St. Augustine History Tour by Golf Cart
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Overview
Guided Historical Tour of St. Augustine Per Person invites everyone to explore the charming streets and delve deep into the city's rich past. This isn't just a tour; it's a journey through time, revealing the cultural events that shaped St. Augustine into a pivotal landmark in world history. Relax as the driver navigates the downtown area in a comfortable electric golf cart, passing by all the main historical structures and areas.
Travelers can expect to see iconic landmarks such as the Mission Nombre de Dios and Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche, where faith and history intertwine. The tour also passes by the grand Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, the serene Tolomato Cemetery, and the historic St. Francis Barracks. The majestic Castillo de San Marcos National Monument stands as a testament to the city's enduring strength. Guests will also view the Gonzalez-Alvarez House (Oldest House), Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, Flagler Memorial Presbyterian Church, and the Bridge of Lions.
This tour includes a certified guide providing engaging commentary, inviting questions, and pointing out historical attractions along the way. It excludes parking, so visitors should plan to arrive early to find a spot. This tour ensures a comprehensive and comfortable exploration of St. Augustine's historical treasures.




Highlights
See St. Augustine's History: Discover historical places and learn all about St. Augustine.
Ride in a Golf Cart: Enjoy a relaxing ride around the city in a comfy electric golf cart.
Ask Questions: Feel free to ask the guide questions during the tour.
Important Landmarks: See key spots such as Castillo de San Marcos and the Cathedral Basilica.
Sentiment Analysis
Most customers loved this tour and would recommend it. People especially enjoyed the guide's knowledge and seeing the city by golf cart. Some mentioned minor issues like parking and being able to hear the guide clearly.

Customers enjoyed learning a lot about the history of St. Augustine.
Many visitors liked seeing all the important historical places.
Some reviewers specifically mentioned that the tour guides were great.
Past guests thought the golf cart was a nice way to see the city.
A few people mentioned it was hard to hear the guide at times.
Some visitors thought parking was a problem.
The Journey
Historic Downtown St. Augustine
Step into a living history book as you explore the heart of St. Augustine in an electric vehicle. This extensive tour meanders through the downtown area, unveiling the city's most significant historical structures and areas. From the solemn grounds of The Mission Nombre de Dios to the imposing Castillo De San Marcos, and the grandeur of Flagler College (formerly The Ponce De Leon Hotel), each stop reveals a layer of St. Augustine's rich past. Engage with your guide, ask questions, and let the charming streets transport you back in time, discovering the stories etched into every corner.
Historical Landmarks of St. Augustine
St. Augustine is brimming with historical landmarks, each telling a unique tale of the city's past. From the sacred Mission Nombre de Dios, marking the beginning of Christianity in the United States, to the formidable Castillo De San Marcos, a testament to Spanish resilience, and the opulent Ponce De Leon Hotel (now Flagler College), a symbol of the Gilded Age, every site is an adventure waiting to be uncovered. Explore the somber Tolomato Cemetery, the historic Saint Francis Barracks, and the bustling Plaza De La Constitución, and immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of St. Augustine's history.
Mission Nombre de Dios and Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche
Journey to the sacred grounds of the Mission Nombre de Dios, the very site where St. Augustine was founded in 1565. Feel the weight of history as you stand where Pedro Menéndez de Avilés claimed the land for Spain and the Church, naming it Nombre de Dios, meaning 'Name of God'. Discover the Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche, a place of pilgrimage and devotion, tracing its origins back to the earliest days of European settlement in the United States. Experience the spiritual heart of St. Augustine, where faith and history intertwine.
Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
Behold the grandeur of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, the oldest Catholic Church in the city and the oldest parish in the United States. Marvel at its stunning architecture, a testament to centuries of faith and community. Step inside to admire the intricate stained glass, soaring arches, and sacred art that tell the story of Catholicism in America. Attend a service, reflect in its peaceful atmosphere, and connect with the enduring legacy of this historic landmark.
Tolomato Cemetery
Wander through the historic Tolomato Cemetery, a serene and evocative final resting place that has witnessed centuries of St. Augustine's history. Located in the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the United States, this cemetery was in use from the 18th century until 1884. Stroll among the weathered tombstones, decipher the inscriptions, and reflect on the lives of those who shaped the city's past. Discover stories of soldiers, settlers, and citizens, and experience the palpable connection to generations gone by.
St. Francis Barracks
Explore the historic St. Francis Barracks, a coquina fortress that has served various roles since its construction by Franciscan friars between 1724 and 1755. Witness its transformation from a religious outpost to a military stronghold under British and then American control. Today, it houses the headquarters of the Florida National Guard, symbolizing the enduring legacy of defense and service. Admire the unique coquina architecture and reflect on the many chapters of Florida's military history played out within these walls.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
Stand in awe of the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. Built by the Spanish to defend St. Augustine and the vital Atlantic trade route, this imposing structure has withstood centuries of battles, sieges, and storms. Explore its sturdy coquina walls, imagine life as a Spanish soldier, and learn about the cultural intersections that have shaped this historic landmark. Experience the power and resilience of this enduring symbol of St. Augustine's past.
Gonzalez-Alvarez House (Oldest House)
Step back in time at the Gonzalez-Alvarez House, also known as the Oldest House, a testament to St. Augustine's enduring history. Owned and operated by the St. Augustine Historical Society, this structure stands as the oldest surviving Spanish colonial residence in Florida. Wander through its rooms and courtyards, imagining the lives of the families who once called it home. Gain a glimpse into the daily life of Spanish settlers and appreciate the architectural details that have preserved this historic treasure for generations.
Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
Visit the legendary Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where history and myth intertwine. Discover the site where Pedro Menéndez de Aviles founded St. Augustine in 1565, at the Timucua village of Seloy. Drink from the famed fountain, believed by some to restore youth, and explore the park's archaeological exhibits, learning about the Timucua people who first inhabited this land. Experience the allure of this historic site, where the past comes alive.
Flagler Memorial Presbyterian Church
Marvel at the Flagler Memorial Presbyterian Church, a stunning tribute of love built by Henry Flagler for his daughter. Designed by Carrere & Hastings, the same architects behind the Ponce de Leon Hotel, its architecture draws inspiration from the Basilica of St. Mark in Venice, Italy. Admire the intricate details, from the ornate façade to the peaceful sanctuary, and learn about the Flagler family's impact on St. Augustine's development. Attend a service or simply admire the beauty of this architectural gem.
Bridge of Lions
Admire the iconic Bridge of Lions, a majestic structure that connects downtown St. Augustine with Anastasia Island. Completed in 1927 during Florida's extravagant land boom, the bridge was designed to be a work of art as much as a functional transportation route. Marvel at its intricate details, including the Carrara marble lions that guard its entrance. Take a stroll or drive across the bridge, enjoying panoramic views of the city, the Matanzas River, and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean.
Plaza de la Constitución
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Plaza de la Constitución, the heart of historic St. Augustine. Surrounded by iconic landmarks like the Cathedral Basilica, Trinity Episcopal Church, and the Government House, this central square is a hub of activity. Stroll through the plaza, admire the central pavilion, a stage for city events and live entertainment, and explore the public market, which has been in use since the 1500s. Experience the energy of this historic gathering place, where the past and present come together.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes a certified guide that knows all about St. Augustine's history. Please review the meeting location details, which are provided on the ticket under special instructions. Please make sure you include a phone number that you can be reached at on the day of the tour. Parking is not offered, so plan to arrive early and find parking.
Hot Tip
Arrive early to find parking, since it is not provided. Some visitors have said it can be difficult to hear the guide at times, so try to sit closer to them if possible.