The nation’s oldest city is nearing its 450th anniversary. Imagine that! New World history and the Spanish empire’s might surround you as you traverse the heart of Old Town via St. George Street. This is engaging pedestrians-only main drag is comprised of five city blocks chock full of historical venues, shops and dining. Ghost lore abounds here; don’t miss the kiosk touting “a ghostly experience” walking and trolley tours (ghosttoursofstaugustine.com) near the Old City Gates. The stretch known as the Colonial Spanish Quarter has plenty of authenticity. Pirate festivals beckon scallywags to be part of the entertaining street scene here. Stop to read a plaque on the coquina stone walls about the struggles of Minorcan settlers who left the coast of Spain, circa late 1700s. Proud descendants still call St. Augustine home. Stroll to the 120 block of St. George for two darling shops — Dragonflies (904.819.0499) for funky scarves and Red Pineapple (904.342.0876), where every spare inch of space is dotted with handcrafted necklaces.
St. George Steet: Things to Do
- Oldest Schoolhouse — Red cedar and cypress were used as building materials. oldestwoodenschoolhouse.com
- St. George Inn — In a sought-after locale near all the shops and buzz, the suite with sunrise views over the historic Castillo de San Marcos is the best. stgeorge-inn.com
- Milltop Tavern — Take the steps up one flight for live tunes, a cold one and a treetop panorama of the harbor. milltoptavern.com
- Colonial Spanish Quarter Gift Shop — Find a collection of historical-reproduction pewter beer steins. staugustinegovernment.com
- Taberna del Gallo — This 1734 historic tavern is in the Colonial Spanish Quarter. With bartenders in period garb, the best sangria and historic dice games, you’ll be singing seafaring ditties with the local Bilge Rats. staugustinegovernment.com
- Spanish Bakery — Enjoy empanadas and cinnamon cookies. thespanishbakery.com
- Tasting Room — Turn off at Cuna Street for a taste of Barcelona; pair the fresh catch with one of 70 Spanish wines. tastetapas.com
