The Old Town Trolley in front of the St. Augustine Downtown parking facility.

September is the perfect time for locals to fall back in love with St. Augustine. With the summer crowds thinning and cooler evenings on the way, the city is rolling out a wave of special discounts just for St. Johns and Flagler County residents. From scenic boat rides and historic trolley tours to hidden-gem museums and family-friendly attractions, you’ll find plenty of ways to play tourist in your own hometown—without stretching your budget.

September Specials

Florida Water Tours

People enjoying a scenic cruise at sunset with Florida Water Tours.

Florida Water Tours is rolling out special discounts for locals this September with 25% off select cruises for St. Johns and Flagler County residents. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing daytime adventure, a romantic evening on the water, or a chance to see dolphins up close, they’ve got you covered.

  • Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise – A family favorite, this tour takes you along the river where you’ll spot playful dolphins, elegant wading birds, and maybe even a manatee or two. It’s a fun and educational outing for all ages.
  • Sunset Cruise – Nothing beats a St. Augustine sunset, especially when you’re watching from the water. Sip a drink, enjoy the ocean breeze, and take in the stunning views of the skyline and historic landmarks as the sun dips below the horizon.
  • Moonlight Cruise – For a little something different, the Moonlight Cruise sets sail under the stars. It’s perfect for a date night or a relaxing evening with friends.

Florida Water Tours boats are comfortable, eco-friendly, and captained by knowledgeable guides who share fun facts about St. Augustine’s history, wildlife, and waterways. And since September tends to bring fewer crowds, you might even feel like you’ve got the river all to yourself!

Pro Tip: Locals often forget just how magical a boat tour can be. Pair your cruise with dinner downtown or make a whole evening out of it. For more ideas, check out our guide to boating adventures in St. Augustine and eco-friendly tours.

Old Town Trolley Tours

Tourist waving from an orange and green Trolley car.

Image Credit: Old Town Trolley Tours.

If you’ve lived in St. Augustine for a while, chances are you’ve seen the bright orange-and-green Old Town Trolley making its way through the historic district. But when was the last time you hopped on for a ride yourself? September is the perfect time to play tourist in your own city, and the trolley is one of the most fun (and easy!) ways to do it.

Old Town Trolley offers unlimited hop-on, hop-off service at more than 20 stops around St. Augustine. You can explore attractions like Castillo de San Marcos, St. George Street, and the Lightner Museum without worrying about parking or traffic. Plus, the friendly conductors share entertaining stories and little-known facts about the city’s history along the way. Even longtime locals usually learn something new!

During the month of September, St. Johns County residents receive free admission to two of the following four experiences:

  • Old Town Trolley Tours
  • Old Jail Museum
  • Oldest Store Museum Experience
  • Potter’s Wax Museum

Pro Tip: Pair your trolley ride with a stop at one of the best St. Augustine museums or a leisurely stroll through the shops downtown. It’s the perfect mix of convenience and fun!

Year-Round Resident Discounts

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

The St. Augustine Alligator Farm is a true local treasure, home to every species of crocodilian in the world, along with exotic birds, lemurs, and a thriving rookery. St. Johns County residents get 30% off admission year-round (ID required), making it the perfect spot for a family outing or a quick weekend adventure. Whether you’re strolling the boardwalks, catching a wildlife show, or zip-lining over the gators on Crocodile Crossing, this historic attraction always delivers something new to discover.

St. Augustine Distillery

Housed in a restored 1907 ice plant, the St. Augustine Distillery offers free tours and tastings year-round for locals. Learn how their award-winning bourbon, gin, vodka, and rum are crafted, then sample the results in creative cocktails. It’s a must-do stop whether you’re showing off the city to visiting friends or simply treating yourself to a fun afternoon. Don’t forget to check out their shop for locally made spirits and cocktail kits to enjoy at home.

St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum

At the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, locals receive a $2 discount to explore one of the largest authentic pirate collections in the world, including Captain Kidd’s treasure chest and a rare Jolly Roger flag! With interactive exhibits that appeal to kids and fascinating artifacts for history buffs, it’s a fun stop for all ages. Conveniently located near the Castillo de San Marcos, it’s easy to pair your pirate adventure with a stroll along the bayfront or nearby shops.

Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park in St. Augustine centers on the legendary spring said to grant eternal youth, where visitors can drink from its flowing waters while exploring lush grounds and historic exhibits. St. Johns County residents enjoy discounted admission: $11.48 for adults, $10.48 for seniors, and $4.95 for children ages 6–12; ages 5 and under are free.

Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse

Image contains outdoors and the front entrance to the Oldest Wooden School House.

A beloved landmark in the heart of St. George Street, the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse gives visitors a glimpse of what education was like in colonial St. Augustine. Step inside the historic cedar-and-cypress structure, complete with original books, school supplies, and even replicas of the kitchen and living quarters where the schoolmaster and his family once lived. Best of all, St. Johns County residents enjoy free admission year-round, making it an easy (and affordable) stop the next time you’re downtown.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

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

From shrunken heads to optical illusions, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is always full of surprises (but locals get the best deal of all). St. Johns County residents receive 50% off admission to all Ripley’s St. Augustine attractions, including the Odditorium museum, the scenic Red Train tours, and even Bayfront Mini Golf. It’s the perfect chance to experience all the bizarre and extraordinary fun without breaking the bank.

Spanish Military Hospital

Colonial soldier being operated on by a medic.

Image Credit: Spanish Military Hospital Museum.

Step into the Spanish Military Hospital Museum for a lively 45-minute, fully guided journey into colonial medicine, where you can witness live surgical and apothecary demonstrations in a historic 18th-century setting. And here’s a sweet perk for locals: St. Johns County residents enjoy a discount on admission for both adults and children all year long with a valid ID.

Villa Zorayda Museum

Locals get the best deal at the Villa Zorayda Museum! St. Johns County residents enjoy 50% off adult admission with valid ID, making it an affordable way to explore this historic landmark. Kids under 5 are always free, so families can visit without stretching the budget. Along with the savings, visitors will experience the museum’s Moorish Revival architecture and fascinating collection of art and antiques, all brought to life through a 45–60 minute audio tour.

Oldest House Museum Complex

Step back in time at the Oldest House Museum Complex! This is the home of the González-Álvarez House, which is the oldest surviving Spanish Colonial residence in Florida. Explore the historic house, museums, gardens, and special exhibits that bring centuries of St. Augustine’s history to life. Best of all, St. Johns County residents get 50% off admission year-round with valid ID, making this timeless experience an unbeatable deal for locals.

Ximenez-Fatio House Museum

Nestled on historic Aviles Street, the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum invites you to explore one of Florida’s most authentic Spanish Colonial landmarks. The museum features original 18th-century coquina architecture, immersive guided and audio tours, and evolving exhibits that bring early tourism and women’s history to life. St. Johns County residents can enjoy $5 admission (compared to $15 for adults) when presenting valid ID, making it easier than ever for locals to connect with their city’s past.

Why September is for Locals in St. Augustine

September is the perfect time for St. Augustine residents to slow down, explore, and support the small businesses that make our city so special. With lighter crowds, gorgeous sunsets, and so many locals-only discounts, this month is all about rediscovering the Ancient City on your own terms. From historic museums to boat tours and family attractions, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy St. Augustine without breaking the bank. So, grab your ID, bring a friend, and make the most of September is for Locals in St. Augustine, because no one deserves to experience the best of the Nation’s Oldest City more than the people who call it home.

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