St. Augustine — The Oldest City in the U.S. | Travel Guide

My third day here — so beautiful I’m running out of space in my travel journal! 📒💖 📍 Where is it? A historic port city in northeastern Florida, about a 2-hour drive north from Orlando. 🏛️ Rich in history: Dating back over 440 years — even older than the United States itself! Founded by Spanish explorers in the 16th century, it’s home to the oldest masonry fort in the U.S. and is often called “Where America Began.” 🍽️ What to eat: Highly recommend “Sunday” for brunch 🥑 — around $13 per person. Try the avocado sandwich and salmon salad! Many recommend "Henry’s Seafood," but I found it overpriced. Plenty of cozy spots along the coast — just check the menus outside and pick what looks good! Sweet stop: “The Hyppo” for popsicles 🍓🍑🥭 — their fruit flavors are refreshing and not too sweet. 🅿️ Parking tips: Avoid the $10-15 lots near attractions! Look for free 2-hour street parking outside the downtown area. Downtown meters: $2.5/hour. Free street parking along the coast after 5 PM (Mon–Sat). 🎡 What to do: Flagler College 🏛️: One of the most beautiful campuses in the U.S. Free to walk around; guided tours available for $10. Castillo de San Marcos 🏰: Oldest masonry fort in the U.S., built by the Spanish in the 17th century. Offers stunning views of the bay. Lightner Museum 🖼️: Housed in a gorgeous historic hotel. The architecture and courtyard are worth the visit — saw a couple taking wedding photos there! Saint George Street 🛍️: A centuries-old Spanish-style pedestrian street with shops and cafes — peaceful and charming. Flagler Memorial Presbyterian Church ⛪: Built in 1889 in Venetian Renaissance style. Free to visit on weekdays. Cathedral Basilica 🙏: Florida’s oldest church, designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970. #RomanticTravel #TravelUSA #Florida #StAugustine #HiddenGems #TravelGuide #HistoricTowns