St. Augustine, a city steeped in history and brimming with attractions, offers visitors a delightful blend of experiences beyond just the iconic Saint George Street. While Saint George Street itself is a must-visit, serving as the historic heart of the city, exploring the areas just beyond reveals even more treasures. Let’s take a stroll and discover what makes St. Augustine so captivating, starting near the famed Saint George Street and branching out.
Just a stone’s throw from Saint George Street, at the corner of King Street, architectural marvels await. Here stands Flagler College, a stunning edifice that was once the opulent Ponce de Leon Hotel, a creation of Henry Flagler dating back to 1888. The intricate details and grandeur of this building are a sight to behold, reflecting a bygone era of luxury and elegance. Across from Flagler College, you’ll find another of Flagler’s masterpieces, the Lightner Museum. Housed in the former Hotel Alcazar, also built in 1888, this museum is not just a repository of decorative arts but also a beautiful building in its own right. Within its walls, alongside fascinating galleries, are charming antique shops, adding to the unique experience. Continuing west on King Street from this vicinity of Saint George Street, a delightful array of art galleries and shops unfolds, leading you to the Villa Zorayda Museum. This museum is a captivating reproduction of Spain’s Alhambra, offering a taste of European grandeur in the heart of St. Augustine.
Venturing slightly further from Saint George Street onto Granada Street, indulge your sweet tooth at Claude’s Chocolate. This delightful shop offers handcrafted truffles and bonbons made with exquisite Belgian chocolate and the finest natural ingredients. For another unique treat, head to Peace Pie on Aviles Street, not far from Saint George Street, and experience an artisan ice cream sandwich like no other. These aren’t just any ice cream sandwiches; they feature a luscious layer of pie filling nestled between homemade ice cream, creating a truly decadent dessert. If you prefer something less sweet, Ancient City Brewing, located in downtown St. Augustine and easily accessible from Saint George Street, provides a comfortable setting to enjoy handcrafted beers and lagers. With a wide selection to please any palate, it’s a perfect spot to unwind, perhaps with a game of darts or while enjoying live music.
To delve into African American history, a short journey east from Saint George Street will lead you to Lincolnville and the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center on MLK Avenue. This museum is a treasure trove of art, recordings, and exhibits that vividly portray the life and history of the nation’s earliest Black residents, offering a profound and enriching cultural experience.
If your explorations take you onto Route 1, also known as Dixie Highway or Ponce de Leon Boulevard, you’ll discover even more to engage with. Coconut Barrel showcases a wonderful collection of handcrafted items created by talented local artists, crafters, and designers. Here, you can not only find unique souvenirs but also hear the stories behind the creations directly from the artists. For automobile enthusiasts, the Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine is an absolute must-visit, presenting a dazzling array of classic cars spanning from the early 1900s to the present day. And for cat lovers, the Witty Whisker Café offers a purrfectly delightful experience with coffee and cuddles in their cat lounge.
Whether you are strolling down Saint George Street or venturing into the surrounding areas, St. Augustine promises a rich tapestry of lovingly restored historic buildings, unique shops, inviting cafes, romantic restaurants, and impressive art and cultural attractions. Each corner of this city, easily accessible from the central Saint George Street, reveals another layer of its charm and appeal, making it a truly unforgettable destination.
