
The heart of the nation’s oldest city.
Our Historic Downtown is the oldest part of the city with many buildings dating back to the 1700s — and with streets that have existed from long before that. This walkable district is on the National Register of Historic Places, as are more than 20 sites within the district from the Alcazar Hotel to the Ximenez-Fatio House. It's a charming area for strolling around, while shopping, visiting museums and historic churches, dining, and listening to live music.
A walk along Matanzas Bay passes historic landmarks, waterfront dining, and lovely green spaces from Castillo de San Marcos to a former Jesuit monastery. Spanish Colonial, Renaissance Revival, and Gilded Age influences shape the city, from coquina forts to Flagler’s grand hotels. On St. George Street, historic homes, shops, and cafés thrive, while Aviles Street, the nation’s oldest street, offers art galleries and Old World charm.
The Historic Downtown Parking Garage offers convenient access to the district. Street parking is also available, but can be limited during peak hours. Find out everything you need to know about parking in St. Augustine.
Weekday mornings offer quieter streets, while weekends offer an exciting atmosphere with bustling shops and eateries. Live music is available throughout the week at various Historic Downtown venues.
Historic Downtown boasts numerous must-see landmarks, including the Castillo de San Marcos, St. George Street, Lightner Museum, and Flagler College.
Yes, a variety of guided tours are available, such as walking tours, trolley tours, and specialty tours focusing on history, architecture, or the paranormal. These tours provide in-depth insights and stories about our city's past. See all tour services available.
Yes, the district hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the popular Nights of Lights festival during the holiday season, which illuminates the city with millions of lights. Other events include historical reenactments, the First Friday Art Walk, and live music festivals.
Yes, leashed pets are welcome in Historic Downtown. Many outdoor cafés and shops welcome pets, and you can always see dogs strutting down St. George Street with their guardians. Check individual establishment policies before visiting with your furry friends. Find pet-friendly accommodations for your next visit.
The district is best explored on foot due to its compact nature. However, trolley and tour services provide convenient transportation options for those who prefer guided experiences or need assistance getting around town. There's also the free STAR Circulator Bus that drives a loop around downtown, so you can rest your feet while exploring.
Yes, public restrooms are available at the Visitor Information Center and other designated areas throughout the district.
Our featured partners showcase Historic Downtown sites, from locally owned inns and award-winning distilleries to unique shopping and dining experiences.
Enjoy everything from classic Minorcan flavors to gourmet waterfront dining. By night, historic taverns, craft cocktail bars, and live music venues bring the district to life.
Shop local boutiques and galleries for handcrafted jewelry, antiques, clothing, art, souvenirs, and more.
Take a scenic open air trolley ride, hop on a boat tour of Intracoastal Waterway, or simply enjoy a sunset walk along the bayfront and across the Bridge of Lions.
Live Music, Festivals, & Special Events
Wednesday, May 7 - Sunday, May 11, 2025 | Times and Locations Vary
These historic properties offer free tours during one week in May.
Wednesday, May 7 - Sunday, May 11, 2025 | Times and Locations Vary
St. Augustine hosts the fourth annual history festival in May of 2025.
Friday, May 9, 2025 | 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
First Coast Opera presents a world-renowned operatic foursome performing in English.
Saturday, May 10, 2025 | 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Members of Florida Historic Militia set up camp at the Oldest House Museum.
Saturday, May 10, 2025 | 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Members of Florida Historic Militia reenact Sir Francis Drake's siege of San Agustin in 1586.
Saturday, May 10, 2025 | 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
For Romanza, the Bel Canto Singers of Daytona join the St. Augustine Community Chorus.
Brick streets, centuries-old architecture, and waterfront views make our historic district a charming place to explore.