Of all of the places we have been there is something truly special about taking a St. Augustine RV trip. Known as the oldest city in the country, St. Augustine is steeped in history and culture, with charming architecture, fascinating museums, and picturesque beaches. It is in Florida, after all. As soon as I arrived in this charming city, I was captivated by its unique atmosphere and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, St. Augustine has something to offer everyone, and I highly recommend adding it to your travel itinerary.
St. Augustine: Uncovering 450 Years of History in the Oldest City in the United States
St. Augustine, Florida boasts a captivating history that spans 450 years, originating in 1565 when Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, a Spanish explorer, founded the city. It holds the title of the longest continuously inhabited city in the United States. Throughout its history, St. Augustine has experienced strife with various European powers such as the French, British, and Spanish, and has been a vital location in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s.
History lovers will enjoy the discovering the age-old history of St. Augustine, Florida. From mesmerizing Castillo de San Marcos – America’s oldest masonry fortification dating from 1672 – to Flagler College and Fort Matanzas National Monument built in 1742, uncover centuries of impressive heritage as you explore this riveting city. Take a walk along stunning St George Street for views of colonial Spanish architecture or marvel at The Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse (circa 18th century) that will captivate your sense with its timeless beauty. Take a trip back in time and make unforgettable memories among these storied landmarks steeped in American culture!
Discover Anastasia State Park For Your St. Augustine RV Trip
Anastasia State Park is a beautiful and historic park located in St. Augustine, Florida. It is a popular destination for those on a St. Augustine RV trip, offering a range of recreational activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy. It also happens to be one of our absolute favorite state parks we have visited as RVers. The park features four miles of pristine Atlantic Ocean beaches and an impressive array of wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species. There are also several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the park’s diverse landscape, which includes sand dunes, salt marshes, and ancient dunes.
You will love the campground and how close it is to the beach
One of the main draws of Anastasia State Park is its campground, which features 139 full-hookup campsites and is conveniently located just a short walk from the beach. The campsites are spacious and well-maintained, and many offer views of the ocean or the park’s lush vegetation. There are also several picnic areas and pavilions, as well as a playground, making the park an ideal destination for families. We go a lot in the summer, and love the tree canopies over the sites. You can get a view of what they look like from the photos that I have included here. We usually walk to the beach, and the kids love brining their bicycles to zip around and play.
There are other things to do at Anastasia State Park
In addition to its beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife, Anastasia State Park also offers a range of recreational activities, including fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. There are several fishing spots within the park, including the St. Augustine Inlet, where anglers can try their hand at catching redfish, seatrout, and other saltwater species. The park also has a kayak and paddleboard rental concession, making it easy for visitors to explore the park’s scenic waterways. There is an Amphitheatre that hosts farmers markets, which is a favorite of RVers. For those who are looking for a more relaxed experience, there are several shaded picnic areas and pavilions, perfect for picnicking, reading, or simply enjoying the beautiful Florida weather. There is also a well-stocked park store where visitors can purchase snacks, drinks, and other supplies, as well as a picnic area with grills for cooking.
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How to Get Around St. Augustine
Getting around St. Augustine is easy and convenient, with a variety of transportation options available to visitors. For those who prefer a more leisurely and scenic way of exploring the city, trolley tours are a great option. These tours provide an overview of St. Augustine’s history, architecture, and landmarks, while also allowing riders to see the sights and sounds of the city at their own pace. Trolley tours are a convenient way to get around and see the city, as they offer multiple stops along the way and allow riders to hop on and off at their leisure.
There is always foot power for your St. Augustine RV Trip
Another option for getting around St. Augustine is by bike or on foot. The city is compact and easily walkable, with many attractions and destinations located within proximity of each other. Biking is also a popular way to get around, and there are several bike rental shops available for visitors.
Use your Toad, RV or call a rideshare
For those who prefer driving, there are also plenty of options for getting around in a car or RV. There are several parking lots and garages available throughout the city, and many of the major attractions have ample parking available. Visitors can also opt to take a taxi or rideshare service, or rent a car if you don’t have your own transportation.
When is the best time to visit St. Augustine Florida?
If you’re looking for the ideal time to visit for a St. Augustine RV trip the best months are from March to May. During this period, temperatures range from 65-75°F on average and there tend to be less tourist crowds than during peak summer months.
Most festivals in St. Augustine take place between March and May including many art shows and concerts as well as the annual Easter Parade – where you can see plenty of vibrant outfits, marching bands, and unique street performers. This three-month period is also a great time for outdoor activities like beach trips or exploring nearby nature preserves – both of which will be much more enjoyable thanks to the pleasant weather!
A St. Augustine RV Trip in the summer is also a great choice
Visiting St. Augustine in the summer is an excellent choice for those on an RV trip, as the city offers a wealth of exciting activities and attractions during this time of year. With long, sunny days and warm weather, the summer months provide the perfect backdrop for exploring all that St. Augustine has to offer. One of the main draws of visiting St. Augustine in the summer is the beautiful beaches. With miles of pristine coastline and crystal-clear waters, the city’s beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and playing in the surf. There are several beaches in the area, including St. Augustine Beach, the aforementioned Anastasia State Park Beach, and Crescent Beach, each offering a unique and stunning shoreline.
Don’t forget about the holiday season in St. Augustine
The most popular attraction during the holiday season in St. Augustine is the annual Nights of Lights festival, which features over two million twinkling lights installed along the historic streets and buildings throughout downtown. Visitors can also take part in various tours such as horse-drawn carriage rides or holiday boat cruises while admiring the gorgeous displays of lights that adorn the city.
Discover Unique Shopping in the Historic District
The historic district is home to a wide variety of shops and boutiques, offering everything from locally made crafts and artisanal goods to antiques and one-of-a-kind souvenirs. One of the best places to start your shopping adventure is St. George Street, which runs through the heart of the historic district and is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Here, you’ll find a mix of unique and independent shops, as well as well-known chain stores, offering everything from handmade jewelry and clothing to local souvenirs and gifts. If you’re looking for something truly unique and special, be sure to check out the art galleries and studios that are scattered throughout the historic district. Here, you’ll find works by local and regional artists, including paintings, sculptures, and other handcrafted items.
You Can Shop The Outlets During Your St. Augustine RV Trip
Another popular shopping destination in the historic district is the St. Augustine Premium Outlets, which offers a wide selection of high-end brands at discounted prices. From designer fashion to luxury home goods, this outlet mall is a great place to pick up some great deals on high-quality merchandise.
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Where to Eat
St. Augustine, Florida is a foodie’s paradise! Whether you feel like cooking up something in your RV or want to treat yourself with some delicious restaurant fare – the city has it all; from casual cafes and bars that hit the spot for any budget, to upscale eateries serving fresh seafood and classic Southern flavors as well as international dishes. Bon Appétit!
Casual and Quick Service
For those looking for a quick and casual meal, there are plenty of cafes and fast food restaurants throughout the city, including popular chains and local favorites. You can also grab a sandwich, wrap, or salad from one of the many delis and sandwich shops in the area.
There is many other dining options
For those looking for a sit-down meal, St. Augustine has a thriving restaurant scene, offering a variety of cuisines, atmospheres, and price points. Seafood is a staple in St. Augustine, and there are plenty of seafood restaurants in the area serving up fresh and delicious dishes like crab cakes, shrimp scampi, and grilled fish.
For a more upscale dining experience, you can try one of the city’s fine dining restaurants, many of which offer gourmet cuisine and sophisticated ambiance. From farm-to-table cuisine to fusion dishes, there’s something to suit every taste and budget.
For those looking for a unique dining experience, St. Augustine also has several historic taverns and pubs, many of which date back to the colonial period and offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history. You can enjoy a drink or a meal in these historic establishments, surrounded by centuries-old architecture and memorabilia.
Overall, St. Augustine offers a diverse range of dining options, from quick and casual to upscale and sophisticated, ensuring that you’ll never run out of places to eat during your RV trip. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, classic Southern cuisine, or international dishes, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your taste buds.
Other Resources
Here are some resources that you may find helpful for your St. Augustine RV Trip:
Visit St. Augustine – The official tourism website for St. Augustine, providing information on attractions, events, dining, shopping, and more: https://www.visitstaugustine.com/
St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum – A museum dedicated to pirates and treasure, including displays of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and more: https://www.thepiratemuseum.com/
Anastasia State Park: https://www.floridastateparks.org/anastasia
Sample 3 day Itinerary for your St. Augustine RV Trip
Are you looking for a fun and adventurous weekend getaway? Why not plan a 3-day St. Augustine RV trip? We’ve been here a few times and thought it would be a good idea to suggest a sample itinerary of things you may want to check out during your trip.
On your first day in the city, start off by visiting Castillo de San Marcos National Monument – a historic fort that was built by Spanish settlers in the late 1600s. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll through the charming colonial architecture of the historic district and browse through some of its quaint shops and cafes. As the day comes to an end, don’t miss out on watching an incredible sunset from St. Augustine Beach Pier!
Day two of your trip should include exploring the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum – which includes a 165-foot lighthouse as well as exhibits about the area’s maritime history. Then head over to Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park where you can learn about Native American culture and even sample some of their famous spring water! Finally, wrap up your evening with a ghost tour around town and hear stories about the city’s haunted history and folklore.
For your final day in St. Augustine visit Lightner Museum which is housed in a former hotel and filled with decorative arts and antiques dating back centuries ago. After that take a scenic boat ride down Matanzas River while admiring views of breathtaking waterfronts. And before you leave make sure to check out one of many performances at St. Augustine Amphitheater – an outdoor music venue hosting concerts throughout year!
In Summary
We love this city and have created many memories in this area. With its rich history, beautiful beaches, and diverse dining options, there are never any dull moments on our St . Augustine RV trips! We love visiting the historic district and shopping in the unique boutiques, as well as a new local restaurant on every trip down. The kids love the beach, and Anastasia State Park is one of our absolute favorites. We highly recommend you visit!
