Tag: ST. AUGUSTINE

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Florida National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores St. Augustine United States

Fort Matanzas: A Local’s Guide

sea sunset beach water
Photo by Gagan Kaur on Pexels.com

Fort Matanzas is a Spanish fort located on an island in the Matanzas Inlet, southeast of St. Augustine, Florida. Fort Matanzas is an impressive reminder of a major chapter in America’s early history. The National Monument tells the story of St. Augustine’s diverse history, and its impact on the development of the United States. The fort was built to protect the southern approach to St. Augustine from attacks by the British. Fort Matanzas was part of a larger defensive system that included the Castillo de San Marcos, Fort Mose, and the city of St. Augustine.

In 1742, construction of the fort began. It was completed in 1743 and was armed with 24 guns. The fort was never attacked and it was eventually abandoned in 1821. The fort was restored in 1924 and is now a National Monument.

At Fort Matanzas, visitors can explore the grounds, look at artifacts from the fort and learn about its history from the Ranger-led talks. The fort offers an audio tour and some self-guided tours. There is also a museum and bookstore at the Visitor Center.
 
Visitors should be aware that the site is an active wildlife habitat, and some areas may be closed for conservation purposes. In addition, the fort is only open during daylight hours, so visitors are encouraged to plan their visits accordingly.
 
Those visiting Fort Matanzas should also plan to bring a camera and wear appropriate clothing, including good shoes and a hat. The fort is located on an island, so the weather can be unpredictable and temperatures may drop or rise significantly in a short period of time.
 
For visitors looking to make the most of their visit to Fort Matanzas, the site offers a wide range of opportunities for learning and exploration. Seeing the fort and its natural environment, visitors can connect to the history of the area while also learning more about the importance of conservation and stewardship

 

If you are planning to visit Fort Matanzas, here is everything you need to know!

A Brief History of Fort Matanzas

Fort Matanzas is a Spanish fort located on an island in the Matanzas Inlet, southeast of St. Augustine, Florida. The fort was built by Spanish colonialists between 1740-1742 to protect the southern approaches to St. Augustine from attack by the British. The fort was part of a larger defensive system that also included the Castillo de San Marcos, Fort Mose, and the city of St. Augustine.

 
The fort was made of coquina, and was armed with 24 guns. It was never attacked, and eventually it was abandoned in 1821. The fort was restored in 1924 and is now a National Monument.
 
Fort Matanzas played an important part in the history of the American Southeast. The fort served as a reminder of the Spanish presence in the area and was a symbol of the Spanish mission to protect their territory from attack. Fort Matanzas was one of the most important Spanish forts in the New World, and it stands today as a reminder of the importance of Spanish influence in the area.
 
In 1763, the Treaty of Paris granted Florida to the British. The fort quickly lost its strategic value, and was eventually abandoned. In 1922, the fort was declared a national monument and began to be restored. In 1924, it became part of the National Park Service.
 
Today, visitors to the fort can take a guided tour, view the architecture and artifacts, and explore the grounds. The fort gives visitors insight into the past, and the evolution of the region.
 
Fort Matanzas is an important reminder of the history and culture of St. Augustine and its people. Its story is one that shaped the history of America and shaped its people. The National Monument is a great way to explore a critical part of America’s past that is often overlooked.

Visiting Fort Matanzas

Fort Matanzas is open to the public and is free to visit. Visitors can access the fort by taking the free ferry from the Visitor Center located across the Matanzas Inlet. The ferry is available from 9am – 5pm daily.
 
The fort also offers a variety of programs, events, and activities throughout the year. These events include nature walks, guided tours, and special events related to the history of the fort. Visitors can also take part in Fort Matanzas’s Junior Ranger Program and Junior Archaeologist Program.

Things to do Nearby

While visiting Fort Matanzas, there are plenty of activities and attractions nearby that visitors can enjoy.
 
The St. Augustine Lighthouse is a nearby favorite. The lighthouse is a restored 19th century tower that offers beautiful views of the historic city. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the tower, explore the grounds and museum, or take part in a solar eclipse viewing event or evening ghost tour.
 
The Castillo de San Marcos is another popular attraction located close to Fort Matanzas. The fort is a restored 17th century site that is one of the oldest and most impressive Spanish forts in the United States. Visitors can tour the fort and learn about its history, including facts and stories about the Spanish occupation of St. Augustine.
 
The Anastasia State Park is another great spot to explore and take in the local wildlife. The park offers a variety of activities, including fishing, swimming, and boating. Visitors can also take a walk along the beach to take in the views, or enjoy bird watching, nature trails, and a campground.
 
Other popular activities near Fort Matanzas include kayaking and paddle-boarding on Matanzas Bay, visiting St. Augustine’s historical sites like the Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum and Flagler College, or trying different restaurants or shops in nearby St. Augustine.
 
Fort Matanzas is an incredibly important part of St. Augustine, as well as American history. The fort was built to protect he city and its people during the colonial period. It’s incredible that it still stands today, and visitors can get a sense of what life was like in the past.
 
Whether you are an experienced traveler or just looking to explore Fort Matanzas with the family, it’s a must-see. Its fort walls, artifacts, and grounds provide a powerful portrait of St. Augustine’s past. Beyond the fort, there are numerous other attractions in the area to explore and experience. You won’t regret spending the day visiting Fort Matanzas.

Things to Know Before Visiting Fort Matanzas National Monument

The Best Time to Visit Fort Matanzas National Monument

The best time to visit is in the winter or spring when the weather is cooler and the bugs aren’t nearly as bad.

Entrance Fees

There is no fee to enjoy this park.

To catch the free ferry over to the fort, you’ll need to secure a ferry reservation at the Fort Matanzas Visitor Center.  Reservations cannot be made in advance.

Cell Service

We had great cell service during our visit to the park.

Parking

Parking for Fort Matanzas is plentiful. It can be found directly in front of the Visitor’s Center.

Pet Policy

Pets are not allowed inside the fort of Fort Matanzas.  Pets must be kept on a leash at all times on the outside sections of the park.

Distance from Major Cities

  • Jacksonville, FL – 60 miles
  • Orlando, FL – 90 miles
  • Tampa, FL – 180 miles
  • Miami, FL – 320 miles
  • Atlanta, GA – 420 miles
  • Charlotte, NC – 440 miles
  • Birmingham, AL – 500 miles

Distance from Nearby National Parks

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For future reference, be sure to save our post: Fort Matanzas:  A Local’s Guide .   Pin one of the images below to Pinterest.  Go ahead and follow 5 Suitcases on Pinterest while you’re at it!

 Be sure to check out our family-friendly Northeast Florida Itinerary. Consider visiting Castillo de San Marcos, the St. Augustine Pirate Museum, and Anastasia State Park while you’re in the area.

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Post Updated: 3/20/2024

Categories
Florida St. Augustine United States

St. Augustine Nights of Lights: The Ultimate Guide to this Stunning Event

The St. Augustine Nights of Lights is one of the largest holiday celebrations in all of Florida.  The entire historic district gets illuminated will millions of lights during this annual event.  One of my favorite memories from my days at Flagler College was strolling the blocks around campus checking out all of the stunning white lights.

The event has been chosen by National Geographic as one of the 10 Dazzling Holiday Lighting Displays in the World on multiple occasions.  Since this is such a huge event, it’s always rather crowded- especially on weekend.  To get the most out of the  St. Augustine Nights of Lights, you’ll want to plan ahead.  Our Ultimate Guide to St. Augustine Nights of Lights will help you map out the perfect experience!

The event runs from the Saturday before  Thanksgiving until the end of January each year.  During this time, the businesses stay open later and the local tour companies offer seasons tours.

St. Augustine Nights of Lights in a Nutshell

If you have never been to St. Augustine, you are truly missing out.  This quaint town in northeast Florida is the quintessential historical town.  It comes complete with cobblestone streets and historical landmarks such as Castillo de San Marcos and the Oldest School House and ornate squares. 

The historic district has narrow streets lined with top-notch restaurants, shops, and museums such as the St. Augustine Pirate Museum and the Lightner Museum.  It is also home to my alma mater, Flagler College.  The beauty of this city is amplified with light displaces and Christmas decorations that makes St. Augustine Nights of Lights unlike any other.

Glowing white lights illuminate the entire historic district adding to the magic of this small town. The St. Augustine Nights of Lights was inspired by the traditional Spanish practice of displaying candles in windows during the Christmas holidays.  

People flock from all over northeast Florida, and other parts of the world, to see the St. Augustine Nights of Lights.  Plan on it being quite congested- especially around the areas of St. George Street, Flagler College, Plaza de la Constitución, and the Lightner Museum.  The crowds can also make it difficult to navigate the streets and find parking.

Ways to enjoy the St. Augustine Nights of Lights

There are many ways to experience the St. Augustine Nights of Lights.  You can see it by car, trolley, boat, or on foot.  No matter which way you choose, you’ll have a magical evening!

On Foot

One of the best ways to experience the St. Augustine Nights of Lights is on foot.  We suggest staying in one of the many hotels in the historical area.  Another option is to Uber into the historic district early in the afternoon when there is less traffic, or score a parking spot with your on vehicle and remain there throughout the afternoon.

We suggest the following route:  Flagler College, the Lightner Museum, Cordova Street, Treasury Street,  St. George Street (up to the Old City Gates), and walking back down the waterfront towards the Bridge of Lions past Plaza de la Constitucion, Casa Monica Resort, and back to Flagler College.

Orange Street, near the Old City Gates, is also a notable side street.

By Car

Another way to experience the St. Augustine Nights of Lights is by car.  Traffic is crazy- you’ll have to dodge cars, bikes, pedicabs, trains, trolleys, pedestrians, electric vehicles, horse drawn carriages, etc.  The streets with the best lights include King Street, Cathedral Place, Cordova Street, San Marco Avenue, and Avenida Menendez.  

The nearby historic neighborhood of Lincolnville also has some great light displays.

 

Via Tour

There are several different tours that you can book to enjoy the St. Augustine Nights of Lights, as well.  The most popular are the trolley tours that allow you to hop on and hop off.  You can choose from Ripley’s Red Trains or Old Town Trolley’s.  Both tours take similar routes around the historic district.  It’s important to note that during the busy weekends, lines to participate in these tours be as long as 2 hours.

Another unique way to enjoy the St. Augustine Nights of Lights is via a boat tour.  Believe it or not, St. Augustine is even more beautiful from the water!  Although you won’t get to see as many of the lights from the boat, it’s a fun way to celebrate the season.

To make the event even more magical, you can see it from a horse drawn carriage.  

Know Before You Go

  • The evening temperatures in December typically range between the 40s and low 60s.  
  • The lights come on at 5:30 every evening.
  • The event goes from the Saturday before Thanksgiving until the end of January every year.
  • Parking in the historic district can be a challenge.  Plan on arriving in the area mid-day, parking your car and leaving it there.  Parking can be found for $15/day in may places.  Consider parking at the parking garage near the Visitor Information Center.
  • Bars and restaurants in the area get crowded and most places do not take reservations.  Plan on eating early.
  • If you want to book a tour or a hotel room, do so early as they tend to fill up/sell out quickly.
  • Consider visiting in January to avoid the crowds.
  • Don’t miss the Lightner Museum, Flagler College, and the waterfront!

Suggestions for Spending a Few Hours in the Historic District

Hopefully, you’re planning on arriving in the area early.  There are plenty of things to do in the historic district to help you kill a few hours.

Here are some of our favorites:

For food or drinks we suggest:

  • San Sebastian Winery
  • St. Augustine Distillery
  • Columbia Restaurant
  • Florida Cracker Cafe
  • Cousteau’s Waffle and Milkshake Bar
  • Pizzalley’s Chianti Room
  • The Cuban Cafe and Bakery
  • The Spanish Bakery
  • Prohibition Kitchen
  • Grilled Cheese Gallery
  • A1A Ale Works
  • OC White’s Seafood and Spirits

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Categories
Florida Florida State Parks St. Augustine State Parks United States

Stunning Anastasia State Park

Gulf Island National Seashore

Anastasia State Park plays an important role in the history of St. Augustine- the oldest city in the United States.  The park was once a coquina quarry that was mined to help construct the nearby Castillo de San Marcos National Monument.

Today, the site is home to Anastasia State Park, which has pretty much anything a beachgoer may be looking for:  white quartz sand beaches, paddling, surfing, swimming, trails, wildlife, camping, bicycling, etc.

History of Anastasia State Park

In the 1500s, the Spanish crown laid claim to a vast area in the New World, including what is now known as Florida. The Spaniards struggled to establish a lasting presence in this area until in 1565 when Pedro Menendez founded St. Augustine.  His settlement was about 30 miles south of a French settlement called Fort Caroline on the St. Johns River, in present day Jacksonville.    Menendez was unaware the French had already settled in the area, and when he found out he aggressively worked to oust them. 

The French Huguenot leader, Jean Ribault, learned of the Spanish presence and sailed south to search for their settlement.  His ships were struck by a storm and most of the forces were lost at sea.  At the same time, Menendez marched north and found Fort Caroline completely unprotected.  The Spanish killed everyone but 50 women and 26 escapees. The French settlement in Florida came to a bloody end and the Spanish occupied the site as San Mateo until 1569.

When Menendez and his troops returned back to St. Augustine, he learned that Ribault and his troops were stranded south of the Spanish stronghold.  He quickly located the remaining Frenchmen and murdered all but the Catholics and a handful of women.  Hundreds of Huguenots died at the Massacre of Matanzas Inlet- just south of Anastasia Island State Park.

Ever since that dreadful day, the inlet where the massacre happened has been known as Matanzas meaning “slaughters” in Spanish.  Fort Matanzas, the Matanzas River, and the Matanzas Inlet were all named after the massacre.

More than 300 years ago coquina quarries located within Anastasia State Park were teaming with workers hauling out blocks of coquina rock.  The blocks were utilized to construct the historic Castillo de San Marcos, the crown jewel of St. Augustine.

The quarries were continuously used until the turn of the 20th century.

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

In the 1940s, the Army Corp of Engineers dredged a new inlet that would link the Matanzas Bay with the Atlantic Ocean.  The area where they dredged traversed a peninsula which later became known as Conch Island.  Since then, the tides and currents have carried sands from Jacksonville Beach down to the tip of the peninsula, causing it to double in size.  Later, in 1964, Hurricane Dora deposited even more sand forming the area that we now know as Anastasia State Park.

Anastasia State Park is located near historic St. Augustine on Anastasia Island.  It features a wide beach with a lagoon and is bordered by rich tidal marshes.

Today, visitors can visit the coquina quarry, an archaeological site where coquina rock was mined to construct the nearby Castillo de San Marcos.

Amenities at Anastasia State Park

  • Bicycling– over 4 miles of beach and several miles or park roads (some with bike lanes).  Bicycles are available for rent at the concession inside Anastasia State Park.
  • Boating
  • Camping- See below for more information
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Paddling-  Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are welcome along the Salt Run- the estuarine tidal marsh.  Rentals are available at the concession inside the park.
  • Playgrounds
  • Surfing
  • Swimming

Camping at Anastasia State Park

The campground features 139 sites for both RVs (up to 38 feet)  and tent camping.  The sites are all nestled in a beautiful maritime hammock juts a short distance rom the beach.

All sites have electricity and water, a picnic table, and a fire ring.  Some sites are paved.

Fun Fact:  Travel + Leisure Magazine has included Anastasia State Park on its list of America’s Prettiest Beach Campsites.

Visiting Anastasia State Park

Hours: 8 AM until sundown, 365 days a year

Fess:  $8/vehicle

Location: 300 Anastasia Park Road
St. Augustine, FL 32080

What is there to do Nearby?

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Categories
Florida National Parks, Monuments, and Seashores St. Augustine United States

The Iconic Castillo de San Marcos- The Crown Jewel of St. Augustine

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Imagine a stone fort capable of completely absorbing cannon balls. No, this isn’t the space age, this fort was actually constructed hundreds of years ago! Castillo de San Marcos is the crown jewel of the historic city of St. Augustine. Founded in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States.  The historic district is filled with charming shops, top-notch eateries, and, of course, historic landmarks.  At the center of all of this is Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States.

The fort is probably the most famous attraction in the city of St. Augustine.  The fort was constructed over 400 years ago (in 1672), and it is in remarkable condition.  It stood the test of time and managed to overcome battles, hurricanes…and tourists!

Castillo de San Marcos is right on the waterfront and offers breathtaking views. When I went to school at nearby Flagler College, I would frequently spend hours sitting at the fort studying for my exams.  It’s one of my favorite places to spend time in the Ancient City. 

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

History of Castillo de San Marcos

St. Augustine was founded in 1565 by the Spanish conquistador, Pedro Menendez de Aviles.  Nearly 100 years later, construction began on the fort.  Coquina stones for the fort were gathered from present day Anastasia State Park.  Castillo de San Marcos is one of the only two fortifications in the world built out of this semi-rare form of limestone.  The other coquina fortification is Fort Matanzas, found about 14 miles south.

Typically, when a cannonball hits an object it create a significant amount of damage.  This unique stone has the ability to absorb mechanical stress causing it to essentially swallow the cannonball!

When Britain gained control of Florida in 1763, St. Augustine became the capital of the British East Florida and the fort was renamed Fort St. Mark.  Twenty years later, the territory was transferred back to the Spanish and the fort’s original name was restored.

Not only was the fort used as a stronghold during the 1600s and 1700s, it was also used as an army base (for the US) named Fort Marion  in the 1800s.  The fort became a National Monument in 1924.  It saw 251 of continuous military possession before it was deactivated in 1933.  In 1942, Congress reenacted the fort’s original name, Castillo de San Marcos.

The fort saw its fair share of dark days.  For starters, some slave labor was used to construct the stone fort.  In addition, the fort was attacked several times, and was besieged twiced.  The fort was also used as a military prison to imprison Native Americans (including the famous war chief Osceola).

Visiting Castillo de San Marcos

The history of the fort is fascinating!  Even if you’re not a fan of history or forts, you’ll enjoy visiting Castillo de San Marcos. It is definitely one of those places that the whole family will enjoy!  

The chambers on the lower level of the fort are filled with artifacts, interactive displays, and other relics.  You may even run into a living history character!

On the upper part of the port, there are cannons galore!  You’ll also find plenty of benches so that you can kick back and enjoy the beauty of St. Augustine.  Keep your eyes out for manatees, egrets, and osprey!

Address:  11 South Castillo Drive
St. Augustine, FL

Visiting Hours:  The fort is open every day of the year except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.   Castillo de San Marcos is open from 9:00-5:00.  

Admission:  $15 per person for visitors 16 and older.  Ages 16 and under are free.

Things to Know Before Visiting Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

The Best Time to Visit Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

The best time to visit is in the winter or spring when the weather is cooler and the bugs aren’t nearly as bad.

Entrance Fees

Entrance for adults is $15 per person.  Children 15 and under are free.

Cell Service

We had great cell service during our visit to the park.

Parking

There is a pay-to-park lot directly in front of Castillo de San Marcos.  You may also be able to find street parking.  

Pet Policy

Pets are not allowed inside the fort of Castillo de San Marcos.  Pets must be kept on a leash at all times on the outside sections of the park.

Distance from Major Cities

  • Jacksonville, FL – 60 miles
  • Orlando, FL – 90 miles
  • Tampa, FL – 180 miles
  • Miami, FL – 320 miles
  • Atlanta, GA – 420 miles
  • Charlotte, NC – 440 miles
  • Birmingham, AL – 500 miles

Distance from Nearby National Parks

What is There to do Around the Fort?

We suggest starting your day off at the fort and then crossing the street to visit the Spanish Colonial Quarter.

There are plenty of other great shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars in the Spanish Colonial Quarter.  The historic quarter is also dotted with other historic structures like the Oldest School House and the Old City Gates.  We suggest spending some time popping in and out of the businesses that line the historic quarter.

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Post Updated: 3/20/2024

Categories
Fernandina Florida Jacksonville Palm Coast St. Augustine United States

Planning an Awesome North Florida Vacation

When most people start planning out their vacation, they look at theme parks, south Florida, or the Emerald Coast and don’t even stop to consider a North Florida vacation.  There are so many incredible things to do on a North Florida vacation- from Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Daytona Beach, and inland.  This region of the Sunshine State has a rich history, beautiful natural sites, and a super laid back culture.  

Our North Florida vacation guide is based on our recommendations that we give to people when they come to visit us here in Jacksonville.  Having lived in the area for over 30 years, we’re kind of experts on all of the great things to see and down in north Florida.

How to Get to North Florida

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

If you’re flying in to town for your north Florida vacation, consider flying in to the Jacksonville International Airport or the Daytona Beach International Airport.  There is also a smaller airport in St. Augustine- the Northeast Florida Regional Airport.

You’ll also want to pick up a rental car.  When you book your rental car, remember that you do not have to return the car to the same location you picked it up from- however, you’ll typically save money by returning it to the original location.

We suggest flying in and out of JAX for this particular itinerary.

Another option is to fly into Orlando (MCO).  You can catch a direct flight into MCO from almost anywhere in the USA, and there are several international flights that fly here, as well.  It is about 2 1/2 hours from Orlando to JAX however, you can stop in Daytona Beach and St. Augustine along the way.

If you’re driving, Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Daytona Beach are all off of I-95 North making them all super accessible.

How Much Time Is Needed for My North Florida Vacation?

Like with any vacation,  you can spend as much time on your North Florida vacation as you would like.  You could do this trip in as little as three days, or stretch it out for however long you would like.

Ideally, you would spend a day in Fernandina Beach,  2 or 3 days in Jacksonville, 2 days in St. Augustine, and 2 days in Daytona Beach.  If you’re looking for a shorter trip, we suggest cutting out Daytona Beach and Fernandina Beach.

When to Do Your North Florida Vacation

The weather in Florida is pretty great year round. 

  • In January and February, the temperatures can drop in the high-30s to 50s. 
  • Spring is absolutely gorgeous with temperatures in the 70s and 80s. 
  • During the summer months it gets H-O-T hot with the feel-like temperatures in the high 90s and low 100s.  Due to high humidity, it also rains almost every afternoon.  If you spend time at the beach, springs, and plan your day out right, the rain and heat shouldn’t be a huge factor.
  • September and October are still rather hot, but the temperatures are usually in the high 80s and low 90s.
  • November and December are pretty perfect, weatherwise.

There is a jet stream off of our coast that helps keep tropical storms and hurricanes at bay, however we are occasionally impacted by large storms.

A restored slave cabin at Kingsley Plantation

3 Days in Jacksonville +1 for Fernandina Beach

Day One

Our hometown of Jacksonville is the largest city in the USA by landmass, so everything is pretty spread out.  Most places are within a 20 to 30 minute drive of downtown or the beaches (including driving from downtown to the beach).  

Jacksonville Beach has plenty of sand for your to throw down a towel and spend a day. There are tons of bars and restaurants in the area if you want to dedicate an entire day to a beach day.

If you want a more diverse beach, consider checking out Hanna Park, which is just north of Jacksonville Beach.  Here you’ll find kayaking, fishing, bike trails, beach access, and even a splash pad.  The cost to enter is $5 per vehicle.

Blackrock Beach

Still even further north, you’ll find Huguenot Beach.  Although you’ll pay $5 per vehicle to access this park, you’re able to drive on the sand which makes life a breeze when you’re traveling with kids.  After spending some time at Huguenot, check out the historic Kingsley Plantation, the oldest remaining plantation home in the state of Florida.  If you’re up for a little more beach action, we suggest spending some time at Blackrock Beach.  To access the beach, you’ll have to do a short 1/2 mile hike through the woods however you’ll be awarded with an absolutely incredible view.  You can also pair Blackrock Beach with Fernandina Beach or the Jacksonville Zoo. on day two or three.

Day Two

Fort Caroline is the perfect place to get outdoors with the family.

On day two, we suggest either visiting Fort Caroline National Memorial, taking a hike at either Spanish Pond or the nearby Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens.  From here, we recommend checking out Tree Hill Nature Center.  They have well shaded trails, animal enclosures, and a nature center.

After spending time at Fort Caroline, which is part of the National Park system, you can head on over to explore the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.  Be sure to pick up a pass to ride the train so you can save up some energy for Blackrock Beach if you didn’t make it there on day one.

You might also want to book an eco tour with Kayak Amelia.

Day Three

Of course, you can’t visit the city without spending time in the city! 

We suggest spending some time strolling either the northbank or the southbank of the St. Johns River.  Perhaps, you could even hop on the river taxi to take a short river cruise!  Both of the river walks are paved, have street art, and offer impressive views of the city.  If you walk the southbank, be sure to stop by MOSH– the Museum of Science and History.

"Mirrored River: Where Do You See Yourself?" Mosaic on the Southbank

When it heats up, spend some time downtown checking out the city’s museums.  If you’re into traditional art check out the Cummer Art Gallery and Gardens.  Contemporary art fans might prefer the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA).  MOCA is on the same square as Sweet Pete’s the largest candy store in the southeastern United States.

Consider booking a tour with Go Tuk’n. Ride n a tuk-tuk and experience an Art Tour of visit the historic neighborhoods in the area.

There are also scooters available to rent downtown if you want to scoot around.  

Day Four

If you have an extra day to spend in the area, we suggest taking a day trip to Fernandina Beach.  If you are staying out at the Jacksonville Beaches, you can hop on the St. Johns River Ferry, drive north up Heckscher Drive through Big Talbot Island State Park, and through the infamous Amelia Island.  

 

Fort Clinch

There are several cute shops in Fernandina Beach for you to scope out.  You absolutely must check out Fort Clinch State Park if you’re in the area.  Fort Clinch is an impressive Civil War era fort with a museum, re-enactments, and more.  The park also has hiking trails, bike paths, kayak launches and an impressive beach.  The beach is well known for shark tooth hunting.  

If you’re traveling with kids be sure to spend sometime at the nearby Pirate Playground.  The Amelia Island Lighthouse, Amelia Island State Park, Pippi Longstocking House, and the Egan’s Creek Greenway Trail are also nearby.  The Greenway Trail is beautiful- be on the look out for snakes and gators.

Old City Gates, St. Augustine

2 Days in St. Augustine

Day One

Next up on your north Florida vacation is a couple of days in the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine. St. Auggie is known for their beaches and plethora of historic landmarks.  

The city was founded in 1565. It includes three 18th century Spanish forts, Castillo de San Marcos, Fort Mose, and Fort  Matanzas.  We suggest checking out at least one of these.  Castillo de San Marcos is iconic and well worth the time.

If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to stop by the St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum and Old Jail, which are right across the street from Castillo de San Marcos.  

Be sure to spend some time strolling down historic St. George Street.  If there is time, you could take in a tour of Flagler College, visit the Lightner Museum, or stop by for a drink at the San Sebastian Winery.

Another option is to use the hop-on-hop-off trolley tour of St. Augustine.  We also recommend booking a ghost tour…you know, if you’re not too scared…

Day Two

If you can tack on an extra day in St. Augustine, you may want to dedicate it to you a beach day.  We love Butler Beach however the Helen Mellon Schmidt Park offers a great swimming and kayaking spot, as well.

If you don’t mind driving a bit further south, the Washington Oaks Gardens State Park has an amazing, unique beach.  The beach is home to a coquina rock formation that is the largest on the Atlantic Coast.  They also have hiking trails, kayak launches, and remarkable formal gardens.

St. Augustine Alligator Farm

Perhaps, you’ve had your fill of beach days and you’d prefer to spend some time with wildlife.  If that’s that case, check out the St. Augustine Alligator Farm or Marineland.  The Alligator Farm has like a gazillion reptiles and a super rad ropes course and zip line track.  Marineland offers dolphin encounters, including swimming with dolphins.  The beach behind Marineland is pretty impressive, as well.

1 Day in Daytona Beach + a Bonus Day at the Springs

Day One

Next on your north Florida vacation, is some time in Daytona Beach.  It’s no secret that Florida beaches get better and better the further south you go.  Daytona Beach is a great place for shelling, and surf lessons.  

We suggest spending some time at Ponce Inlet, exploring the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse (the tallest lighthouse in the state), and visiting the Ponce Inlet Marine Science Center.    You may also want to look into booking a kayaking tour!

Obviously, if you’re into NASCAR this place is sacred ground for you.  The Daytona International Speedway has a really cool museum and you can even get a tour that takes you right onto the track!

 

The Old Spanish Sugar Mill at De Leon Springs State Park

Day Two

Rounding out your north Florida vacation, is a trip to the springs.  While you could probably easily spend another day in Daytona Beach, you think you’ll love spending some time at one of the Florida springs.  Floria has more than 1,000 freshwater springs.  There are several about an hour outside of Daytona.  You could easily hit up a spring in the morning and be at the beach in the afternoon!

One option is De Leon Springs and the Old Spanish Sugar Mill.  This place is gorgeous, iconic, and totally Instagram worthy!  Get at the park early so you can get a table at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill.  The restaurant is known for DIY pancakes.  Each table has its own griddlw where you can prepare your own pancakes.

After breakfast, you can hike one of the trails, take an eco-tour, or take a tip in the spring.

Alexander Springs is practically right next door to De Leon.  You could easily hit up both springs in the same day!  Alexander Springs is amazing for kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and snorkeling.

Another option for your north Florida vacation, is a trip to Blue Spring State Park.  We promise you it is well worth the drive!  The park is known for tubing.  You can also kayak, paddleboard, swim, and hike at the park.  If you visit in the cooler months, chances are you’ll spot some manatee swimming about.  To up your chances of seeing a manatee, check out our post on the best locations to find manatee in the wild.

Blue Spring State Park

Closing Thoughts

We hope that you have found this information helpful and that you’re looking forward to your north Florida vacation!  Between Jacksonville and Daytona there are plenty of parks, beaches, museums, historical landmarks, and natural springs to explore.

Use this north Florida vacation itinerary to help you plan our your ultimate vacation!

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Florida St. Augustine United States

St. Augustine Alligator Farm- An Alligator Frenzy

St. Augustine Alligator Farm

The St. Augustine Alligator Farm offers the quintessential Florida experience.  Trust me, there is nothing more Florida than witnessing a bunch of alligators basking in the sun.  The Alligator Farm is one of St. Augustine’s premier attractions- outside of pirates, forts, and historical sights.  The park offers a sanctuary to these reptiles and many more awesome animals.

The St. Augustine Alligator Farm is an interesting family-friendly place to visit. Plan on spending about two hours at the zoo to really enjoy the experience.  

History of the St. Augustine Alligator Farm

The St. Augustine Alligator Farm that you see today is more than 100 years in the making. The park began as a small exhibition of Florida reptiles in the late nineteenth century.  Since then, it has grown from a roadside attraction into a modern zoo that serves as a base for researchers and zoologists.

In the late 1980s the zoological park became nationally accredited due to their quality of care of their collections.  Today, the farm is the only facility in the world that currently features all 24 species of crocodilian.

The Alligator Farm Experience

You will be submerged into the alligator culture from the moment you step foot in the complex.  The first habitat houses baby alligators.  You won’t believe how incredibly cute and cuddly these little guys look!

Right by the first enclosure you’ll find a fake gator that your kiddos can sit on and pose for a picture.  

Pro-Tip:  If you want to get a picture with your kids sitting on the fake alligator do it as soon as you arrive… you know before your kid is hot and cranky from the Florida sun.

Just beyond the baby gators you’ll find a spectacular discovery:  albino alligators.  These dudes look AWESOME!

Our favorite part of the park was probably the Alligator Swamp exhibit.  There is a boardwalk that runs the length of the habitat.  Below you’ll see alligators sunbathing on the banks of the swamp- just like you’d see in the Everglades or the Okefenokee.  

The gators are EVERYWHERE!  It’s eerie to see them piled on top of each other in the water and on the banks.  The whole time we were crossing our fingers that one of the kids didn’t decide to hop in and go for a swim!

On our most recent visit we got to witness real carnage!  We watched as an alligator charged after a bird and made it his mid-morning snack.

Pro-Tip:  Speaking of feeding the alligators… pack your change so you can buy some treats (dog food) to feed the gators.

Animals That Can Be Found at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm

  • Alligators
  • Crocodiles
  • Komodo Dragons
  • Lemurs
  • Tamarins
  • Galapagos Tortoises
  • Birds (parrots, cockatoos, cranes, hornbills, storks, vultures, etc.)

Other Attractions

  • Fossil Discoveries
  • Educational Shows
  • Feedings
  • Playground
  • Restaurant & Bar
  • Zip Through the Zoo

We cannot wait to go back when the boys are a bit older so we can all enjoy the Zip Through the Zoo!  The park has a zipline and ropes course that traverses seven acres! The course features over 50 different obstacles that give you a birds-eye-view of the animals.  

Coming Soon:  Python Challenge and climbing wall.

Visiting the St. Augustine Alligator Farm

The zoo is open every day from 9am to 5pm. In the summers, they remain open until 6pm.

We suggest purchasing your tickets online, in advance.

Pro-Tip:  Plan your visit for early in the day to avoid the hot Florida sun.

What is there to do Nearby?

Although the St. Augustine Farm lies outside of the historic district, there is still plenty to do nearby.

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Florida St. Augustine United States

St. Augustine Pirate Museum- An Honest Review

St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum

The St. Augustine Pirate Museum is a must-see if you’re traveling with children. Located in the heart of historic downtown St. Augustine is an amazing museum dedicated to the scoundrels who once ransacked Florida’s Historic Coast. The St. Augustine Pirate Museum houses the world’s largest collection of authentic pirate relics including the original jolly roger, treasure, and even movie props from famous pirate movies.

Local Pirate History

In 1586, pirate Sir Francis Drake and his fleet of 23 ships and more than 2,000 crew sailed up the Florida coast after raiding Cartagena, Colombia. The raiders spotted a burning light coming from a Spanish watchtower marking the entrance to the St. Augustine harbor. Out-gunned, out-manned, out-numbered, and out-planned, the Spanish defenders and townspeople retreated into the nearby woods, swamps, and marshes. Sir Francis Drake took everything of value and burned the entire town to the ground.

Fast Forward just over 100 years, when the Jamaican pirate Robert Searles captured a Spanish ship and sailed it until the harbor. Searles and his men pillaged the town murdering anyone that crossed their paths. Among the dead were several women and children.

St. Augustine Pirate Museum

The St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum houses the world’s largest collection of authentic pirate relics. Visitors are transported into the Golden Age of Piracy 300 years ago in Port Royal, Jamaica. The museum has interactive components such as computers, touch screens, and a replica of a pirate ship.

One of our favorite parts of the St. Augustine Pirate Museum was the Discovery Drawers. Throughout the museum, there are drawers marked with a skull and crossbones. Inside each of the drawers is a small piece of pirate history. The kids enjoyed scouring the room for the hidden treasure.

Just off the Main Deck (a replica of a pirate ship), kids can play with models of cannons. The boys enjoyed pretending to load the cannons and firing them. On the opposite side of the Main Deck is an Interactive World Map of Piracy. Smiley really enjoyed this room and the Interactive Book of Pirates.

Another slightly scarier feature is “Below Deck.” Here, visitors enter a small room, close the doors, and put on a pair of headphones. The lights dim and you hear the story of Blackbeard’s last battle. Disney’s Blackbeard Show is a must if you’re visiting the museum with older kids. It is a bit scary for the little ones.

The St. Augustine Pirate Museum also features props from famous Hollywood pirates.

Our Thoughts on the St. Augustine Pirate Museum

The St. Augustine Pirate Museum is really cool- especially if you’re traveling with children who are interested in pirates. Hell, the museum is cool even if you aren’t traveling with kids. They have done a great job collecting pirate treasure, relics, and pieces of pirate history. There is quite a bit of reading that needs to be done if you really want to absorb everything there is to see.

Our kids loved all of the interactive components. They got a kick out of the touch screen computers and maps.

The St. Augustine Pirate Museum, as a whole, is great. I mean, how can it not be with it boasting the largest collection of pirate swag in the world? I mean, they even have the oldest Jolly Roger and only surviving pirates chest! I will say that our kids were a bit young to truly enjoy the museum. Don’t get me wrong, they loved the St. Augustine Pirate Museum- I just think they would have appreciated it a bit more if they were older.

Other Pirate Events in St. Augustine

St. Augustine is famous for honoring its history and hosting reenactments. Each March there is a reenactment of the Searles raid. You can also check out a reenactment of Drake’s pillage in June.

Plan Your Visit

Hours of Operation: 10am to 7pm

Phone: (877) Go-PLUNDER (877.467.5863)

Address: 12 S. Castillo Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32084

The St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum is located across the street from Castillo de San Marcos. There is a pay-by-plate parking lot that allows for easy access to the museum.

What Else Is There To Do in the Area?

The museum is located in the heart of the historic district of downtown St. Augustine. There are a ton of things to do in the area.

  • Castillo de San Marcos– The Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States.
  • Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse- Historic cedar-and-cypress building offering a glimpse of school life in Spanish Colonial times.
  • St. George Street– A pedestrian-only thoroughfare, St. George Street is the epicenter of downtown St. Augustine. The historic street is lined with shops and some of the best restaurants in the area.
  • Flagler College– Flagler College, housed in what was once one of Henry Flagler’s most opulent Gilded-Age hotels in St. Augustine, is a private four-year college. It’s also my alma mater! I strongly suggest taking a tour! There’s nothing quite like it.
  • Ripley’s Believe It or Not!- Ripley’s Believe It or Not! deals in bizarre events and items so strange and unusual that readers might question the claims. 

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Updated: 4/13/21

Categories
Florida Florida State Parks Palm Coast St. Augustine State Parks United States

Florida’s Stunning Washington Oaks Gardens with Kids

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

We got a little stir crazy last month so we spent a lot of time checking out parks like Castaway Island Preserve, and Fort Clinch State Park, and the Jacksonville Arboretum and Gardens. We added a new park to our list when we hit up the gorgeous Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. We’ve learned that parks are a great place where we can get out, stretch our legs, enjoy the sunshine, and still social distance.

What is Washington Oaks Gardens State Park?

Just south historic St. Augustine, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Matanzas River is a stunning park called Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. The park preserves 425 acres of coastal scenery. Tucked in between the hammocks is an immaculate and extremely impressive 20-acre formal garden.

What are the highlights?

  • 20-acre formal gardens
  • 425 acres of coastal scenery
  • The largest outcroppings of coquina rock on the Atlantic Ocean
  • Fishing from the beach or the seawall along the Mantanzas River
  • Hiking and biking trails

Things to Know…

  • The cost is $5 per vehicle
  • The park is open from 8 AM until sundown
  • A1A passes through the park. The beach is located on one side of A1A and the rest of the park (including the formal gardens) is located on the opposite side.
  • The Coquina Rock formation is the largest on the Atlantic Coast. The formation is located nearly 1/4 a mile north of the parking lot.
A roped of sea turtles nest. DO NOT DISTURB

Where is Washington Oaks Gardens State Park located?

The park is nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Matanzas River in Palm Coast, Florida.

The physical address is: 6400 N. Oceanshore Blvd Palm Coast, Florida

Our Experience

We headed south from Jacksonville to Palm Coast early in the morning, not really knowing what to expect of the park. We first headed to the seawall to watch the boats float by on the Matanzas River. The boys are obsessed with boats so they were in heaven watching all of the vessels sail by! There were a ton of fishermen on the seawall, so I assume the fishing must be decent there. There were also a group of people holding up signs asking boaters to slow down due to the presence of manatees in the area.

Next, we took a short hike down one of the trails. There were several markers indicating the various species of plants that lined the trail. It was a great place for the kids to stretch their legs after our car ride!

Afterwards, we checked out the formal gardens. They were absolutely lovely!

Then, we crossed A1A to hit the beach on the Atlantic side of the park. The water was incredibly choppy and wasn’t very safe for our little ones to play in. I also didn’t realize that the coquina formations were nearly 1/4 mile down the beach from the parking lot. We decided that it was too far to walk there and back with the twins so we skipped it.

After leaving the park to find somewhere more clam to swim, we ended up at a little cove known as Helen Mellon Schmidt Park. It was the perfect place for the kids to splash around!

Our Park Essentials

Coppertone Kids Sunscreen
OFF! Family Care Insect Spray
Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets
Beach Wagon

What is there to do nearby?

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Categories
Florida St. Augustine United States

Visiting Marineland with Kids

A dolphin at Marineland

This week, Smiley and I added another great outdoor venue to our list: Marineland. We have been having so much fun exploring our home state of Florida during this quarantine. We’ve been exploring some of the incredible parks in our area! Some of our favorites have been Jacksonville’s Arboretum and Gardens, Castaway Island Preserve, Fort Clinch State Park, and Blue Springs State Park.

We were bored one morning so we hopped in the car and headed down to Marineland to check out the dolphins.

What is Marineland?

Marineland opened in 1938 as the world’s first oceanarium. It was originally designed for Hollywood filmmakers to be able to shoot underwater footage of ocean animals. While the park still honors its glitzy past, it has evolved into a center that focuses on protecting and preserving marine life.

What are the highlights?

  • Dolphin Show
  • Playing/swimming with Dolphins

Where is Marineland located?

The physical address is: 9600 Oceanshore Blvd, St. Augustine, Florida 32080

Our Thoughts on Marineland

I’ve visited Marineland a few times in the past, but this was our first trip with one of the kids.

Smiley and I arrived at the park just before 10 AM. We were immediately greeted by one of the employees that kind of took to us and taught us quite a few tidbits about the dolphins. We stayed at the park for about an hour and a half- which is more than enough time to see the park. If you aren’t planning on doing one of the dolphin encounters, the park can easily be seen in its entirety in less than an hour. In fact, if you aren’t doing a dolphin encounter; there really isn’t much to do.

Smiley really enjoyed her time at Marineland. She loved being able to watch the dolphins swim and play in their habitats. She was a little bummed, however, that she didn’t get to swim with the dolphins. We made a deal that when she learns how to swim, she’ll be able to come back and swim with the dolphins.

Honestly, I think the animal encounters are the best part about visiting Marineland. If you simply book a general admission ticket, the park isn’t nearly as entertaining. The park itself is tired. You can really tell that it’s over 80 years old. I’m hopeful that now that it is owned by the Georgia Aquarium, it will be rejuvenated back to its original glory.

We’re both looking forward to go backing, once Smiley learns how to swim, so that we can book one of the dolphin encounters.

Our Marineland Essentials

Coppertone Kids Sunscreen
Steel Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle

What is there to do nearby?

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