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Museums & Churches

st. augustine landmarks

Must-Visit

St. Augustine Museums

St. Augustine, steeped in history and culture, is home to a wealth of captivating museums and awe-inspiring churches that you ought to include in your vacation itinerary. These magnificent landmarks, each with a story to tell, offer insightful glimpses into the city’s rich past and deep-rooted traditions. Whether you’re a history buff seeking to unravel the intriguing tales of the oldest city in the U.S. or a spiritual soul yearning for tranquility and enlightenment, St. Augustine’s museums and churches offer a remarkable journey that caters to diverse interests and promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.

Ray Charles wax figure
st augustine historic sites

Things To Do at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum

At the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, visitors can climb the 219 steps to the top for a panoramic view of the city, explore shipwreck artifacts, and learn about the lighthouse keepers through interactive exhibits. The combination of breathtaking views, intriguing history, and family-friendly activities make them an unmissable highlight for any St. Augustine vacation. The museum’s commitment to preserving and sharing St. Augustine’s maritime history creates an educational and enriching experience that captivates visitors of all ages.

Governor’s House Cultural Center And Museum

Things To Do at the Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum

Today, the Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum offers visitors an immersive journey through St. Augustine’s rich history. Step inside to explore exhibits tracing the building’s evolution from its inception to the present day. The newly updated lobby serves as a dynamic space for rotating exhibits, showcasing captivating displays that bring the past to life. Beyond its role as a museum, the Governor’s House serves as a versatile event space. The Sala de Montiano Room, a popular venue for weddings and celebrations, along with the expansive courtyard, provides an ideal setting for gatherings of up to 120 people. From educational workshops and seminars to cultural celebrations and historical reenactments, the Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum offers a diverse array of experiences that enrich community knowledge and celebrate the city’s vibrant heritage.

Villa Zorayda Museum

Things To Do at the Villa Zorayda Museum

Visitors to Villa Zorayda Museum, one of the premier St. Augustine museums, are enthralled by the Grand Alhambra Hall, renowned for its detailed architecture that echoes a Moorish palace. A highlight is the “Cut Glass” exhibit, showcasing exquisite American Brilliant Period glass. The museum also offers an audio tour featuring the history of each room for a more immersive experience.

At Villa Zorayda Museum, a St. Augustine museum with storied allure, visitors should not miss the “Court of Lions” exhibit, a tribute to the original Alhambra palace’s courtyard. Self-guided audio tours, available in English, Spanish, and French, enrich the experience, detailing 138 years of the villa’s vibrant history and its 98% original art and antique collection. The tours encourage guests to explore at their own pace.

Old Jail Museum

Things To Do at the Old Jail Museum

At the Old Jail Museum, a key attraction within the St. Augustine museum community, visitors can embark on a journey through time with an informative and engaging guided tour. This family-friendly expedition transports guests through the prisoners’ cells, which hold the echoes of inmates’ pasts. Venturing through the foreboding maximum security area reveals a piece of penal history that is as fascinating as it is sobering. The tour culminates with a chilling view of the gallows, a reminder of the consequences of crime in bygone eras. Not to be overlooked, the sheriff’s quarters offer a glimpse into how the other half lived, literally a world away from the incarcerated. Alongside these captivating sights, the museum showcases a variety of weapons and artifacts, each contributing to the palpable sense of history that makes the Old Jail Museum a must-see among the St. Augustine museums.

Pirate & Treasure Museum

Things To Do at the Pirate & Treasure Museum

The Pirate & Treasure Museum in St. Augustine is a treasure trove of pirate lore, boasting an 800-piece collection. Highlights include the world’s oldest known treasure chest, one of the only three remaining original Jolly Roger flags, Blackbeard’s blunderbuss, and gold from his ship, the Queen Anne’s Revenge. Visitors can immerse themselves in a 17th-century buccaneer’s life by hoisting flags, firing a cannon, and walking the cobblestone streets of Port Royal. Explore a pirate ship, view an award-winning Disney documentary on Blackbeard, see the world’s oldest wanted poster, and marvel at a centuries-old gold bar. An exhibit celebrates Hollywood’s favorite pirates, and the outdoor deck offers stunning views of Matanzas Bay.

A Guide to the

Historic Churches of St. Augustine

Cathedral Basilica

Things To Do at the Cathedral Basilica

Explore the history of the Cathedral Basilica in St Augustine by taking a guided tour of the public and not-so-public locations within the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Augustine. Tour stops include the choir loft, sacristy, confessional, baptistery, chapel and more. Delve deeper into the symbolism of the edifice and its past in the informative tours. Learn the stories behind the stained-glass windows, the Stations of the Cross, the bishop’s coat of arms in the rafters, the murals, and the three burials within the church. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to purchase religious items at the Cathedral gift shop.

Baptist Church

Things To Do at the Ancient City Baptist Church

Explore the Ancient City Baptist Church with a visit to the history room, a repository of early memorabilia and archived insights. A host will welcome you, answer any questions, and point you in the right direction for you to explore at your own pace. This combination of exploration and enlightenment offers a unique perspective into this historical landmark of St. Augustine.

Grace United Methodist Church

Things To Do at Grace United Methodist Church

Experience the architectural splendor of Grace United Methodist Church in St. Augustine. Join a spiritually uplifting worship service and appreciate the serene environment. Key attractions include stained-glass windows and original pews, reflecting the church’s rich history. This visit provides not only a historical perspective but also a chance to engage in meaningful spiritual reflection.

History of the

St. Photios Greek Shrine

The St. Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine, on historic St. George Street, pays homage to America’s first Greek settlement. As part of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, this shrine, constructed in 1749, commemorates the inaugural Greek immigrants to St. Augustine, Florida. The profound historical resonance and spiritual importance of the St. Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine make it a compelling destination for those eager to immerse themselves in St. Augustine’s cultural legacy.

Things To Do at the St. Photios Greek Shrine

At St. Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine, visitors can marvel at the Byzantine-style murals, adorned with 22-karat gold leaf, which reflect the apostles and saints of the Christian church. Special exhibits illuminate the narrative of the first Greek colony in the New World, featuring various artifacts, photographs, and historical documents. You can visit the Shrine Chapel and museum and take a stroll through the gift shop on-site that sells religious items, Greek food goods, and jewelry.

Mission Nombre de Dios

Things To Do at Mission Nombre de Dios

At Mission Nombre de Dios, explore the museum with exhibits and artifacts, including the original casket of Menendez from 1574. The chapel dedicated to Our Lady of La Leche houses a beautifully carved statue of Mary and baby Jesus. Discover archaeological excavations and a historic cemetery on the grounds. This unique blend of history and spirituality makes it an important and enriching visit.

FAQs

What’s the oldest church in St. Augustine, Florida?

The oldest church in St. Augustine, Florida, is the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, which traces its origins back to the Spanish settlers who landed in 1565. The current structure, completed in the 1700s, stands as a testament to St. Augustine’s rich history and cultural diversity. A National Historic Landmark, it continues to serve as an active parish, a pilgrimage site, and a beacon of historical and architectural interest for visitors.

Who built Mission Nombre de Dios?

Mission Nombre de Dios was built by Spanish settlers who arrived in the New World in 1565. They established the mission as part of their efforts to spread Christianity in the area now known as St. Augustine, Florida. The Great Cross, which stands on the mission grounds, was erected to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the first Catholic Mass held there by the parish.

Which is one of the most famous museums?

One of the most famous museums in St. Augustine, Florida, is the museum at Mission Nombre de Dios. It provides a captivating narrative of St. Augustine’s founding and the propagation of Christianity from 1565 to the present day. In addition to its historical exhibits, the museum also houses artifacts, including the original casket of Menendez from 1574. The site is renowned for its blend of history and spirituality, making it a significant and enriching destination for visitors.

How long does it take to go through the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum?

The duration of a visit to the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum can vary greatly depending on the visitor’s interest in pirate history. However, most guests spend between one and two hours exploring the exhibits. This allows sufficient time to read the informative displays, interact with the hands-on exhibits, and fully experience the treasure-hunting adventure. Remember, the museum is self-guided, so you can explore at your own pace and delve into the rich history of piracy.

MEET OUR WAX STUDIO

Potter’s studio is where the magic happens! Every part of the process except for fiberglassing the body is done here. Figures are sculpted, painted, dressed, and detailed in view of guests.

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