St. Augustine likes to flaunt its age. After all, it's 442 years old and still going strong. Wherever you step, history is underfoot, so the best way to get a feel for this compact city is by walking.
St. Augustine's architecture spans centuries and cultures. Stroll along the brick-lined streets and you'll see everything from the simplicity of coquina rock and tabby cottages to the grande dames of the 20th century with their towers, turrets and red clay tile roofs.
The nation's oldest city boasts 85 historic sites and attractions and 144 blocks of historic houses, many on the National Register.
The pulse of St. Augustine is in the 11 pedestrian-only blocks of the historic district.
The primary pathway, St. George Street, is lined with 18th-century Spanish Colonial houses, boutiques, specialty shops, art galleries and enticing eateries.
A journey through history
Just close your eyes and imagine the sound of horses clip-clopping down this narrow street during early American times. Originally called San Patricio, the city was renamed in 1763 with the arrival of the British.
The north side of St. George Street begins at the City Gates, built in 1739. Amble down the street; you'll soon see the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, built in 1763. Along the way, note the tucked-away arcades, such as the Arcade of Artisans and Craftsmen, the Spanish Plaza Arcade, with several shops, or St. George's Row, with 18 shops. Among them is House of Jerky, a specialty shop filled with dried meat from buffalo, deer, cattle, turkey, ostrich, salmon, alligator, shark and even rattlesnake.
Take time to visit Colonial Spanish Quarter, a re-created 18th-century village with blacksmiths, carpenters, spinners, candle-makers and craftsmen.
Pirates, beware
You can't miss the landmark Castillo de San Marcos, across from the north end of St. George Street. This oldest U.S. masonry fort was built between 1672 and 1695 to protect the sea route -- mainly from pirates -- for treasure ships returning to Spain.
Explore this coquina shell fortress, with its maze of rooms and cast iron and bronze cannons. On weekends, re-enactors in period costume offer weaponry demonstrations and presentations.
Find Fountain of Youth
While in St. Augustine, indulge in a sip from the Fountain of Youth. This National Archaeological Park is the site of the Indian town Seloy, where Ponce de Leon came ashore in 1513 and searched for the famous Fountain of Youth. Between 1904 and 1985, an amazing compendium of history was discovered. First and foremost is Ponce de Leon's recording landmark and accompanying artifacts. Also unearthed were the first Christian Indian burials in North America and Timucuan Indian hut foundations and relics.
See spooky sights
Ghost Tours of St. Augustine offers three separate walking and riding presentations. You'll hear guides whisper about murder, mayhem and ghostly sightings.
The PG-13-rated Ghosts and Gravestones takes you on a madcap ride on the Trolley of the Doomed, accompanied by -- who else? -- a gravedigger and a wacky conductor.
Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum schedules a Ripley's Ghost Train Adventure, a sightseeing train that takes you around the shadowy city streets. At Warden's Castle (the museum's home), you'll get a "ghost energy meter" just in case you pick up any paranormal activity. Believe it or not.
Find a sunny spot
Clear the cobwebs by heading to the shore. On the barrier island of Anastasia, you'll find unspoiled, undeveloped, white sandy beaches.
About 15 miles south, Crescent Beach harks back to those lazy, hazy days of yesteryear. It also beckons those who enjoy driving slowly on the beach. Here, you'll find a clean, wide beach in tune with nature and tranquility. Even though the area has only 985 residents, Crescent Beach is chock-full of vacation rentals.
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