While up in Minnesota at the lake celebrating the 4th of July my sister-in-laws and I decided we needed to get the kids together for a girls trip. Being that some of us are in Florida and other in Georgia, we decided to meet somewhat in the middle and head up to St. Augustine for a weekend getaway. We stayed in the cutest Airbnb that was close to everything. Picture narrow streets, historic houses, and each night, horse-drawn carriages clopping down the road past our window on their way to the stables. It was like stepping into a different era!
Trolley Tours
Exploring the city was a breeze thanks to the trolley tours. I had done a trolly tour in Nashville and knew this was the way to go. We went over to the Old Town Trolley and learned about all the different tours and packages they offer. You can find all the info at www.trolleytours.com. We chose the Old Jail Tour, the Oldest Store Museum Experience, and the Fountain of Youth package.
The Old Jail tour was spooky and fun – the kids got a kick out of it, and I have to admit, so did I. Guides dress and talk as if they were prisoners and you can really imagine what it must have been like for prisoners there. The Oldest Store Museum was like stepping back in time, and we marveled at all the vintage gadgets. They also gave the kids candy sticks there, so that was a highlight for some of us.
The Fountain of Youth
Now, the Fountain of Youth – wow, we could have spent all day there! There’s so much to do: from the planetarium to watching blacksmiths make nails over an open fire, seeing a cannon fired off, digging for artifacts, and even feeding peanuts to peacocks. Don’t forget drinking spring water said to make the old young and the young strong. But let’s be real, Florida heat is no joke, so after about three hours, we decided to move on. Pro tip: don’t forget your sunscreen and water!
Lunch at Auggie’s Draft House
Lunch was at Auggie’s Draft House, a family-owned gem. This place has a beer wall that had us grinning like a kid in a candy store. Cool refreshments after a hot day were very needed. The burgers were top-notch, and the air conditioning was a much-needed break from the heat. If you’re in the area, definitely stop by! Don’t forget the coupon in your trolley tour guide for a buy one get one burger.
Auggie’s Draft House Address: 123 Tasty Lane, St. Augustine, FL
Phone: (904) 555-6789
Hours: Mon-Sun, 11 am – 10 pm
Shopping and More
Downtown St. Augustine is a shopper’s paradise. We wandered through quaint shops, explored various restaurants, and even stumbled upon a delightful chocolate shop. We had plans to visit a local winery, but time got away from us. Next time, St. Augustine, next time.
Castillo de San Marcos
No trip to St. Augustine is complete without a visit to the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. This stunning fortress on the water is especially beautiful near sunset.
Castillo de San Marcos Address: 1 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL
Phone: (904) 829-6506
Hours: Mon-Sun, 9 am – 5 pm
Dinner & Drinks at the Ice Plant
On our way back to the Airbnb, we made a pit stop at a former ice plant turned distillery and restaurant. The atmosphere was vibrant, and the food was made from scratch. I had the local shrimp on sourdough, but really had a hard time decided between that and the pork belly sliders. The kids devoured the fried chicken, and the hoe cakes were a hit all around. The adults shared a punch bowl drink that was as refreshing as it was delicious – a mix of Aperol, wine, grapefruit, and more. It was the perfect end to a hot day.
Ice Plant Bar
- Address: 110 Riberia St, St. Augustine, FL 32084
- Phone: (904) 829-6553
- Website: Ice Plant Bar
- Hours:
- Mon – Thu: 11:30 AM – 12:00 AM
- Fri: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM
- Sat: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM
- Sun: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
You can find them on social media for updates and more:
- Facebook: Ice Plant Bar
- Instagram: @iceplantbar
Morning at the Beach
We kicked off our second morning with a visit to the beach. The weather was perfect – cool and refreshing. The kids, teens, baby, and yes, the adults had a blast. There’s something magical about starting your day with the sound of waves and the feel of sand between your toes. It was my kids first trip to the Atlantic. They were surprised that the water was colder and waves bigger than our Gulf of Mexico.
Wrapping Up
People often think of Mickey Mouse and theme parks when they plan a Florida vacation, but trust me, old can be as good – or even better – than new. Interlacing history with a vacation makes for unforgettable memories. Plus, the Spanish moss hanging from the trees was a personal favorite – so pretty and serene.
St. Augustine offered something for everyone: teens, kids, a baby, and adults alike. We had an amazing time, and I can’t recommend it enough for a family-friendly adventure that’s a bit off the beaten path.
For day 3 of our girls and kids trip we traveled south to Blue Springs State Park. Stay tuned for more travel adventures, and check out my social media for photos and videos from our trip!
Social Media Links
Have you been to St. Augustine? What was your favorite part? Let me know in the comments!
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