The past weekend, Western New York got hit with snow. We knew it was coming but nothing prepares you for the frigid temperatures. They are calling for -21F tomorrow, EEEk! I am already missing sunshine. I am ready to escape the snow to brick laid streets, rich history and beaches! If you are feeling the winter blues this post is just for you, Let’s escape to Saint Augustine, Florida! It is hands down one of my favorite cities to visit. From historic museums to ghost tours there is truly something for everyone.
I received accommodation to facilitate my review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations.
Venture over the Bridge of lions and park your car on Cordova Street.
Take an early morning stroll down to Hot Shots Bakery. I completely stumbled upon this little gem on my last visit in town. When I say gem, listen, I mean it! As soon as you walk in the door you are greeted with a friendly welcome, cozy decor and the smell of sugar notes on the tip of your nose.
I just fancied some Sweet tea and to relax before my work officially began. After chatting with the decadent barista behind the counter, I was introduced to this fabulous dessert pictured above. This place houses handcrafted dishes, datil pepper condiments, food/wine tours and cooking classes for kids! I have visited the city many times and never graced this place… GO and give it a try!
A GEM, I promise you!
When the shops start to open, I love walking St. George Street. One of the places people gather with family and friends. It houses restaurants, shops, and local attractions. Many of these shops open later in the day and close by 5pm. That is why I enjoy walking the streets in the earlier hours because it is less crowded.
I learned so much about the tabby materials many of the places where built with while in Saint Simon’s Island. Walking down the streets of Saint Augustine I found it everywhere I turned. Look up the history it is fascinating, fun fact they still make it today! While in town see if you can spot tabby wall built structures. I would love to ship some of this up north and build something using it!
After a full afternoon of shopping, exploring and sightseeing I decided to check in to the St. Francis Inn. Did you know it is one of the oldest Inns and on the National historic Society list? Only steps away from the center of the historic city.
Waking up in Historic St. Augustine, Florida is so rejuvenating. Everything about this place entices me back every time I travel to the state of Florida. I wish I could explain it but I feel like I am home when visiting here. Maybe I have an old soul and it is anchored here, who knows. The rooms in the St. Francis Inn are adorned with modern touches that only add to your experience. Need more reasons to visit here? They have a swimming pool, dessert/beverages at night and a beautiful garden patio.
Plus, all of the unused toiletries get recycled. In all my years of traveling I have never come across an establishment who gives back in this way and I LOVE it!
On my second morning, I enjoyed breakfast at my lodging. Afterwards, I once again headed out to explore the city. Castillo De San Marcos Fort is my next suggestion. Because of the crowds that can come during the afternoon/evening hours I find the early bird catches the worm! This is also a great place to also explore with kids and immerse them in the rich history. They often have cannon demonstrations, tours and guards walking about to answer any questions you might have.
For lunch I tried another new location called, Pizza Dina. A little Italian restaurant tucked away off St. George Street. I enjoyed a delicious flatbread sandwich with some sparkling prosecco. The freshly made mozzarella complimented the prosciutto and fresh arugula. A simple, yet perfectly executed dish the all foodies can enjoy. They really have brought a taste of Italy to life here in Saint Augustine and I cannot wait for my next visit!
St. Augustine is such a wonderful town to visit I know I have only touched on a few key places to see, experience and visit. If you have more locations I must visit let me know in the comments! I truly love finding more establishments/reasons to keep coming back.
Was my “Let’s escape to Saint Augustine, Florida” post helpful?
What is your favorite place to see/visit while in town?
My family loves St. Augustine! We've been there many times and we always find something new we've missed. Wish I was there now!
Never been to this area but it looks beautiful. Looks like there is little something for everyone from outdoors, great food and shopping.
I have never been to St. Augustine but, now I really want to visit. Looks like such a beautiful place. I'll be in FL soon, I'll have to add it to our schedule.
This looks like such a cool place. I've never been here, but I hope to go at some point. I would love to explore the town.
I remember stopping there once about 15 years ago for a day. It was such a fun and charming spot to visit.
This is a much needed post as we sit here freezing! St Augustine looks beautiful I would love to visit.
I've been to St. Augustine several times and I always loved it. It's such a beautiful and historic place to visit.
I haven't been there but my son's grandparents lives in Fort Pierce and we loved it there. Will have to ask them about St. Augustine and hoping we could visit soon.
What a beautiful location! We actually have been wanting to go south for a while, most of our vacations have been on either the West or East coast. Florida is a must for us to see. All of that food looks amazing too!
St. Augustine seems like such a pretty town! I would love to visit one day!
Whenever we travel south, it is always Disney World. Now that the kids are older, maybe we will venture out to other places that are filled with historical sites and natural beauty. Thanks for the virtual tour of Saint Augustine. Fantastic place!
St. Augustine seems to hold the promise of some really great times. The place looks so enchanting and have a quiet and alluring charm of its own.
St. Augustine is beautiful! I have never been there but I saw it on TV and in pictures. I hope someday we can visit.
St. Augustine looks so beautiful and has so many things to offer visitors. Need to add this to my Florida agenda
St. Augustine is AWESOME!! Babushka has gone many times, the last being with Sweetie and he got to do a wine tasting. There is so much to do there, truly something for everyone. History and modern, side by side and perfecto in St. Augustine.
I adore St. Augustine! My first visit was as an adult with my dad and my daughter. Our second visit was a lovely time with 4 of our kids. Hoping to find a nice RV campground nearby and visit again soon.
Take me to St. Augustine already! I've never been there but could use a cold weather escape right now. Reminds me of some French cozy towns.