What To See and Do in St. Augustine Depending on the Season
St. Augustine, FL, a city steeped in history and adorned with picturesque landscapes, offers a plethora of activities that cater to every interest no matter the season. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply in search of relaxation, St. Augustine's diverse attractions ensure there's always something to explore. Here's a seasonal guide to help you make the most of your visit to this enchanting city.
Spring
Visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: Spring's mild weather is ideal for climbing the lighthouse steps and enjoying panoramic views of the entire city and its stunning coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.
The St. Augustine Spanish Food & Wine Festival: Celebrates the city's rich Spanish heritage, offering an array of Spanish wines, cuisine, and cultural experiences. It aims to enrich community life, support local charities, and promote St. Augustine as a key destination for historical and cultural tourism.
Explore the Historic District: Take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets, exploring the colonial architecture, quaint shops, and art galleries that dot the area.
THE PLAYERS Championship: Taking place in Ponte Vedra Beach near St. Augustine is a premier event on the PGA Tour that hosts the top professional golfers in the world. This prestigious tournament not only highlights the beauty and challenge of the TPC Sawgrass course, but also significantly contributes to the local community and economy. The Players is regarded as the “5th major” on the PGA Tour.
Experience the Flower & Garden Expo: A paradise for garden enthusiasts, this expo features a variety of flowers, plants, and gardening accessories.
The Lions Seafood Festival: Indulge in delicious seafood, live music, and arts & crafts in March, marking the beginning of spring.
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park: Located along Florida's coastline, is a captivating destination boasting blooming azaleas in early spring and a fragrant rose garden later in the season. Embrace the beauty of Floridian nature during springtime strolls amidst lush greenery and towering oak trees.
Summer
Hit the Beaches: St. Augustine boasts some of Florida's most beautiful beaches, such as St. Augustine Beach and Anastasia State Park, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.
Fourth of July Fireworks: Witness a spectacular fireworks display over the Matanzas Bay, a highlight of St. Augustine's Independence Day celebrations.
Visit the Alligator Farm Zoological Park: Discover the allure of the Alligator Farm Zoological Park, a perfect summer destination that offers an intimate look at the fascinating world of alligators and diverse wildlife. Elevate your adventure with thrilling zipline tours, gliding over lush habitats for an unforgettable experience.
Enjoy Outdoor Concerts at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre: Summer nights are alive with music at this popular venue, hosting a variety of concerts and events.
Explore St. Augustine Waterways: Discover the enchanting waterways of St. Augustine this summer with boat, kayak, and paddleboard rentals. Experience the beauty and serenity of our coastal paradise, perfect for adventurers and families alike.
Seaside Concerts at the Pier: Every Wednesday evening during the summer, the St. Augustine Beach Pier comes alive with the vibrant sounds of seaside concerts. This weekly event offers locals and visitors alike a chance to enjoy live music against the backdrop of a stunning ocean view, creating a perfect blend of entertainment and scenic beauty.
Visit St. Augustine Museums: Take a respite from the Florida summer heat and visit one of St. Augustine's incredible museums. From the Lightner Museum and St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, to Ripleys Believe It or Not and the Oldest House Museum, you’ll step into a unique world of cool, educational experiences.
Fall
Attend the St. Augustine Greek Festival: Immerse yourself in Greek culture with authentic food, music, and dancing, typically held in October each year.
Take a Ghost Tour: Celebrate the spooky season by exploring the haunted side of St. Augustine with a ghost tour. As the Nation’s oldest city, you’re destined to have a frightfully fun time.
Explore the Corn Maze at Sykes Family Farms: A fun-filled activity for all ages, the corn maze is open throughout October, offering a unique fall experience.
Experience the Sing Out Loud Festival: An annual extravaganza of live entertainment spanning multiple weekends in September each year, marking it as the city's Official Month of Music. It features over 100 national, regional, and local artists across various genres, performing in both free and ticketed events at numerous venues, showcasing the community's rich musical culture and philanthropic spirit.
Wine Tasting Tours: Visit local wineries like the San Sebastian Winery for a tour and tasting. Fall is a great time to enjoy the winery's offerings and learn about the wine-making process.
Winter
Holiday Tour of Homes: Get a glimpse into private homes beautifully decorated for the holidays, a tradition that offers a unique way to experience the city's architectural beauty.
Attend the St. Augustine Film Festival: Held in January, this festival showcases independent films from around the world, offering a cozy indoor activity for cooler days.
Participate in the Chocolate Tour: Indulge in St. Augustine's rich chocolate history with a tour that takes you through the city's best chocolatiers.
Nights of Lights: Although it starts in November, this event runs through the end of January, transforming the city into a magical holiday landscape with millions of lights. National Geographic has ranked St. Augustine’s Nights of Lights as one of the top ten holiday light displays in the world!
Regatta of Lights: A spectacular maritime event hosted by the St. Augustine Yacht Club, showcasing a parade of boats adorned with brilliant holiday lights and festive decorations. This annual celebration transforms St. Augustine's historic bayfront into a dazzling display of color and light, delighting spectators of all ages.
Try Local Oysters: Winter in St. Augustine offers a unique culinary delight, with November to March being the prime season to savor local oysters at the city's restaurants. This period ensures the freshest and most flavorful oysters.
The Venardos Circus: A beloved family-friendly event without performing animals, returns to the St. Augustine Amphitheatre every December. Attendees can enjoy a Broadway-style circus show featuring a new cast, show, and music under the iconic red-striped tent.
St. Augustine's seasonal activities offer something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Whether visiting in the bloom of spring, the warmth of summer, the crisp air of fall, or the cool embrace of winter, you're sure to find an activity that piques your interest in this historic city.
Categories
Recent Posts