St. Augustine is one of the oldest cities in the US and was settled by Spanish colonialists in 1565. There you can find beautiful architecture and amazing ocean views, whether during your trip or just casual walks. The city isn’t large so it makes it easy to explore on foot or by trolley. Discover the best cultural experience and family relaxation on the weekend.

Museums and galleries

  • Medieval Torture Museum is an engaging and educational museum that introduces visitors to the worst execution methods and historical punishment devices. It has more than 100 exhibits used for torture and worst execution methods. They show methods from medieval times to modern types of punishment and tortures. It could be a very interesting place to visit if you are interested in medieval times and if you want to feel dark and gothic atmosphere. Reviewers describe the museum as “dark but fascinating, creepy but interesting”. It is ok to visit for older teens and adults and free for kids under 10, if they supervised by an adult. TripAdvisor rating: 5/5 from about 700 reviews
  • The Tiny Art Museum in St. Augustine shows a miniature art viewed through a microscope, with exhibits like carvings and paintings. You can see the unique micro artworks that fit inside a needle’s eye on your own. The museum offers around 30 artworks and could be considered the best art museums in St. Augustine. It is located on the same floor as the Medieval Torture Museum. Admission is included with a ticket to the attraction. The Tiny Art Museum has 4.5 rating by visitors and mentioned in category “Specialty Museums” in St. Augustine on TripAdvisor.
  • Potter’s Wax Museum – the oldest wax museum in the U.S., shows figures of historical and pop culture icons. It’s a fun stop for a short visit. 
  • Pirate and Treasure Museum combines historical artifacts with interactive exhibits that could be interesting for kids and adults. If you are interested in pirate stories.
  • St. Augustine Distillery Tour offers a free tasting of rum, bourbon and gin in a restored ice plant. It is a guided and popular tour for spirits enthusiasts. Reviewers mention informed staff and interesting storytelling about creating, history and specifics.

Where to walk and explore with a family

  • At the 17th century Spanish fort, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, you can enjoy a wonderful bay front walk and learn more about Florida’s past. You can explore it safely and learn about Spanish colonial defense. 
  • St. George Street is a pedestrian historic street that is full of shops, cafés, street performers and tourists. It’s a popular place to walk with kids or partner, and you can easily find the place to relax after a long day. 
  • In a Nationally protected Anastasia State Park you can enjoy wildlife of St. Augustine, go kayaking near alligators or just have a small picnic. Clean nature and calm waters make it an ideal place for families and couples. 
  • St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum offers panoramic views of the coastline and has amazing views from the top. They have interactive exhibits and guided tours for families.

Romantic places and evening entertainment

  • Located in a former 1888, Lightner Museum Café Alcazar offers dinning beside an indoor swimming pool, live music, elegant and tasty menu options and in an atmospheric setting inside one of St. Augustine’s most beautiful landmark. TripAdvisor rating: 4.5/5 from about 2000 reviews
  • Famous for its decor and social engagement, Columbia Restaurant is a historic Spanish-Cuban restaurant. It’s one of the most authentic and tasteful cafés in the city and could be named a must visit in St Augustine couples activities. TripAdvisor rated 4.5/5 from about 7,000 reviews
  • The Sunset Cruise on Matanzas Bay is the perfect cruise to spend a tête-à-tête time  with your partner. It departs from the downtown marina, and known for friendly crew and professional guide. Entertainment is popular among couples and families alike.
  • A luxury hotel, Flagler College Courtyard offers walking tours on the one of the masterpiece of Spanish Renaissance architecture in the US. It offers guided or self-guided tours. At dusk, the location is particularly beautiful. TripAdvisor rating: 4.5/5 from about 5000 reviews

The Torture Museum offers a rare chance to step directly into the psychological and historical reality of the Middle Ages of Europe. Every torture device and method shown in the museum reflects not only cruelty but also the social and religious mindset of that time. For anyone studying human behavior, justice systems, or the evolution of morality – this museum is an eye-opening experience.”

— Alan Merrin, Historian and Specialist in Medieval Punitive Practices

“The Tiny Art Museum in St. Augustine is an extraordinary display of human precision and patience. The micro art, especially pieces that fit an eye, demands not only artistic talent but also technical mastery. Watching these artworks through a microscope reminds us that you can find an art on detail and imagination.”

— Sofia Lin, Micro-Art Conservator and Researcher in Fine Miniature Techniques