Free and Inexpensive Things to Do in St. Augustine

If you're visiting the stunning Florida coast for the winter, there are many free and inexpensive things to do in St. Augustine. From splashing in the waves to exploring cultural landmarks, there are things the whole family will enjoy. And you don't have to break the bank to experience them! Here are our top 10 recommendations. Check them out, and be sure to add a few of them to your to-do list when you're in town!

1. The Beach

Of course, the number one reason to stay in St. Augustine is the 42 miles of shoreline. Whether you're building sand castles, relaxing in the sun, hunting shells and crabs, or just enjoying the peaceful ocean breeze, a day at the beach is never wasted. 

2. Historic Downtown St. Augustine

A walk around the historic district is always a nice way to spend time, plus walking is great exercise! If you are visiting during the month of January, the Nights of Lights continues until January 31, and once the craziness of Christmas is over, it's not as crowded downtown. You definitely need to take a stroll down St. George Street and visit the charming shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Don't forget to check out the side streets for more interesting places to explore!

3. Fort Matanzas 

A short ride down A1A, you can ride the free ferry over to Fort Matanzas, a watchtower completed by the Spanish in 1742 to guard the southern entrance to St. Augustine. Admission to the park and the ferry ride is free. Check their website for hours of operation and updates on the ferry to the Fort. *Note: the ferry does not currently run on Tuesdays. 

4. Castillo De San Marcos 

The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is a wonderful demonstration of expert preservation, protecting the oldest masonry fortification in the US. Built by the Spanish to safeguard both Florida and the Atlantic trade route, it stands today as a monument to more than 450 years of cultural influence. It is open to the public seven days a week except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

A maximum capacity of 350 visitors in the historic fort at any time will be in effect. The first admission is at 9:00 AM, and the last is at 5:00 PM. The Castillo closes, and visitors must exit at 5:15 PM. The park grounds are closed from midnight until 5:30 AM. The Castillo de San Marcos is considered to be a "walk-in" park. The entrance fee applies to each individual. Tickets are not transferable and cannot be given to other guests. The entrance fee for adults (16 and above) is $15.00 and is valid for 7 consecutive days. Children (15 and under) are admitted free but must be with an adult. Only credit and debit cards are accepted for payment. You can find more information at https://www.nps.gov/foma/index.htm. 

5. Fort Mose Historic State Park 

This is the first free African settlement in North America. The original fort is no longer there, but the site and visitor center honor those who escaped slavery. The site is open from 9 AM to 5 PM daily, and admission is free; museum admission is only $2.00.

6. Historic Church Tours 

There are beautiful historic churches in the area, including Memorial Presbyterian Church, Mission Nombre de Dios, St. Augustine Cathedral Basilica, and Grace United Methodist Church. Check church websites for tour dates and times.

7. Governor's House Cultural Center and Museum 

This was the residence of Florida's Spanish and English colonial governors and has hosted many visitors, including two Kings of Spain. The exhibit in the lobby shows the great history of this historic city - the oldest continuously occupied settlement in the United States. Admission is free and open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.

8. St. Photios National Greek Orthodox Shrine

This monument honors the first Greek settlers in America. There is no cost to enjoy a tour of the museum and beautiful chapel filled with Byzantine-style icons and frescoes. It is open 9 AM to 5 PM Monday to Saturday and Noon to 6 PM Sunday.

9. National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche at Mission Nombre de Dios Museum 

This shrine is located on the mission grounds where you can learn about the early days of Catholicism in St. Augustine. Admission is free and while here, you can visit the Great Cross that is the tallest free-standing cross in the Western Hemisphere and marks the spot of the first Catholic Mass in the United States. The La Leche Chapel is located on the grounds as well. Hours are 10 AM to 4 PM Monday to Saturday and on Sunday Noon to 4:00 PM

10. GTM Research Reserve 

The GTM Research Reserve, one of the country's 29 special estuarine research areas, starts in Ponte Vedra and continues south for 40 miles to Marineland. Containing 74,000 acres that includes salt marches and a maritime hammock, it's wonderful for exploring, hiking, and launching boats and kayaks. The Visitor Center in the northern section of the Reserve has life-size replicas of fish and wildlife living in the estuary. It is open 9 AM to 4 PM daily except for Sunday and Monday.

Book Your St. Augustine Getaway Today!

This is just a short list of free and inexpensive things to do in St. Augustine during your visit. Beyond these, you'll still find tons of things to discover and enjoy here in our beautiful, historic town. After a day of learning and exploring, return to your oceanfront retreat and enjoy the relaxing sights and sounds of the ocean just outside your condo at Barefoot Trace Condominiums. For the best rates and service on your vacation rental, be sure to book directly with Coastal Realty!