St. Augustine’s rich history comes alive through its remarkably preserved landmarks and historic sites. From the imposing walls of Castillo de San Marcos to the elegant halls of Flagler College, these architectural treasures tell the story of America’s oldest city.

Must-Visit Historic Landmarks in St. Augustine

Castillo de San Marcos

Standing guard over St. Augustine since the 1600s, this iconic fortress represents the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. Its coquina walls have withstood centuries of sieges, storms, and time itself. Learn more about Castillo de San Marcos

St. George Street

The historic heart of St. Augustine, St. George Street offers a pedestrian-only journey through colonial history. Historic homes converted into unique shops and restaurants line this thoroughfare, preserving their original colonial architectural features. Explore St. George Street

Flagler College (Former Hotel Ponce de León)

Once the luxurious Hotel Ponce de León, this masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture now serves as Flagler College. The building showcases the vision of Henry Flagler, featuring intricate details and the world’s largest collection of Tiffany stained glass windows in a single location. Discover Flagler College

The Lightner Museum

Housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, the Lightner Museum combines stunning Gilded Age architecture with fascinating collections of 19th-century artifacts. The building itself stands as a testament to St. Augustine’s golden era as America’s premier winter resort. Visit the Lightner Museum

St. Augustine Lighthouse

Since 1874, this black and white spiral-striped sentinel has guided ships along Florida’s coast. Standing 165 feet tall, it offers breathtaking views of the city and coastline for those willing to climb its 219 steps. Explore the Lighthouse

Planning Your Visit

Best Times to Visit

• Early morning: Ideal for photography and beating crowds
• Weekdays: Generally less crowded than weekends
• Off-season (September-November): Pleasant weather and fewer tourists

Tips for Exploring

• Many landmarks are within walking distance of each other
• Consider purchasing combination tickets for multiple sites
• Book guided tours for deeper historical insights
• Check individual landmark websites for current hours and admission fees

Getting Around

• Most historic sites are walkable from downtown
• Free parking available at various locations
• Trolley tours stop at major landmarks
• Comfortable walking shoes recommended

Preservation and History

St. Augustine’s landmarks are more than tourist attractions – they’re living history. The city maintains these structures through careful preservation efforts, ensuring future generations can experience America’s early colonial history firsthand.

Many buildings utilize coquina, a unique shell-stone material quarried locally, which has helped them survive centuries of weather and wear. This distinctive building material gives St. Augustine’s historic district its characteristic appearance and remarkable durability.

Plan Your Historic Journey

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking to understand America’s oldest city, St. Augustine’s landmarks offer something for everyone. Consider starting your exploration at Castillo de San Marcos and working your way through the historic district.

For a complete experience, combine your landmark visits with stays at our historic inns and meals at restaurants in historic buildings. Many of our recommended accommodations put you within walking distance of these magnificent sites.

Discover more St. Augustine attractions and plan your perfect visit

This guide is regularly updated to ensure accuracy and the best possible visitor experience. Last updated: December 2024