Sunny with a Chance of Showers
Step back in history—and into the tropics—when you visit St. Augustine on Florida's Atlantic coast. The breeze off the ocean offsets the humidity, but the annual average temperature—79 degrees—coupled with afternoon showers in the summer rainy season, still means muggy days and nights. Pack your sun hat, beach sandals, shades and umbrella for your vacation in America's oldest settled city. Summer temps can hit the 90s, but winter brings 60-degree days and occasionally overnight lows in the 30s. The average 50 inches of rain you can encounter from May to October is not a problem; get wet then walk around in the sun to dry off—just like a local.
Forever Young
Start your trip with an old-fashioned trolley tour to see the sights and check off must-explore attractions. The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park features a sip of the spring's elixir, a recreated ancient native Timucuan village and 16th-century Spanish mission, and the hourly firing of a replica Conquistadors' cannon. The Pirate & Treasure Museum has a real Jolly Roger flag, treasure chests and shipwreck artifacts. The Historic District is worth an afternoon alone of strolling cobblestone streets to explore a Spanish Colonial town with its amazing architecture, centuries-old cathedral and lively King Street cafes and shops. At night, scare yourself silly with a ghost tour. By day, head to the 43 miles of pristine, sugar-sand beach, and bring your boogie board or surfboard.
Family-Friendly St. Augustine
Tourism is the vibrant economic engine that keeps St. Augustine moving. Florida's longstanding reliance on tourism—and the ideal location and climate conditions—means you're in good hands on your vacation. Go golfing; the city and surrounding areas have numerous world-class golf courses and weather that lets you tee off year-round. Healthcare, education, and defense manufacturing and security are additional major employers in St. John's County and in St. Augustine, the county's largest city.
Travel There Tips
Historic St. Augustine is a place out of time, but it's definitely on the map. Jacksonville International Airport is a major air hub 50 miles north; Daytona Beach International Airport is about 50 miles south. Driving in? St. Augustine is just off Interstate 95, U.S. Highway 1 and slow-but-scenic Florida Highway A1A. Interstates 10, 4 and 75 connect St. John's County to the rest of Florida. Amtrak pulls into stations in Jacksonville and Palatka, so you'll need ground transportation. The bus lets you off on Castillo Drive in town, not far from the Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum.
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