Discover St. Johns, Florida: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Located in the northeastern part of Florida, St. Johns is a vibrant city that offers visitors a wide range of activities and attractions. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history, immersing yourself in the local culture, or simply soaking up some sun on the beach, St. Johns has something for everyone.
Top Attractions in St. Johns
One of the top attractions in St. Johns is the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for stunning views of the ocean and learn about the area’s maritime history at the museum.
The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is another must-visit attraction in St. Johns. This park is home to a natural spring that was believed by the Spanish to have restorative powers. Visitors can explore the park’s exhibits and participate in interactive experiences.
Hidden Gems in St. Johns
If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, make sure to check out the Alpine Groves Park. This park is home to a historic homestead and offers visitors a chance to explore the beautiful natural surroundings on hiking trails.
The St. Johns River-to-Sea Loop is another hidden gem in the area. This scenic trail spans over 260 miles and offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the region on foot, bike, or horseback.
The Food Scene in St. Johns
St. Johns is known for its seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants in the area that offer fresh, locally caught fish. Some of the top seafood restaurants in St. Johns include Safe Harbor Seafood Market & Restaurant and Caps on the Water.
For those looking for something a little different, there are also plenty of international cuisine options in the area. The Spice and Tea Exchange is a great place to sample unique spices and teas from around the world.
Budget-Friendly Tips in St. Johns
One of the best ways to save money in St. Johns is to take advantage of the area’s many free attractions. The St. Augustine Art Walk, which takes place on the first Friday of every month, is a great way to experience the local art scene without spending a dime.
The St. Augustine Flea Market is another budget-friendly attraction in the area. This massive flea market offers visitors a chance to shop for unique items at affordable prices.
Outdoor Adventures in St. Johns
For those who love the great outdoors, St. Johns is the perfect destination. The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve is a great place to explore the area’s natural beauty on hiking trails, canoe trips, and more.
The Anastasia State Park is another popular outdoor attraction in St. Johns. This park offers visitors a chance to swim, hike, and camp in a beautiful natural setting.
Historical Landmarks in St. Johns
St. Johns is home to many important historical landmarks, such as the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. This fort was built by the Spanish in the 17th century and played a crucial role in the city’s history.
The Fort Mose Historic State Park is another important landmark in the area. This park was the site of the first free African American settlement in the United States.
Family-Friendly Activities in St. Johns
For families visiting St. Johns, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. The St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is a great place to see a wide variety of animals, including alligators, birds, and monkeys.
The Pirate & Treasure Museum is another family-friendly attraction in the area. This museum offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of pirates and see authentic artifacts from famous pirate ships.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in St. Johns
For those looking for a unique experience, consider taking a ghost tour of St. Augustine. These tours take visitors to some of the city’s most haunted locations and offer a chance to learn about the area’s spooky history.
The St. Augustine Distillery is another off-the-beaten-path attraction in the area. This distillery offers tours and tastings of their award-winning spirits.
Natural Wonders in St. Johns
St. Johns is home to many beautiful natural wonders, such as the St. Johns River. This river is the longest in Florida and offers visitors a chance to explore the local ecosystem on boat tours and fishing trips.
The Devil’s Elbow Fishing Resort is another great place to experience the area’s natural beauty. This resort offers visitors a chance to fish, kayak, and explore the surrounding marshes and creeks.
Vibrant Nightlife in St. Johns
For those looking to experience the local nightlife, St. Johns has plenty of options. The Barley Republic Public House is a popular spot for craft beer and live music.
The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is another great place to catch a concert or show. This outdoor venue hosts a wide range of events throughout the year.
Local Markets in St. Johns
The St. Augustine Farmers Market is a great place to sample local produce and artisanal goods. This market takes place every Saturday and offers a chance to meet local farmers and makers.
The St. Augustine Artisan Market is another great place to find unique handmade items. This market takes place on the second and fourth Sundays of every month.
Beaches and Mountains in St. Johns
The St. Johns area is home to many beautiful beaches, such as Vilano Beach and St. Augustine Beach. These beaches offer visitors a chance to swim, sunbathe, and play in the sand.
The Anastasia State Park is also a great place to experience the area’s natural beauty. This park is home to a beautiful beach as well as hiking trails and camping facilities.
Cultural Immersion in St. Johns
For those interested in experiencing the local culture, St. Johns has plenty to offer. The St. Augustine Greek Festival is a popular annual event that celebrates Greek culture through food, music, and dance.
The St. Augustine Celtic Festival is another great cultural event in the area. This festival features live music, traditional food and drinks, and more.
Art and Music Scene in St. Johns
St. Johns has a thriving art and music scene, with many galleries, museums, and music venues throughout the area. The Lightner Museum is a great place to see art and artifacts from the Gilded Age.
The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is also a popular music venue in the area. This outdoor venue hosts concerts and events throughout the year.
Walking Tours in St. Johns
One of the best ways to explore the city’s history and culture is on a walking tour. The St. Augustine Historic Walking Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the city’s many historic sites and landmarks.
The St. Augustine Food Tour is another great walking tour option. This tour takes visitors to some of the city’s best restaurants and offers a chance to sample local cuisine.
Architectural Marvels in St. Johns
St. Johns is home to many beautiful buildings and architectural marvels. The Flagler College campus is a great place to see examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture.
The Villa Zorayda Museum is another must-visit attraction for architecture enthusiasts. This museum is housed in a beautiful 19th-century building and features a wide range of art and artifacts.
Historical Sites in St. Johns
St. Johns has a rich history, and there are many important historical sites throughout the area. The Fort Matanzas National Monument is a great place to learn about the area’s military history.
The Oldest Wooden School House is another important historical site in the area. This building dates back to the 18th century and offers a glimpse into what school life was like in colonial times.
Biking Routes in St. Johns
For those who love to bike, St. Johns has many great trails and routes to explore. The St. Augustine Scenic A1A Byway is a beautiful coastal route that offers stunning views of the ocean.
The Moses Creek Conservation Area is another great biking destination in the area. This nature preserve offers visitors a chance to explore the local ecosystem on biking trails.
Wellness Retreats in St. Johns
For those looking for a relaxing getaway, St. Johns has many great wellness retreats and spas. The Casa Monica Resort & Spa is a luxurious hotel that offers a wide range of spa services and amenities.
The Salt Spa of St. Augustine is another great place to unwind and rejuvenate. This spa offers salt therapy, massages, and other wellness services.
Adventure Sports in St. Johns
For adrenaline junkies, St. Johns has plenty of adventure sports to offer. The St. Augustine Surf School is a great place to learn how to surf and catch some waves.
The St.
