Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park — Attraction in Saint Augustine

This review is in response to the park's review of my wife's one star rating.

The following is the park's response to my wife's review: "We wish you had added the information that you DID stay at the Park and tour for close to 2 hours...with the guests you had used as a reason to request a refund. We refunded your child's ticket after you told us he was only 5 ( the age groups for admission prices are clearly shown on multiple signs at the ticket area). We will validate tickets for return visits in certain situations; based on details you failed to provide in this review, your situation did not merit a refund."

We traveled almost two hours to specifically visit St. Augustine and the Fountain of Youth from Orlando. We were visiting for the week from Texas for a Disney vacation and decided to take a day to go the beach and the Fountain of Youth.

I paid for three adult tickets, one senior ticket and one child ticket. Once we realized that the park required lots of walking, we requested a refund for my mother in law because she has health issues and could not fully participate in the park. Once we found out about all the walking, she was going to either hang out at the entrance of the park or sit in the car until we finished.

I was told that the park COULD NOT issue refunds, even after I explained the situation with my mother in law. They flat out refused, not saying that they WOULD NOT refund the ticket, but that they COULD NOT.

After I mistakenly paid for my son's ticket and later realized that he should have gotten in free, I told the ticket booth workers to leave his paid ticket for the next family that had a kid so they did not have to pay.

The ticket booth workers then refunded my son's ticket on the spot. Once I brought the fact to their attention that they obviously COULD refund my mother in law's ticket, they still refused.

My mother in law attempted to participate in the park, making it to the planetarium, watching the performance and then she was unable to participate further and instead went and sat back at the entrance. Hardly what I would call "touring the park for close to two hours".

The sad thing is, we still intended to enjoy the park for the tickets we purchased, my mother in law was the only one who was not going to participate. So, yes, you best believe we "DID stay at the Park and tour for close to 2 hours..."

The other sad thing is, the park would have been thoroughly enjoyable had I not been irritated over the ticket issue. I am a huge history buff and generally enjoy things like that.

I had even intended to spend money on souvenirs and trinkets to take back to family and friends in Texas, but based on principle alone, I refused.

Also, we searched high and low for anything on the park's nonexistent refund policy and did not...

Step into the mystical realm of Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where history dances with legend to weave a tapestry of wonder. As a local aficionado of all things historical, this park holds a cherished place in my heart, and here's why:Timeless Marvels: 🕰️ Picture this – you're strolling through the very grounds where Ponce de Leon first set foot in 1513. It's like taking a journey through the annals of time itself, with each step revealing ancient artifacts and tales of exploration that stir the soul.Optimal Visiting Times: ☀️ Now, if you really want to soak in the magic, I'd recommend timing your visit for the quieter hours of early morning or late afternoon. That way, you can savor the serenity and soak up the historical ambiance without the crowds.Discount Discoveries: 💰 Keep your eagle eyes peeled for any special discounts or promotions that might be hiding in plain sight. You never know – there could be a treasure trove of savings waiting for savvy explorers like yourself.Interactive Adventures: 🎉 Prepare to be awestruck by the park's interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. From cannon firings to ancient crafts in action, every moment is an invitation to dive deeper into the past and experience history firsthand.Family-Friendly Fun: 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Got the whole crew in tow? Fear not! With activities tailored to all ages, everyone can join in on the excitement and create memories that will last a lifetime.Seasonal Surprises: 🎉 Ah, but the adventure doesn't end there! Throughout the year, the park hosts a slew of special events and themed celebrations that add an extra sprinkle of magic to your visit. Be sure to mark your calendar and seize the opportunity to make your experience even more extraordinary.In essence, Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park isn't just a destination – it's a portal to the past, a celebration of discovery, and an invitation to embark on an adventure like no other. So gather your curiosity, pack your sense of wonder, and prepare to be enchanted by all that this historical haven...

My husband and I were vacationing in St. Augustine for my birthday weekend and we decided to do the Fountain of Youth touristy thing that our relatives have been telling us about. We visited on a Saturday morning around 9:45am and we fortunately beat the crowds as the parking lot only had about 5 cars and we only encountered a handful of guests walking around.

Entrance for adults was about $23 including tax, total for both of us was about $43.90, which had 1 admission discounted for military vet with ID.

We first walked over to the Fountain of Youth building, which had a friendly female guide informing us about some interesting facts on the displays. There is a small stairway down to the spring where the water is coming from. The water itself is unimpressive and had a sulfur metal taste which reminded me of our home's well water prior to filtration. The "fountain" experience is underwhelming so I believe that the allure of the place is the historic value / significance, the lovely scenery, and the beautiful park birds.

My husband and I really enjoyed meeting the peacocks and hens. The pigeons were also super friendly and landed on my husband while I was trying to feed the peacocks. Make sure you bring your camera or camera phone with you prior to visiting since the park is full of photo op locations.

Restrooms are next to the souvenir shop and are the cleanest restrooms I've ever seen in a park / state tourist attraction.

We walked over to the watchtower between the cannon show and after climbing about 40 stairs, we were able to see around the park. The watchtower is closed 10 minutes prior to each hourly cannon show so remember to watch the time if you're interested in climbing the tower.

The entire park has lots to see so water, comfy walking shoes, and clothing / sun screen are a must-have if you plan to explore.

As a side note, the food stalls near the ticket shop were closed when we arrived (around 9:30 am) so either eat before you visit early in the morning, or bring snacks to tide you over...