
Rather than sitting around playing board games or watching movies with the grandkids this summer, explore the history and excitement of St. Augustine with them by venturing to these museums, beaches and attractions.
The Old City
Take the afternoon to stroll along downtown St. Augustine’s historic district, which harkens back 400 years ago to the days of conquistadors and pirates. In each section of the Colonial Quarter, visitors can revel in authentic ship construction, musket drills and leatherworking demonstrations. This “living museum” can be explored on your own or with a tour guide who can offer insights into what life was like in colonial St. Augustine.
As you saunter down St. George Street, take a seat and dine at one of the many charming cafes. Find relief from the summer heat by resting for a spell while treating your grandchildren to some of the best ice cream in the area. After lunch, peruse the street’s many boutiques, like Sunburst Crystal and Tillie’s Bath Cottage, or stop by the Oldest Wooden School House.
For those who aren’t keen on trekking up and down the street, there are Old Town Trolley Tours which offer two stops, allowing you to take a break from walking while keeping you actively involved in your family’s quest to explore the Old City’s central thoroughfare.
Castillo de San Marcos
On a cooler afternoon, bring your family to Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. As one of only two forts in the world constructed from coquina, and the only surviving 17th-century military site in the U.S., it’s an unforgettable peek into American military practices throughout the centuries.
The park offers a Junior Ranger Program for children ages 6 to 12 in which they earn a certificate for completing all the activities in their booklet. This program is a compelling way for you to immerse your younger family members in the splendor, excitement and mystery of centuries past.
St. Augustine Beach
If relaxing on a sunny shore sounds like fun to you, take the family out for a lazy afternoon at St. Augustine Beach. The uncrowded atmosphere makes it the perfect venue for bonding and relaxing with your grandchildren and is slow-paced, so you don’t feel rushed to experience everything in a short amount of time.
If your grandchildren don’t know how to fish, take the opportunity to teach them by visiting the St. Johns County Ocean and Fishing Pier at the north end of the beach for an unforgettable experience.
Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
Take an hour or two to visit a unique piece of history dating back approximately 4,500 years. Although this attraction is explored by thousands of visitors each year, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park is still shrouded in mystery and excitement. It is the site of the mythical spring – the Fountain of Youth – believed to have anti-aging properties, as well as a planetarium, blacksmith shop and nearly 30 resident peacocks for your grandchildren to marvel at.
Bring the legend to life by taking a drink from the fountain and sticking around for the cannon firing demonstration.
St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum
Gather your young buccaneers and climb aboard a replica pirate ship at the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum. Take the kids on a guided tour with the museum’s resident pirate, Captain Mayhem, and search for the museum’s hidden treasure clues. On the tour, you’ll get a glimpse of the world’s oldest “Wanted” poster, the world’s only pirate treasure chest and one of the last surviving 17th-century Jolly Roger flags.
Assisted Living in St. Augustine, FL
At the end of the day, put your feet up at a senior living community dedicated to providing its residents with a well-balanced lifestyle. With personalized care plans and activities tailored to enrich your life, the community at Silver Creek Retirement will give you piece of mind so you can live life to the fullest. For more information about all that our community offers, contact us online or call 800-940-0988 today!
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