An Insider's Guide to St. Augustine
Established in 1565, St. Augustine is the nation's oldest continually inhabited town. Not much has changed structurally since the Spanish era, and a stroll through the historic district is akin to walking back in time. The historic district also hosts many live reenactments, so it is not uncommon to see period-appropriate actors mingling with the crowds, adding a layer of appeal to the historic town.
The best way to get around is on foot. Many of the cobblestone streets are closed to automobile traffic to make them more accessible to pedestrians. While St. Augustine is a famous tourist destination, many small shops, restaurants, and bars are not widely known, and these are where the locals frequent. I have lived in this fascinating town and visit its streets of discovery whenever possible. Here is how to see St. Augustine like a resident.
St. George Street
St. George Street is by far the most visited street in St. Augustine. Historic Downtown centers around the pedestrian-only street. Most buildings were built in the 18th century and contain various restaurants and boutiques today. The historic sites include the Oldest Wooden School House and the Pena-Peck House.
There is much to discover on St. George Street, including two small shopping malls and the local favorite, Rendezvous Beer Bar. The bar serves beer worldwide and has a small tapas menu. It is at the back of the mall near the back door that opens to Pizzalley's Chianti Bar, which serves the best Italian food in the historic town. An insider's tip is to frequent the spots where the period actors are to avoid heavy crowds, like Taberna del Caballo.
Aviles Street
According to archaeological records, Aviles Street is the oldest road in America and the artistic heart of St. Augustine. 11 Aviles Street has been home to various galleries and studios since the 1930s. There are unique live events like the First Friday Art Walk.
Vehicles, horse-drawn carriages, and pedestrian tours are welcome in the vibrant art district except during the live events, which only allow pedestrian traffic. Historic sites include the General Kirby House, home to the St. Augustine Historical Society. The historical information provided is fascinating and an ideal way to learn about the town.
The Love Tree
Seven love trees are throughout town, but none are more famous than the one at 6 Cordova Street. Love trees are two different types that grow through and around each other. Local lore holds that if two lovers kiss under one of the trees, they will never be separated. Photo opportunities abound, and it is not uncommon to have visitors ask if you will take their photo in front of one of the lover's trees.
The other six trees are at the Villa, Bridge Street, Mission Nombre de Dios, 294 St. George Street, Ameris Bank, and The Council on Aging. Embarking on a lover's scavenger hunt for these evergreens is a unique way to explore the historic district. Or, book a guided historical tour on a horse-drawn carriage to enhance the romantic aura.
Columbia Restaurant
The Columbia Restaurant on St. George Street is legendary. It is one of three, the first one opening in Tampa in 1905. The two-story building includes a shop on the first floor, while the top floor opens into an authentically Columbian restaurant that centers around an elegant fountain. The lunch menu differs slightly from the dinner menu, but either meal provides an excellent respite from a day in the historic district.
The restaurant's signature dish, the 1905 Salad, is available on both menus and gained a following since its inception in the 1970s. It includes Spanish olives, ham, swiss cheese, and Columbia's landmark 1905 salad dressing. A pitcher of their signature sangria is incredibly refreshing during a warm afternoon of discovering St. George Street.
Taberna del Caballo
Taberna del Caballo, formerly Taberna del Gallo, is an authentically Spanish-styled tavern in the Colonial Quarter. Its dirt floors, lanterns, and limited bar selections evoke an 18th-century Spanish Garrison. The back opens up to a quaint. covered courtyard, where it is not unusual to see and interact with local period actors who are still in their 18th-century costumes.
The taberna is perfect for seasonal tapas and a relaxed, hand-crafted drink (no mixes) instead of an extravagant meal. Those looking for a full menu can order from the St. Augustine Company and enjoy their meals at the bar or on the back patio. St. Augustine Company is another popular seafood eatery for residents and visitors at the entrance to the Colonial Quarter.
The White Lion
A St. Augustine landmark, The White Lion Bar and Grill is a traditional pub with an al fresco area and pool tables. It has been a popular gathering spot for locals since 1973 and one of the best places for a nightcap. The courtyard opens unto Cuna Street, a slide road with historic architecture and several air B&Bs.
The patio also has views of the famed Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, an 18th-century Spanish fort. The neighborhood pub was originally a home during the 19th century, and it is rumored that a rum runner killed the homeowner. Once it became a boot legger's bar, legend claims there was another murder. Today, like many other buildings, the White Lion is considered haunted and is on several ghost tours around town.
St. Francis Inn
Historic St. Francis Inn is the US's longest continually operated bed and breakfast inn. Dating back to 1791, the quaint inn offers several themed rooms with modern amenities. The extensive amenities list includes cocktail hour, hot cocoa on the patio, and food and drinks, which are free to guests. The romantic inn is on St. George Street but far enough away from the crowded part to offer a secluded stay.
It is located at 279 St. George Street and is a short walk to the notable Bridge of Lions and the Colonial Quarter. This part of St George Street is surrounded by narrow brick-lined streets that lead to many cultural attractions and historic sites. The inn offers a parking lot across the street, a much-coveted amenity in historic St. Augustine, and a weekend stay, one of the best ways to truly experience the town.
St. Augustine is a magical town that offers something for everyone. Tourist sites like Ripley's Believe It or Not and the Fountain of Youth are fun to discover, but the best way to see the town is to visit the areas that locals frequent. From the grand Columbia Restaurant to the charming Taberna del Caballo, the town has a different atmosphere than the highly visited landmarks.
Since most buildings have been around since at least the 1800s, many are considered haunted, which adds to the town's natural charm. There are also several Lover's Trees, and going on a romantic excursion to look for them leads lovers through the "local" parts of Historic Downtown, where many homes and inns can be discovered. There is always something to do and see in St. Augustine, and exploring the less visited areas is the best way to view the town.
