmas Parade 
Kick off the holiday season watching festive floats, marching bands, and cheerful performances as the city comes alive with holiday spirit.

42. See the St. Augustine Royal Family at the Easter Parade
Experience a colorful display of floats, costumes, and even the famous St. Augustine Easter Bunny at this fun and family-friendly event.

43. Celebrate Celtic Heritage and Music
Enjoy a lively spectacle of floats, marching bands, pipes and drums, horse-drawn carriages, and more during the St. Patrick's Day parade.

44. Aviles Street Festival
Spend the day celebrating art of all kinds with local artists, live performances, history reenactments, food, and family-friendly activities.

45. Sing Out Loud Festival
Sing along with chart-topping talents and local musicians during this September music festival.

46. Witness the Blessing of the Fleet
Observe this time-honored tradition, where St. Augustine’s maritime community comes together to have their vessels blessed for safe voyages. 

47. Browse the Fall Art Festival in Hastings
Celebrate creativity at the Fall Art Festival in Hastings, where you can stroll through displays of local artwork and meet talented artists.

48. Lincolnville Juneteenth Community Festival
Honor Black History and culture in historic Lincolnville as the community comes together for live music, local shopping, historical presentations, and family activities.

49. Take a Walk Through History at Butler Beach
Learn about St. Augustine's historic beach as guides shed light on the area's significance and the role it played in the fight for civil rights.

50. Celebrate St. Augustine’s Founding at Founders Day 
Join the city in celebrating its historic founding with free events and activities.