Claiming to be the oldest city in America, St Augustine is brimming with history. Spend your days wandering the cobblestone lanes and diving headfirst into swashbuckling history at the city’s many museums. There’s also a big focus on food, with a vibrant restaurant scene spotlighting local produce and regional flavours.

Things to do

Settled by the Spanish, St Augustine offers a rare glimpse of American history that’s usually reserved for theme parks. Head down to the colonial quarter to experience the city as it was in the 18th century, or visit the Pirate and Treasure Museum if you have kids in tow.

The historic Flagler College is an architectural dream, celebrated as one of the world’s best examples of Gilded Age architecture. Today it serves as one of America’s most prestigious art schools.

When you’ve had your fill of history head to nearby Anastasia State Park. With its thick forests and pristine beaches, it’s a fantastic place to soak up the famous Florida sunshine. Here you can hit the hiking trails, rent a canoe or cool off in the Atlantic Ocean.

From fine dining to more casual affairs, the restaurateurs of St Augustine love to hero local produce. If you like spirits, why not wash down your meal with small batch vodka, gin, rum and whisky at the artisan St Augustine Distillery?

Getting around

Less than two hours’ drive from Jacksonville, St Augustine is easily reached by car. Once you’re in the historical centre the best way to navigate the cobble streets is on foot. Alternatively, there’s an inexpensive bus service, or you can grab a ticket on the hop-on-hop-off trolley to access many of the major sites.