Lincolnville Museum & Cultural Center — Attraction in Saint Augustine

The Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center is a must-visit while in St. Augustine: If you’re planning a trip to St. Augustine, Florida, the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center (LMCC) is a site you cannot miss. This extraordinary museum is more than just a local gem—it’s a nationally recognized cultural treasure. Recently voted fifth place in the 2024 USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards for Best Small Town Museum, the LMCC stands out as the only Florida museum to make this prestigious list.

Housed in the historic Excelsior School Building, the first public Black high school in St. Johns County, the museum preserves and celebrates over 450 years of African American history. This mission is carried out through exhibits, educational programs, live performances, and more, making it a dynamic and enlightening experience for visitors of all ages.

Why You Should Visit The LMCC isn’t just a museum—it’s a journey into the heart of African American resilience, culture, and contributions to St. Augustine and beyond. The building itself is steeped in history. Built in 1925, it served as a high school for Black students during segregation. When the school was later closed, community members, including former students, rallied to save it from demolition. Their efforts transformed it into a hub of history and culture, first opening as the Excelsior Museum in 2005 and adopting its current name in 2012.

The LMCC’s exhibits and programming emphasize St. Augustine’s role in the Civil Rights Movement, including visits by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The museum also sheds light on the African American experience in Florida, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and personal stories.

In addition to its powerful historical narratives, the LMCC is a gathering place for cultural and artistic expression. With live performances, lectures, and special exhibits, it’s a vibrant space that continues to educate and inspire.

Convenient and Accessible Visiting the LMCC couldn’t be easier. It’s located at 102 M.L. King Avenue, and its convenient hours (10:30 am to 4:30 pm Tuesday through Saturday, and 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm Sunday and Monday) make it accessible for any itinerary. Admission is affordable, with tickets priced at $10 for adults and $5 for youth, college students, and military members (with a 10% senior discount).

Even better, the museum is one of the stops on the Old Town Trolley Hop-On Hop-Off Tour, a popular way to explore St. Augustine without the hassle of driving. Just hop off at the museum, immerse yourself in its stories, and hop back on to continue your adventure through the city.

National Recognition The LMCC’s recent recognition by USA TODAY as a 10Best Small Town Museum highlights its national significance. Being the only Florida museum in this category underscores its unique role in preserving and sharing African American history. This achievement reflects the dedication of the museum’s staff, volunteers, and community supporters, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting St. Augustine.

Don’t Miss Out! The Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center isn’t just a museum—it’s a testament to history, culture, and community spirit. Whether you’re a history buff, a cultural enthusiast, or simply looking for an enriching experience during your trip to St. Augustine, this museum offers something for everyone. Its compelling exhibits, historic setting, and warm community welcome make it a destination that should be on every traveler’s list.

Plan your visit today and discover why the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center is a must-see in America’s...

Highly recommended museum in St Augustine! While the old town of the city is burdened by overtourism, this smaller museum in Lincolnville gets you a different perspective on the city's history: the Afro-American perspective. There has been a very warm welcome by the museum's staff, I guess they could explain everything in detail, if you just ask... The exhibition itself is somewhat a conglomerate of different aspects of afro-american local history. Some (for myself, at least) less interesting (i.e. black soldier batallions), some really worthwile, like the development of local black economy and white resistance. Overall, it is also nice to walk through Lincolnville itself. Lots of beautiful houses, we felt very safe and...

I recently visited The Lincolnville Museum, and it was an incredible experience! The museum offers a deep and rich insight into the history and culture of the African American community in St. Augustine. I was truly moved by the exhibits, which are not only informative but also beautifully curated to tell the powerful stories of resilience, strength, and hope.

The staff was welcoming and knowledgeable, eager to share the significance of each artifact and piece of history. I left with a newfound appreciation for the contributions and struggles of those who helped shape this community. Whether you're a history buff or just looking to learn more about the local culture, The Lincolnville Museum is a must-visit. I highly...