Historic District, Saint Augustine, Florida, Insider Tips

Things to Do in Saint Augustine, Historic District

St. Augustine holds the title of “the nation’s oldest city”, but may also be the nation’s most charming. Here are some things to do in Saint Augustine:

Aviles Street – owns the distinction of being the oldest public street in the USA. Recently given a facelift, this revitalized 16^th-century street features a mix of museums, art studios, and eateries – all in historic structures.

Historic Old Town – Cobblestone streets, historic buildings, quaint cafes, unique shops, and bed-and-breakfasts line the beautiful streets of historic Old Town. This area is the center of the oldest continuously inhabited European town in the United States. While the town dates back to the 1500s, the oldest surviving buildings are from the early 1700s. Don’t miss sights in the historic district are the Plaza de la Constitución, the old city gate and walls, the Oldest House, the Basilica Cathedral of St. Augustine, the Villa Zorayda, and Stanbury Cottage.

Ponce de León Statue – Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León is credited with the discovery of Florida in 1513. Digs near the Fountain of Youth Archeological Park indicate that the earliest Spanish settlement was here, at the site of present-day St. Augustine.

Pena-Peck House – Built in 1750, it served as the residence of the Spanish Royal Treasurer Juan Esteban de Pena. Constructed with coquina, it’s an outstanding example of the First Spanish Period homes built in Saint Augustine. In 1821, Doctor Seth Peck made it his home. Today the Women’s Exchange owns it. They operate tours of the house and sell items to support the house and their activities.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Saint Augustine’s Historic District.