Summer is the perfect time for families to explore and enjoy all St. Augustine offers! With its rich history, beautiful beaches, and a plethora of activities, there is something for everyone here in the nation’s oldest city. Here are some of the best family-friendly summer activities to make your visit to St. Augustine unforgettable.

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

A trip to St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is a must for families! This historic attraction, established in 1893, is home to a wide variety of reptiles, birds, and mammals. Kids will love the thrilling zip line courses over the alligator ponds, and everyone can enjoy the daily wildlife shows and interactive exhibits. Don’t miss the chance to see Maximo, the 15-foot saltwater crocodile, and the Komodo dragons!

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

image of tower of Castillo de San Marcos

Step back in time with a visit to the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. Built by the Spanish in the late 1600s, the fort offers fascinating insights into the history of St. Augustine. Families can explore the well-preserved fortifications, watch cannon and musket firing demonstrations, and enjoy stunning views of Matanzas Bay. The park rangers also offer engaging tours that bring the fort’s history to life.

St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum

Unleash your inner pirate at the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum. This interactive museum is perfect for children and adults alike, with exhibits that include authentic pirate artifacts, shipwreck treasures, and a real pirate flag. Kids can participate in a treasure hunt, learn about famous pirates like Blackbeard, and experience the excitement of a pirate’s life through immersive displays.

Anastasia State Park

iamge of trail and trees, shrubbery seen during First Day Hike at Anastasia State Park

For a day of outdoor fun, head to Anastasia State Park. This natural paradise offers four miles of pristine beaches, tidal salt marshes, and sand dunes. Families can enjoy swimming, picnicking, hiking, and birdwatching. Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or bikes to explore the park from different perspectives. The park also has a campground for those who want to extend their stay and experience the beauty of St. Augustine’s natural landscapes.

Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

Discover the legend of the Fountain of Youth at this archaeological park, which commemorates the 1513 landing of Ponce de Leon. The park features reconstructed Spanish and Timucua buildings, historical reenactments, and a beautiful waterfront setting. Kids will love drinking from the famous fountain, watching a cannon firing, and feeding the resident peacocks.

St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

St Augustine Lighthouse

Climb the 219 steps to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse for breathtaking views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. The Lighthouse & Maritime Museum offers a glimpse into the area’s maritime history with exhibits on shipwrecks, lighthouse keepers, and coastal culture. Families can participate in educational programs, guided tours, and even ghost tours for a spooky evening adventure.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium

image of the outside of Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum

For a quirky and fun experience, visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium. This museum is filled with strange and unusual artifacts from around the world, including shrunken heads, optical illusions, and bizarre art. Kids will be fascinated by the interactive exhibits and the whimsical displays, making it a memorable stop on your St. Augustine adventure.

St. Augustine Eco Tours

images of kayakers, people on tour boats with

Get up close and personal with St. Augustine’s natural beauty on a family-friendly eco tour. These guided boat, kayak, and sailing tours offer opportunities to see dolphins manatees, as well as a variety of bird species in their natural habitats. The knowledgeable guides provide educational insights about the local ecosystem, making it both an enjoyable and informative experience for all ages.

Summer Events in St. Augustine

To add to the excitement, St. Augustine hosts a variety of events throughout the summer. Here are a few happening in July and August:

July Events

  • Music by the Sea Concert Series: Enjoy free live music every Wednesday evening at the St. Augustine Beach Pier Pavilion. Bring a picnic or buy dinner from local food trucks while you enjoy the show.
  • First Friday Art Walk: Explore St. Augustine’s vibrant art scene on the first Friday of every month. Galleries open their doors, and local artists showcase their work.
  • Fourth of July Fireworks: Celebrate Independence Day with a spectacular fireworks display over Matanzas Bay. The event includes live music and festivities at the Plaza de la Constitución.

August Events

  • Sunset Concert Series: Relax with free live music and beautiful sunsets at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. Bring a blanket and enjoy the evening with family and friends.
  • St. Augustine Farmers Market: Held every Saturday at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, this market offers fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious food.
  • Founding Day Celebration: Commemorate the founding of St. Augustine with historical reenactments, ceremonies, and festivities at the Mission Nombre de Dios and other historic sites.

You can find more local events on our calendar or by visiting our social media pages!

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