In St. Johns County, families can step back in time, cruise coastal waters, and enjoy delicious dining—all within a charming and historic setting. Here’s a two-day itinerary built for maximum exploration and relaxation.
Day One: History, Gators & Waterfront Views 🐊⛪🌅
Morning: Sunrise Beach Walk
Begin with a tranquil 🌅 sunrise stroll along St. Augustine Beach—a calm way to ease into the day while collecting seashells 🐚 or snapping family photos.
Mid-Morning: St. Augustine Alligator Farm
Head to the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park for a mix of thrills and learning. 🐊 See exotic reptiles, rare birds, and the park’s famous albino alligators.
Lunch: The Floridian
Enjoy fresh, locally sourced fare at The Floridian, a downtown favorite with something for every palate—from hearty Southern dishes to veggie-forward options 🥗🍗.
Afternoon: Castillo de San Marcos & Old Town Trolley
Visit Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. 🏰 Then hop on the Old Town Trolley Tour to explore more of St. Augustine’s historic landmarks 🚌.
Dinner: O.C. White’s
Dine at O.C. White’s, a family-friendly spot with 🎶 live music, 🐟 local seafood, and scenic views of the bayfront.
Day Two: Pirates, Cruises & Chocolate 🏴☠️🚤🍫
Morning: Breakfast at Maple Street Biscuit Company
Start the day with biscuit sandwiches and cinnamon treats at Maple Street Biscuit Company 🥞—a local favorite sure to satisfy every appetite.
Mid-Morning: Pirate & Treasure Museum + Colonial Quarter
🏴☠️ Discover pirate lore at the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, then explore hands-on history at the Colonial Quarter, where kids can climb watchtowers and see blacksmiths in action 🔨.
Lunch & Cruise: Florida Water Tours
Enjoy a midday cruise with Florida Water Tours 🚤. These narrated boat rides offer views of dolphins 🐬, historic landmarks, and the scenic Matanzas River shoreline.
Afternoon Treats: Whetstone Chocolates
Stop by Whetstone Chocolates 🍫 for a factory tour or a quick sweet treat to take home.
Dinner: Salt Life Food Shack
Wrap up your staycation with dinner at Salt Life Food Shack, a relaxed beachside spot with fresh seafood and ocean vibes 🐠🍹.
💎 Hidden Gem: Fort Mose Historic State Park
Families are often surprised to learn about Fort Mose, the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in the U.S. “Kids love exploring the boardwalk through the salt marsh,” says Susan Phillips, President & CEO of the St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches Visitors & Convention Bureau. “It’s an inspiring place that brings history to life.” 🌿🦅
🐞 New Family Attractions
Check out the Disease Vector Education Center, also known as the 🦟 “Mosquito Museum,” which opened in March 2024. With interactive exhibits, a bug-themed playground 🛝, and a simulated helicopter ride 🚁, it offers education and entertainment in equal measure.
Visit floridashistoriccoast.com for more information.
👉 Check out 48 Hours in Flagler County: A Coastal Escape
👉 Check out 48 Hours in Volusia County: Beach Days & Raceways
