The top cities between Augusta and Orlando are St. Augustine, Savannah, Titusville, Daytona Beach, Jacksonville, Saint Augustine Beach, DeLand, Fernandina Beach, Ormond Beach, and New Smyrna Beach. St. Augustine is the most popular city on the route. It's 5 hours from Augusta and 2 hours from Orlando.
Savannah, a charming coastal city in Georgia, is famous for its well-maintained parks, horse-drawn carriages, and historic architecture. The city's historic district features cobblestone squares and picturesque parks like Forsyth Park with its oak trees draped in Spanish moss. The Gothic-Revival Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist stands at the heart of this area.
98% as popular as St. Augustine
13 minutes off the main route, 36% of way to Orlando
Fernandina Beach, located on Amelia Island in Florida, is the county seat of Nassau County and the northernmost city on Florida's Atlantic coast. It is part of Greater Jacksonville and was originally inhabited by the Timucuan Indians.
7% as popular as St. Augustine
25 minutes off the main route, 60% of way to Orlando
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Jacksonville, the most populous city in Florida, is situated on the Atlantic coast of northeastern Florida and serves as the seat of Duval County. Known for its vast area, it offers a diverse range of experiences from coastal enclaves to downtown attractions along the St. Johns River. The city's consolidation with Duval County in 1968 expanded its reach, making it the largest city by area in the contiguous United States.
18% as popular as St. Augustine
3 minutes off the main route, 66% of way to Orlando
Located on the northeast coast of Florida, St. Augustine is renowned as the oldest city in the United States, having been established in 1565. Its Spanish colonial architecture adds to its charm, and visitors can enjoy Atlantic Ocean beaches such as Crescent Beach or explore Anastasia State Park's protected wildlife sanctuary. One must-see attraction is Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century stone fortress that offers breathtaking views of St. Augustine Inlet.
Most popular city on this route
12 minutes off the main route, 74% of way to Orlando
St. Augustine Beach is a petite town situated on Anastasia Island, renowned for its extensive beaches facing the Atlantic Ocean. The St. Johns County Ocean Pier presents fishing opportunities and an oceanfront park that features volleyball courts, a playground, and a splash zone for children to enjoy. Ocean Hammock Park functions as a nesting site for sea turtles and offers amenities such as nature trails and picnic areas.
19% as popular as St. Augustine
16 minutes off the main route, 74% of way to Orlando
I'll never travel to Orlando without this trip planner again
Ormond Beach is a city located in Volusia County, Florida. With a population of 38,137 according to the 2010 census, it is the principal city of the Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach Metropolitan Statistical Area. Located north of Daytona Beach, Ormond Beach features Tomoka State Park and the scenic Ormond Scenic Loop & Trail which spans 34 miles through stunning landscapes including oceanfront views and live oak tree canopies.
5% as popular as St. Augustine
8 minutes off the main route, 83% of way to Orlando
New Smyrna Beach, located in Florida just south of Daytona Beach, is a popular destination for surfers and beach enthusiasts. The area is home to the scenic Canaveral National Seashore and the coastal Smyrna Dunes Park, offering stunning views of Ponce Inlet and its historic lighthouse. Visitors can explore the charming Canal Street Historic District with its palm-lined streets, featuring art galleries, shops, and the New Smyrna Museum of History. Additionally, the Mary S.
4% as popular as St. Augustine
17 minutes off the main route, 84% of way to Orlando
Daytona Beach, situated on the Atlantic coast of Florida, is famous for Daytona International Speedway - home to the iconic Daytona 500 NASCAR race in February. Visitors can drive on designated areas of the beach with its hard-packed sand, while free summer concerts are held at Daytona Beach Bandshell near the boardwalk's rides and arcades. The city is also home to Daytona Lagoon water park which offers go-karts, laser tag and waterslides. Located about 2.
19% as popular as St. Augustine
9 minutes off the main route, 85% of way to Orlando
Titusville, a charming city in Brevard County, Florida, is nestled along the picturesque Indian River. With a population of nearly 50,000 people, it's known for its proximity to Merritt Island and the renowned Kennedy Space Center. The area also boasts the stunning Canaveral National Seashore. Additionally, Titusville is part of a region that includes Cape Canaveral, Cocoa Beach, Rockledge, Viera, Melbourne, Satellite Beach and more.
28% as popular as St. Augustine
23 minutes off the main route, 88% of way to Orlando
DeLand, located in Volusia County, Florida, is a charming city with a vibrant restaurant scene despite its small size. The historic streets are adorned with eateries offering a diverse range of cuisines, from farm-to-table delicacies to international flavors. Additionally, the nearby spiritualist community of Cassadaga provides an opportunity for visitors to have their fortunes told by resident mediums and spiritualists. This adds an intriguing aspect to the cultural tapestry of DeLand.
7% as popular as St. Augustine
10 minutes off the main route, 88% of way to Orlando
Best stops along Augusta to Orlando drive
The top stops along the way from Augusta to Orlando (with short detours) are Savannah Historic District, Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, and Worlds Most Famous Beach Daytona Beach. Other popular stops include The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, Saint Augustine Distillery, and Forsyth Park.
The Stoney-Baynard Plantation, also known as Baynard Ruins or Braddocks Point Plantation, is a popular historical site in Hilton Head. It offers visitors a chance to explore the ruins of a Civil War plantation home and slave quarters with purported ghost sightings. The plantation dates back to 1790 and was destroyed at the end of the Civil War. Located near Sea Pines Nature Preserve, it is one of Hilton Head's top attractions for those interested in history.
We visited here on bike. It was hard to read about the history of it all, but it's so important to rememeber. It was Incredible to me that so much is still standing today. Worth a visit!
Chelsea Whitney — Google review
The Stoney Baynard Ruins site is located within the Sea Pines / Harbour Town area. So, if you're not a resident or guest or staying within the community, you must purchase a $9 pass at the Sea Pines gate to enter the community. It is well worth the small fee as you have access to Harbour Town and some other areas - but the Stoney Baynard Ruins were astonishing and emotional; a plantation hand-built by enslaved people that endured the unthinkable and their small living quarters nearby (emotional). Incredible craftsmanship that you won't see today. Keep in mind that while walking through the area, you will be stepping on the shells used to construct these buildings. It gave me goosebumps.
Catherine Teringo — Google review
A very intriguing piece of history that I frequently visit whenever I visit the island! Not much is left of these old buildings, since they were all destroyed in a ferocious fire, but historians have done a very good job of describing what was there!
beastlycharizard13 — Google review
As far as history goes, this is an interesting spot. However, its not the lost exciting ruins we've seen. Not a lot left to see, but there were info plaques at each remain. Still worth a stop if you are out on Hilton Head!
Olivia Rene — Google review
If you enjoy history and you visit Sea Pines, you need to take a few minutes to visit Stoney Baynard Ruins. It only takes about a half hour to walk around and see what remains of the plantation house, slave quarters, and kitchen, as well as a foundation for a Union soldier structure.
Signage along the path describes the structures. It was interesting to me how much of the foundation and walls of the plantation house were built with "tabby" cement made with oyster shells, sand, and water. The oyster shells are still quite visible. The plantation house was a two-story 1,885 square foot structure, whereas the structure housing enslaved people was 335 square feet, and that small structure was divided in two to house two families.
Captain John "Saucy Jack" Stoney built the main house between 1793-1810. After he died, his sons inherited the plantation, but later it was sold to William Edings Baynard. So, those two family names, Stoney and Baynard, are how the site obtained the name of Stoney Baynard Ruins. Union troops invaded Hilton Head Island on November 7, 1861, and the Baynard family fled. The Federal government then took over the property.
Due to a fire on the property, ruins are all that remain. But it is worth seeing and learning about, and imagining a very different way of life that existed on the island in times long ago.
Greg Squyres — Google review
Interesting history and some very cool ruins. Maybe a 10 minute visit but worth the short walk.
Ron Hebert — Google review
Interesting little thing is kind of cool and we love history, so definitely something we wanted to see and it's free while you're in the area
sharona lee peterson — Google review
I’m a history guy so anytime I can visit and learn from the past I try and stop.
There is a gate fee (currently $9.00) to get into Sea Pines. Plenty of other things to do.
I found the history of this place interesting and is was awesome to learn how the foundation was made. There was no one else there upon arrival. A great way to take in the history and walk around.
Ed Gulka — Google review
Great place to see some ruins derived from the history of the island. Lots of trails to explore. easy hike. Places to park. Great place to come and get exercise. Secluded:)
OfNature — Google review
There's not much to this spot. Mainly just the foundation and some placs describing what was once there.
Note that you do have to get a day pass to access this side of town. It's considered a "Plantation".
Garrett Dickerson — Google review
Nice historical area tucked away in the Sea Pines. Very clean and walkable for any ages. The deep roots tied to this place will definitely alter your perception of history and understand what life was like 300+ years ago. The trees here have seen a lot!
Greta — Google review
We had a peaceful walk through the area filled with a lots of history.
The ruins a fascinated by his beauty and mystery.
Enjoyed the wildlife too.
The picturesque River Street in downtown Savannah, Georgia is famous for its quaint shops, cafes, and bars. The street runs along the banks of the Savannah River and is a popular spot to eat and relax.
Beautiful area to explore in Savannah
Sharon Hughes — Google review
Love e river side. A lot of things to do around. Restaurants, shops, bars, creamery stores…. Don’t miss it 💖
Ingrid Baez — Google review
Lots of stuff activity going on over here.
Thadd F. — Google review
Spooky place at night. Cobblestone makes for tricky walking so be careful. Leave the heels at home boys and girls. Put on a good pair of boots or sneakers. I promise you'll turn an ankle and/or end up barefoot otherwise. Lots of neat old haunted places through this section of Savannah. Must see at night in my opinion. Stay alert though. It's not terribly dangerous but you can easily find yourself trapped if you take the wrong stairs or wander too far by yourself. You can take your car on River St but I wouldn't do it . In fact avoid your car altogether in Savannah if possible. The city itself is razy confusing. And historically speaking I can only imagine the horror River street had experienced for hundreds of years present day for the most part excluded. If those bricks could talk I don't think I could bare to hear their voice. Chilling to think that you actually might just hear River St talking to you if you're walking along at night. In fact I was certain River Street was speaking but then I realized that it was a homeless guy and he was talking to nobody about "needing his damn sunglasses" . So maybe River Street and this man were having a conversation. Not sure, I did not try to join the back and forth. So keep your heads up at night somehow while also looking at your feet so you don't fall and look like an a$$.
MK Regrah — Google review
Well kept historic street full of shops, bars, eclectic restaurants all following the river. Bonus:.lots of friendly cops everywhere. You'll feel safe
Jeffrey M — Google review
Cool place to see with restaurants and a variety of shops and things to see
Jason Semrau — Google review
Lovely place, kid and dog friendly.. cute little boutique shops. A nice view of the river and you get to read about some of our war heroes.
Irene Jayma — Google review
Iconic strip with shops and food scene. Pralines and seafood are something you have to try. Nice get away for a weekend trip.
Yi G — Google review
Nice place to walk along the river
Lots of restaurants and shops
Jose Rodriguez — Google review
Was difficult to find and using Google maps wasn't completely helpful. But what a cool area!!! I didn't realize shops were on both sides at first. Was a little tough getting down the stairs so on the way back up we found a set a little less steep. Having a directory would have been helpful. That way we could have seen what was down there, where bathrooms are, etc.
Wish we had more time.
This is along the river, across from the convention center but on outside of downtown historic area. It's pretty, lots of little shops (loved the candy store, five and dime, and marketplace). 5 and Dime has restrooms. There is a pub type place down there, too. Just a cute area, separate from the stores,.restaurants, etc. In downtown. Cobblestone and treed, very historical looking.
K Rod — Google review
Parking $1.50 per 30 mins. Beautiful view of the river, all kinds of bars, restaurants, gift shops with t-shirts, magnets, etc. Couple pan handlers out there.
Rebecca Smith — Google review
A fun street to walk and shop on, or just enjoy looking at the river.
Angus Bennion — Google review
4.8
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4.5
(8234)
Savannah, GA 31401, USA
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The Savannah Historic District is an area of the city of Savannah that was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966. It is one of the largest urban historic districts in the United States, and it contains a wide variety of architecture from the 18th century through to the early 20th century.
We had some time to check out this historic district in Savannah while staying near bye for a conference. The homes here are historic and the architecture is very nice. My favourite part of this historic district was Forsyth Park and the fountain there as well as the Spanish moss trees all over. The park is a nice place to walk around as well as the area as we walked everywhere.
After seeing the homes and Forsyth Park we enjoyed River Street where there’s lots of restaurants and bars to enjoy something to eat and walk along the river where there were vendors selling things. I would definitely come back if ever in the Savannah, Hilton head area again
Donald hood — Google review
I visited the Savannah Historic District last summer and had a wonderful time! It is such a beautiful area with a plethora of options for food, shopping, and entertainment. Many of the roads or paths I encountered were brick or cobblestone, which are beautiful but can pose issue to those who use wheelchairs or a blind person using a cane. Overall though, the brick walkways were very well kept and didn't seem to pose much of a risk at the time of my visit and there was not a lot of cobblestone. The main roads are paved. There is an area by the riverfront that utilizes a fair amount of stairs spread out, so if someone is in a wheelchair there will need to be a bit of a re-route to get to that specific area of the riverfront. It is a very lively and fun area with a lot of music and lights which is very fun, but if you are someone who struggles with sound sensitivity I would suggest bringing earplugs or your choice of aid to help damped that. Overall, a beautiful, must see area in my opinion, and has few inaccessible areas from my point of view in my visit.
Cada Schmidt — Google review
My favorite place to escape on a long weekend. River Street is vibrant and full of arts, music, tons of little shops and bars/restaurants. The Squares in downtown Savannah are beautiful, historic and so green. If you've never been, I recommend a trolley tour to see the highlights. Then go on foot and find the little treasures of shops, art, food and entertainment.
Misty Lane — Google review
Did trolley tours with two different tour companies; two different days (Thursday and Monday) and experienced many different guides and saw wonderful landmarks. If your a tourist visiting Savanah historic district I highly recommend using a trolley tour. There is so much to see and hear about.
Jherie LaCorte — Google review
What a beautiful city steeped with so much history. We took a 90 minute tour with Old Savannah tours (our tour guide was Hampton- he was fantastic). This is a place we definitely need to come back and spend some time in but if you've got 90 minutes to spare, you should make the detour!
Tanya Hutton — Google review
I'm a huge history buff. The wealth of information and history here was worth the visit alone. Everyone must go to Savannah at least once in a lifetime.
Stephanie Wesson — Google review
Good experience to ride the trolley down town and take the tour around the historic area. We also stopped for food at Spankys on the river. It was a great experience and the gift shops were reasonably priced
Danyetta Butler — Google review
We had a great time visiting the historic district. Many beautiful ancient buildings (build in 19th century) with great architecture, good parks, famous restaurants, beautiful tree tunnel, good river walk, museums, greenery and finally Church with beautiful architecture are the specialities of historic district. If you are visiting for one day, we recommend using old Town trolley tours of Savannah. Based on our experience this trolley service runs at good frequency and have hope off and on facility at major tourist attractions. For an extensive tour, a 2 day visit is needed for covering all the places. If you are coming by car, one major problem will be parking availability.
Siju Kurian John — Google review
Great place to spend a beautiful day walking and taking photos.
With dozens of shops and restaurants to keep anyone entertained. Lot
To do lot to see.
Frank Iverson — Google review
Savannah has a great town with lots of interesting history. We enjoy walking around for a couple hours seeing all the amazing homes and parks/plazas.
Tim Salmonson — Google review
First time visitor. Two days is not enough to experience all the district has to offer. Lots of. Museums and Art Galleries. The history and architecture is amazing. Take the trolley to get an idea of where you want to spend more time. The trolley operators can be fun and entertaining.
Alex Buchanan — Google review
Savannah's spirit is delightful. In each square and around every corner there is a unique experience. Take a quick glance at the city plan then just walk and explore N-S along Bull street and E-W on River Street, Broughton, Oglethorpe, .... all the way to Forsyth Park. The city is dotted with attractions ranging from historic jems to contemporary art galleries and inspiring architectural renovations. Savannah offers a first class experiences in all seasons, no need to wait for popular events or festivities. Just stop by for a day or a few and enjoy hospitality in this energetic southern bell.
E Afifi — Google review
Walk the River than take the Old Town Trolly tour ride around once than hop off & on at any stop our tour guide Sam was great! We Ubered to waterfront cheaper than trying to park. If planning and you want to stay waterfront book in advance.
Karen Meehan — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous. Great walking city. Just watch where you walk cobblestones will trip ya!
Brittney Pickering — Google review
Went for a girl's trip & stayed at the Marshall House! It is Gorgeous! We also went on a tour where we learned about the history of this beautiful area & how everything came about! The driver & his crew were very nice & knowledgeable! They made the tour exciting!! In conclusion, I recommend seeing this Beautiful part of GA. Too amazingly gorgeous to miss.
Mandy “Barts Wife” Burroughs — Google review
Such a fun place to explore! Cute squares of greenery and churches and historic houses. We spent a day here and thoroughly enjoyed.
Limia Mohamed Hamza — Google review
Visited savannah for the first time. Two days are not enough to explore the place. It has got a lot of options and it’s really well developed ❤️
Savannah is known for its real life greenery and ghosts but I didn’t found any so far 😂
Love the place
Small sweet and live
Heema Patel — Google review
This was my first visit to historic Savannah. I only stayed two days, but I had a good time. I used a company called Kelly Tours to get an overview of Savannah. They take everyone through a 90-minute tour first. We had an excellent guide. Then you pick where you want to next. For example, you could call and say I'm at stop 9, I would like to go to stop 5. I called them three times. Each time, it took less than 5 minutes for them to get to me. Some stops were about a 10 minute walk, the weather was nice so I walked some. I feel like I saved so much time, and I saw everything that I wanted to see. I didn't get a lot of good pictures because there are lots of trees and greenspace.
Beverly (Beverly) — Google review
Most site seeing places are entry free, on the river Bank side there was a fireworks 🎆 display for good 20-25 minutes ard 10pm it gets included under Destination fees with ur hotel booking.
Navzy Pal — Google review
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301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401, USA
The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist is a neo-gothic Catholic church with elaborate stained glass windows, and music recitals are often held there. It was almost entirely destroyed by a fire in 1898, but was rebuilt the next year and restored to its former glory.
In the heart of Savannah's historic neighborhood, a really well historic church. Some of the stained glass windows are quite lovely. Beautifully constructed church. The church is well-maintained and has a large seating capacity. In Savannah, there is a spot you should go. This church is both cold and peaceful, making it ideal for prayer. It's free to walk in with a suggested donation of $3. The photographs do not do it justice, and the rush of emotion I felt as I went in was unrivaled.
nitish deshpande — Google review
Stunning architecture in the middle of Historic Savannah. Well-kept grounds and interior pristine. One of the beautiful places to visit that should be added to your list.
M — Google review
The guard at the entrance made me feel right at home; he's such a friendly person. Stepping inside feels like entering another dimension, with so much to explore and observe. It's history at its finest, and the architecture is truly breathtaking.
Janet Negron — Google review
It was hard to capture how beautiful this church is. We just don't have historical places like this on the West Coast, so I was in awe. I grew up Catholic, so it brought back comforting memories. I lit a candle and sat in the wood pew to take in the sights, smells, and the beautiful colors of the stained glass with the sun shining through them. I love how they allow the public to come into the church to look around during times when they aren't having mass.
Tammy Schur — Google review
Historical cathedral with a beautiful stained glass windows and expansive alter. It’s a suggested $3 donation to go in. They offered a free tour where the presenter explained the cathedral’s history and pointed out some interesting features. It took about 20 minutes overall and was very informative. It is an active church so do be mindful about people praying. I would recommend coming here for a first-timer to Savannah and spending half an hour!
Shanelle S — Google review
If you've never experienced such an amazing and heavenly place, then you should come here. It is amazing, and the artwork was breathtaking! Even if you are not Catholic, it is wonderful, and it is totally free they only ask for donations. Also, they still have services there as well! I loved this place, and so did my grandkids they were amazed at the grandeur of the church. Now, you might not want to bring kids who are a bit loud, for it needs to be quiet. It's still a church, after all. But really and truly amazing.
Tenita Wilkins — Google review
This Cathedral is Massive and absolutely STUNNING!! 100% worth the stop! They have visiting hours so that you can actually go inside and tour the area and take photos of all of the beautiful stained glass. Beware though: there is no public restroom.
Honor Warren — Google review
There are no words good enough to describe this experience... a must see to know!! The outside is spectacular, but the inside is miraculous! Your mere presence is altered by the surroundings as you sit in reverence!!!
Michael Venning — Google review
Came here on St Patrick's Day. It is one of the biggest churches is Savannah. The church architecture is so beautiful.
The vibe is peaceful and calming. You'll keep admiring the beautiful glass windows and sculptures here.
Please be respectful while taking photos though.
Bhushan — Google review
This Cathedral is stunning. I was here for Mass on Mother's Day, and I was in awe of everything, the liturgy, the music, the atmosphere. The church was decorated with I don't even know how many dozens of roses, giant roses. The choir sounded celestial. The bishop celebrated the Mass - and delivered a wonderful homily. The windows are stunning, especially the Ascension and Immaculate Conception windows. I am a little perplexed by the lack of wounds visible on Christ's hands, but a gorgeous image. As usual, so many details. I especially liked the "Communion of Saints" images around the ceiling.
Nicholas Petrillo — Google review
Beautiful place. Hard to imagine the hours of work in all of the intricate details throughout. Soaring ceilings, beautiful stained glass and extremely detailed carvings throughout. If there is a red sign out front that says worship in process - not the time to go. Usually between 12:30 - 4:30 on weekdays is ideal to visit.
James Burnham Coldwell Banker Prime Properties — Google review
The cathedral was beautiful! We were there about 20 to 30 min before a service and there was a lady in the back of the church yelling at anyone that wanted to take pictures. I absolutely get it and was respectful and didn't make a peep. Apparently, the cut off walking around the church and taking pictures 30 min before services.... so plan accordingly! I was able to snap a few when she was yelling at others.🙂 It's absolutely worth the trip to see!
Lynne L — Google review
OH MY GOODNESS! This is GORGEOUS! No matter your beliefs, you should check out this BEAUTIFUL cathedral! The architecture is breathtaking and well, just go see for yourself. 💕
I remember thinking it's donation only.
Jessi — Google review
Absolutely Breathtaking.
Eye candy for the soul.
No matter what religion you are, the beauty inside is undeniable, the energy is peaceful and employees are knowledgeable and willing to share.
Definitely take the opportunity to venture inside if they have the doors open.
I've been there 3 times to view and appreciate the outside, but this time was the first time I was able to enter.
It was worth every moment spent there.
It is free, but there is a sign asking for donations.
Laura Lockhart — Google review
The church was beautiful. They asked for a donation but it was not required. To light a candle for a prayer that you had a donation request. I give it a 4 only because in my opinion there is historical importance to the building and some information would have been helpful. Not sure any takes note but the would on Jesus switches sides from one window to the next. Guessing those windows are expensive! It’s all. About the details! Lol
Brian Lee — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous and free although they do take donations. Friendly staff. We went at Christmas and there was a gigantic very detailed nativity scene which was very impressive. I bought a Christmas ornament there with many choices of the stained glass pieces in the church. The organ was specifically made for this church and is a sight to see. Check times before you go because they do shut it down during services.
Kate Martin — Google review
A must see if you’re in this town, a true piece of history. This Cathedral is absolutely massive in size and so beautiful. The stained glass is gorgeous and so detailed. The wood work is stunning with an insane organ. A very unique place to visit.
Aaron Bonewitz — Google review
We always visit this breathtaking cathedral when visiting Savannah. Make it a must-see when you are there! The history and beauty are worth the visit.
Lana Williams — Google review
Always beautiful but extra special at Christmas. The Nativity is impressive! The stained glass, steeples and wood carvings are hypnotizing. Just gorgeous! A must see when visiting Savannah.
Jessica — Google review
Beautiful, beautiful church! I felt like I stepped into a church in Europe! One of the prettiest sights in Savannah!
Atasha Jordan — Google review
Beautiful cathedral that has endured for such a long time. Went to their Christmas service that was very packed . As huge as it was, people still had to stand in the back. I come to this place almost every year to just enjoy the decorations and ceremony. A must see for anyone .
Forsyth Park is a 30-acre urban public park in Savannah's historic district and is internationally known for its Forsyth Fountain. The park also includes an outdoor theater, cafe, children's playgrounds, tennis courts, soccer fields, and a Confederate memorial.
This park is the home to the most photographed fountain in Savannah.
This is a large park with a sense of peace and deep history.
The sidewalk circles the outer edge of the park and then cuts through towards the fountain.
Lots of people from all.walks of life visits here and simply hang out just to enjoy the energy it emits.
Definitely worth the visit.
Laura Lockhart — Google review
The park was beautiful and a lovely stroll down the center under the canopy of trees.
Playgrounds were available, tennis courts, plenty of grass to place a blanket and relax.
On our Sunday afternoon there were many homeless and at one end of the park they were having an event offering food and water for the homeless. It got a bit rowdy by a few attendees. A bit of yelling, pushing, throwing of water bottles. But the rest of our visit was pleasant.
We walked down the center as well as on the outside parameters to enjoy the architect of the older homes.
Be smart and be aware of your surrounding while visiting.
Rita Clark — Google review
Loved this park! Easy to walk through and had so many cool things to look at! People were friendly and the architecture was just amazing! If you think you don't have time, you do! It really does not take long to walk through, we walked it before we were able to check in to our hotel, maybe 30 min tops! And we saw a lot in that time frame!
Jenika Turnquist — Google review
Such a beautiful park. Complete with its historic fountain and huge open green fields we didn't want to leave. It's a must stop for anyone who takes a trip to the shining jewel of the south, Savannah GA.
John White — Google review
An absolutely beautiful park to visit, relax, exercise, or whatever you decide to do at that time. Trees are spectacular in their beauty, with lovely old homes surrounding the perimeter. There’s even a restaurant (Collins Quarter) available for eating or an outside coffee/drink window to order beverages. Definitely a “must visit” place while in Savannah.
Sherri R. — Google review
Took my son to play on the playground on a Thursday. There are two playgrounds I found out. Some of the equipment is metal so be careful with the sun heating it up during the day. The equipment was in good shape. There are benches to sit at at the playgrounds. We enjoyed walking to the fountain. It was cool to see some local artists selling their artwork or jewelry along the paths. The restrooms are by the restaurant and it was clean when I used it. There is a fun little hidey garden near the smaller playground with roses and benches. The flowers were in bloom and so beautiful. We did get a parking spot by the tennis courts which is free.
Melody Owen — Google review
It is a beautiful historic park in the city's historic district. I love how the town maintains its beauty, especially its well-kept boardwalks and the water fountain in the park's center, which exudes classic elegance. This is an excellent place for locals and tourists to walk, jog, or relax.
Patrick Min — Google review
Great park in Savannah. We got there in the morning and it was fairly crowded. Has historical statues. Has a lovely fountain. Has public restrooms and a restaurant and Leopold's ice cream parlor. The one at Broughton st usually has a long queue, so this might be a better option for you if you don't want to wait that long. People were enjoying themselves in the park and it was well maintained. I had a good time!!!
Deepak KC — Google review
Great park in Savannah. I frequent visit this park due to it’s attraction. This time I visited in the late morning time and found very less people so feel comfortable to have family photograph.
Don’t forget to buy painting or handmade ornaments (as a memory of park visit) sold by street vendors. You are supporting locals by buying some products .
Park is clean and have public restroom. If you are with kids, they can enjoy in kids zone too
Lila Baniya — Google review
Park was absolutely beautiful! An early morning stroll was magical on this beautiful morning. The park was very clean and I loved looking at the fountain and reading all the statue plaques. I love history and this park is full of it. Statues prompted me to immediately go to google and find out more about the people they were erected for. Early morning is great because not a lot of tourists. Most were runners and walkers which lest the fountain wide open for pictures.
Kelly Dale — Google review
This is the one place I wanted to visit on my trip to Savannah and it did not disappoint. Beautiful park! Amazing fountain! It is set up perfectly from the minute you set foot in the park to see the fountain. Trees offer shade everywhere (good thing because we went in July and it was 98), benches for resting were too. It even has a snack bar/restaurant with outdoor seating. I’m not sure if there was indoor since we did not go inside and I have to say the cleanest public park restrooms I have ever seen in my life anywhere….seriously. A park is never complete without playground for kids which it has. It made me wish my Granddaughters were with us, they would of LOVED it! Great place to see, do not skip it and do not forget to take your picture in front of the fountain.
Ina “Michelle” Shaffer — Google review
Had a wonderful morning stroll at Forsyth Park in Savannah, GA. Despite the recent storm, the park remained Lovely! Appreciated the dedicated crew diligently cleaning the sidewalks, enhancing the overall experience. A refreshing and enjoyable outing in January!
Rhonda Fox — Google review
This park is located near downtown Savannah and has very open dog-friendly spaces and fields. Some old monuments are scattered around, which makes for a great Sunday stroll.
We highly recommend checking out the nearby restaurant CQ for a lovely brunch and coffee. (They also have a to-go window that you can walk up to!)
Christopher Estep — Google review
Beautiful Park. I Felt safe there. I didn't see 1 police officer there unfortunately. The take out window staff at the park cafe where not so helpful or friendly. That didn't affect the park overall but next time I will take my money some place else.
Donald Adams — Google review
Park with an area of 10 Acres. Beautiful and well maintained. This park has a beautiful fountain. We enjoyed our time here. There are many vendors selling paintings, souvenirs etc. This park has children's play area. This park has many seats to sit and relax. The park was crowded during our visit as it was saint Patrick's weekend.A must place to visit in Savannah for a cool atmosphere.
Siju Kurian John — Google review
Stunning park that is safe and always well kept. The Farmers Market on Saturdays is great, has tons of food and fresh produce. There are always fun events in the park and Collins Quarter has done a great job with the concessions area. Great to just walk around, it's huge and you'll always find something new. Great to sunbathe and relax as well. The botanical garden is a hidden gem. 2 playgrounds for the kids and at least 2 football fields worth of open grass for sports or exercise. Beautiful full trees provide shade and ombiance.
Nicole Graziani — Google review
This is an amazing park!. It has so much history and the water fountain is phenomenal to watch and enjoy the view. Nice place to come and sit and read a book or have a picnic with your love one's.
Jefe YO Soy — Google review
Very well-maintained beautiful park. Good place for a get-together. Play area and Splash pad are available for kids. I think it's difficult to get a car parking on weekends. The restroom is very clean, but there was a big queue in the ladies rest room.
Vasantharajan Thangaraj — Google review
This has to be one of the most beautiful, peaceful and idyllic places in all of Savannah. The park has lush grass and beautiful walkways lined with ancient trees that are dripping in Spanish moss. Different artists were stationed on one path selling sundries and at the end of the path was a gorgeous fountain. There is a small botanical garden in the park and surrounding the area were rows of gorgeous homes with tall ceilings and wrought iron, long shutters and inviting porches that remind you of the South.
Tiffani Patterson — Google review
Beautiful, serene park. Enjoyed our visit. It is dog friendly. Must see if visiting for the first time. I recommend walking through the park at dusk or early evening. We enjoyed viewing the holiday decorations and historic homes.
J Joyner — Google review
Beautiful park and trees. Public bathrooms. Two playgrounds. Lots of grassy area for sitting and playing. There is a restaurant on site that we did not use. The fountain is gorgeous.
Cindy Minor — Google review
Beautiful! This is a great park with lots of history. It’s a nice place to take your dog for a walk or go on a picnic. It was spread out so it didn’t feel crowded. We parked nearby for free and walked to eat down by the River Front!
Rhonda Gosser — Google review
A must see- nice area, rented scooters and scooted to the fountain from our hotel. The trip there took us through all the squares, and the fountain was really pretty.
Molly Zembko — Google review
This is a great park to stroll if you are visiting Savannah, big trees, fountain, large lawn to play, relax, walk, exercise, it has kids play area, stage etc. There is a restaurant, well maintained park and trails. When we visited, there were people selling their art inside this park on a trail. Restrooms were clean and were pretty busy on weekend. Paid parking around is available, sometimes on a walking distance.
Chanchal — Google review
Love going to Forsyth. Did the 5k walk which was very well organized. The park is great for people watching, enjoying a nice day, walking, events.
Deborah L — Google review
Top notch Park from end to end. Historic monuments pretty much every block for a 12 square block radius. The water fountain is amazing along with the rose garden building you walk in and the aroma of roses just smacks you in the face! I would recommend coming here if you are in the area because it's a nice place to get away from the big city while you're still in the big city.
david floyd — Google review
Went to this place twice. Yesterday it was raining super heavily and found no one
Today morning it was crowded. Nice place to every fortnight/monthly markets here.
They got good stuffs like painting, posters, accessories, eatables, clutches, juices and much more.
Heema Patel — Google review
Lots of open areas to sit. Bring a blanket to layout, no picnic tables to sit at.
The fountain was green. Pretty cool for Saint Patty’s day.
The Bonaventure Cemetery is located in beautiful surroundings and is immortalized in the best selling novel "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." It has been popular with writers, poets, photographers, and filmmakers for years. The small family plot that formed the nucleus of present-day Bonaventure Cemetery became the plantation home of John Mullryne and his son-in-law Josiah Tattnall.
It's a overwhelming feeling to see such majestic trees and beautiful landscaping surrounding the endless gravestones and statuary on the grounds. It helps us to remember when graveyards were places people left their truly departed , but in the past spent time walking on a afternoon. If you enjoy quiet places filled with a few ghosts ..then go see this and quietly tiptoe through the endless history...
J B — Google review
This was a wonderful visual experience! Nothing much to stay other than I think it's important these types of places continue to be preserved for the coming generations to be able to see. Very wide range of history here and I definitely recommend taking a stroll through the Bonaventure Cemetery.
- Take Care and Live Well - 🤙🤓
Purpose Driven — Google review
I went during the week day and had to park in the cemetery. There are parking lots but when I went they were full. It's a gorgeous cemetery and it was so fun to walk through it taking my time. The river beside it is beautiful as well and some benches by the river. I found out there are tours through the cemetery so I will have to do that next time to learn more about the history. Some of the tombstones were so unique. It's worth a visit, it doesn't cost anything to go unless you do a tour of course.
Melody Owen — Google review
This is a beautiful cemetery with tons of history and unique artistic headstones.
Bonaventure Cemetery is a true gem of the South, beckoning visitors with its serene beauty and rich history. But what truly sets this cemetery apart are its ornate, unique, and beautiful headstones and family burial plots.
As you wander through the winding paths and moss-draped trees, you’ll encounter a stunning array of monuments that tell the stories of generations past. From intricately carved angels to grand mausoleums adorned with elaborate stonework, every corner of Bonaventure Cemetery is a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of generations gone by.
But it’s not just the aesthetics that make Bonaventure Cemetery so special – it’s the stories behind the stones. Each headstone and family plot holds a wealth of history and meaning, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who have been laid to rest here. From prominent figures of Savannah’s past to everyday citizens whose stories have been etched in stone, the cemetery is a living tribute to the people who have shaped the city’s identity.
Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of art and architecture, or simply someone seeking solace in the quiet beauty of nature, Bonaventure Cemetery is a must-visit destination. So, take a stroll among the towering oaks and Spanish moss, and let the stories of the past come alive in this enchanting and evocative place.
Matthew Laurin — Google review
Ever since we got to Savannah, every tour guide and local and told us to get our butts over to Bonaventure posthaste. We understand the hype now! This truly is the most beautiful cemetery out there. It is everything you would imagine in an old cemetery in the South. Beautiful Live Oaks covered in Spanish Moss line the roads. It is an incredibly peaceful place full of history. The cemetery is huge and extends all the way down to the river, which also has beautiful views. Highly recommend taking a tour here or, at the very least, a walk among the oaks and history.
Mike B — Google review
We visited here as part of a tour. It gets chilly here (a few degree down than the city), so keep something warm handy.
This place has rich history and legacy of graves. Rich families of Savannah still have places here amidst their ancestors.
Do go with the tour guide, else you will feel lost. It’s the back stories of the graves and crypts that make the visit worth.
Will recommend!
Arpit Garg — Google review
I enjoyed every minute. Every detail. It was so amazing learning about the history and historical history that this cemetery holds. I have so many memories and stories to take back home. My pictures are all amazing. I will definitely be back to visit. I’m sure there is much more to see and learn.
Yours Truly Ty — Google review
I recommend not taking a guided tour so you can see more of the cemetery and research ahead of time. It was a beautiful experience that was well preserved and an amazing piece of history. Its a must visit in Savannah. The phone app offered by Bonaventure was also very informative.
Adam — Google review
Such a fun place to walk on a week day. Not crowded at all. Went around 10 am. Many people walking dogs. You can get a tour but you can also just walk at your own pace and look up how to find famous grave sites and whatnot. Recommend you drive all the way to the end and park in the lot. Good views of the river.
Samantha Byrne — Google review
The Bonaventure Cemetery is often billed as the most beautiful cemetery in America, and it is. There's something about the historic graves, skyward thrusting monuments, overhanging oaks and Spanish moss, and nearby river that makes this place something special and unique. This is worth the 15 minute drive if you're in nearby Savannah, Georgia visiting. The more historic graves and interesting headstones and monuments are near the back by Johnny Mercer's Gravesite.
Plum Health DPC — Google review
Very ominous and uneasy feeling leaving a review for a cemetery. I’ll do my best to respect those buried there to include their living relatives. I went as a tourist and often visit darker places as I enjoy the history and learning about the people that lived before my time. I spent a few hours walking around and reading the dates and names of people laid to rest there. The grounds are very well maintained and I didn’t see anybody there disrespecting the area and I’d be inclined to ask the same of you on your visit. There was a police officer parked up front at night and the cemetery is closed at night so don’t waste the gas. I’d recommend this to anybody into visiting cemeteries in towns like Savannah.
M L — Google review
A trip to Savannah would not be complete without visiting Bonaventure Cemetery. There are tours or it's very easy to drive-in and wind your way through the cemetery visiting different sites. There's a bench overlooking the river and it's peaceful and serene! I always get a good feeling when I visit Bonaventure.
ItsMe EvaB — Google review
Visited after learning of this cemetery from "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." Did not expect to find such a tranquil and lovely place. It truly is like a garden.
Many of the monuments are huge and quite artistic. Also my first experience of family plots that are sectioned off by stone and gates.
This is a very large cemetery and easy to get lost. So go with someone local ~ or pick up a map at the shop.
Nicely maintained by the Savannah cemetery staff. Photos are from mid-autumn.
Elyse W — Google review
When I visited Bonaventure Cemetery, it felt like stepping into a garden more than a graveyard. This place is famous for being one of the first garden cemeteries in America, which means instead of just having rows of tombstones, it has beautiful trees and flowers everywhere. It's like a park where you can learn about history and see some really old and interesting graves.
Walking around, I noticed that it wasn't just a place for people to be sad about those who had died; it was also a place for the living to enjoy nature and think about the past in a peaceful way. The big oak trees with Spanish moss hanging down gave it a kind of spooky but cool look, like something out of a movie.
First of all volunteer Susan was very helpful and do take the time to stop in the visitor center for advice and any bathroom breaks.
I learned that garden cemeteries started because people wanted cemeteries to be more like comfortable parks for families to visit and remember their loved ones. Bonaventure definitely has that vibe. There are lots of paths to walk on and benches to sit on. Some of the gravestones are really artistic, too, not just the usual ones you see
Jason — Google review
Bonaventure Cemetery sits along the river on the grounds of a former plantation. The spot where the older graves are is so peaceful and lovely. One may visit the Mercer Family grave site or other areas of this beautiful area with lovely massive live oak trees everywhere. We picked up a tour at the Visitor's Center in historic Savannah, or one may take a tour that begins right next door to the cemetery itself.
Carol Ann Jason — Google review
What a magical and beautiful historic landmark! The Sunday tour by the Historical Society was one of the best I have ever been on! An absolute must in Savannah to learn more about the fascinating history of this amazing city.
Our guide was so informed and had researched local and US history so well. His insights into the links of the affluent elite buried in the cemetery and the horrifying history of slavery on which Savannah is built were eye-opening and deeply tragic.
Marc Faux — Google review
A must see. Beautiful and historical. Spring is the perfect time to visit. The weather isn’t too hot or cold and the flowers were blooming. We arrived early on a Sunday and drove right in. It did get more crowded as the day went on.
Kelly Justus — Google review
Lovely cemetery mainly for the Gothic charm of the Spanish moss-covered trees and stonework. We didn't bother with a paid tour and strolled on our own. Mosquito repellent recommended!
It's no Lakeview Cemetery but it is big.
South Beach is a beautiful and clean destination with easy parking access, although it may require payment. The beach isn't overcrowded, providing a perfect setting for relaxation. Access to the beach is facilitated by walkways over the dunes, ensuring convenience for visitors. Additionally, the area offers a serene atmosphere and ample parking availability, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
BEAUTIFUL! Parking was easy. You do have to pay for parking. Every street had a walkway over the dunes that led to the beach. The beach wasn't overcrowded. Everything is clean and perfect!
Lisa Mylynn — Google review
I visited South beach in first week of March. It was very quiet and finding a parking was very easy.
mansi rai — Google review
Tybee long beach front was extremely windy today. The beach was accessible from a long ramp over the dunes. We weren't going to swim just look.
Susan Moore — Google review
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99-1 11th St, Tybee Island, GA 31328, USA
8
Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge
Wildlife refuge
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
We loved it here! It’s beautiful and free! We rode our bikes through and saw 4 alligators and many beautiful birds! So glad we came and will definitely be back!
Jo Lambert — Google review
Nice driving tour on a one-way road through the refuge. Armadillos, an alligator sunning on the bank of Snipe Pond and half a dozen wood storks, plus rosette spoonbills, white heron and ibis. Very cool under the canopy while the Spanish moss gives it that southern feel. Allow at least two hours.
Bob Douglas — Google review
Nice trails. lots of wildlife to see This place is beautiful.
Brandi Nickell — Google review
Great example of Georgia's natural ecosystem. The property has running trails, driving trails, and a bunch of ponds. The wood storks are an amazing site, as are the alligators, armadillos, and great blue herons. We visit as often as possible.
Stephanie Baker — Google review
Wonderful place for walking/hiking and bird and animal viewings. The nesting storks and big variety of other water fowl was amazing. Lots of gators to look for, also. Reading the plaques with the local history provided lots of interesting material.
Susan Stearns — Google review
This is a great, out of the way destination. The trails offer lots to see. There is a diverse bird population and you're sure to see alligators! The trails move you through a wide variety of ecosystems, from forest to grassland and marine to desert-like. The trails are fairly level with few obstacles and it can take a while if you want to explore them all. It took us 3 hours, 18 minutes to cover 8.75 miles at a leisurely pace. There are several places to park your car to look at the scenery. Having walked the trails, I would recommend a bike as the best way to see the refuge. It would be an easy ride. As a former airman I was especially intrigued by the way nature has reclaimed what was once an aerial gunnery training facility for WWII fighter pilots. There is plenty of evidence of the past.
Don McMillan — Google review
This is a wonderful refuge. There are a lot of birds, wading birds, armadillos, ducks and even alligators. There are also a lot of walking trails, 4-5 miles long, on level ground. Breath taking scenic areas everywhere, love it.
Raff Anthony — Google review
I am never disappointed when I visit here. Tons of photo opportunities especially for bird watchers. Alligators abound and can be found basking along the edge of the water right by the footpath. There are several different ponds and vistas to explore.
Allison Peters — Google review
If you are a visitor to this Neck of the woods and want to drive down a particularly gorgeous avenue of oaks, positively dripping with Spanish moss, beautiful birds roosting in the trees, armadillos and possums out hunting around for grubs, then Harris Neck is the place for you. I grew up in the area and never really knew about it the whole time I lived there, and now I'm so glad I do!
Lydia Fahs — Google review
Great adventure! We did a 3 part video series of some of the trails. Check out PFAM5 on YouTube. Bring your bug repellent and prepare for ticks.
PFAM5 — Google review
Free admission and lots of different trails and ponds to stop and check out. Lots of interesting wildlife from the storks, armadillos, and alligators. Definitely a cool place to stop and check out.
Summer Castro — Google review
Stunning refuge that has established a highly successful wood stork breeding habitat; up to 400 fledglings born here every year. Also many heron and egret nests throughout spring and early summer Hundreds of other birds to see-- be patient, walk the trails.
The Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary is a place where rescued exotic cats, such as tigers, lions, and pumas live in a beautiful and sustainable environment. The ranch can be visited with guided tours day or night, during which visitors learn about the animals and their natural habitats.
What a really cool place to see big cats and other wildlife. To be fair there's not a lot to do other than looking, but it's a good cause that we like so it was fun for us just to look at the tigers and other cats. On Sundays they do enrichment activities which would add a lot more entertainment value. The cost for entry is very inexpensive and supports the cats, if you like cats or your kids do, I highly recommend.
mike johnson — Google review
After seeing many zoos and rescues while visiting Florida, I will have to say Catty Shack was one of the most refreshing and caring. Staff was funny and the big cats seemed to just love them! The big cats seemed to love and want the attention of staff, and the new enclosures they’re adding speak to their love for the cats at their facility. I went to the midday enrichment tour and loved it!
Marie Larson — Google review
We loved this place. The only reason that I'm giving it four stars is because the hours that they are open are the absolute hottest times of the day. So it felt like we were unable to see most of the animals as they were all hiding underneath their enclosures to stay cool. That was extremely disappointing. The staff was kind though. If you have any opportunity, I would go during the winter months so that way you have the opportunity to see the animals out and about.
Afton Lorenz — Google review
Okay so the first thing you should know is that the park is smack dab in the middle of a low-key cute residential area which totally threw us off. When we pulled up we were expecting a backyard zoo because of the location, but man were we were wrong. They said they have 200 acres or developing, right now I'd say it's probably more like 8 acres that they actually have built up. You can tell that they are trying their best to give the tigers a nice life with waterfalls, swimming pools, toys, cabins. There's a lot more than just tigers here, they've got a very cute black bear, a black leopard, and some other small cats. Including their resident kitty cat that roams fearlessly. We went for the feeding experience and it was absolutely worth it. We got so many amazing pictures, and got to see so many beautiful big cats. This is an absolutely excellent place to come with the whole family regardless of age. Don't forget to buy some T-shirts at the gift shop, or a stuffed animal for the kids because that small places like this, every dollar counts towards keeping it running. We're excited to come back in a couple of years and see all of the progress that they have made. (We live very far away)
E'ala Burgess — Google review
Such a fun place to visit! Highly recommend coming for the night feedings. Not only were the animals more active but you also get to speak with volunteers/employees and learn so much more than usual. The shack also has 3 cute house kitties running around that are so sweet too - definitely pet if you see them! Very cool preserve and will be coming back to support in the future.
Kendell — Google review
What a great place! The wonderful staff & volunteers are very knowledgeable, and take lots of time to talk to you. The big cats are very well taken care of and their habitats are clean.
Thank you guys for all you for the critters, looking forward to my return visit. I wish I lived closer so I could volunteer and help you guys!
Denise Byrne — Google review
Such a great local hidden gem! If you're looking for a great way to support animals this place is a must see! Beautiful rescued tigers and other big cats. They're a volunteer based organization and working hard to provide these gorgeous creatures with new comfortable habitats to enjoy! A must see !
Renee K. — Google review
We took our family here as a birthday present to one of our girls. It is worth visiting at least once. Free mosquito spray available. If it has been raining bring footwear for mud and water. I am not sure the night feeding is worth the extra money to all but we were entertained. Think of it as a donation for a good cause. It took us about an hour to walk around and see everything before feeding time.
Cory B. — Google review
Catty shack was BEYOND AMAZING!!!! Not as huge as a zoo but well thought out and a lot of information that definitely makes it worth while! Very clean and well kept! Staff are very knowledgeable, and definitely love their job!!!! Best time to go is when it’s feeding time because let me tell ya hearing a lion eat is amazing! So majestic wouldn’t want to be the food but just amazing to see them! Highly recommend you stopping by and checking them out! Huge thank you to the staff that made me kids day!!!!
Brandon E — Google review
This was an awesome experience! It's better than a zoo. They have beautiful cats,a bear,foxes.,many more..a must visit! Well taken care of animals and beautiful property. The show,feeding the animals was amazing to watch..The caretakers,and owners were nice,friendly and very hands on. If you get a chance,visit...great place..and donate to them..they take very good care of the animals, some were abandoned, displaced..
Cathie — Google review
This place was amazing. I was a little hesitant when we pulled up, it doesn't look like it would be very much from the outside. But they have a lot of big cats it nice enclosures. Things are easy to see (if the cats aren't inside napping) and the people are amazing. The volunteers take time to talk to you about the animals and how they came there. You can tell everyone really loves what they do. Definitely a place to go.
Ryan E Voris — Google review
Went for their 7 PM feeding tonight. All the staff were great and the guy performing the feeding (I'm assuming he was the owner) was very informative and you could tell he loves what he does.
The cats were awesome and it was great seeing them get all excited when it was feeding time.
Overall I'd recommend checking them out. Great place to take the kids.
Nick Carson — Google review
We went to the evening feeding of the animals and it was extremely cool! We loved learning about all the residents and all the love and care they get while living in their new home. You can definitely tell that they are well cared for and loved! I enjoy taking my toddler to help not only learn about nature but gives her a chance to run around outside as well!
Jess Fix — Google review
I brought my family from out of state and we all had the best time. The volunteers are so knowledgeable and friendly and love to help and answer questions. The cats are so well cared for, that you can see for yourself they are happy and content. They don't just hide and sleep like at the zoos. We will come back for sure.
bruce bratcher — Google review
I have lived in Nassau County and Duval County my entire life and have failed to make it here until yesterday. It was a wonderful experience and I will certainly be back. We did the enrichment tour which was really fun as the cats got really excited about the boxes of chicken and were super active. The volunteers were really amazing and told us all about the cats and their personalities/ why the cats are at catty shack. It was a great time.
Sam B — Google review
Amazing place!! Get to be very up close to all the animals and see the workers interact with them. I've only been once but I got to see one of the workers pet the tigers and lions. The tigers were very active and got to hear them roar! They also have accommodation sunscreen and bug spray. Not a lot of walking, when I went it was very muddy but it has recently rained so I'm not too sure how it would be for wheelchairs.
Elijah — Google review
I really don't know why some people have given this sanctuary such low stars, this is a sanctuary not a zoo it isnt for entertainment! And do you think the places they got these animals from where better ...well that's a NO and we should be helpful that these animals have found a forever home :)
The habitats are clean and well kept they are even adding waterfalls/pools to them !
The staff/volunteers were so friendly and so informative !
Please check out their Amazon wish list to help with items they need. They are a 501c and dont reveive government help !
Leslie ZP — Google review
Go on a cooler day and more animals will be out.
We had a great time seeing some exotic animals and walking around the grounds.
The people working are knowledgeable and willing to answer any questions.
Complimentary bug spray and sunscreen at the front.
Info on adopting or sponsoring an animal also at the front.
Sarh Max — Google review
First time here and loved it! The staff and volunteers were friendly and knowledgeable. They have ongoing construction as they are expanding. Also plan to build sticks and bricks to replace some structures that are trailers. Lots of kids. Reasonable price and worth the experience!
Denise F — Google review
This is hands down the coolest place to go. The knowledge that the staff has and the care that you can see that they have for the animals is unreal. I got to see an afternoon snack for the lions which was so cool. I also got to hear the lions roar which was seriously the most amazing things to hear ever. 20/10 recommend this place to go.
Paige Peery — Google review
These cats were well taken care of and they had a relationship with the volunteers they were interacting with. You could hear them chuffing & vocalizing with staff & they got excited when they saw them coming. It was educational and they were building even larger enclosures when we visited. The kids loved it! (Except when the lynx tried to back that thang up to spray my teenaged son for taking pictures too close...which made him drop his phone over the restricted fence line 🤣🤣🤣)
Vanessa Bettinger — Google review
We love this place. First time here. We enjoyed the animals. They are well taken care of. Can't wait to come back next year and see the new homes for them. Very nice place to visit. There is a gentleman there,don't know his name, but he was really nice and informative.
Lora Stew55 — Google review
It's a really cool place! A non profit big cat sanctuary that is a must go if you're in the Jacksonville area. They do great work for these endangered animals and the kids will love it too!
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is a 450 acre urban green space that offers beach access, scenery, and hiking trails. The park also features a freshwater lake for fishing, boating, and kayaking as well as several picnic areas.
The park has a lot to offer. The campground is very large with full hookups, but site 31-avoid it unless you have a smaller class C or B, where you can pull in forward or are using a tent. The hookups are on the wrong side and it's just a weird site. The campground facilities are older, so bring Teflon tape for your hose hookups! And the roads are pretty narrow and not one way, so that's different. But overall, once I got past my two issues, the stay has been great!
Priscilla Van Blarcom — Google review
Tired of traffic and the city? Jacksonville folks, here is a great place to escape for the weekend. A nature park with the beach and lake! I spent a wonderful time with my family friend in the lake and we enjoyed our time looking at the wildlife and fauna. The kids enjoyed the playground while we sat at picnic tables and eat our lunches. Ideal place for campers, hikers and sunbathers! . Everything in one place. Cool!
wilma oliveros — Google review
Beautiful area, we stayed at the campground, in a tent site, very quiet and peaceful. My only issue was the bathhouse could have used some attention maybe some updates or at least some TLC. The bike rental prices are crazy expensive in my opinion especially if you have a larger group. The lake is beautiful..it is awesome to have both the lake and the ocean. Overall we would stay again
Kristi Hedgpeth — Google review
We tent camp here twice a year and always enjoy it. We normally get an RV spot because they are more spacious than the tent only ones. The bathrooms could be better, but I've been to others that were worse. Be sure to keep food in secure bins or the car because the racoons are not afraid to walk up and take it.
Karen Atkinson — Google review
We love camping here. Lots to do and the campground hosts are friendly. We love most that it’s biking friendly; an easy ride to the ferry to cycle over to Amelia Island or our favorite place for fresh fish and drinks at sunset - Safe Harbor.
The campground is beautiful and shaded. Always lots to do!
Jeanette Neyman — Google review
We spent 2 weeks at this park and loved it! Lots of trees and we'll shaded and just a short walk to the beach. You can ride your bike on the beach and get to Neptune beach etc (recommend crossing over to the road if you don't have fat tires). The bike shop was super convenient, quick, and reasonable at just $25 for a tune up. Loved this place, highly recommend!
Derek — Google review
Never disappoints. I usually come here by myself or just with the kids but today we brought the dogs for the first time. It was an overall great experience! We managed to find parking quickly at lot 5. We walked a minute or 2 to the left of the boardwalk and found a very large empty area we could sit/run with the kids and dogs and not be bothered. Cops/rescue cars were regularly patrolling by to make sure everyone was okay (and didn’t present any additional problems) in the absence of lifeguards, which was comforting.
On another note, we’ve also held one of my daughters birthday parties here about 3 years ago and it was a wonderful experience. Reserving a pavilion was easy and all of our guests were able to find parking by us easily. We saw many parties going on today as well and everyone seemed to be having a great time 😄
Jordan Long — Google review
It's a beautiful park with lots of activities to do for everyone. I have been going here for years for surfing and for disc golf. Great place to take the family. There are a few bugs this time of year, but prepare, remember, this is Florida.
Christopher Daniel — Google review
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is a natural oasis in Jacksonville. With a beautiful beach, serene lakes, and excellent camping facilities, it's a hidden gem for outdoor lovers. Ideal for a weekend getaway! 🏖️🏕️🌳
Anastasiia Moskalenko — Google review
Wonderful park! Drive down the main road under a lovely canopy of trees. There are several parking areas w/beach access all along one side and a gorgeous lake on the other side. $5 entry fee per car that you must pay whenever you enter (No leaving and returning during the same day for a single $5 payment. They do sell annual passes that includes entry to Huguenot Memorial Park - $92.52, discounted for vets & active duty)
There are also campgrounds (RV & tent sites and camper cabins) further down, but you can't drive through without a campsite reservation.
Elizabeth Allen Boyd — Google review
From the moment I drove into the gate until I left was perfect. The Park attendant was friendly and even guided me to a place to see the alligators. The Park shop was well stocked and the guys working there were very friendly. I walked down to the water from #8 Access and it was a easy walk and I had the beach to myself (the recent rains helped.)
I even found a sharks tooth
Dana Simpkins — Google review
This is a beautiful park with a tropical setting within walking distance to the beach! A fresh water lake stocked with fish and of course there are alligators around! That being said.....the camping sites are VERY tight!! We barely were able to fit our 35' class A on the site they gave us, our slides were into the overgrown vegetation, couldn't open the awning and to top it off our fire pit was on the drivers side of the rig!!! All of the sites were like this! Very narrow roads to navigate through the park and forget about getting there in the dark because you will have a nightmare trying to get in.
The park is very dated as are the bathroom and showers.
CAMPERS BEWARE!!
Russ Bracco — Google review
Hanna Park is an awesome place that has a bit of everything to offer. There are beautiful beaches with showers and bathrooms, camping, kayaking, good waves for surfing, walking and biking trails, fishing and the list goes on. It feels like you have gone deep into nature, away from civilizations, without having to drive an hour outside the city. It is a gorgeous place to take pictures and have family pictures.
ValaRee Yi — Google review
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is a stunning coastal park located in Jacksonville, Florida. With its miles of sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush natural surroundings, the park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from surfing and swimming to hiking and biking through the park's numerous trails. The park is also home to a large freshwater lake, which offers a peaceful retreat for fishing and kayaking. For those looking to stay overnight, the park provides camping facilities, including tent and RV sites. With its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Florida's coast.
JC RXN — Google review
Beautiful fishing lake, the splash pad is cool too. So many picnic tables and charcoal grills were available; it was busy and there were still plenty of places to sit and spread out. The bathroom by the lake and splash pad was a close walk and wheelchair accessible.
Natasha B — Google review
Pretty park with spacious sites. Mostly clean okay-ish bathrooms. The beach access and trails are great. Host campers are not the friendliest. Has a general store, but it is closed on Mondays.
Bethany Walker — Google review
Affordable rustic camping. $50 cash deposit, which is returned after the post cabin inspection. Very rural but quaint. AC and heat if needed for no extra cost in the cabins. It's definitely a nice weekend getaway. 2 miles from the beach, 2 miles from the lake. No swimming there! 450 acres of nature.
CARI A — Google review
We had a short stay here in late December. Being that it's the off season for most beach goers, there was plenty of parking and beach access. Little things like debris in the road seem overlooked by maintenance, but otherwise the park is clean. We were traveling and overall were pleased.
TrailRdrs Outdoor “Aftermarket Electric” — Google review
What a beautiful park! The main road is shaded by beautiful trees as you drive down it. On one side of the parking areas, there are beach accesses, and on the other side is a breathtaking lake. You must pay $5 (cash) per car every time you enter the park.
Camping (RV and tent sites, as well as camper cabins) is also available farther down, but you must reserve a spot ahead of time.
E H — Google review
One of our favorite places to visit while in the Jax Beach area. Plenty of beach area, shower/rinse off spots with bathrooms and several areas to get out of the sun and enjoy a picnic. We have done a few nature walks early in the day over the years. This year we brought our fur-babies with us. They enjoyed the beach day too.
Kristen Goldstraw — Google review
Nice park. Visited on my bicycle from JAX beach. Took a spin on the mountain bike trails which were quite fun on my gravel bike (there are some significant roots on the trail which were a bit difficult on the gravel bike, but manageable). Great beach access with both freshwater and saltwater fishing available. Park was clean and tidy.
Daniel Calcaterra — Google review
Excellent place to camp. They have full hookups so you can treat your RV like an apartment while you are there. Plenty to do like bike riding on the many trails, hanging out at the Beach, kayaking on the Lake or relaxing in the park areas. The 🏕 camping spots are well equipped and maintained. This is always our go-to place for local camping.
Darrell Glover — Google review
Amazing, beautiful park, rather close sites, dated but functional bath house. Perfectly equipped store.
We were in the 200 sites and the children (without supervision on bikes, scooters, and walking) had my nerves on end. I was even challenged walking my dogs and myself due to bikes whizzing by, wrong side of the road and 2 tikes tried to cross between me and my leashed pup. Parents, if not the park, need to educate and enforce supervision and adherence to protocols and helmet laws. Adult bikers could use education too. Walk against traffic, bike with traffic. If nothing else, y'all need to say "passing on your left" - to give folks time to react!
The imposing stadium of the Jacksonville Jaguars is home to many impressive features, such as cabanas for tailgating and large video boards. It is also a popular tourist destination, as it is the site of many famous events.
Definitely a beautiful experience I loved it. We came here with OD football for there All-Star Bowl. I'm not a football person but to see the joy on the young men faces was definitely 😁 exciting. I've been to many of these events and it never gets old.
Zee jenkins — Google review
Had a nice time at the game today, my team winning helped! Watched from the Gallagher suites and while it was kind of a long wait to get food, it was great being able to stand inside when it got too hot outside in the seat. It's the exact opposite of how it's like to view a game in the Northeast as you go in when it's too cold! In any event the stadium is nice and so were the Jaguar fans! I highly recommend viewing games from the East or West Gallagher suites.
Anthony R — Google review
Although it's the home of my team and I am a season ticket holder I've come to love the bank while at the same time hating it. If you don't get food from one of their outside vendors like the taco places then you're guaranteed to get mediocre to pretty bad food from the concessions. They should be ashamed charging that price for that bad of food. It's served us well but I'm ready for the renovations. Hopefully they'll get better food in there.
Bryan Albury — Google review
My first time attending the Jacksonville jaguars play and they won! I wanted to make sure that I got good seats because I was surprising my bf for his birthday. I have videos of the players leaving the field, I had good eye view! The prices for concessions were to be expected, I got a bottle of water for $6 dollars and an can alcoholic beverage for $15 and bag peanuts for $7. I paid a total of $30 at the concession stand. I also paid for Parking a couple days prior to the game I paid $20. I also paid for someone to take us to the stadium on their golf cart for $20. It would have been a 15 minute walk. I will suggest planning ahead of time. I enjoyed the experience and the weather was perfect!
teamnikki3 — Google review
Great stadium and always very clean. I enjoy the experience every time and don’t have to worry about getting in and out like you do in other cities. Lots of police also and it feels pretty safe and secure. Concerts are always great…. Just wish the Jags would get a better defensive line. SMH.
andrew leanza — Google review
We were in section 431, very top rows. The view was AMAZING!!!! We could see the field so clearly and the big screen. The air show was going on at the same time in Mayport so we could see that to the left of the big screen at the same time. It was amazing!! Everything was so organized and the workers were so helpful and friendly! I had a great experience!
Sheila A — Google review
The new practice facility is incredible. I attended my 1st practice, and I couldn't be prouder to be a Jags Fan. The practice was very organized, and I'm looking forward to the season opener against the Cowboys. Go Jags!!!
Bill Lego — Google review
My first visit to EverBank Stadium and home game for the Jacksonville Jaguars was a fun filled experience! Views from the lower section seating is highly recommended. I prefer aisle seats and when attending a concert or football game I’m enjoy the views from a slight angle. The seating was comfortable as I was surrounded by friendly and energetic fellow football fans. Staff throughout were very welcoming, courteous, helpful and professional. Shoutout to stadium staff members named Ruthshell & Rocky, working at the “Grey Goose Vodka” bar near section 118. Also Britney, usher inside the entrance to section 118 along with Tamiyah & Crystal of guest services. The aforementioned women were amazingly friendly and hospitable. The property throughout was clean and full of various food/beverage stands. I’m excited for the next Jaguars home game and look forward to another wonderful game experience at EverBank!
Gonzostyle — Google review
Plenty of gates for easy access to the field, good food selection, bathrooms are small but clean and easy to find. The fan deck has a nice setup with two swimming pools. If it's a sunny day you will need sun block, it would be nice to have a covered stadium in the future.
Chris Sidock — Google review
We had a really good time at Monster Jam. Prices are ridiculous for drinks or even snacks but I guess that's to be expected now a days. We enjoyed the open air but a lot of the seats needed to be fixed and aren't comfortable they need to allow you to bring in cushions they are super hard.
Tajeria Ellis — Google review
It was great coming home and seeing my favorite team play once again in person and not once in awhile on tv. The stadium was absolutely beautiful along with the atmosphere. I do look forward to visiting my home state again soon and to definitely see my Jaguars play.
Carolyn Scott — Google review
First NFL game watching the Jaguars come from behind to beat the Raiders. After that game, Jacksonville never looked back going all the way to be AFC South Divisional winners and eventually losing to Super Bowl winners Kansas City Chiefs in the playoffs
Adrian Rudge — Google review
Excellent venue for a game! We were lucky enough to get section 1, 50 yard line! Clean and beautifully designed club house. All the staff we came across were friendly and helpful. From the people at the counter to the ones assisting with seat assignments! Fun display of entertainment before the game. Plenty of spots for drinks and snacks, as well as places to just chill out. Our seats had plenty of room for even the taller customer, which is hard to find sometimes.
Rachelle Marie — Google review
Better security in the suites would be nice. Not the greatest feeling when you rent one and someone is sneaking in doing what they want. Other than that, great service and great scenery. It'll be sad to see this place go for the games but I'm certain what's next week be amazing.
Jade 'TheSpade' Ealy — Google review
Good place to watch a football game even if you have nosebleed seats. Sitting up high doesn’t make you feel like you’re falling forward or off balanced. Sound wasn’t clear as we couldn’t understand what the referee was saying. All the staff members were very nice and professional.
Luigi Sicilia — Google review
Went to Jags/Ravens game for Sunday night football.... What an atmosphere, Between the tailgates and the stadium it was a everlasting experience. Seating on the first level which I highly recommend. You could see the entire field from where I sat(15 yard line) but more jaguar fans need to come out. Seems like there were more Raven fans than Jaguar fans! Still had a great time
Moe Money — Google review
We had an awesome experience at EverBank Stadium. Waited all day for Sunday Night Football to see the Baltimore Ravens play the Jags. Even got to see citizens get naturalized at halftime. Concessions were great, fans were great, and the Ravens won! What a night!!
Bmore Bunch — Google review
We went here for the trick or treat event that the director Aneshia Johnson invited us to. They did a fabulous job and we could not believe how many people were there. There were so many fun things to do and the crowd was going 3 hours into the event. Awesome event keep up the great work!
Ryan Miller — Google review
Really cool amenities for such a stadium. It's dated, but nostalgic at the same time. We watched the Jags lose to the 49ers at the cabana level. Food was OK (similar to gas station snacks), service was FANTASTIC, and the excitement was 10 out of 10.
Seth Gilland — Google review
Had such a great time in Jacksonville for the Chiefs game! The vibe was great. Jaguar fans were respectful & fun to hang out with. One of the best in stadium experiences I've had in a long while. Was very hot and I know there were many fans of both teams who had health issues due to the heat. Only rated 4 stars as I feel there should be more resources available to fans to prevent heat stroke & the traffic was ridiculous. Need a better system in place to help with the flow of traffic. Excited for the Jaguars new stadium and attending another game in the future!
Jordan Lambert — Google review
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1 EverBank Stadium Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32202, USA
Atlantic Beach is a municipality located in Duval County, Florida, USA. It forms part of the Jacksonville Beaches communities and maintained quasi-independence following the consolidation of most communities in Duval County with Jacksonville in 1968. Alongside Baldwin, Neptune Beach, and Jacksonville Beach, Atlantic Beach remained autonomous to some extent.
The St. Augustine Wild Reserve offers tours by reservation only, providing an intimate experience with a group of about 25 people. The reserve houses a variety of animals rescued from unfortunate situations, all well cared for and loved by the staff. Visitors can expect clean and well-maintained enclosures and detailed information about each animal from the tour guide. While walking shoes, water, and sunscreen are recommended, a golf cart is available for those in need.
I loved our visit today! Even though it was a crowded tour, they had several guides and didn't rush us. Sandra was a knowledgeable guide and we learned a lot. I highly recommend as it's a 1.5 hour tour that's up close to the animals and a good deal for $35. *I did not take these photos but bought them from them.
Cindy Woods — Google review
I loved this place, the attention of all the volunteers who work there was very good and the animals they have there are beautiful. The tour was very good, I highly recommend it. They don't let you take photos, just enjoy the beauty of these animals.
jenny angel — Google review
An absolutely amazing way to spend a Saturday afternoon. The animals are so beautiful and the reserve clearly takes great care of them. 5 stars will highly recommend to everyone. The pics are from their website and emails. They don’t let you take pics of your own but don’t let that stop you from going. Just enjoy the moment.
Christian Evangelista — Google review
Tours are by reservation only but it was easy for us to find openings. Our group was about 25 people and was the perfect size. This reserve has many cool animals rescued from unfortunate situations. You can tell the animals are well cared for and loved by the staff; our tour guide gave details about every single animal. Enclosures are super clean and well-maintained. Make sure you wear walking shoes and bring water/sunscreen if it’s hot! There’s a golf cart to help those who need it. You can get really close to some impressive carnivores here! No pictures allowed but that helps keep the experience special! A better experience than some larger zoos.
Ryan Rockwell — Google review
Fantastic place, they are doing wonderful work. The entry fee goes directly to support he wildlife, and the staff clarly provide wonderful care for these animals. The tour was fun, informative, and I was quite close to the animals. The staff were helpful, and the tour was very well organized. Well worth the price, and really worthwhile organization.
Staff bring you right up to the animals, discuss each one, and answer any questions. They fed them during the visit, so it was very interactive. Some of the keepers have worked with individual animals for decades, and this allows them to interact with them closely.
Mark G — Google review
This is a great experience in St. Augustine. Forgive my lack of photos for the review because photography is not allowed on the tour.
You must schedule your tour in advance so keep that in mind. They have a variety of wild exotic animals, like lions, bears, tigers, birds and more. They are all very well loved and cared for. There is a good variety of animals.
It’s a walking tour but it’s a small facility so not too bad. They have a golf cart that follows the tour for those that can’t stand very long.
The facilities are well kept and clean.
Wade Williams — Google review
Highly recommend visiting!! I was within 3 feet of wild cats, bears, wolves, hyenas and more. Saw some of the most beautiful rare cats, hyenas getting their teeth brushed, felt a porcupine quill, heard the lions roar, the wolves howl, and so much more. The staff is fabulous and so knowledgeable. Their love for the animals there can not only be seen by their interaction with them, but it can also be felt. Absolutely amazing experience.
Kelly Povroznik — Google review
What a beautiful intimate reserve. The relationship and respect the staff has with the animals is amazing to watch! Took a group of residents on a private tour and it was awesome. Will be 100% retiring with the family. Water front tiger condos LOVE IT
Amber Vaughan — Google review
A special place, exceptional people, an amazing experience. You are so close to lions, tigers , panthers.. like no where else that i have been.. the staff interacts with the animals. You see their personalities. These animals are loved. It is a staff of mostly volunteers. These carnivores are all rescues. I love this place
Lee Monday — Google review
Such an amazing place. Tons of different animals. All private tours and not overly crowded. Price is perfect. Non-profit and everyone is well taken care of. The keepers and volunteers obviously believe in the mission and have great friendly interactions. Amazing enclosures. Will definitely be back. And love the newsletters we get now that we’re back home!
Carly Osswald — Google review
I am very much pleased with this facility! What stood out to me the most was it’s cleanliness. The cages were spot clean, smell free and even the animals did not smell. The staff were very friendly and our tour guide was very knowledgeable! I wish we could actually see the wolfs howl. There is something different about this wild reserve, we always had a golf cart so that people can take a break. There is at-least one other staff member to keep an eye an people and especially if kids wander off. Definitely a must go!
Aishwarya Umesh — Google review
Amazing place, you can get a really close look at the animals if they're feeling "sociable", and most of them were. The group for the tour was pretty big, yet there was no problem getting a chance to see everything. We got to see how some of the animals interacted with their favorite volunteers, so cute! While you're waiting for the tour there are a ton of peacocks and other birds you can check out, so it absolutely isn't boring.
Suea Peek — Google review
This was a well organized, educational tour. All of the volunteers were extremely nice and knowledgeable. The animals were well cared for and their enclosures were well maintained. Highly recommend this experience to people of all ages. They were very accommodating to those who needed shade, a ride on their golf cart and offered free water to all.
Meghan Wisnieski — Google review
Really excellent, informative tour! We booked the 1.5 hour walking tour and enjoyed learning more about each of the animals at the sanctuary. The volunteer keepers and guides were super knowledgeable and also provided water and cool towels for us during the tour which were amazing on such a hot day.
Samantha M — Google review
Amazing vip tour! Great staff! You can tell the animals are very loved + cared for! Saw lots of different animals up close: lions, tigers, jaguars, panthers, wolves etc! It was interesting to hear their rescue stories and learn about these incredible animals.
Amanda Bramlett — Google review
Up close experience with numerous jaguars, tigers, lions and other exotic animals. Great explanations of the animals and well laid out small park. Great activity for any type of vacation. You must book the tour ahead of time as there are set times to visit.
Gavin Cardwell — Google review
Incredible experience. Fantastic tour and guides. The caretakers treat the animals with kindness and respect. The homes for the animals are well designed and large. The animals look very healthy and well fed. I’ll return there many times.
M E — Google review
A great experience. The guides took their time and offered a lot of background information for each animal we saw. Listening to the lions communicate with each other was remarkable. I've never heard anything like it. The work being done to offer these animals sanctuary after a hard start to life is admirable. You can see that these animals are loved and well cared for. Highly recommend, and encourage anyone visiting to consider bringing donations (a list of useful/needed items can be found on their website)
Courtney Fetter — Google review
This is a must do! The tour guides are so knowledgeable and you can see their heart for the animals immediately. Was an amazing experience so close to the the animals! You have to put away your phones once entering the gates, but it helped keep our focus on the animals. It was incredible just seeing and hearing the roars/ purs/ howls and everything in between. Posting pictures of the entrance with birds before the cat exhibits.
Araceli Moon — Google review
This was an awesome experience!! You can see how much the volunteers enjoy their jobs and care about the animals. You are able to see the animals up close and they interact with the volunteers. We had a large family reunion there and we all enjoyed ourselves. I highly recommend it.
kasi cox — Google review
I hate zoos and I like this because it’s a proper reserve. The animals are active and seem happy. The staff is very knowledgeable and eager to answer questions. The tour is more like a well oiled machine vs your average guided tour. While we didn’t have young children with us, I would hesitate to recommend taking your kids along. The staff have your safety in mind and that’s evident. The big cats are incredible. Some of the most beautiful animals I’ve ever seen in person.
Joshua Wood — Google review
We really enjoyed our tour of the park. Animals were beautiful and look well cared for. The guides were very helpful and informative. Our tour group was large and they handled it well.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is a historic fort that offers self-guided tours, showcasing its drawbridge and gun deck, as well as providing stunning views of Matanzas Bay. This masonry fort, the oldest of its kind in the country, was constructed to safeguard Spain's territorial claims in Florida following pirate attacks during the late 1500s.
As cool as the first time I saw it as a kid. A great visit for fans of history and for kids! There are lots of ranger led activities around and all of them are a ton of fun while being very informative. Parking is difficult, but there is a lot of street parking along the waterfront if the lot by the fort is full.
Orion Maier — Google review
One of my favorite forts! This location has so many interesting places to walk around and check out throughout the whole fort as you learn so much from every place you look in! I managed to come in for free on National Park Day so definitely take advantage when it happens! Make sure to arrive on some days where they demonstrate a cannon launch! It’s an experience I would never forget! Definitely bring your national park stamp book if you have one to get the stamp!
Daniel Duran — Google review
This was amazing! The fort is so cool and preserved very nicely. The park rangers were happy to answer questions and sharing interesting tid bits. We have a park pass so we got in for free but I still think it would have been worth the price.
Lighting was withing the 5 miles or whatever it is when we got in so we couldn't go to the top for a bit. We took our time on the ground level and read all the signs and explored the top as soon as it opened. I wish we could have gone on a night when they shoot the canons off. That would be such an amazing thing to see!
I highly recommend going, you won't regret it.
Susan Pullan — Google review
This was quite an interesting place to visit. So much history here. We have a 4th grader so we we’re able to get in for free. You can get into any national park for free as part of a program for 4th graders nationwide. The displays were all very informative and the staff here was super friendly. There is a scavenger hunt game that is great for the kids. The views of the harbor and the Bridge of Lions were incredible. Parking here in the afternoon can get crazy. We had to drive around the parking lot a couple of times to catch someone leaving. You pay per hour to park but we took our time and we’re there just about 2 hours.
Jon H — Google review
As a point of historical significance, the reference and homage pair to this fort by the staff and local community is apparent from the ticket gate. The actors that interact with the public are very impressive with the attention to detail and period knowledge they exhibit and the cannon firing demonstration is a must see.
Nearby parking is very limited, but the available public transit and flat walkways make for a quick commute from wherever you can find a spot. The first floor and exterior are accessible to most mobility disabilities; and while a very shallow staircase prevents wheeled access to the ramparts, those with limited mobility in their legs should find a fairly easy climb.
Kevin Childs — Google review
They were closing up when we got there but it was still pretty cool. It was a lot like Fort Independence in Boston so a lot cooler if you haven’t seen forts before. The grounds were very nice and people seemed to really enjoy the surrounding area as well. You can walk around the outside for free or get tickets and go in.
Brandon Polley — Google review
What a treasure! The National Park Service has done a fantastic job to maintain and develop this 300+ year old monument to colonization history. Parking on the grounds is really cheap at 2.50 per hour. It took us 3 hours to see and enjoy everything. The admission was 15.00 per person BUT I used my senior pass and got in for free. Well worth the one time charge to visit all 400 national parks. You can get into many restored rooms and listen to the excellent stories from the park rangers.
John Thompson — Google review
If you visit just one place in St. Augustine it has to be Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. The history, the architecture, the location. It's spectacular. There is so much to see in every room and a lot of information to read about the history and the lives of the soldiers, prisoners, settlers, etc. The cannons are a work of art. Just to be around something that has been built in 1500-1600's and is still around is incredible. You can easily spend a couple of hours there. There is also a cute gift shop. There are a lot of volunteers that will gladly answer any questions you might have. I wish we had our kids with us, they would have loved to tour it.
Ella Camaro — Google review
This was a very neat place to visit. It’s huge and there’s lots to do and see here. You can’t come to St. Augustine and skip this attraction. Do be prepared for lots of walking, and big crowds to be around. We weren’t there a single day that there wasn’t a massive crowd. I recommend getting there early in the morning to get in line for tickets.
Amy Justine — Google review
Stopped at this gem on the way back from Orlando. Ended up being my favorite thing on the trip by far.
The ambiance of the landmark is spot on. The beautiful, light-blue water coupled with the local Florida wildlife makes for a great sight. In addition to that, the preservation and appreciation for history makes you feel like you’re in the time period. They even fly the Spanish flag - accurate to the period of its founding.
The landmark also provides excellent information to truly educate about the fort’s history and founding. You also have quite a bit of freedom to explore; most rooms you can look around and (the best part) you can walk on top of the fortifications.
Noah Dickens — Google review
This place is awesome and great to see where it all started for Central and South America countries and Florida. It is a Federal Monument so Veterans are free along with 4 guests. Parking in Augustine can be a challenge, unless you park in the free public parking garage across the street and it is still within walking distance to everything. It's a tourist area but the shops and restaurants are really good and there are plenty of them. It is a beautiful area!!
Craig's Travels — Google review
A well preserved Spanish fort in St. Augustine, the oldest continuously inhabited city in the US. It's part of the National Park system, and for those with a National Park pass, entry to the inside of the fort is free. Also, access the the area all around the outside of the fort is free to everyone. Scenes of life in the fort is recreated in several areas. Various canons and other equipment/supplies are on display. There is a small gift/souvenir shop (National Parks stamps available) just inside the fort entrance. Great views of the city and waterfront can be seen from all around the upper level of the fort wall. Although there is a paid parking lot on the grounds ($2.50/hour) parking can be a little difficult to find at peak times. This isn't a large fort, so one to two hours is plenty of time to see the whole thing. The spaces are large enough for large camper vans and smaller (class C) RVs. Our 22' van fit within the space markings. There are several small spaces for motorcycles . There are no oversized spaces in this lot, but there is a free parking lot for all sizes of RVs just a few blocks to the west (No overnight camping allowed). Overall, if you are interested in military/colonial historical sites, this fort is definitely a place to visit.
Alan Marshall — Google review
My family had a fun time at Castillo to say it was not a planned trip. It was like getting a fun history lesson of the fort. We spent about 1.5 touring the rooms of the fort (this will vary person to person). I would recommend going on a cool day as we did. In summer I assume it can get hot and the crowds of people.
Cee — Google review
What an amazing piece of history! It is absolutely worth the visit. I recommend bringing the kids to so they can learn some history but also come alone because you can read all the info posted throughput the fort because you realize all this historic time capsule has been through. I am amazed every time I visit this place that it is open to the public and you can walk through such an incredible time capsule.
The McFarland Team — Google review
Wonderful place!
A beautifully preserved antique, well-kept and authentic. The love and care of the staff is immediately visible.
A very informative exhibition, we walked around for two hours, looked around and read the explanations, just wonderful.
It’s good that there are many excursions for schoolchildren, children study real history using real buildings and exhibits, and this is wonderful!
You are unlikely to see so many ancient cannons in one place anywhere else.
A beautiful bay with Parisian trees and fresh sea air complete the picture.
Thank you very much!
Igor — Google review
This past weekend my boyfriend and I decided to come to st.Augustine for the weekend so I could show him all my favorite places. The Castillo was number one on this list. We both love history, so I knew he’d fall in love with the place as soon as he saw it. I honestly think it exceeded his expectations. He’s already planning for our next trip back! Aside from it being a magnificent pierce of history, it also helped that all of the staff and the rangers at the fort were so kind and helpful, and it really made an impact on him. He was stunned at how informative everyone was and how genuine everyone seemed.. I explained to him that St.Augustine isn’t like all the other “touristy” places. Especially not the Castillo de San Marcos. People here genuinely love this town and it’s structures, and they are excited to show it off to whoever is willing to listen. So thank you so much to everyone at the Castillo for making this trip memorable one for us! We can’t wait to come back!!!
Amber Katelyn — Google review
Truly one of a kind. It’s a must-see in St. Augustine! The staff, dedicated volunteers and city have done an excellent job with preserving this jewel and making it fun and educational for all visitors! The view from the top part of the Fort is incredible. This was such an interesting attraction. After leaving this establishment you simply feel closer to history.
I’ve visited as a child and now as an adult….and it’s always enjoyable!
TallyTastingTampa — Google review
I've come here many times since the late 1960's when my father first brought me. I remember having a souvenir Spanish cannon from here as a child and It's always worth the trip. St. Augustine itself is pretty touristy, but it's a pleasant way to spend an afternoon and send yourself back in time to the days of forts, castles, and dangerous adventures. Take your kids so they take away the memory of a lifetime and maybe a Spanish Cannon.
Jeffrey Morgan — Google review
Great historical site that is rather unique. It is $15 for adults while under 16 are free. Military and veterans can get a National Park pass for free with proof; that gets three adult guests in with you also. Nice views of St. Augustine from here. Parking is $2.50 per hour.
Stephen — Google review
Just an absolutely lovely place to visit.
The site is steeped in a rich history.
The views of the surrounding area and the city of Saint Augustine are beautiful.
It’s worth a visit, even if you don’t pay for a tour; you can walk around the property.
It’s especially nice at sunset.
Grab some ice cream in town and walk the property and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city of Saint Augustine~
eric j — Google review
An amazing and historical monument in the original and oldest city of Florida. So much depth of history that you need to really take your time enjoying each section. The views are stunning. Park Rangers are very informative. Try visiting on a "cool" day if that's possible! The park also has parking but it's on a first-come first-serve basis. Bring a good pair of walking shoes and water and enjoy!
MannyG33309 — Google review
A truly exceptional monument. The graffiti in the barracks alone are world class social history - Spanish sailors and soldiers, then US, and imprisoned Apaches too! Views are great. Staff are helpful and knowledgeable. The Firearms display is very well done.
Mike Sweeting — Google review
Definitely recommend! Learned a lot out the fort and the history. Self guided tour spent about 2 hours here. Money well spent to help preserve such a national monument. We also bought the national park passport too and got our stamps.
Deziree Rosbeck — Google review
Samantha Brown's Places to Love was spot on with this feature attraction. Make sure to add to your list of things to do. Well kept by the National Parks and Recreation. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring water. It's very scenic. Park staff is very friendly. Must see if you're in the area. Active and retired military discount. They will register you in the database for Gold Star and military membership to visit ALL National Parks.
Brian Lawson — Google review
Definitely worth the admission especially if you can time it around the cannons being fired. But, there are plenty of historical markers if you just want to walk around it. Also a beautiful place to sit and watch the sailboats or picnic on the large lawn. There is limited parking, but a large paid garage is across the street. They have nice restrooms and a small museum.
Burgess Adventures — Google review
There is a dizzying number of tour options in St. Augustine, and you can quickly part with a ton of $$ because there’s an entry fee for just about everything. The Castillo is one of two historical attractions that I think are a must see** because of its uniqueness and its long history.
Built in the 1700s by the Spanish, it is the largest and oldest “concrete” fort in the US, and it is almost entirely intact. It is fascinating to think about the fact that the fort has been utilized by Spanish, British and American military forces over the centuries, reflecting Florida’s unique and varied history.
There is a decent self-guided tour inside the fort, and if you’re there at the right time, you can hear “first-hand” accounts from actors dressed as Spanish soldiers. This believe they also fire cannons on Saturdays, but we were there during the week.
You can also walk around the outside of the fort and go on top of the fort to see the cannons in place, as well as capture beautiful water views. This is a truly unique glimpse into one facet of history in our country’s oldest (continuously inhabited) city.
(**The lighthouse and museum is the other attraction that I would give 5 stars to.)
Angi Semler Welch — Google review
My family loved visiting the fort! The history is great and the exhibits inside are informative. We enjoyed seeing how the soldiers lived (my teenage son especially liked the explanation of the toilet system) 🤣
The sights of the water and city from on top the castle walls are neat to see. If you have a chance to hang out, make sure to see the cannon fire demonstration. Parking might be tough if the lot fills up, but it’s not a far walk from the parking garage at the visitor center.
Chaplain Chris Linzey — Google review
Me and my family went here it was amazing. this is my second time here. We got to bring my parents this time for Arkansas they came to visit so we took them here to the oldest city in the United States of America to see the most prettiest fort and Georgetown Road. We got to see some amazing stuff and learn amazing history about this fort. We also got to watch them fire the Cannons at the ships which was pretty cool. It's amazing what people went through. This place is a a must see if you love history.
Samantha Halderson — Google review
It was amazing. If you love History it is an amazing place. With it being the oldest military fort in the United States. That's in amazing condition. It's a National Park , So I use my senior lifetime pass to get in. So I'm not sure of the cost.
Randy Bullock — Google review
Amazing!
Must see. Well worth the drive.
The scenario is Great.
Easy accessibility and we'll lit.
Parking down the street.
Part of history
Kid friendly
Highly recommended
JESSE JAMES CRISCIONE — Google review
Old fort, cool to see they used all natural resources to build it. Go in and out of rooms with all kinds of facts and things ,take your time and read the signs to understand everything that went on there. Climb steps to the top---no elevator watch little kids there is no handrails and the upper walls are low they have signs posted do not sit on walls but there are benches to sit. Price is $14.95 adults kids are less get a coupon book and museums have great discounts
jean espina — Google review
Had family members come to visit us from California, we took them to Saint Augustine—the oldest city of USA. They were so happy to see the fort and to know some history of our country…we got there around 10:00am during the weekday, plenty parking spaces, but saw people were waiting for the spot to park when we got out of the fort, city needs to build more parking spaces. Thanks to the people who manage the monument and keep it nice.
Emily C. — Google review
St. Augustine is a charming old town with a plethora of culinary delights. The Castillo de San Marcos is an incredible sight to behold, steeped in history and architectural beauty. One tip I highly recommend is to thoroughly research and plan your visits, ensuring the places you want to explore are open. The castle closes after 5 p.m., so it's essential to schedule your visit accordingly.
Visiting during the Christmas season adds an extra layer of magic, as the town is adorned with festive decorations, enhancing the overall experience. Exploring the Castillo de San Marcos during this time truly captures the spirit of the holidays and the rich history of the area. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this fascinating destination!
Jose Ampueda — Google review
I loved it. The architecture is beautiful, and as someone coming from Chicago, I’ve never seen this technique before in building with sea shells in the walls. The museum does not take long to be seen but totally worth supporting this location. Staff is very friendly as well.
Oana Tamas — Google review
Fascinating history with great displays. Blistering hot day - just like when we visited Fort Ticonderoga in NY a couple of years ago - we seem to pick 'em for those fort tours! Would have been nice to have a guided tour - was tempted to listen in on the guides for the kids' field trip tours.
The Pirate and Treasure Museum is a fun, family-friendly place to visit that houses an incredible array of pirate artifacts. This museum is located in the city of St. Augustine and has been a favorite with tourists since it relocated to the city from Key West in 2010.
This museum was awesome! Informative, educational and hands on fun. Find the hidden treasure markers throughout the exhibit and claim pirate treasure at the gift shop. Seriously if your gonna spend the money go here and see the cool exhibits that are interactive .
Adam Demske — Google review
If you’re looking for loads of family fun, I highly recommend the St. Augustine Pirate museum. There are numerous interactive historical puzzles, scavenger hunts, audio stories, and hidden treasure to be discovered! The museum has authentic pirate artifacts ranging from weapons, treasure, tools, flags, clothing, and lots more. The staff is very kid friendly, the museum is throughout a pirate ship so you never lose the feeling of being at sea with your first mate. All in all, great for family fun, my daughter absolutely had a blast, awesome Hollywood pirate display, and they have a lovely gift shop.
J Perlmu — Google review
I accompanied my son and his school on a field trip to this museum. We were assigned a guide who accompanied us throughout the tour, explaining each part of the museum and helping us understand its history. At the end of the tour, there is a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs or other items related to the museum. Overall, the guided tour greatly enriched our experience and provided valuable insights into the museum's exhibits. The availability of a gift shop adds to the convenience and enjoyment of the visit.
Valerie Soto — Google review
This museum was fun, however the below deck experience is not good for those with anxiety or claustrophobia. Other than that it's a cool like adventure. The artifacts are really neat and some the them are so detailed. My daughter is a pirate fanatic and absolutely loved it.
Heather Marie McCullough — Google review
Perfect for all ages. A nice air-conditioned place to learn about the pirates. They offer a treasure hunt game, have lots of activities for all ages, computer games, knot tying, cannon, story rooms to listen to the pirates, helm, and videos. Real artifacts of gold, silver, muskets, swords, cannons, and a real-life 400-year-old treasure chest. Must see and do with the family. The staff were even dressed in costumes. Very well done.
Cori Harper — Google review
We went with four adults and one teenager. All enjoyed it. The artifacts and displays were great. It was absolutely amazing how the displays were truly played into the theme and not just a box to look at. There was so much to see! Some displays were even formed to look like chests and be on theme. The theme was carried out so well. Easily one of the best organized museums and most on theme that I have ever seen. It was great!! There is a free scavenger hunt and the items you find are great. Two of our adults did it and finding the items really added to the experience and made you look at everything. Be sure to do the listening booth, but be aware it may be too scary and gory for kids.
Alicia Simon (MyWorkbasket) — Google review
Fun time in a small package!
This is a great little museum that can be fun for both adults and children.
You really need to take your time to appreciate it.
The most impressive "exhibits" where the historic documents, letters, and journals, that were surprisingly legible! Kids will like some of the interactive props scattered around the rooms. Firing the cannons was a hoot!
Lovely gift shop, very friendly staff. If you're a fan of the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, and anything "piratey" , you'll have a good time 😊
Teo P — Google review
The Pirate and Treasure Museum was a lot of fun! The whole family enjoyed it. Take the kids and go see historical artifacts and REAL treasure. I had no idea that pirates were such a large part of St Augustine history! They even have a room dedicated to pirates in film, which was a fun way to end the museum trip. I highly recommend a visit!
Chaplain Chris Linzey — Google review
It's informative and interactive. We had fun and doing the map treasure activities is nice but the prize need improvement. The price is okay. The place was clean. We went there on week day but its crowded. It's a very popular spot. ... We are happy to see the Jolly Roger and other artifacts. The kids enjoy it. ...
Phia Velasquez — Google review
A fun and informative jaunt into the world of pirates. Of course there was exhibits on the most well known pirates, but I also really enjoyed learning information about pirating related to the local area. A huge plus was how comfortable it was on the inside, a nice and cool diversion from the St. Augustine heat. My family lazily made it through in about 30 minutes. All children over 13 pay adult price, which made the price tag for our family of five feel a little expensive for what we got.
Matt Mealey — Google review
We had a wonderful time learning about my favorite pirates and seeing all the cool items on display. The Pirate Historian was the hit of the museum and you would not want to miss him! He was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and very personable to everyone. What a fun experience and educational experience. We strongly recommend it for everyone young and old!
Sheran — Google review
If you're looking for a great place to cool off during the heat this is it. It's fun and interactive for everyone (even the kids). We had a blast looking at all of the exhibits. We learned a ton and everyone loved it!
Matt — Google review
The museum is definitely a must visit if you are in the area. The entire self guided tour is very informative and educational. My 4 year old daughter loved the little treasure hunt. Fyi,if they complete the entire treasure hunt they can get a surprise. Definitely a must see.
Tai Sanders — Google review
Fun museum! Some interesting artifacts to look at and plenty of history to learn of. Enjoyed learning of the lives of Blackbart and Drake, among others. Kids ages 9-15 enjoyed it. They have plenty of interactive exhibits. Like barrels with smells and you try to guess based on the smell what cargo the pirates were carrying! Also my son enjoyed hoisting up the jolly rogers flag! Neat audio drama you can listen to as well and hear pirates sword fighting and hunting for booty. Parents of young ones should beware though. There are some parts that might frighten younger kids. A decapitated, yet talking pirate head is hung high on a noose. Plus a life size, black, gruesome skeletal corpse is in a cage. Overall, we enjoyed it. And the gift shop is worth perusing as well.
Angela Rogers — Google review
As locals that have never stopped by, I'm glad we did! Had a great time reading about the pirate history as well as seeing all the displays and models. Absolutely a must stop by if in town. You can also combine it with the colonial experience next door and highly recommend doing so for a discount!
Make sure to get you a little souvenir at the shop as well.
Andy — Google review
I thought this place would be cheesy but it was the opposite. It was so cool and fun and educational. I loved all the artifacts and info about different pirates and how some of the ruins of the ships were discovered. The below deck show was super cool and you felt like you were on a pirate ship. My kids and I just loves this place and I thought it was a reasonable ticket cost. We spent a little more than an hour there and did the scavenger hunt.
Kristina Hernandez — Google review
A swashbuckling good time for all ages! You can choose to partake in a seek and find activity throughout the museum to take home “a piece of pirate treasure” or you can choose to simply walk about. A great variety of genuine artifacts including one of only 3 remaining genuine Jolly Roger flags in existence! You’ll have fun and even learn some things along the way. Well worth the price of admission. One of my favorite museums in the country.
Jennifer Blair — Google review
Visiting the pirate museum was a captivating journey into maritime history. The exhibits were well-curated, bringing the swashbuckling era to life with detailed artifacts and engaging narratives. From interactive displays to impressive replicas, the museum provided an immersive experience for all ages. It's a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone fascinated by pirates and their adventurous tales on the high seas.
Juan P — Google review
Honestly cooler than I thought it would be and worth the price. Not cheesey and packed with real facts and pirate memorabilia. They have real pirate treasure, weapons, flags, and chests. They have some interactive exhibits. The ambience and sfx are enjoyable. Tour guides offer lots of facts and answer questions. Some of them are even descendants of actual pirates back in the day.
Joey FLORIDA — Google review
In addition to exploring the Colonial Quarter, our itinerary included a visit to The Pirate & Treasure Museum--a captivating historical counterpart.
Embarking on the guided tour of the museum, we were enthralled by the exhibits and a collection of historic documents, letters, and journals that vividly illustrated the intriguing history of pirates.
Every facet of the museum was a delight, and our appreciation extended to every corner. Each exhibit, brimming with artifacts and stories, contributed to our immersive experience, leaving us thoroughly enamored with the rich tapestry of pirate history.
Flagler College is a private liberal arts college located in Ponce de Leon Hotel, which was built in 1888 as a luxury hotel. The architecture was designed by John Carrere and Thomas Hastings, who worked for Henry Morrison Flagler. The college features beautiful grounds and stunning buildings, including the Ponce de Leon Hotel's famed dome and dining room with its 79 Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass windows.
I toured Flagler College and downtown along with my brother. Architecture of this college is fabulous. Some of the detail is absolutely remarkable. Nice tour available without ever stepping foot on the property. Plenty of photo opportunities. I’d like to see the inside of some of the buildings at some point on a later more in-depth tour.
Michael Mefferd — Google review
Very cool architecture and a great place to snap a photo while in town . I don’t attend the actual college just review based off the architecture outside . Very cool historical place for sure
Ryan Strickland — Google review
What a wonderful atmosphere it is! I really like the architecture of the building.
Abraham Kirkwood — Google review
Explored this college during our trolley tour—it's a Flagler creation from nearly a century ago. 🏛️
The architecture is breathtaking, and the Tiffany windows in the dining hall are so intricate that they're insured for a whopping $130 million. 💎
The main building features a charming courtyard adorned with beautiful decorations. 🌿✨
Bhushan — Google review
This is a review of the old hotel, not the college. The college does have a good reputation and seems like a great place to go to college. But, as to the facility, you can walk in the lobby and check it out, but best to make a reservation for a tour. Make sure you spend some time in the dining room. It's incredible.
M A J — Google review
Enjoyed the historical tour. Lots of cool history. Great location and story.
Keith Snead — Google review
By far my most favorite tour in the entire city! Our tour guide was a lovely freshman named Leah and we had a very unique tour with cool observations and obscure little nuances of Henry Flager himself. It is a MUST to check out the college as a tourist or maybe a hopeful college student.
Mercedes Anderson — Google review
The Flagler College area is absolutely beautiful. The Spanish architecture is breathtaking. From the terracotta roofs to the red iron gaits and railings, this place is eye candy. Walked around and looked at the various hotels and other various buildings, all the same style and flair. When you tour the downtown Saint Augustine area, venture a little further down to see these sites.
Mark Mefferd (TigerMark44) — Google review
Taking the free architectural tour at Flagler College was absolutely fascinating and beautiful! It was like time traveling back to the Gilded Age where conspicuous luxury and customized environs and decor knew no bounds. Learning the history of the visionary team behind the project and the short amount of time this hotel was completed yielded many surprises for us!
Wind Tree Studios — Google review
Had the special privilege to be on the 2pm tour of Flager College which started its life as the Flagler Hotel. Built to be the Newport of the South, the most incredible thing is all the original Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass windows. The entire property is jaw droppingly beautiful. Right now only 2 tours a day. One at 10am the other at 2pm. Adult tickets are $15 and worth it.
Tony Suszczynski — Google review
Visited for the afternoon historic tour. This facility is simply stunning. It’s very existence is pivotal to what we now know as modern day Florida. The tour was interesting and hosted by one of the attending college students. While she did get a bit “tour-guidey”, she had some great insight into the main building’s history. The tour itself is just over an hour and takes you into some rooms you wouldn’t be able to see otherwise. A small portion of the tour is outdoors, so weather could be a factor. Our tour guide did a fantastic job picking a nice, comfortable, shady spot for our outside stop. If you’re in the area, and looking for brief afternoon activity, then you can’t go wrong with a historic tour of this campus.
Chris McKinney — Google review
Located in a great place I wonder if people really concentrate study as the city has lots of fun places and attractions.
I Really enjoyed and recommend.
Public Parking lot by the water and the old castle. $5 for 2 hours.
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Jacob K — Google review
Amazing architecture and interesting history. Worth visiting even just to see the grounds and the main lobby.
F Ainsa — Google review
Very well kept grounds and amazing historical significance to this town! Walk their gardens and observe their Spanish inspired architecture.
This review helped in anyway please give us a thumbs up 👍👍👍
St. George Street is a charming pedestrian thoroughfare in the heart of the city's Colonial Quarter. It features excellent restaurants and retailers as well as a historic church and 18th-century schoolhouse. The street is popular with locals and tourists alike, making it a great place to shop for souvenirs or have a coffee or meal.
One of my most favorite places to visit. Luckily I don't live far away.
Jamie Dixon — Google review
Nice place for shops, bars & music. One of must visit places.
Sudhesh Nayak — Google review
Beautiful place, it's a colonial street, with stores and a lot of people walking and enjoying the view.
Rocio Rodr?guez — Google review
Very cool place with tons of shops and places to eat!!!
Kathleen Semmens — Google review
A great shopping and people watching pedestrian walkway in the heart of everything.
Aaron — Google review
Great trip with the family. The history is impressive and the shops were fun to browse. Will come back.
Anonymous Beaver — Google review
Great place to shop and Walk around
RD Mahanpour — Google review
Multiple homeless and souvenir shops. We walked down to see what it was about. Saw the oldest schoolhouse. Many restaurants but very expensive. Don't plan to spend too much time. Parking is available at the visitor center for a flat fee. There are parking lots closer but more money.
Cori Harper — Google review
First time! So many fun shops, restaurants and entertainment!
Theresa Morris — Google review
One of the most famous streets, it is a lively street full of tourists, and it has many restaurants, coffee, sweets, ice cream, and gifts.
Sara Musaad — Google review
Beautiful, clean, safe place for families to enjoy! So much history.
Jordan Jones — Google review
Feels like taking a charming journey back in time. The historic buildings and vibrant shops create a delightful atmosphere that captures the essence of the city's history and culture!
Raul Diaz - Realtor — Google review
St. George Street is a gem in town, offering a charming glimpse into antique, olden styles. 🏰
The street emanates old European vibes, adorned with numerous shops, creating a beautiful atmosphere. 🛍️
Since cars aren't allowed, a stroll is a must, and I guarantee you won't regret immersing yourself in this delightful experience. 👣✨
Bhushan — Google review
Exciting place abuzz with tourists, good food and tons of shopping.
Patrick Smith — Google review
Great historical street with gift shops and different eateries.
Josh Higgs — Google review
Nice place to go for a walk. Mostly a tourist trap with expensive stores.
The St. Augustine Distillery is located in a historic ice manufacturing plant that was built in 1917. The distillery offers public tours of the facility and tastings of their spirits, which are made using age-old techniques in two copper pot stills. The distillery has won awards for its New World Gin and Florida Cane Vodka.
This is an absolute must! The staff are very friendly and the drinks are amazing! Not to mention, the self guided tour and samples are free! I’m not a drinker, I am a light weight and I only went here so I could take my husband…. So glad I did! I took the shot samples like a champ and enjoyed the drinks and the experience just as much as my husband did. The gin and tonic mix was the second shot we took and it was delicious!! We bought the gift box to take home! This was the best stop on our St. Augustine trip! Thanks St. A distillery!
Laura W — Google review
Neat place with lots of interesting historical displays and information about their distilling processes with plaques, pictures, and displays. We did a self-guided tour through the distillery which was quite adequate for our time frame and very informative. If we'd had more time we would have called ahead to arrange for an in-person guided tour, which I'm sure would have been excellent. Staff is friendly and very approachable if you have questions; they clearly take pride in their place of work.
The various tasting stations are a nice touch and certainly add to the experience. The varieties of bourbon, gin, and rum, as well as the ready-made mixers are delicious. (Suggestion: Eat something beforehand. The samples aren't huge, but they are fairly potent on an empty stomach! 😉)
There is also a store which offers for purchase all the various products from the distillery, with a tasting station so you can sample what you're thinking of buying. All very low-key, there is no pushiness to get you to buy anything, they obviously know just how excellent their products are!
The restrooms are very clean and roomy and ever so quaint - worth a visit, too!
Accessibility is good and there is ample parking around the building.
Susan B — Google review
This was one of our stops on trolley ride. We opted to pick up the next day and not having to walk around with our purchase.
Free samples were definitely a treat. No pressure, just sample, and you can come back the next day. ID is required.
Veronica Noel — Google review
One of the top distilleries that I have visited in the US so far. You begin the tour with signing into an iPad, then you start with your tastings of vodkas, gins and bourbons. Upstairs the bartender Nick was very knowledgeable on all of their products and made great suggestions on what to buy based on my likes.
Josh Shaffer — Google review
I recently visited Saint Augustine Distillery and had an amazing time. The highlight of my visit was the free whiskey tasting, which allowed me to sample some of their fantastic products. The employees were extremely knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience even more enjoyable.
The staff members at the distillery were not only passionate about their craft but were also well-informed about the various whiskey options available. They were more than happy to answer all my questions, providing me with in-depth information about the production process and the unique characteristics of their spirits.
Moreover, the welcoming and friendly atmosphere in the distillery made me feel at ease throughout my visit. The employees created a warm and inviting environment, which added to the overall enjoyment of the tasting experience.
I highly recommend visiting Saint Augustine Distillery for any whiskey enthusiast or anyone looking to learn more about the art of distilling. The combination of a free tasting and the expertise of the staff made for an unforgettable visit. I will definitely be returning to explore more of their offerings in the future.
Omar Echeverri — Google review
This is a small craft distillery that has only been in operation since 2014. You can do a self guided tour that is free and includes 4 tastings of mixed drinks like a mule. They also offer guided tours for a fee. The advantage of the guided tour is its bourbon forward, you hear the history of the building and the business, and you get to try a pour of two expensive bottles. We have been to 12 other distillery tours and I still learned a few new things. Larry was a fantastic host! We got to sample their flagship bourbon, one finished in a wine barrel, an aged blend, and a single barrel. We also got the keep the glasses! I believe a person in a wheelchair could do this tour because you only move from the tasting room to the adjacent room. We enjoyed our experience!
Stephanie Cotter — Google review
What a great experience this was! The tour is free and self guided so take as long as you'd like. Each area has a tasting station which have samples that they're promoting. All of the samples were great. Even better is that at the end they let you try whatever you'd like that they sell. All of the staff were very enthusiastic and knowledgeable about their company. A must visit when going to St. Augustine.
Patt Intarakamhang — Google review
I highly recommend the paid tour, it's only 35 dollars. Patrick(?) was our bourbon educator and man did he deliver some incredible information to us. It was a one hour class on information that we should be aware of when it comes down to picking, tasting, and understanding the complexities of what makes up a bourbon. Great job! The class was not rushed and very well paced. We were celebrating my mother's 70th birthday and the team even signed a card for her. Everyone received a glencairn and was thoroughly educated on how to drink from it. In all, a great day to drink bourbon and thanks for making Mom's birthday a whole lot more fun (she was a huge fan of the port finished bourbon).
Shawn Leftwich, DPT — Google review
The St. Augustine Distillery Spirit of Florida Bourbon Experience was Excellent! We went on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail last year and saw some great distilleries but having this quaint and beautiful distillery in our own state of Florida is fantastic. Melody was our host and tour guide and was very knowledgeable about everything Bourbon related especially when it came to the distilling process. We tasted 4 of their different bourbons and enjoyed each one. The "Saint" was our personal favorite because we love old fashioneds so much. Finishing off this bourbon in a barrel of their own old fashioned mix was truly an amazing idea! We bought 2 bottles of Saint, but know that this was not an inexpensive bottle at $200. (we did get a $35 off coupon for the tasting tour). The tour of this small distillery was informative and fun with Melody showing us the complete process. Of course the gift shop was the last stop and we took advantage of more Bourbon tasting with their version of an old fashioned. We had not been to this distillery since they added bourbons and only knew them from their vodka, rum and gin but were VERY pleased they have added these delicious bourbons to their line of spirits. A Wonderful Experience and Must See if you are here in St. Augustine!
Doug Wilson — Google review
A decent distillery in St Augustine.
We came to check them out and were really excited to do a tasting and check out their stuff. Someone in our group did the tour years ago and said it was great.
This time there was no tour and the tasting was lame. As someone in our group said to the person who said it used to be great "glad I didn't have to pay for it or I'd want my money back"
There were a few mixers to try and you could look at their room where they explain how it's made. You don't actually get to taste their stuff and get information about anything worthwhile.
If you have little to no experience or expectations for how it's made you might enjoy it, but as we have been to distilleries all over the world there wasn't enough going on to be worth the trip.
The staff were super friendly and they have a nice bar upstairs, but you can drink elsewhere for cheaper with a better variety.
Still, a decent place.
Joseph Sanchez — Google review
Fun place to visit. Great history and very knowledgeable staff. Great setup and tour. Good drinks at each stop and we had a lot of fun as a small group! Definitely recommend stopping by this distillery! Even if you only drink one type of spirit, try them all, it might surprise you!
Brian Babcock — Google review
My girlfriend is a bourbon drinker and booked this tour on our visit to Saint Augustine. We were immediately met by Clark and once in the private room, he proceeded to provide the experience. He did so with a passion and fervor that I haven't seen in a very long time. He spoke intelligently, factually, answered all the questions perfectly. His knowledge and understanding of the process and his use of facts was super impressive. He made this tour very special, welcoming and kept us interested and engaged the entire time. What an amazing experience and I hope anyone that has a chance to visit gets Clark as the experience guide (as he explained it was a combination of tour, history, and facts - an experience). The gift shop patrons were also very welcoming and friendly. What an amazing experience and Clark, thank you for making this one of the great highlights of our trip.
Jeff Turner — Google review
Nice short tour through the Distillery with tastings. If your over 21 make sure you have your ID with you. Nice rustic building to go through. If I were to go again I would make time to stop at the restaurant to try food and more drinks.
Jennifer Mendoza — Google review
Excellent distillery and a very unique way to conduct a tour. The tasting stations with cocktails makes it a useful tasting and showcases the products. The gift shop is amazing and the staff were all very friendly and helpful. Loved this experience and I’ve toured about 50 distilleries, including most on the famous bourbon trail. Top notch!
Chuck Whitworth — Google review
Yesterday was my sons 32nd birthday so we made a family trip to the St Augustine Distillery for a Bourbon class and it was amazing. I highly recommend it. So much fun as a family. Clark was so knowledgeable on Bourbon and he was funny as well. We also made our own bottle of Bourbon when the class was over and that was an amazing experience as well. You bottle the bourbon, cork it and label it with your signature and shrink wrap the top. I recommend this experience as a gift or fun family weekend trip.
Jennifer Workman — Google review
My husband and I went on a day trip to St. Augustine and visited the distillery for the self guided tour. It was a great experience from start to finish! We enjoyed learning the history of the building and distillery plus ALL the staff was absolutely amazing....very welcoming and knowledgeable. The cocktail samples were a tasty treat with the mule and old fashion above expectations. We were pleasantly surprised when we were able to partake in an experience guided by Clark with The Saint Bourbon and food pairings. Clark did a great job making the experience entertaining and educational. After the tour and experience, we visited the gift shop and indulged in our favorite cocktails supplies to enjoy at home!
Amy B — Google review
The coolest tasting and educational experience ever! This was my first introduction to bourbon and woooooweeeee I sure felt it! Sarah was a wonderful educator and very informative about the history and process of distillation. The gift shop at the end of our tour had many great items to purchase! Since our arrival for the tour was early, we decided to have a glass from their bar upstairs. Another cool place in the establishment!
Kev Win — Google review
St. Augustine Distillery will NOT disappoint and have a memory to last a lifetime. Larry was fantastic for the tour and tasting and KNOWS his bourbon. Nicholas made my one of a kind single barrel bottle pour SO special and was such a blessing to meet him. He went above and beyond to share his passion for what he does, what goes into making bourbon and both men were fantastic!!!
A hidden suggestion: Go to the 4pm booking cause it's the last one of the day and they can spend more time showing you stuff, behind the scenes and won't feel rushed.
* My suggestion if you can do it 👍🏼😊
Thank you and made a 50th Birthday, bourbon 🥃 lovers day a VERY special one ❤️🙌🏼
David Snyder — Google review
Had a great time at our guided tour yesterday. Clark was one of the best tour guides I’ve ever had, not just for a distillery but of any excursion or activity I’ve done. He is extremely knowledgeable and passionate which made the tour just that much better. Highly recommend the paid tour for everyone. Highlight of our trip to St. Augustine and my wife and I come here once per year for a weekend for the past 5 years. Oh and all the bourbon we tasted were absolutely amazing. Thanks for the great experience
Hector Perdomo — Google review
Self-tour. Enjoyed some mixed drink tastings. Great tasting room atmosphere. Old Ice Plant with historical architecture added to vibe. Enjoyed their bourbon and rum. They also make a good gin.
Chad S. — Google review
We love to take visitors to the distillery. We brought our guests to the perfect pair tasting experience and had a great experience. Clark, our guide, was extremely knowledgeable and very personable. Everyone had a great time. We proceeded to the gift shop for additional tastings and souvenirs, every employee we came in contact with was very knowledgeable and you could tell that they loved their jobs. We really enjoy taking guests here. See you soon!
Joe Campolong — Google review
Such a great experience couldn’t believe it was free! You learn so much about the history and the process of a different alcohols! Everyone was very friendly the free samples you got were tasty even their merchandise shop at the end was great. They had plenty of variety to choose from if you wanted to bring home something for yourself too or as a gift, will definitely be back on my next visit to Saint Augustine.
Brittaney P — Google review
One of my all time favorite places! You can’t beat the experience. These are very nice, award winning, high quality spirits. The staff is very welcoming and knowledgeable. I recommend doing the tasting tour. It’s free and takes 10-minutes tops, but it’s a great way to sample the spirits before committing to a bottle. The Saint is our favorite bourbon and the gin is a close second. Their mixers are absolutely delightful - fresh tasting, low sugar, and wildly versatile - we love the hibiscus and old fashioned. I honestly can’t say enough nice things. Run don’t walk to the best distillery in Florida!
Steph Wood — Google review
Even though the distillery is small the tour and tasting were one of the best we have been to. My daughter and I have done the entire Bourban trail tour in Kentucky and just about completed the craft tour in Kentucky. Also have ties to Bourbon industry in Kentucky. Anyway our guide definitely showed he is a Bourbon Steward also in giving the history of Bourbon and the standards as well as the brief history of distilling in the State of Florida. I will admit they have a good bourbon product as well as a vodka and rum, my daughter and brother liked their gin, gin is not for me. Everyone we met was more than gracious as hosts. When you are in the area highly recommend you take this tour as well as visit the attached restaurant.
The St. Augustine Lighthouse Maritime Museum is a fascinating collection of artifacts from the history of the lighthouse and its keepers, as well as a look at the many shipwrecks that took place along the coast. The tower itself is stunningly beautiful with amazing views, making it an ideal spot for photo ops.
A must see when visiting St Augustine or the area! It's a short drive from the more central area of the city, which was a great break and gave us a chance to drive over the bridge of lions. We didn't visit the park, only the museum, but the area was lovely. My 9-year-old and I did the full climb to the top of the lighthouse - if you can swing it, do it! There are 8 landings and the windows are open so it's nice and breezy in the right weather going up with time to rest. If there's a line, it'll go quickly - they can only allow so many people in at once so it's most comfortable for everybody. There are cool facts and interactive elements and progress marked on the way up. The entire museum area is awesome, especially loved the shipwreck exhibit and the on-site shipwreck artifacts conservation lab (my son's favorite part!). Lots of great historical facts and displays.
Christina Lembo — Google review
I love lighthouses and this one is the bee’s knee’s. Bought tickets online with a discount. Dog friendly except inside the buildings. 219 steps to the top and worth the admission. Great piece of preserved history and functional architecture. The light is impressive at night and incredible in the day. Beautiful wooded paths on the grounds and they sell pickles and snacks! Gift shop has excellent selection and prices.
Tiffany Steinke — Google review
Your thighs will burn going up the stairs but it is was beautiful! Full of history and gorgeous views! Highly recommend bringing water if there during the summer! The staff were all very friendly and the bonus was that they are pet friendly!! Dogs are welcome, just not in the lighthouse itself.
Tiffany Lester — Google review
Great museum and well thought out. Signage was cool and informative on the way up the tower. Loved the cat story! The facilities were expansive with lots to do. I'd love to spend a whole day here sometime... But it is easy enough to breeze through casually in under an hour if you need to.
Sam Lang — Google review
The St. Augustine Lighthouse was absolutely amazing. My sister and I went here with our family for our birthday. Everyone we talked to who worked there was so friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. The lighthouse was beautiful and such a cool experience. We also enjoyed visiting the lighthouse keepers' houses and grounds and seeing what life was like for the lighthouse keeper and his family in the 1800s. When we got to the top, the view was absolutely amazing. The volunteer at the top, John offered to take our picture and encouraged us to come back up an hour later to see the sunset from the top of the lighthouse, which was beautiful. He walked with us back down the lighthouse, chatting with us the whole way and even wished my sister and I a happy birthday. All of the volunteers/employees were also very friendly.
Gabrielle Taylor — Google review
Beautiful day to go to the Lighthouse. My 3 children and I had a good time climbing to the top. My youngest tried to race everyone lol. The staff are knowledgeable and will answer questions. It's supposedly haunted and I'd love to come back at night for a tour. The view from the top is amazing. The steps are worth it. There are landings for those who need to catch their breath or slow down. Highly recommend.
Heather Davis — Google review
Any absolute delight. Has History, souvenirs, antiques, archeology and more. More than a museum. Don't be intimidated if you have mobility handicaps. Staff is wonderful to make doable suggestions to make those with canes or walkers welcome and comfortable even if climbing stairs is physical limited. Restrooms available in several convenient locations. Many kid friendly things including pirate ship playground, outdoor play area with games and a trail that promotes hands on learning. Climb to the top of the lighthouse or enjoy the view from a comfy seat. Be sure to appreciate the landscaping and Florida foliage as well as the lighthouse keepers garden. The Tin Pickle is the stop for a hotdog, muffin, brownie, soda or a cold beer. We watched men building boats on site. We watched and archaeologist work on items retrieved from ocean dives. Be sure and hike the trail that goes behind the lighthouse. See the lush native plants. Enjoy the huge trees covered in Spanish Moss. Well worth the money and wonderful history lesson for kids of all ages. Staff is beyond helpful and kind.
Debbie Bowles — Google review
Had such a great visit! The lighthouse is so well taken care or we climbed all the way to the top! Its quite a climb but worth it and there are many spots to sit for a break on the way up.. the views are absolutely immaculate and all of the additional exhibits and mini museums were awesome!
Zinnia Torres — Google review
$30 bucks get you access to the lighthouse and the museum on property. Cool history and a 160+ stair climb to the top of the lighthouse that will give you a workout. Don’t forget to stop at each open window as you climb for a cool constant breeze to stay cool. They sell cheap bottles of ice cold water so may be advisable to grab a bottle (or two) to stay hydrated in the Saint Augustine humidity. The view at the top is just breathtaking!
Dan's Hodgepodge Videos — Google review
Amazing evening in st. Augustine's lighthouse ghost tour. If you're into ghost tales of events that happened of a housekeeper lighthouse Inn. It's an amazing 2-hour tour on the historic ground at the existing lighthouse that is still in use today. Off the shores of Florida on the Atlantic coast is a lighthouse that has been used since the 1800's. The tours are guided for 2 hours. It is all outside so be prepared to still be hot and deal with mosquitoes. You can walk to the top of the lighthouse. It is dark until you get closer to the top with a light that will come on. It's 219 stairs to the top. But the view of the whole tour is well worth it.
Joshua Edwards — Google review
Great historic lighthouse and surrounding campus with plenty of period hardware and historical information. The 219 steps are on a spiral staircase that has eight landings with windows and/or factory boards so you can rest while learning or enjoying the view. The lighthouse and the rest of the buildings/grounds are in excellent condition. The outside observation deck, just below the light housing, is the highest level you can go and you can see for miles, looking down on St. Augustine. It is cheaper to buy tickets online using codes from various sources and there is a senior discount rate. Staff were all very friendly and helpful, completing the package for a must-see attraction for history/lighthouse buffs.
Alan Marshall — Google review
Overall, pretty good experience. This place does get crowded, though, (especially with children!) but that’s to be expected of any attraction in Florida. The actual lighthouse has a pretty long line because of the crowd, but it didn’t take long. View was good. Got good pictures. Good piece of history.
Carson Melton — Google review
This was a great experience. The climb to the top is challenging but many stops along the way to either rest or allow others to pass. View from the top is beautiful! Keepers building was interesting and there were some men actually building wooden boats. Nature trails were fun too!
Linda Richards — Google review
The place is great, a really wonderful experience. There is a height limitation for children, so if you have small ones, bring another adult so you can take turns going up the lighthouse. It's a really beautiful and well kept place that offers a lot to see. The water is walking distance away and is beautiful in and of itself. Really enjoyed the experience with my family. I look forward to going again soon. The experience will also be nicer when my daughter can go up the steps.
Adam Bucalo — Google review
This was a lovely impromptu stop! The views from the top were gorgeous and expansive and the climb up (although nearly 219 steps) was very manageable due to the benches you can sit on the way up and how well made the stairs are. The building has just been recently renovated and it looks amazing! Each of the exhibits in the separate side buildings were also meticulously maintained and informative. We spoke with several staff members who were extremely friendly and helpful. Overall an incredible place to visit and affordable! Come support historical St. Augustine
Heather Woods — Google review
A fun, unique experience. Nice views from the top obviously. Be aware if you have kids that for safety reasons there is a height requirement to go up and you aren’t allowed to carry anyone up (or down). There are some unique trails around the property as well including a maritime hammock to explore. There’s also a pirate ship playground for little kids who can’t go up.
Bobby Kaye — Google review
I think I did this review on my phone and am now editing because I didn't give quite enough detail. The lighthouse itself is fantastic to see and we've been here a few times. You have to have purpose to make the climb, though, LOL! The breeze, and view, at the top make it worth it. My husband always has a bit of a height thing when he climbs. But the staff we encountered while we were there were fantastic! One of the fountains was broken, and it was a very hot day, and I was looking for a place to re-fill my water bottle. The lady that was standing at the entrance to the lighthouse did not know one was broken, and made sure I knew where the closest functioning fountain was. We were sure glad to find it since it was July in the hot south!
Jamie Zuschlag — Google review
A Beacon of History and Wonder: St. Augustine Lighthouse
Nestled on the picturesque shores of St. Augustine, the St. Augustine Lighthouse stands as a timeless sentinel of history, guiding generations through the annals of time. I had the pleasure of visiting this magnificent structure just last week, and the experience left me in awe of its rich history and undeniable charm.
A Glimpse into History
The St. Augustine Lighthouse is more than a towering beacon; it is a living testament to the past. Stepping onto its hallowed grounds, I was transported back in time. The lighthouse, with its distinctive black and white stripes, has a history that spans over 140 years. It has witnessed the ebb and flow of time, bearing witness to countless stories of sailors and seafarers who depended on its light to navigate treacherous waters.
As I explored the meticulously preserved keeper's house and surrounding grounds, I was enveloped in a sense of nostalgia. Each step I took felt like a journey through history. The exhibits within the museum provided a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the keepers who tended to this vital beacon, often braving the harshest of conditions to ensure the safety of others.
The Ascent: A Journey to Remember
The highlight of my visit was undoubtedly the climb to the top of the lighthouse. With each step up the spiral staircase, I felt a growing sense of anticipation. And when I finally reached the observation deck, the view that greeted me was nothing short of breathtaking. The panoramic vista of St. Augustine, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Matanzas River stretched before me like a canvas of natural wonder.
From this vantage point, I couldn't help but reflect on the generations of mariners who had relied on this lighthouse to guide them safely home. It was a humbling experience to stand where they once stood and appreciate the significance of this towering icon.
A Lasting Impression
My visit to the St. Augustine Lighthouse was not just a journey through history but a memorable encounter with the enduring spirit of exploration and discovery. The lighthouse and its surroundings are a testament to the dedication of those who have worked tirelessly to preserve this treasure for future generations.
As I reluctantly descended the staircase and bid farewell to this historic gem, I left with a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a remarkable piece of history. The St. Augustine Lighthouse is more than a tourist attraction; it is a living embodiment of the past, a beacon of light that continues to inspire and captivate all who have the privilege of visiting.
If you find yourself in St. Augustine, I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to this iconic landmark. Prepare to be transported through time, to stand in the footsteps of keepers and mariners, and to witness a breathtaking view that will linger in your memory for years to come. The St. Augustine Lighthouse is not just a destination; it's an unforgettable journey into the heart of history itself.
Francis XIV — Google review
A great place to visit while in St. Augustine. Around $15 admission for adults. Children under 12 and seniors slightly cheaper. Lots of historical material to read and watch. Lighthouse views from the top are well worth it.
We spent over an hour here on a Monday afternoon. There were a lot of parking spots but not too many left. We purchased tickets inside and traveled the grounds. Several smaller buildings and the lighthouse provided lots of interesting information. 219 spiraling cast iron steps to the top can be challenging for some. Landings along the way for those who may need it.
Recommended for those who enjoy history.
David Todd — Google review
This is a beautiful and well done park and museum! Driving in at night was a little spooky due to the lack of street lights but GPS did a great job and took us right into the parking area. That lack of street lights was very apropos, making the illuminated lighthouse itself more starkly juxtaposed against the dark sky and surrounding area.
The front porch of the museum was a relaxing place with nice Christmas decorations.
Wind Tree Studios — Google review
Beautiful grounds, friendly and dedicated staff. The evening sunset tour was breathtaking. The climb up the many stairs was nicely broken up by different exhibits in various levels. The view from the top was spectacular and it was nice that they allow as much time as you want once up top. Our tour guide shared plenty of stories of the light house’s history….and also provided us with some of the ghostly tales associated with the place! (I was disappointed that I missed the ghost tour a day earlier and our guide was so kind and accommodating). I can’t say enough about this lovely pace and it’s awesome employees!
R D — Google review
I visited back in January and climbed twice! I was the first one up for the day I went, I arrived pretty early but I was really excited.
The staff was there to help guide me. The climb was really nice, with large landings with informational signs.
Since I got there really early, I enjoyed the quiet exploring of the other buildings on the property. I love history but have a hard time focusing if there is a lot of background noise from other visitors. That's why I go to places right when they open!
Overall, I had a great time and I'd come back to climb the lighthouse again!
Lauren — Google review
This is a very cool location and well worth the admission fee. We were running late during our visit so we plan to go back during another visit. This time, we wanted to be sure to see the actual lighthouse.
I decided to conquer my fear of heights today so I went to the top. I must say it was worth the climb.
The staff was VERY friendly and I especially enjoyed speaking with the nice lady at the top today. She was very knowledgable and kept me occupied while I was stressing over the height of the lighthouse.
The gift shop had a nice selection of relevant and interesting gifts.
I’m trying to cut back on the five star reviews but we highly recommend this attraction!!
Richard Love — Google review
I didn't visit St. Augustine expecting to conquer one of my greatest fears. I'm extremely fearful of heights, but visiting the lighthouse and all its splendor was on my list of things to complete in St. Augustine. I don't know what I was thinking, walking in. I guess I expected to visit a closed off lighthouse or maybe walk a few steps and complete another historical bucket list. But no, the lighthouse in its glory, standing tall and proud, shared its soul with me. It really is a sight to behold and take in. I was able to reach the top and rotate the walkway, thanks to the help of an amazing staff member and my lovely boyfriend, who was the catalyst for me even wanting to go to the top. He never once lost patience with me and held my tightly gripped hand with enthusiasm and love. I never caught the worker's name from today but bless his heart as well. This man went above to help me through my fears. I'm sure he's had experience with this sort of situation because he was amazing at keeping me focused. I'm thankful for such a beautiful experience to share on my 3 year anniversary with my boyfriend, and to the experience, for allowing me to keep growing as a person. This museum is well worth the visit, don't hesitate!!
Miki Albatou — Google review
Wonderful experience! We paid the fee to go to the top and it was well worth to climb the 219 steps. Outstanding views! Beautiful lighthouse! Staff were friendly. Restroom was as to be expected. Reasonable prices in the gift shop. Will definitely return!
Jen Boss — Google review
It’s so amazing how this place has evolved through the years. 1) if you are a Light House junkie… this is one of the more easy light houses to climb. There are landings to rest on multiple leveled. 2) I live they have their own building for gift shop and a solely made the LightHouse Keepers house the museum. 3) staff is super friendly and helpful. 4) love the added outbuildings and exhibits. My aunt got married at the light house 30 years ago. I have come to visit it several times since I was 12 and now I’m almost 40. I love seeing how it’s been maintained and grown into the historic venue it is.
Carolyn Hunter — Google review
My family and I went and visited the lighthouse on Thursday. We had a wonderful time. The property is so lovely and well kept. And the view is spectacular. We were very lucky to have a wonderful employee named John offer to take a family picture of us in front of the lighthouse. He definitely knew what he was doing and took a beautiful family picture of us. Would highly recommend adding the St. Augustine lighthouse to your list of places to visit.
Caitlin Rodgers — Google review
It was a wonderful experience atop the light house. One has to climb up more than 200 stairs but the view from up there is worth it.
We went there on a Thursday and the place had a decent amount of crowd. It has multiple museums mentioning the history of the lighthouse, US Coast guard and shrimp industry.
You have lots of places to take good photos from and they also have a gift shop. They have kids play areas, and also good places. There's something for everyone. Entry is relatively cheap too!
Do visit here if you are in St Augustine!
Bhushan — Google review
Great experience. 219 steps to climb - it’s doable if you’re relatively fit and healthy. The views are worth it! The gift shop has cute souvenirs.
Fort Matanzas National Monument is an 18th century stone fort constructed by the Spanish on a salt marsh. The monument offers visitors an opportunity to take a boat ride to the fort and enjoy nature walks where they can observe numerous bird species. Visitors can learn about the area's biology from friendly rangers who possess extensive knowledge of the region. For anyone in the region or locals who have not yet visited, it is highly recommended that they explore this beautiful reserve.
Great visit to the Fort Matanzas National Monument! Make sure you arrive early to receive the boat ticket. They have a great nature walk where you will see many types of birds. The ranger on our tour was very friendly and had lots of knowledge about the area biology! After the boat ride to the fort they had a very nice volunteer worker that was doing a nature walk tour which was great we saw many birds including some Roseate spoonbill! I highly recommend anyone visiting the area or any locals who have never been check it out!
Tyler V — Google review
The actual Fort is accessible only via the Ft. Matanzas Ferry, and under guidance of a park ranger. It is off limits to kayaker and others who happen to be out and enjoying the area.
There is no entrance fee, however, and the ferry ride is free. Best to arrive early, as ferry tickets go fast. Under the current pandemic guidelines, ferry capacity is reduced.
I think everyone would enjoy a visit here. Tip: watch for sea turtles and other aquatic life while you're out there.
Mike Masters — Google review
Great piece of history and a hidden gem. Entrance is free but you need to arrive before 11am or there won't be any tickets available for the ferry ride to get to the fort. Parking is also limited so you will more than likely ride around waiting for a spot or park down A1A and walk to the park. Definitely worth the wait and walk, was a great experience for the kids.
Jane Doe — Google review
I've always loved coming here. One of my favorite places in St. Augustine and a good little hidden gem. Tickets are free and include a beautiful ferry ride to the island. The fort is smaller than Castillo de San Marcos but somehow feels like it has more charm. There is a trail you can walk after. Remember to wear sunscreen and pack a water bottle!
Kiki B — Google review
The grounds at this park were nice. It is a well maintained facility with clean bathrooms. I only gave it three stars because I missed the main attraction of this park....the fort. If I ever get back here I will update my review. They have six ferries that leave out every hour beginning at 9:30 and I think they may fill up fast. We got there at 3:20 on Saturday afternoon and the last boat was full...bummer. But there is a a nice little hiking trail. Oh, and they have vending machines. If your in the area and can get to the fort it's probably worth a visit.
Jeremy Jacobs — Google review
Very friendly staff, knowledgeable, and willing to help you , find your way. Show up early to get tickets for the boat ride across. This will ensure that you could go at the time you want. This boat ride is free. The whole park is free. And the tour is free. How amazing is that in today's time. Take your time to have a nice walking trail.
Timothy Thrasher — Google review
Last ferry leaves out at 3:30, I'd suggest getting there early to get free passes bc they run out quickly and space is limited. There's a nice nature trail that will take about 30-45 minutes to walk before or after your tour. And btw, no pets are allowed on the tour/ferry.
Robin Wheatcraft — Google review
What a great stop. Age 15 and under are free. $14.95 for those 16+. Lots to do to spend an afternoon walking around. Cannot imagine having to man this fort in August back in the days of use. It was an amazing site to see.
Tammra Schiller — Google review
What a great adventure. Everything was great. From the boat ride to the fort itself, it was so nice and well maintained. And to top it off, Ranger Caroline was just superb. She gave a great presentation with lots of facts and knowledge and did so in an exemplary storytelling fashion. Very entertaining and informative.
David Looney — Google review
This is my third time visiting. I brought my daughters and in-laws for a fun family outing. We saw all kinds of wildlife. People often do not realize that you can go down to the water where the boat docks while you wait. Fun, free, and educational. And afterwards you can drive across the street and check out the beautiful beach.
CeCe Cata — Google review
The grounds are nice, but I made a HUGE mistake. I didn't realize that I should get ferry tickets in advance, or at least be there early enough to get a (free) ferry ticket. When I got there the all ferry rides were full.
I did mark this as five stars and DO plan to return with advance tickets in hand, because the park I was able to see was very welcoming and the Ranger was helpful and did not make fun of my faux pas!
Selena Nederhoff — Google review
My favorite beach! Fishing is fantastic here. Caught a huge red in October and March. Good place to go to see the sunset!
Steelerzgirl333 — Google review
Short quick tour. Boat ride across the river to see and learn about the fort and get some cool pictures. First tour leaves at 9:30am. Fun for something quick to do if your staying near by.
EC360 VIEW — Google review
This is a great fun little side trip if you’re spending the day in the area, even little kids will find some interesting things to see and do. The fort itself is small and they give you about a half an hour or so to check it out, lots of authentic gear there as well. The ferry you have to book in advance, it can fill up quick on the weekends and holidays. It’s a short, maybe five minute ride across the river to the fort. The rangers are enthusiastic, friendly, and filled with knowledge per usual, all in all it was a great way to kill an hour or two. There is a small winding shady walking trail next to the parking lot, which leads out to A1AA1A, where you can cross over to the beach.
Dave Witt — Google review
The Fort is free and is reached by an equally free ferry provided by park rangers. The whole thing is just over an hour, but a great use if that time. The 500 yard crossing is very attractive and can have a wealth of bird life on view, including ospreys. I loved the atmosphere of the little Fort. Note that it is first come first served. Ferries go on the half hour and if you are not ticketed by 20 past, expect it to be full. There is nothing to do for the hour if you miss the ferry except go to the nearby very exposed beach. There are a visitor centre (more a little bookshop really)and rest rooms though.
Mike Sweeting — Google review
This free tour was so informative and so much fun. We arrived at 10:10 and got tickets for the 10:30 tour. You are able to talk down to the water while you wait on the boat. Our national park guides were so lovely. The fort is beautiful and the boat ride to and from were good.
Zharia Lennear — Google review
Beautiful and historic free park - really friendly, helpful staff and knowledgeable rangers!
The short boat ride and tour of the fort are quick, so don’t worry if you don’t have a whole day to spend here - you could do it all in under 2 hours. There’s also a short nature trail to Matanzas Inlet - another free, cool spot nearby.
We also saw some dolphins and typical cool Florida birds. Oh, and a lot of jellyfish actually.
Tip: get your tickets early even if you want to do to the tour later - it’s not uncommon for all tickets to be given out by the middle of the day.
Great time - we’ll be back.
Randy Abair — Google review
2024-03-23: Fort Matanzas National Monument is a well-kept piece of history. The fort was built in 1742 by the Spanish to protect against enemies from using Matanzas River to enter St. Augustine. The fort contains relics, cannons, and the Spanish flag is flown. The National Park Service ferries people via pontoon boat to the fort for a guided tour. Be sure to get tickets early due to limited capacity. Trips are hourly from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., weather-permitting.
Dennis — Google review
Loved it! We didn't realize the ferry goes only once per hour on the :30, so we showed up 5 mins before. We went to the office and they only had 1 ticket left. So, we were bunmed and walked toward the water, and the ranger there asked his buddy in the boat if there was room for 2 more. He said yes!!! Thanks, Rangers!
Ferry ride was 5 mins, and the fort, though small, was really cool! If you're physically able, I'd suggest climbing up the ladder and going on the top of the fort. Nice views and fun! It's a 45-min round trip excursion and I thought it was great!
Alyssa Allen — Google review
It is free and pretty nice. A short safety before gettong on the boat is given. Then off you go. The 5 minutes ride is smooth and when I went it was a beautiful day. There were dolphibs but I didnt get to see them. The fort is small and when we got there a short history talk was given. We had abput 10-15 mins to explore and gwt up to the watchtower. It was a extremely short time and felt rushed but that may be because they are trying to preserve the structure.
Nilsa Rivera — Google review
Cute but short stop for a fort. Fort is accessed by a ferry which is free and ran by the National Parks. It was running every 30 minutes when we visited in Oct. We did not go out to the fort due to time constraints but I'm happy we stopped. Small gift shop on site and restrooms are near the parking lot. Lots of outdoor space including picnic tables and some trails to explore, one trail was closed during our visit due to construction. Birds were around and even saw a turtle. Mosquitos are everywhere too, bring bug spray.
PNW Nikki — Google review
Pros:
*Free entrance
*Kid-friendly
*Free ferry ride to the watchtower
*Excellent, free guided tour(great humor and really helped us to immerse ourselves in the time period)
*Not too long! The ferry ride is about 5 minutes. The tour of the watchtower was about 45 min.
*Excellent photo ops with cannons
*A dolphin was spotted!
*Several birds were pointed out(blue hering, osprey, pelican)
*Jellyfish were spotted during the ferry ride.
*Junior Ranger program earned my kids a fun badge with the fort's name on it. Just ask, and they will provide your kids with a free book/pencil to complete the assignment to earn the badge. It was a fun activity for them to complete on the ferry ride there and back.
Cons: Ferry tickets are free, but they are first come, first serve and only available in person(not available online or over the phone). We came yesterday, but all of the times were full. So we came first thing this morning and had our pick. If you come from out of state to see this, make sure you arrive when they open to secure a ticket.
You can bring an umbrella if it rains.
Thank you to all who provided a wonderful experience for our family!
JJ — Google review
The fort is very small and the ferry ride is very short over to the fort. The visitor center is also very small. They have nice restrooms near the parking lot and huge beautiful old oak trees and a picnic area. There is no grounds to explore around the fort. You have about 45 minutes to see the fort and can take the ladder to the top to see the roof but it’s a very narrow opening at the top of the later. Must be able to navigate the tight opening. We had a 5’10” ish 190lb 65 year old grandpa with us and he was barely able to get down the ladder. The rest of the fort is accessible to everyone by stairs. There is a small beach area you can explore but full of oyster beds so are only able to explore the shoreline.
Kelly — Google review
Our little guy loved the splash pad! We went on a weekday so it was not super busy, but I imagine this place does get a lot of foot traffic. The beach access is convenient, they have family restrooms, outdoor showers and free parking.
Grace Mairose — Google review
FREE ENTRY.
FREE FERRY RIDE.
This monument is very cool. You get to go on a ferry ride across the way to the monument. Our guide, Caroline, did an amazing job explaining the history and relevance.
We saw dolphins and other wildlife on our way over. Definitely kid friendly. Not wheel chair friendly. Steep stairs and ladders.
Definitely climb to the top, up the ladder, and look out. It’s amazing something built in the 1700s is still standing today.
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is a well-maintained park that offers various outdoor activities such as hiking and biking paths. Its beautiful gardens and live oak trees provide visitors with plenty of opportunities for photography, while the picnic area is known for its beach and sightings of dolphins. The park also features a rose garden, ponds and streams, a large play area for kids, volleyball nets, picnic tables, restrooms and even a wedding altar available for reservations.
We loved walking around the grounds! We found this looking to kill some time before our Fort Matanzas tour. Only $5 for a day pass, so we came back later in the day to see the rest.
Beautiful rose garden, a plant sale in the morning, lovely little pond, huge beautiful old trees, butterflies and flowers. Gift shop has AC and cute locally made items.
Take water and a fan and bug spray if you do the walking trail. It starts out shady but you lose all cover as you get closer to the shore, and it got HOT! We did the bottom loop and came back along the old highway. Saw a lot of wildlife.
Sally Clinebelle — Google review
This is a much smaller state park than most I've visited. Grounds are nice...the gazebo and huge oaks especially. Water features needed some upkeep though; foamy, green algae and stagnant water smell/think pond water (off-putting, but not terrible). Keep in mind, it is Florida and high temperatures and high humidity makes it hard to keep up with the algae! The little bridges throughout the park had some loose boards also. Lots of benches to stop and rest on. Restrooms available also. Good amount of parking and a small gift shop. Drinks and small snacks available in the gift shop at very reasonable prices (name brand canned sodas just under $1 each!). I do highly recommend crossing over A1A and visit the beach side of the state park. The $5 entrance fee covers both sides of the state park. Nice parking area, about 20 spots, with two port-a-potty "restrooms". The beach is made up of sand and crushed seashell. Very clean. The infamous rocks are a short distance from the beach access point. The rock formations are extremely fascinating. Pretty unique for Florida, not something you see on most beaches throughout the state. Makes for interesting and beautiful landscape pictures or wedding/maternity/engagement/spiritual (as in, capturing the essence of you and nature). I really enjoyed the rocks. Swimming isn't recommended there; submerged rocks and no lifeguards. Better to just go north a little to an actual beach. So, in my opinion, I wouldn't travel a long distance just to visit the gardens and rocks. It would be better as a stop on the way back, or through, during your main trip.
Michelle Coile — Google review
Very beautiful garden and walk that I wish I could've seen the rest of. The staff however is 50/50 with their cordiality as one ranger in particular pestered us for being misguided by confusing directions we were given to see the Cocina rocks and instead happened upon an employees only area without realizing.
Adam Kenski — Google review
Amazing, peaceful, scenic and recharges the spirit! A gorgeous park! I love going here. Definitely recommend walking the park trails - it feels like you are in the jungle! So many photo op spots and a lot of room so it doesn't feel to touristy. They have clean outhouses too. The gazebo is a must stop for photos and to listen to the water fountains.
Lorraine Toth (Pinupmakeover) — Google review
Five stars just because of 2 main attractions, Beach and Sighting Dolphins at the picnic area. Rest Park is well maintained, have Rose garden and lot of Oak trees ready to cuddle you in their shades.
Whole bunch of photography spots. They do have Wedding altar and allow reservations for photography too.
Quite enjoyable experience watching fishes in the little ponds n streams of water.
They sell flowers and other plants too from their greenhouse.
Have large playarea for kids, Volleyball nets, picnic tables, restrooms etc amenities.
Pramod Verma — Google review
This place is absolutely gorgeous. Truly a beautiful place where you can explore, run, relax, fish, take the kids for a stroll, have a picnic, or even a wedding! There was a beautiful small ceremony taking place there when I visited with my two little ones today. Facilities and grounds are beautifully maintained. Grounds overall are wheelchair and double stroller accessible, there is ample seating throughout the grounds, comfortable naturally shaded areas to picnic, pristine waters where a few people were fishing. This is truly a great visit and worth the time! It's beautiful background makes it perfect for both a romantic date or happy family picnic. 10/10 recommend! Admission includes the beautiful beach across the street and is only a flat $5. Definitely will be returning!
Ashley Ramos-Duffy — Google review
Beautiful place to spend some time hiking or enjoying the gardens.
However, the beach of the park was closed due to the aftermath of the recent hurricane. Additionally, some trails appeared to be a bit overgrown, presumably as a result of the same hurricane.
Despite these minor inconveniences, overall, it was a very pleasant experience
Ilya N — Google review
It's always interesting to learn about and see history. This park and it's beautiful gardens are very pleasant and interesting to walk through. Worth the visit just to see the wonderful oak trees!
Edward Prosienski — Google review
What a beautiful State Park. Lots of big huge Oak Trees. A garden. I will admit it was a bit hot and I probably will go back when it cools down a little bit but what a beautiful place to go. Across the street was the ocean and the other side was the hiking. The hike was about 1.7 miles
Linda Maloney — Google review
This is NOT a swimming park. There is two entrances. The one to the right takes you to the beautiful rock covered ocean front. The sand is EXTREMELY shell pieces covered. You will want some sort of footwear to even walk down the beach. The rocks are not slippery for the most part but the waves can get very large and dangerous and there are lots of holes in the rocks. My 8 year old was able to navigate it easily by himself but several other kids there got too close and got banged up by rocks. The left entrance is to the gardens where you have to pay a fee to get in. The gardens are quite small and there is zero entry to the water on that side and the visitor center is very small, but it is well shaded and very pretty. Worth going to see once in my opinion.
Kelly — Google review
This is a beautiful state park that is well worth a drive. There is a beach area annex with a large amount of coquina shells that the ocean tide splashes through.
In the main part of the park, there are hiking trials, a garden, a small museum, a playground, picnic tables, and plenty of clean restrooms.
The Gardens are absolutely beautiful, and a wonderful place to take a peaceful stroll and admire all the beautiful plants and their beautiful arrangement around the garden.
I saw a gift shopped at the park, but when I visited on a Tuesday, it was closed.
Dogs are welcome at the park. However, you cannot bring them into the garden area or on the beach.
This park does not offer any camping, but it is a wonderful place to spend the day.
Courtney Ford — Google review
The park has two parts: one with a nice garden and lake view and across the highway is the beach. There are a few trails that you can walk in the forest. Entrance fee is $5 per vehicle and you can can purchase is from the kiosk or drop off in the collection box. The beach could get really windy and chilly during winter time.
Jenen Tan — Google review
This is a perfect Florida experience. $5 gets you in the state park. The gardens are beautiful and I can't help imagining how it would look each season. Pack a picnic, bring fishing poles and your camera. To walk the beautiful and well groomed trails is only about 1/2 mile. Highly recommend. If you are lucky, you'll see manatee (we weren't lucky).
Valerie Hanson — Google review
This park is a lovely walk through the gardens that borders the Intracoastal. (If you prefer a trail that is available too located closer to the entrance on the right.) There is a gift shop and bathroom across and next to the garden area. If you drive further down the road inside the park you will find bathrooms and picnic areas available. Dogs are not permitted inside the garden but are allowed in the picnic and trail areas.
Jenifer F — Google review
Beautiful park with nice walking trails. Magnificent oak trees with weeping Moss and a flower garden. Quaint little gazebo with a wrap around pond. Large lake water fishing area located in the back of the park for boating too.
Ocean Rain — Google review
A pleasant little park for a picnic, a longer place to walk the dogs, and a nice garden area (no dogs). Part of the original section of A1A is still there that can be walked on also. There is a playground and restroom facilities at the south end of the park along with a museum building along one of the walking paths. A nice day trip.
Ken Kirby — Google review
Washington Oaks is a lively place to take a leisurely stroll through the woods, tour carefully curated flower gardens, fish, play, bike, and just exist with nature. The rangers and volunteers are lovely people and care deeply for their park, offering events open to the public and participating in local wildlife conservation. The public beach access across the street is also part of, and maintained by, the park and is a local sea turtle nesting ground that rangers and trained volunteers help with.
The restroom facilities are typical for a state park and are kept clean, parking is available in several parts of the park, and the entirety is very accessible.
Kevin Childs — Google review
Had a great walk throughout the gardens. We went a little early in the season, so the flowers weren’t all out, but the azaleas were blooming and the park is just gorgeous year round.
joanna spellman — Google review
this was my second visit to Washington Oak State Park. Last time was in the spring and I wanted to see it in the fall. It was just as lovely and not as hot! A lot of restoration work is being done, and the groundskeepers are working hard every time I go. I went to the garden section 1st and then crossed the street to the beach side where I discovered a very interesting coquina formation. I had not seen the first time. It is a bit of a walk so you will need to wear comfortable shoes. The restrooms were clean and easily accessible as was the parking. Note~ lots of bees in the rose garden if you are allergic
Paula Hamlin — Google review
Beautiful Sate park! If you haven’t gone go! Take a stroll along the water and fish 🎣 or bring a picnic basket to eat while you enjoy the views. I also saw that they do weddings and have plant sales periodically.
Gina Honold — Google review
Encompassing forest and shore habitats, this well maintained and relaxing park has been a regional favorite for decades. The formal gardens under the oak trees are spectacular, and the pavilion seems custom made for weddings. A local garden club utilizes the lovely green houses here and offer monthly plant sales to the general public. Hiking, fishing and picnic opportunities are to be enjoyed here as well and the entry free is very reasonable.
Wind Tree Studios — Google review
Beautiful views. Well maintained garden. Beach back open. Plants for sale once a month. Can book your weddings there. Saw dolphins today. Been there three times over several years and every time the fountains were in clean and made the gardens near them smell. Butterflies and bees love this place and I can't blame them with lots of variety of flowers.
NA NA — Google review
These trees are absolutely epic. I also learned that Spanish moss is a cousin of the pineapple which I still don’t fully understand but I think it’s cool.
Dustin Burnham — Google review
3/9/24: Met up with my friends here for the first time. She said it's "pretty". I will have to see about that! There better be something yummy here. Admission is 5 bucks.
Highlights:
1. Beautiful scenic view making wonderful backdrops for photoshoots
2. Nature trails
3. Plant Sale (today): ummm 🧐 I guess if you are folks who like growing and collecting a bunch of common, native, useless (non-edible) plants, then this might be a kudo. This is definitely not of my interest. 😂 No offense to the lovers.
4. Private public restrooms are clean
Cons:
1. It's a state park with no playground.
2. Definitely not kid-friendly.
3. No pets and no bikes allowed.
4. Rose Garden- They have the most pitiful looking rose garden.
Snow Lam — Google review
4.8
(3544)
•
4.5
(754)
6400 N Ocean Shore Blvd, Palm Coast, FL 32137, USA
For Mother's Day, my family went on the river tour and had a blast with Captain Bob. He was funny and entertaining while also giving us the history of the area and information about the wildlife. We saw a baby manatee, lots of varieties of birds, and even an alligator! Highly recommended.
Caitlin Appleby — Google review
Captain Bob is everything that you can ask for in a tour guide; knowledgeable, friendly, with southern wit and incredibly entertaining. Maybe he will let you even drive the boat...
Rick Palacios — Google review
I have been on this tour six times over the last three years and it is always a marvelous experience. Anytime I have guests in town, we will be on the boat. Captain Bob, as always, is very entertaining, knowledgeable and accommodating. I always learn things about the flora and fauna and my guests have raved about the tours. Looking forward to our next trip for Thanksgiving time. Thank you Bob, see you again soon!
Tom Kendra — Google review
The four of us really enjoyed the River Tour today. Tina was very helpful making the reservations and Captain Bob could not have been nicer. The Captain narrated as he piloted the boat. He was very knowledgeable and a pleasure to listen to.
Also made plans to have lunch at the Williams Landing Restaurant, located where you catch the boat. Great food, great service!
Dan Wattay — Google review
My husband, son and I took my father on this tour for Father’s Day. It is difficult for my dad to get around, so I called and discussed his mobility issues with Tina before booking the trip. She was gracious and very accommodating. The trip on the river was delightful and Captain Bob was fun and full of information about the river’s flora and fauna as well as local history. After we returned, we stayed and enjoyed a lovely lunch at the Blackwater Inn. Don’t miss this trip!
Marjorie Burt — Google review
This was a fun cruise with a knowledgeable captain. Lots of wildlife birds and gaters.
liz cress — Google review
The boat trip was everything I expected. Staff was curteous. The trip started on time. Our Captain Rob shared his experiences on the river and pointed out alligators, native flowers and told us about the slider turtles we saw. The air was full of Osprey! Very beautiful day on the river.
Cindy Prabst — Google review
Had a blast...we saw so many different kinds of birds and turtles. Saw gators of different ages. We even saw a manatee come up from the water. Rob was a great captain!
The Daytona Beach Main Street Pier is a popular tourist attraction that features seafood restaurants and arcades. It is located on the boardwalk near the ocean, and visitors can enjoy sunbathing, car racing, bicycling, and other activities on the beach.
The pier itself is not a huge deal, but the beach is beautiful...so different from other beaches I've visited in South Florida. Visited here in late March and the water was definitely cold and not exactly in swimming conditions. However, the kids enjoyed playing in the sand as it was a beautiful day. Being able to drive and park right on the beach was also pretty cool. Would definitely return.
J C — Google review
It's a huge beach, everything is clean. I rested under the bridge and saw a lot of people walking around. It was very fresh being down there.
I didn't swim because of the strong waves and also we found some jellyfish on the sand, they're dangerous.
Near the beach, you'll find many stores to get souvenirs and different stuff.
There's a slingshot and other attraction if you want to take a ride..
Francisco Ochoa Ingl?s F?cil (Pacho8a) — Google review
We visited the Main Street Pier on a weekday in January, 2024. It was pretty much what I expected in most regards. I have been to quite a few piers over the years, and they all have the similar qualities being over the water with great views. So this one was pretty much the same. It was a cool and partly cloudy when we visited, with temperatures at the beach in the 70's to 80ish in the afternoon.
This pier had a large Joe's Crab Shack restaurant in the middle of the pier. Other piers like the Santa Monica pier in California also have restaurants and such to a larger (and better) extent. In this case, the crab shack is basically the only building on the pier. Where as the Santa Monica pier has many choices. So the Main Street Pier is nice, but not overly large and with limited things to do on the pier itself.
The Main Street Pier seemed to be in need of some maintenance, in my opinion. The wood seemed to be aging and looked to be in need of some replacement. I'm not saying that anything looked unsafe. Only that it looked like it could use some work. There were quite a few places where there were what seemed like patches on the decking, made of materials that looked nothing like the wood decking.
We were interested in the restaurant, but they didn't have a menu outside available to pre-view. As such, we passed and ate elsewhere. So I cannot say how anything pertaining to the crab shack was, other than the lack of the outside menu.
The pier had quite a few folks fishing off the pier on the ocean side, for the obvious reasons. But there was still a fair amount of room to take in the views and snap a few pictures. The fishermen kind of kept to themselves, but didn't prevent other folks seeking views or such.
I don't know for sure, but there might be restrooms in the crab shack building. Although they are probably only for the crab shack customers. Like I said, I don't know since we didn't go inside. Although there are public restrooms right at the beach end of the pier at the park. They seemed fairly large and adequately clean when we visited. Although I will point out that the area was quiet that day. It might be different when the crowds increase.
So all in all, the Daytona Beach Main Street Pier is a nice place to visit when you're in the Daytona Beach area. No it is not perfect and far from the best pier I have been to. But it is definitely worth a walk on. We also were not asked to pay a charge to visit the pier. Well other than our paying to park our vehicle near by at the park.
Sponge Bob — Google review
We visited this spot during Christmas and one of the best beach area in east Florida. We walked around the beach it was cool breeze and relaxing. Enjoyed beach side rides and food
Must visit spot if you travel around east.
One thing to note is parking , it will be difficult to get parking as sun goes down better you reach early to access metered parking
Mahantesh Paramaj — Google review
This pier is amazing during sunrise! The sun rises in front of you and the vast of the ocean leaves you in awe. Breathe taking views!! The walk is not bad at all and there is free parking everyday until 9am. So get there early to see the sunrise! You will thank me later.
Ronny Sison-Ayala — Google review
Clean and very spacious. Umbrella 🏖rentals $40 for the whole day. Good deal 👌 stores and food nearby.
Raymond Tucker — Google review
Free public pier, not crowded at all. Plenty of space to stand and watch the waves crashing in. Tried to observe the sea life but no luck due to rough waves.
Couple of bars/pubs serving drinks and food. All clean and friendly. Live music on the roof top with plenty of comfy seats.
Alex Preston — Google review
A lively and fantastic pier on Daytona Beach! Plenty of shops and restaurants to choose from! Safe, clean and very beautiful! Prices are fairly reasonable for a Florida beach. Not very crowded as it was on a weekday evening. Plenty of attractions and hotels nearby. Staff and employees were very helpful and very friendly! Very beautiful at night! Highly recommend making a visit here if you are in the Daytona area!
Kylie Mangini — Google review
I wish there weren't awful hatt Preachers right out in front of the hotel where I was at. But I sure had fun with the Hare krishnas when those awful people tried to attack. I do feel bad that your race car Beach is almost non-existent because of sea level rise. All of the stairs have been taken out because of it except for one set where the hate preachers are.
Lauren Hill — Google review
We visited during an off season and the beaches are fairly clean. Parking was easy and there is a lot of shopping. A must do to see spectacular sunrises!!
Heather Meehan — Google review
This pier was nice. The Boardwalk was nice too. The parking is $2 for an hour (it goes up from there, but I only paid for an hour). Dogs may be allowed on the boardwalk, but they are not allowed on the pier. To walk onto it is also free, and it closes by 7pm. You do not need to go inside the restaurant to walk onto the pier, there's a walkway right near the entrance that will take you around. Fishing is $3 per person I believe.
Mary Booth — Google review
Daytona Beach offers plenty of places to eat and drink. The beach is amazing. You can pay to park on the beach for $20. Keep an eye on the tide times. Parking outside of the beach is difficult unless you go to main street and park in the public parking and walk down. (Approx 10 min walk) Main street offers plenty of small shops , food and drinks. Go on event dates like Bike Week and it's really good fun and full of bikes showing off their mods. Well worth visiting if visiting. Parking in the local multi story will cost you $10 for the day. Overall if your in the area or thinking of visiting it's a nice afternoon/ day
Mark Connolly — Google review
The pier is surrounded by plenty of ships and restaurants with a restaurant directly in the middle of the pier. It has a small splash pad right below the entrance for small children. You can fish on the end of the pier and they have signs posted of what type of fish you might catch along with which ones you can keep and which ones you are required to release which I found very useful. There were several people fishing and we enjoyed watching them. It is a pretty long pier that gives you nice views of the ocean, beach, and the condos and hotels that are on the beachfront. If you enjoy taking pictures, the pier is a wonderful place to do so! It offers beautiful landscape, nature, and waterfront photo ops, so don't forget your camera or make sure that your phone is charged because you don't want to miss out on capturing some beautiful views!
tina lowery — Google review
Such a FUN place to go to! 😃. Lots of great shops and restaurants, the Ocean 🌊, and some great history as well! If you're near this spot, GO. Really great place 😃
michael cramer — Google review
Daytona Beach Main Street Pier
We came here in 2018. Such a beautiful place. Nice waters. Great weather. Many people. Good food too.
Highly Recommended
Kalvin Hang — Google review
The pier was not overly full when we visited midday the day before the Daytona 500. There were just a few people fishing, and it was a nice little walk.
Kameron Ackermann — Google review
Perfect spot to spend time with friends and family, there are several places to eat and have something relaxed, plus nice view...
JuanCarlo Rengel Tepedino — Google review
Fun, upbeat environment. Friendly staff. Good food at both restaurants. Definitely plan to return.
Kristen Bourgault — Google review
We had a great date night long the shore! Ate at The Roof restaurant above Joe's crab shack. Beautiful views at sunset, from the rooftop.
The beach known as "World's Most Famous Beach" is a popular spot in Daytona Beach for tourists to take photos. With miles of coastline, the area is home to many different attractions and festivals throughout the year.
HOURS: The beach is accessible and free for pedestrians and bicyclists 24 hours a day, depending on tides and weather conditions. Driving and parking on the beach is open to vehicles from sunrise to sunset from November 1 through April 30 and from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm (out when the tide comes in) from May 1 through October 31.
Parking is $20 a ticket which you can use for the whole day.
PROS: You park 25 feet from the waterfront. Aqua ocean views. Mixed demographic, all ages. Bathwater warm water.
CONS: Absolutely nothing. A must visit!
C NYC — Google review
Been coming here for 40 plus yrs. Still amazed at the size of this beach. It's never crowded, anytime of the day. It's a gradual walk into the water, no drop off. Perfect for kids. Lots of places to stay and eat. The pier is so much fun on a Saturday night.
You can't beat this place!
Alistair Renshaw — Google review
Save your money not worth it.. unless you bring everything there is nothing to do here. The water is nice and the beach is relatively clean but other than that it's not worth it. It's packed and loud, no shade or any attraction, not really any where to get food. and despite the fact that on the website it says there are designated areas where you can take your dogs there are none and you will get kicked off the beach, after they take your money and let you on it
dana Grush — Google review
Miles of old worn-down and poorly-aging condominiums dot the highway. The place needs a major face-lift and more recreational and modernized dining options. Some of the high rises are so close to the waterline, it looks like they are about to fall in. In December, this place is a ghost town.
Travel With Trey — Google review
The ‘Worlds Most Famous Beach Daytona Beach’ sign is nice and all but really the beach is pretty good and totally worth a visit; don’t just snap the sign and leave. Mostly blue water, light sands and great to see everyone social distancing. waves looked fairly gentle, a lot of fishing and a lot of families having good times in the sun. Beach umbrella rentals doing a roaring trade when I was there.
R Churches — Google review
Awesome views with great beaches. Very convenient to drive on beach and park not having to drag coolers, umbrellas, etc.
Dillon Lee — Google review
A beautiful beach ⛱️ it was worth stopping g by and swimming 🏊♂️ in
GASPAR PEREZ — Google review
If you are planning to visit this beach, do not search “Daytona Beach” we got confused as Daytona beach is a city name. You need to search by including “World famous” in it, and it’s for a reason! You can drive in your car around the shore for $20. The beach is very clean and calm. If you have enough time do spend an evening there, you will never get bored of this calmness. We saw all kinds of people having fun, camping, dancing, modeling and making best of their time. There are limited parking outside the entry gate, it’s better to take ticket and drive at the shore. A must go if you are around Orlando
PIYUSH KESHARWANI — Google review
Very clean beach, never crowded and the water is always fun to play in. If you are lucky enough, you can catch dolphins swimming near the shore in the morning.
Mike Bilenki — Google review
Daytona beach really surprised me! I loooved getting to spend time in the water and just relaxing. Very chill and family vibes. The sand is white and the water is clear enough for me. I would definitely go again and visit!
Ronny Sison-Ayala — Google review
Came by to walk the pier and check out the food. The whole beach smells like smoke and garbage. It feels super dirty so you won’t have an appetite. The beach did look like a great spot to play in the sand and had great waves.
Kate Stepherson — Google review
I normally avoid this are of Daytona, it is where the party seen is. Although I went today seeing how last minute we decided to go watch the sunrise so we did and then hung around the beach for a few hours. The beach was dirty the people that go there to party unfortunately do not clean up after themselves! There was a man passed out in the sand as well, clearly from the night before and yes I made sure he was alive and gave him some water and he went back to sleep without a care in the world. Do your part and clean up your trash.
Otherwise it was a great trip. We enjoyed the sunrise and we spent a couple of hours getting some vitamin D. Kudos to the workers on the beach they where out early picking up the trash and emptying bins doing their best to clean it up so BIG THANKS for that. I would advise going further away from the boardwalk for family’s just my opinion but as always we had a great time.
Lilmisskml — Google review
Driving on the beach is a different experience. But other than that, nothing special about the beach. Very congested place. Unclean beach. No easy access to showers or washrooms. People blasting music with loud speakers and smoking everywhere. Can’t even breathe fresh air at the beach due to the cigarette smell. Jacksonville and St.Augustine beaches are so much better. Daytona is an overhyped place.
Naren — Google review
This area (experiencing a high rise construction boom) has become run-down, with little variety in cheesy souvenir shops, T-shirt shops and bars predominant. Everywhere we walked we inhaled the secondhand skunky-stink of pot smoking tourists. Ugh. The beach itself was a mess with trash - tossed cups and food rinds littering the sand. Sidewalks are grimy - City of Daytona Beach, you should be ashamed..! Hire people to rake the beaches and use pressure washers on those sidewalks.! Disgusted by the condition - we will never return here..!
Thea — Google review
4.6
(2253)
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4.5
(4750)
838 E International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32118, USA
The Daytona International Speedway is one of the countrys major racing meccas and is home to the iconic Daytona 500. The track offers various tours that last from half an hour to three hours, with some VIP experiences even offering a lap or two around the track at high speeds. The race itself takes place yearly in February and is known as one of the most exciting races in the world.
What can I say, amazing venue even just for the tour. I say just but the time taken by the staff in the tour and the details provided were amazing.
The museum is great to see too and invokes the spirit of Indy perfectly. Would highly recommend.
Richard Greeves — Google review
I got great seats and the fanzone experience but it wasn't the VIP I truly wanted. Drivers don't sign autographs for kids anymore. That was kinda disappointing. Race was great. Prices not bad at the concessions.
Danielle Weightman — Google review
It was an excellent experience to go to Daytona and be inside the most famous track in the world, we went to the Jeep Beach festival, it is a “crazy pod” the volunteers and everyone who was there were happy, the vibe was spectacular!!! Daytona here I go again
Diana Lesmes — Google review
Posting review late, we visited here on September 17, 2023
Highly recommend coming here, either for a race or to experience the tours! I was a little kid in a candy store, this place is amazing if you're a race fan! I recommend doing the tour, lots of great information that I never knew about!
If you don't do the tour, definitely go visit the museum! They don't just have Daytona cars in there. They have a little bit of everything! Very cool! I wish we would've had more time to see everything in the museum though, we had to catch our tour bus by a certain time. The gift shop has something for everyone, so don't leave without stopping in there. Overall, I'm very happy we came here even though it wasn't race day! We'll be back though!
Stephanie Ellis — Google review
This place is more organized than my local school district, amusement park, and boyscout troop combined. Everyone is so incredibly nice.
Our experience is a memory for a life time.
Debra Benton — Google review
They've really improved the fan experience over the years here. You can't have a bad time at DIS even when the weather isn't optimal. We had the coldest weather for the Rolex 24 and I'm not a cold weather girl but I braved it and had an awesome time with my Mom!
Georgiana Hatcher — Google review
This is the closest racetrack to us. I like to go here for the several car shows they have during the year and for the museum. This is the best time to visit as there is plenty of spaces to park then. If they are having a race make sure you get there early as it will fill up quickly. The museum is real nice and you can see the history of the track there as well as some of the cars that raced on it. This is also the place to buy your souvenirs.
John Haddock — Google review
My grandsons and I took the tour of the Speedway. It was awesome! They are big race fans and enjoyed being able to get on the track. This tour is worth the $25 tickets. It also includes the museum.
Annette — Google review
This experience was awesome. We got the tickets to take our boys to see the museum and take the tour of the track. It was well worth it. Our kids had so much fun, and we were so happy that they enjoyed it. It was a bit pricey, but honestly, it was worth it, especially seeing my kids' faces.
Crystal Baker — Google review
A must for car enthusiast! The tour is awesome!! Our guide was very knowledgeable, got to see most of the track, even had some cars going round the track. Lots of great auto racing history in the museum
Daniel Perez SR — Google review
I loved attending the Rolex 24 race! I've also taken the Speedway tram tour a few times and really enjoyed that experience as well! I don't even know anything about racing.😉 The tours are a little different every time depending on what is happening at the track. Always plan ahead because tours can sell out. I highly recommend any activity at The Daytona International Speedway!
Stacey De — Google review
This racetrack was much bigger than I thought the pictures don’t even give it justice! I was supposed to attend the Daytona 500 this year but because of the rain they had to postpone it till the following Monday so I had to go home. However, even though the Xfinity race and the Daytona 500 race was postponed because of the rain, I still enjoyed my time and got to see race cars up close and got to see how they land in their positions. It was an awesome experience. Will come again when the weather gets better.
PhatGyrlSnoop — Google review
I won a chance to drive my own car on Daytona International Speedway through a loyalty rewards program called Marriott Bonvoy. I drive a Suburban daily, so I did the only sensible thing I could think of, I rented a 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 3LT with every bell and whistle on it Chevy has and had the time of my life! We were supposed to only get four laps each on the track, but a few of us got lucky and got five in! It was something I'll never forget. All of the employees went out of there way to make sure we were all having a great time, top notch from start to finish!
Dereck Kelley — Google review
Went to Daytona 500. What a wild ride. We had 2nd row seats and it was intense. I wanted to experience the most intense experience and we got it. However you will have a better viewing experience from the top rows.
All in all I really enjoyed it.
Once in a lifetime experience don't care to go back. It's far more enjoyable on TV.
But it was an intense and insane experience in reality
Random Someone — Google review
Truly a cool place for all gear heads and car enthusiasts. Enjoyed attending the Turkey Run car show. So much to see, all on the inside of the track. Really cool getting to walk on such a famous track racetrack! Didn't have to pay for parking either.
Kaleb Curl — Google review
One of the best experiences I had on my Florida visit! Most people are not aware that you can actually buy tour tickets that will take them directly on the actual race track (near the start finish line!) which is super cool as you get to experience the track by being actually on it!
Ajit Mali — Google review
First time to a race. It was cool ! I loved the seats we were in it was a great view. Bring your own snacks and drinks its pretty expensive to buy food.
Fun day except for the accident. 😬
Julia Salvucci — Google review
The tour guide was very knowledgeable. He gave many opportunities for pictures to be taken. Staff even assisted everyone with picture taking.We got to see a handful of cars do laps around the track. The facility as a whole is very well kept.The only downside is that I felt a sense of "bait of switch" with the supposed photo that was noted to be included in the tour.Multiple pictures ARE taken,and you have the opportunity to choose whichever you like at the end of the tour.HOWEVER, you get presented with different options of your pictures to PURCHASE 😬. If you don't buy it,they give you a card with a QR code to SCAN and download/upload..🤯 The advertising clearly says that a picture is included..but they didn't specify as to HOW..so fyi..but despite that, I'd return there hands down. Oh and the guide gave helpful advice about attending when actual events are happening! That itself will be helpful for anyone 🥳.
JUSNATURAL. — Google review
The Nascar experience was incredible. If you can really try and pick a package that is longer than 8 minutes. I did the 32 minute package and don't regret a single thing! All the people helping you are professional and friendly. The ladies running the souvenir booth are awesome.
Scott Bennett — Google review
My husband and I took the tour. You get so much more for your money. The people are so nice and helpful to answer all your questions. It is so much to see, and you get your picture taken. They can print it there, and they also give you a card to scan and order it.
Umeka Waters — Google review
We visited for the Magic or Lights. Our family really enjoyed it. It seemed much longer than other displays we have visited which made it a good value for the money. The staff was friendly, and the picture ops very nice. We will definitely be back next year and hope it's a little different each time.
Miranda — Google review
One of America's most iconic sports venues. Attended the 2024 Daytona 500 but spent the day before at the museum and on the midway. My son and I had SO much fun and thoroughly enjoyed race day! But you can go to the museum and to take a tour when there are no races and learn about racing rich history, not just NASCAR. I will be back!
Joe Schilp — Google review
I just happen to be traveling and working in the Daytona Beach area on Bike Week so I decided to shoot across the street from where I was working, to the Daytona Speedway to check out all the vendors and awesome bikes. I commend the event for all of the signage and barricades that they put up. Everything was easy to navigate and there were NO QUESTIONS on where you could and couldn't enter or exit at. It was quite the awesome sight and experience! Everyone I met or spoke to was super cool and approachable. (Yes..even some of the bikers that were a little long in the tooth...they were all awesome people!) Good energy, good vibes, good people, great bikes, great times! Everyone should experience this, even if you don't ride...you'll enjoy it!
Richard Morgan — Google review
Went with friends to take the tour. We had a great tour guide “Dave”. Very knowledgeable. Made the experience worth going. Sold us all on the sport and we will be coming back for a race. Thanks Dave !
Mojo Jojo — Google review
For all the car enthusiast out there this is a once on lifetime experience if you get to go to Daytona 500 even if you’re not a big NASCAR person it’s really cool to see the speed and the culture at this racetrack. The track is beautifully maintained and the grandstand is well built where everything is very visible at the venue is also extremely friendly
Chris V — Google review
Went for the Daytona 500 and will for sure go back. Track is huge. Lost of different levels for different views. Seats were honestly not bad. Free wifi was pretty fast to be honest. Really good connection. Bathrooms were clean. Parking is obviously madness but it’s expected with events of that size. Entrance was super easy. 10/10 in my book.
Kameron Ackermann — Google review
Fantastic experience, fanzone tickets a must, signed start line. Live bands, food amazing. Atmosphere unbelievable. Definitely need ear plugs. Daytona 500 book well in advance. Great day, but be prepared to stay in the area a few days after as they may change the day of race depending on the weather.
Sue Proudfoot — Google review
If you’re a NASCAR fan you need to visit the Daytona Speedway at least once. This place is massive. Don’t sleep on seeing a concert here or catching any race including the Rolex 24 hour of the Daytona 500. If you’re ready for more than take a few laps in a stock car at 150 miles per hour +
Matt Davies Realtor — Google review
4.7
(25247)
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4.5
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1801 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, USA
Alexander Springs is a picturesque natural spring located in the Ocala National Forest in Florida. The crystal-clear water of the spring remains at a refreshing 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, making it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Surrounded by lush vegetation and towering trees, the area offers opportunities for picnicking, hiking along nature trails, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also enjoy canoeing or kayaking on the spring run that leads to the nearby Alexander Springs Creek.
This zoo features a wide variety of animals from endangered species to primates. It also has an Insect Zoo and a Children's Area with animals that you can feed and pet. The zoo is located in Sanford, about 40 minutes north of main tourism districts.
My family has an annual pass here to the zoo, we have for the past few years. As a parent of a 6 & 3 year old, this place is wonderful and a great bang for the buck. The Sanford Zoo itself is not very large in comparison to other Zoo's but it does not takeaway from the awesomeness of it. They have enough exotic animals as well if you are wanting to see such animals. Giraffes, cheetahs, rhinos, black bear, and a few other cool ones. If anything, we like that it is small and quaint. They have a kids splash pad, which is a great thing in the summers. Best of all, they sell beer and wine at a few stalls!
Daniel Cha — Google review
Honestly we did not know what to expect coming here for the afternoon. Buying tickets in advance, like other reviewers have said, is a fantastic idea. It makes the check in to the zoo quick and painless.
Parking is free and easy! So many spots and not far to walk to the entrance. The grounds are absolutely beautiful. Just walking through the gardens and zoo was peaceful and relaxing.
The zoo itself is great for the cost of admission. We even saw some of the snakes being fed, which was pretty cool! A lot of the bigger animals (bears, cheetahs, etc.) seemed to be taking it easy, so not sure if they are more active in the morning and that would be a better time to go?
The facility was clean, no trash noted along the walking paths, and there is a splash zone for the kids, so bring swimwear or a change of clothes.
Souvenirs (yes, because the kids will ask) were fairly priced for a facility that works on conservation; I think a toddler shirt was $22.
Overall a great experience and we will definitely return when the little one is older, as I know he will love doing that zip line!
Stephanie Forbes — Google review
I LOVED IT!
Extremely worthwhile. Sadly it was extremely hot when we got there so some of the animals were taking refugee inside their habitats.
Please remember to wear sunscreen!
The best part was that I got the chance to feed the giraffe, this comes at an extra cost of 6 usd apart of the entry fee.
We got an ice cream before leaving, soft serve that was really good.
Stéphanie — Google review
Really nice zoo, the whole zoo took about 90 minutes to 2 hours to explore and that was taking it at a nice pace.
They have a lot of birds that are relatively close to where you can stand, with a few of them not even fully enclosed so you can look at them without a fence in the way.
During the morning the animals were relatively active. They have a splash park for children.
The entire zoo is shaded, with tree cover absolutely everywhere. The entire walkway is wooden paths which is nice. They have a nice little botanical garden area.
They have a wide selection of animals like black bears and cougars and cheetahs and monkeys, rhinos. A few things that the Jacksonville zoo doesn't have.
There are plenty of benches situated all over so if you do get exhausted you can have a place to sit.
Water costs $2 Gatorade cost $4 and any canned drinks from the vending machine cost $4. I won't say to bring your own water and drinks but probably a good idea.
The snack bar is relatively fairly priced, they also have alcohol in case you want to drink when you get here that is 9 to 10 bucks per drink.
All in all it was a good experience and I would recommend heading over here if you are in the area. Tickets only cost about 20 bucks, 40 if you get the souvenir cup and a meal. A burger cost about 12 bucks and comes with fries.
Cameron Lennox — Google review
Had an amazing time and loved seeing the beautiful animals from other parts of the world I would never have otherwise seen! I got to feed a giraffe!! It was so beautiful and so cool to see! The rhino and cheetah was very neat as well! My son loved it, my daughter being only 3 months old I think loved it too hahaha but me and my husband enjoyed it as well and will definitely be going back! Beautiful wildlife.
Casey Rocco — Google review
Take a walk through the "jungle" and see all these amazing animals, birds, reptiles, and spiders. See a bear or two, a bald eagle, and otters. Take a ride on a zip line and have a bird's eye view of the zoo. You can feed a giraffe if you so desire, reasonably priced. If you have small kids there is a little play area, so they can burn off some steam. There is an opportunity to find snacks along the way. Don't miss out on an opportunity to see the Asian Luminary along your journey.
Jen G — Google review
Decent sized perimeter spaced zoo. Not as many animals as I thought but fun none the less. If you buy your tickets online; before heading over you save about $2 per ticket. The entry experience was quick, fast, and easy. The staff was wonderful. Everyone was extremely friendly. They have a zipping lining excursion and trolley. It’s about 30 minutes from east Orlando. Snacks are priced well. They have a park area for the kids to play as well as a splash pad. Very clean and easy to navigate. Many of the animals were sleeping but I’m sure the heat played a role in that. Please if you are visiting in the summer time come prepared for the sun. Bring your sunscreen , bug repellent, head coverings, plenty of water and portable fans if you have.
Brianna Marie — Google review
The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens had an event on a Friday evening that my girlfriend and I attended. I've never been to this zoo but it was great to see the various animals they have here. The giraffes and cheetahs were a first time for me to see and so close in person. The parking could be better, and many people take up more space than necessary because there are no defined spaces. The parking lot also has many pot holes that could be better filled. The train wasn't running on my visit but it would have been fun to take a ride on depending on the views. It was raining and someone got a flat tire. Sadly, only 1 employee seemed to care to do anything to assist so me and a few others helped the individual change their tire in the pouring rain. That being said, I'll probably go back to enjoy a little more time without getting rained out.
Alex — Google review
Today was my families first time at this zoo. The Botanical Garden was great and the animals were great as well. It was a nice hot day which is perfect for an outside outing. The only negative side to the zoo is they have keeper shows all around the zoo but they aren’t very specific about the location and duration of the show. Thankfully one of the staff members, Dawn assisted us with some facts about the enclosures we were interested in. We also took the train ride which was super cute and we all enjoyed it. Overall it was a great visit.
L. A. Barnes — Google review
We bought our tickets online months ago, a little disappointed. We arrived at 9am when it is supposed to open. We were arriving as some employees looked like they were arriving. The parking confused me, entering the zoo confused me as well. Things were marked, but not clearly enough. Some animals weren't in their enclosures yet because staff members were cleaning enclosures out. And the whole African section of the zoo was closed for renovations. Which that is a good bit of the zoo. The reptile house was air conditioned which gave you a break from the humidity, but some enclosures at the corners were hard to see into and some things weren't in the correct exhibit. Restrooms were clean. Gift shop is small, but everything is reasonably priced. Took us about an hour to walk through the entire zoo.
Heidi Kuhn — Google review
Small zoo but nice seems like they are expanding most animals are close enough to get a great look at. There is a tree top obstacle, though it doesn't run through the zoo. There is also a train. Walking around is very easy they even have a splash park to play in. All in all it was a great zoo and we really enjoyed it. Purchase your tickets online you will save a few dollars, although it really was not expensive either way.
Karla Thompson — Google review
Beautiful quaint zoo. Staff very friendly and knowledgeable about the animals. Easy walk to get around and see everything. Even a small water zone for kids to run off energy and cool down. Highly recommend.
Doreen Trout — Google review
So didn't really get to go for the zoo itself but the Asian lantern festival that was being held. The lights were something to see. They were amazing! Even in the dark you can tell the actual zoo itself seems nice and decently sized though
Chabeli Montanez — Google review
Great wee zoo, not the biggest but packed with plenty to see. All the animals on show looked healthy and happy with clean and spacious cages. A nice touch was all the fans in the cages keeping the animals cool, which they were taking full advantage of. There are boardwalks all around the zoo, so no muddy or wet feet. They were replacing lots of the wooden fencing when we were there so it will look really nice when finished. There is a cafe and food booths in the zoo for food and drink. There are changing rooms available for the kids who get wet playing in the water fountains. Toilets are available. There is air conditioning in the gift shop, bear viewing room and exhibition centre. Lots of free parking outside the zoo. The highlight was getting to feed the giraffes ($5) for 3 lettuce leaves. There is also the chance to feed the animals in the petting zoo but this does run out quick so best do that early in the day.
Berglas71 — Google review
Beautiful place. Need more benches in shady spots for resting. Kids loved it but the heat kept animals inside (smart animals). Checker board in the rain was the best part kids said. Also snacks and drinks were crazy expensive!
Lottiefla — Google review
I love the zoo and botanical garden. I took my Grandson there, and he really enjoyed it. There are wooden walkways through the entire park, making it accessible for everyone. You are provided with a map at the entrance, and there are signs posted to guide you through the exhibits.
I like the fact that everything is scaled to a child's eye view, so they can enjoy the exhibits all by themselves. There are plenty of areas to sit, rest, picnic,play, or buy food.
There is a $2 discount if you buy tickets online. Seniors are $18.95, ages 3-12 are $16.95. Next visit,I will buy my tickets in advance.
Brenda Ruzbasan — Google review
It was great. Low key, lots of fun animals. The splash pads were a great idea for the kids to have some fun running around. A bit of a bummer the train is an up charge. One heck of a snake exhibit.
The Mike Metzger Team — Google review
I went here for the Asian Lantern 🏮 Festival and was not disappointed. It’s so beautiful and so much though and time went into these light sculptures. I recommend going at the 7:00pm time slot because the lights are in their full glory and there are snacks and some food you can get there too if you’re hungry. By far worth the $22, amazing place to get some photos.
Ciara Myers — Google review
I purchased tickets to this event for yesterday. I ended up throwing out my back and was so upset that my family and I couldn't go. I gave them a call and replied to my ticket confirmation and asked if they could extend my tickets. Didn't think they would though.
A short time later I received a call from a nice lady who was compassionate and kind. Told me they would allow us to come another day up until the display ends.
I rescheduled to today with hopes my back would cooperate and was sent new tickets for today's show. How incredibly nice of them to allow a last minute reschedule.
My husband , Mom and I had a Wonderful time. Thank you so much for being so accommodating 🙏.
Marlo Denning — Google review
Weekday visit was great. Not too many other guests. Although there were a number of school classes attending, the zoo staff kept them to one side of the paths. It was also interesting to listen in on the information they shared with the students regarding the various animals.
Was delighted to see not only animals to view, but encounter experiences, a water splash for kids and playground area.
We didn't dine at the zoo, but will add information after our next visit.
The Asian Lantern Festival is currently taking place, so the displays were erected. It was a surprise to see how colorful they are before being lit. Can't wait to see them at night!
It's easy to purchase tickets online, thus avoiding any lines at the ticket booth.
DJ Stephens — Google review
A Delightful Day at the Sanford Zoo! 😱
My recent visit to the Sanford Zoo left me thoroughly impressed and delighted. From the moment I stepped through the gates, I was greeted with a sense of excitement and wonder that continued throughout my entire experience.
The zoo boasts a wide array of fascinating animals from around the world, each housed in spacious and well-maintained habitats that mimic their natural environments. From majestic lions to playful primates, every exhibit offered a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close.
One aspect that truly stood out to me was the dedication of the zoo staff to animal welfare and conservation efforts. It was evident that the animals were well cared for and that their health and happiness were top priorities. Additionally, the educational programs and signage throughout the zoo provided valuable insights into the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats.
Aside from the incredible animal exhibits, the Sanford Zoo also offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. From scenic walking paths to interactive experiences like feeding giraffes, there was never a dull moment during my visit. The on-site dining options were also excellent, offering delicious food and refreshments to fuel my adventure.
Overall, my day at the Sanford Zoo was nothing short of spectacular. The combination of breathtaking animal exhibits, educational opportunities, and visitor amenities made for a memorable experience that I won't soon forget. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a family looking for a fun day out, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the natural world, I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to the Sanford Zoo. It's a gem of a destination that offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Dimitri D. — Google review
We enjoyed our visit to the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. The walk around the zoo was lovely and watching the Spider Monkeys interact with one another was a highlight. Unfortunately, some of the animals' habitats were empty when we went. Nevertheless, we liked what we did see. The Reptile House is great, and there is a nice water splash area for kids with changing rooms.
Carol Ann Jason — Google review
We had such a blast there. It definitely is a lot bigger than I thought. They are very military friendly and give a discount. Driving to the front may seem a little tricky. When you drive up you will see a train station for their adorable little train for the kids, that's where you park and go past the station and you will see the front entrance. Once inside you will be able to explore everywhere definitely take your time and there are many animals to see. The staff was super friendly and they are everywhere to help. You get to feed a giraffe which our son absolutely loved. Definitely a place we will go again.
John Camacho — Google review
Very nice place to visit with family. Very clean, well maintained. The collection of animals is small, and we only needed about 3 hours to see everything. For a small fee, you can feed giraffes or have a close up encounter with Indian rhinos. This is more of an attraction geared toward locals as opposed to the tourist giants that Orlando is famous for.
Louis Jones — Google review
4.5! 😉
Don't look for larger mammals at this zoo.
No 🐘 Elephant.
No 🦁 Tiger.
No 🦓 Zebra.
Check the website to be sure it's what you are expecting. However, it is still great for small kids and adults like me that ❤️ Zoo Exhibits either way!
Otherwise, the park was BEAUTIFULLY DECORATED, clean, and organized! The Herpetarium was a HUGE HIT with my group! We were able to get some great photos!
Unfortunately, the 🦏 Rhinoceros on the roster was not available when we were there. 🥹
❗️I feel like this kind of information should be provided before our money is accepted.
ENJOY A FEW OF THE 📸 WE TOOK! 🥰
Erica Atlanta Homes — Google review
The Asian Lantern Festival is an experience that is truly out of this world! My recent visit to this event left me in awe and thoroughly entertained.
From the moment we arrived, it was clear that this festival is something special. The vibrant lantern displays and the magical atmosphere created an enchanting environment that captivated us from start to finish.
My family and I had an amazing time exploring the festival. The intricate lantern designs and the artistry behind them were truly impressive. It's a visual feast that you won't find anywhere else.
What sets this festival apart is the unique and otherworldly experience it offers. It's a journey into a different realm, and I felt transported to a place of wonder and delight.
I highly recommend the Asian Lantern Festival to anyone seeking a one-of-a-kind experience that's truly extraordinary. It's a testament to creativity and artistry that will leave you with memories to cherish. Thank you to the organizers for bringing this incredible event to life!
The Breezeway Restaurant & Bar, located in historic downtown Sanford, offers a laid-back atmosphere with an open patio area where you can enjoy signature cocktails and Southern-inspired dishes. The restaurant features a scratch kitchen that prepares multi-course meals using fresh ingredients and raw foods. Guests can dine in a chic nautical interior or on the charming open-air patio surrounded by tropical greenery and a fountain while listening to jazz, country, or modern music.
Great vibe inside and out with good value for money! The outside seating was full on the sunny Saturday afternoon we visited - but we were happy to get a table inside with AC :-) We found the menu great for our needs and while service may not have been the fastest, it's a place to relax and the staff really friendly
Steve Malcolm — Google review
Oh my gosh! This place was absolutely amazing and the food was to die for! So delicious! The shrimp was amazing, my burger was amazing, it was all amazing! Definitely no lack of flavor here! My drink, excellent! Highly recommend, hopefully will be dining here on my next visit!
Sarah — Google review
What a pleasurable experience! First as smoker I appreciate the fact that you are allowed to smoke on the outside. I had the shrimp and grits it was AMAZING. You had choice of sides but very limited and nothing that really went with the shrimp and grits so I got fries. The wait staff was really nice. I would totally return again. Oh and they have proper pint size glasses unlike “The Station”
James Wishart — Google review
Came out on a Wednesday looking for a bite after exausting the Willow Tree (which I recommend if you haven't been yet.) Got the fresh catch grouper which was 1/2 pound for 15.99 and felt worth the price.
The atmosphere was relaxed and the weather was good. There were a few patrons at the bar and the bar tenders were very lively and talkative and overall enjoyable to be near. Our waitress was nice if a bit relaxed.
Food was good and the prices are pretty okay I think. The swamp water cocktail was great - tasted like a pina colada just like the waitress said.
Its hard to find good grouper away from the coast but it was pretty good. Not the best but not bad. The tartar sauce was good but I wanted more lol.
Jae B (fadewalkin) — Google review
What a gem! We stopped here for lunch before heading to the airport and we all loved our food. We had the cheese steak sandwich, fish and chips, mahi mahi sandwich and the fish sandwich. The servings were very generous and everything was delicious. We can't wait to go back. The decor is nothing fancy, but they have a beautiful bar and fantastic covered outside area.
Cathy Morris — Google review
One of the biggest and best Cobb salads I’ve ever had! The in-house made dressings are another selling point! If you’re looking for salad in Sanford, this should be on your shortlist.
Nick Cangemi — Google review
Cheese curds were great! I also liked the fried green tomatoes. Over the apps are really good. Great for watching the game nat the bar on Sundays.
Christopher Childs — Google review
Beautiful atmosphere in the later evening with the street lights. Super fast service and excellent food! I ordered the big fish sandwich meal with the blackened haddock (minus the bun), cole slaw and side salad. Their house ranch dressing was delicious! My husband ordered the blackened mahi over dirty rice. Highly recommend!
Caitlyn — Google review
The food has frequently been hit and miss here but we thought we'd give it another try. The "chicken salad salad" was excellent as was the grilled chicken salad. Good beer selection and good people watching on the outside patio, Cool breeze blowing through, great food today.
Greg — Google review
OMG what an awesome experience! Our server was great! The food was delicious and jaw hit the floor when we saw the portion size. Sat outside and it was just great. Can't wait to return. Make sure you're hungry when you order the Sanford Special!
Jeff W — Google review
Wish I could give it a 4.5, but am considering to change it to a 5* if our next trip to the breezeway is better than this one. So the original beer I ordered was not in stock so I had to get second choice. My gf asked for the homemade potato chips but fries came out with her meal. A third round of unrequested drinks came to our table by “accident”, but we didn’t really have any place to go so we just took them anyways. There was a small bone in my fried chicken sandwich. A little annoying but I could tell it was very fresh. The food is always good when we come and the service is usually very solid. As you can see there’s big portions too. Will change to 5* if our next visit is better than this time around, which I’m sure it will be.
Adam Skove — Google review
Came here for dinner while we were in the area. Great cocktails! I got the sangria and enjoyed it. For food we got the nachos with chicken. They were good, but a bit pricey. I've never had nachos with kettle chips so it was unique. We then got the Sanford Special with a couple extra set ups. Easily enough to feed 4 people, it's a huge amount of meat! The atmosphere is really nice sitting outside. Had a good time!
Muniba Khan — Google review
We enjoyed our lunch on the Breezeway patio. The space is fun, the food was good, and our server was uber friendly and helpful (and a real hustler).
Tod Bowen — Google review
Been a patron for many years! Hadn't visited in over 2yrs, we live over an hour away. This place gets better every time we visit. Brought several friends from out of state-and we were thrilled that the quality of food and the service are still TOP NOTCH! Highly recommend!
Our waiter, who reminded me of Benny from the movie Queens Gambit, was awesome! I'm positive he introduced himself, but because of his resemblance to Benny...I just can't remember what he said his name was!
Diane Bauer — Google review
It was a delight to have lunch with a friend (and her pup) at the Breezeway! We both had the fish and chips and they were delicious!
(They do need a new coleslaw recipe, tho)
We look forward to go there again when it's a bit cooler out! 😎
Mary Lou Quercioli — Google review
Loved the place. Gives off good ambience. The place has outdoor seating as well. The food was really great. The staff are friendly. Thumbs up for their service. Really decent seafood restaurant. Most of the dishes are at market price. Right in downtown Sanford. The streets outside have plenty of free parking.
Shehan Sahibdeen — Google review
Coming from Minnesota it is always a treat when we can have a seat outside for lunch. Heading back to Minnesota after a fairly chilly but still rewarding vacation with relatives. This will be our final meal in Florida until we return next year. Our wait staff Julie was very attentive and friendly. The cuisine was prepared properly and being able to sit outside was a bonus for sure.
Roberto Hendy — Google review
Had a great lunch with family. We sat inside as it was a little cold. Had the sangria, which was very refreshing. Fried green tomatoes were great as well as the smoked fish dip. Staff was super friendly. Place was very clean. Downtown is a very nice Quaint shopping area and the breezeway is a great stopping point to enjoy a good meal at a decent price
Robyn Stahl Ormond Beach Realtor — Google review
Lively and cute place to enjoy a beer or swamp water with music playing and the little birds chirping. My waitress was such a doll and took good care of me. I got the curds which were okay. A burger, med rare with cheese, and fries, it was delicious. Both came out pretty quick and at a good temperatures.
Skyblue Chambers — Google review
One of my all-time favorite sandwiches, the breaded pork tenderloin, is fabulous! Also, the place has a good vibe and great service. I've been here a few times and they do not disappoint.
Mary Atkinson — Google review
Really good food and a pretty cool place to go. The restaurant staff was nice and the food came out perfect . I would definitely recommend trying this place if you are ever in the area . They have something just about everyone would like. Kudos! I will definitely be coming back here In the future
Denny Buckler — Google review
I ordered the sausage gravy with two biscuits. I would not recommend this dish. It seems like they have tried to make it somewhat fancy and they would be better off just doing the regular sausage gravy with biscuits as I think it would be delicious that way. However , they added a spice of some sort and then it is slightly yellow looking. It was also very salty. My friends ordered a BLT, a grilled chicken sandwich, and french toast sticks and all of those were very good though. Very good service and nice ambiance.
This was a great tour around the river and wetlands. The captain pointed out lots of examples of the local wildlife including birds, gators and plants/trees. It was educational and a great ride.
Headphones allow you to hear the captains explanations over the noise of the boat and wind.
Holding a gator at the end was a great touch and connected us to the wild gators we saw on the tour.
Art Stanton — Google review
This is a hidden gem. A relaxed, educational and fun time with a cool take off spot. The store has cool swag and a gator picture. It's Florida at it's best. Good people, good time and easy to book.
Daniel Ritchie — Google review
Captain Tony was awesome. We all had a great time. We saw alligators, different birds and even cows. I highly recommend it. You can take your phone and get lots of great pictures.
Jennifer Proudfoot — Google review
The airboat ride was a lot of fun. We were able to see several alligators, including some very big ones. We also saw a lot of different birds including eagles. Captain Sammy was funny, informative and made it an awesome experience. We were a family of 8 which also included teenagers and grandparents and we all really enjoyed it. We also all liked holding the alligator. This was an amazing experience and I would highly recommend it.
Andrew Novack — Google review
Amazing experience with an awesome airboat captain. Way better than any 60 second amusement park ride. We saw loads of wildlife and had loads of fun skipping across the water with the wind in our faces. And of course we got to hold a baby alligator at the end. Will definitely be back next time we're in the area!
Mark Schleimer — Google review
Had an airboat tour with Captain Sammy, and what a great experience! She was funny, safe, full of knowledge, and made sure we all had a great time. We saw over 40 gators big & small, tons of wildlife, and a great trip. After we got to hold a baby gator and see some of the other animals they have on site. Money well spent and worth the drive as this was an unforgettable experience. Awesome job Captain Sammy!!
brad l — Google review
We had an amazing adventure with Midway. We had some friends in from out of town who wanted to see alligators. We saw so many gators, as well as beautiful birds and a magnificent landscape of marsh and cypress swamp. Our Captain Tony was so friendly and knowledgeable. We even were able to hold a small gator at the end of the tour. I will definitely use Midway again. Thanks!
Christine Posada — Google review
TLDR: This tour is well worth the money. You will not be disappointed!
My friend and I went on the one hour airboat tour, and we could not have had a more enjoyable time. I have been lucky enough to travel the world and see many areas, but this was by far one of the prettiest places I have ever been. There's so much to look at - gators, manatees, birds, and even cows. The water is so pretty, the trees are cool looking, and the guides are super knowledgeable and passionate about what they're doing. Our guide would stop and get us as close as possible to the gators (without causing them any distress) so we could take pictures. He did this throughout the tour if he saw something really interesting, unique, etc.
As an added bonus, the building where you check in has different types of snakes, a huge pig (who loves belly scratches), birds, and more, which you can see and, depending on the animal, touch. There is also an area with multiple baby gators, and at the end of the tour you get to hold one of them and take a picture.
Haley Gray — Google review
Believe the reviews! We had a trip planned to the Space Coast and decided to try an airboat ride before we headed back to the airport. I scoured local places and read the reviews and was sold on Midway. We had an amazing time - calm but fun, peaceful but exciting! Our captain, Justin, was a great guide, answered tons of questions, and made it a super chill experience. Come for the gators, stay for the pig, birds, cats… Highly recommend!
Fadra Nally — Google review
We had Captain Sami and she was AMAZING!!! My kiddos, although a tad chilly said later it was one of their favorite parts about our vacation. We saw cattle with their calf - gators - gorgeous views and tons of birds. Great experience and completely worth it, holding the baby alligator at the end was cool too.
Victoria Dietz — Google review
We had a great time! Our guide, TONY was the best! Lots to see, gators, cows grazing in the water up to their necks, herons, hawks, eagles, pink birds, black birds! Cypress swamp was beautiful! We were down here for the race but this was truly at the top of the list for the weekend! This needs to be on your to do list.
Shamus Harris — Google review
Absolutely loved this experience. We just moved to Florida and this was a great way to learn more about the state. We got to see so much wildlife, and got to be in nature. Our guide was amazing. She was funny and didn't kill us so I'd say that's a plus. Kind welcoming people with a sense of humor. 10/10 recommend 👌
Kaelyn Hops — Google review
We had THE BEST time at Midway! We spent 5 days in FL doing many excursions and everyone agreed that this was our favorite!! Our captain was fun, kind, and so knowledgeable! She even stopped to take pictures of our groups and answer questions. We saw a ton of gators, cows, and birds! We all loved holding the alligator at the end too! So much fun! Highly recommend!!
Danielle Betti — Google review
We absolutely loved this place. Our schedule changed and we ended up arriving 2 hours early, hoping to get out earlier. They made special accommodations for us and took such good care of us. My kids also loved all the animals while we waited for the ride and our tour guide was amazing. For sure one of the most memorable days of our trip. I’ll come back here every time we visit Orlando. Such a fun experience!
Josh Robbins — Google review
Captain Sammi was the best! She had us out on the water for an hour and 15 minutes. The whole trip she was giving us fact after fact about everything we saw out on the water. We saw a lot of gators and birds, we had a bald eagle fly right over our heads it was incredible. At the end we got the chance to hold a 3 year old alligator it was an amazing experience and I highly recommend to anyone who loves nature.
West Brunswick — Google review
I’ve been many times in the past few years and it’s always amazing. The beauty, wildlife, gators and Captains are the best there is. Thanks Captain Tony and Sammie. We bring all our guests here. Online booking makes it easy.
anne bowman — Google review
Very fun experience. You get to hold the bird and there’s animals like cats and a potbelly pig. The airboat ride is fun and the guide, Tony, was very entertaining and informative. Very relaxing at times and gets fun going up in speed. You get to hold a small alligator at the end!
Sean Green — Google review
Orlando is not just parks. A must if you want a wild but safe experience!! 🐊 🚤☀️
My kids enjoyed it too.
Captain Chris made it an unforgettable experience.
Alejandra Concha — Google review
We came without a reservation but we were able to make it on the next boat with a group of 5. It was about 50$ per person, it may be cheaper to get tickets online ahead of time. Our guide was amazing and knew a lot about the area ! He was fun and we did the last tour of the evening. The views were beautiful and we would do a boat tour again for sure ! To our guide : thank you for the memories !!
Kortney DeMent — Google review
Very pleasant experience. Would recommend. The hour tour is just the right amount of time. We were able to see beautiful wildlife and extraordinary beauty in the cypress marsh. Our Captain was pleasant and informative. We left feeling very happy we took the tour.
carolgilmo — Google review
Airboat Rides at Midway is a great way to see wildlife in the Florida waters. One hour gives you enough time to see gators, cows and birds. The airboat itself is smooth and a fun ride for you and your family. The guide, Captain Justin, was super friendly and knowledgeable. You are given headsets to hear the captain who explains the area and lets you know what to see. I highly recommend this tour to anyone who likes boat rides and wildlife.
Daniel Carro — Google review
It was nice and sunny day
Out boat tour started morning
And we saw many alligators coming out in the sun and other native wildlife during the tour.
It was nice experience
Dhiraj Kharche — Google review
Fantastic experience. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and entertaining. It wasn't very warm so most of the animals were hiding but it was still a great ride. You can hold one of the parrots and an alligator too.
Roadside zoo in a park-like setting featuring tours, river cruises & gator feedings.
A gem of a place. This place is really nice but the staff made it wonderful. The animal handler that day was perfect. Our day started rough, separate issues from this place and the staff really hoped make it something truly special for our kids. I know Rachel was working the gift shop but I never got the handlers name. They were amazing. Thank you!
Stephen Kalicki (Seadweller43) — Google review
Great experience for the price. You can bring 4 for around $50 and easily kill a few hours if you get there before 3 to do everything. Also located right off I95 so it’s convenient. They offer military discount as well. This is definitely one of the nicer gator parks we’ve been to in Florida both layout wise as well as staff
Koa Henderson — Google review
We went here today for my daughter's birthday and had an amazing time! If you can plan to attend every show and free activity I feel there is plenty to do, see and learn. Kaylee (I think) did all of our shows and had so much knowledge to share about all of their animals. Our little one got to feed the alligators, turtles, monkey and deer. Then she got to hold a gator and snake for free 😁 also a plus all the enclosures were very clean, the food was well stocked and the animals looked very healthy. Thanks everyone!
Ashley Young — Google review
This is the place you want to visit. Old school Florida cool at it's absolute finest. It's not polished and slick, it's perfect, exactly what we were looking for. Super friendly people, and very knowledgeable. Birds, gators, snakes, and monkeys, even a beautiful cat. They clearly love all the animals and treat them well. They answered all our questions and we learned plenty. You'll be glad you stopped in. If you're looking for Serge A. Storms, this is the kind of place you might find him visiting.
John N — Google review
What an experience this place is. The gentleman that was our guide was EXCELLENT! Not only did he have a vast knowledge of the animals they care for, he also was happy to share his knowledge of the area.
The alligators were really cool to see. The boat ride was a lot of fun. Both kids and adults had a great time.
THANK YOU!
Eric — Google review
Myself my daughter and my grandson had soooo much fun 😊 our guide was amazing and it was way more than I expected. Seriously impressed with his knowledge and his patience and his kindness with the children... I felt like the animals/creatures were so well taken care of... It was so evident in the animals. It was truly an experience!! I had passed this place multiple times throughout a 20 plus year, but never stopped until just recently and I'd go again and again. Thank you Jungle. Adventure for a wonderful time/experience 💕
Maria Velazquez — Google review
Finally got a chance to go here and it was amazing. It's not a big park but you can spend a good 3-4 hours and not be bored. The staff was very nice and the tour guide, Trish, was great. Loved the swamp cruise - I forgot I was in Orlando for a few minutes. Hundreds of gators in the swamp, also you can see some other animals like tortoises, python, turtles, Bobcat, parrots etc in the park. If you want to escape the theme park craziness and see real Florida in Orlando, this is a good place.
S Perna — Google review
My boyfriend and I had a great time. This was a wonderful look into real Florida. We love to support these side road educational attractions. There were so many of them back in the 50's and 60's. A must visit!
Our young lady guide was fabulous. The price was extremely reasonable.
If your looking for fancy, glitzy and plastic this probably won't be your kind of place. If you are seeking a raw natural Florida environment then you will love this place. The weather in November is just spectacular.
I highly recommend the retractable silver gator claw backscratcher from the gift shop.
Doreen Young — Google review
This place is so rad. The animals are well cared for and they all have plenty of space to move around freely.
One thing I really loved (didn't think to get a picture of it though) is that the wolf enclosure is kinda secluded from the rest of the zoo. I've been to other zoos where the wolf enclosures are on busy walkways and the wolves always seem stressed that way. It's really nice to see wolves here that actually don't seem to mind being in a zoo!
I didn't get the name of the guy doing the tours and animal displays, but he was really great. Very funny guy, and he knew a ton about all the animals. Probably one of the best tour guides I've ever had.
Definitely 5/5 overall. Go here, you'll love it
Trent Kelly — Google review
We had a great visit to Jungle Adventures yesterday. The park is small, and what I call "old Florida." You're not going to find fancy theme park polish here. What you do get are close up animal encounters with some of Florida's critters. The Florida Panther was a favorite, as was the alligator feeding. The boat ride was very interesting and relaxing. Nice boardwalk over the alligators.
Good way to spend a couple of hours.
Rae Augenstein — Google review
What an absolutely gorgeous place! They have been around for 60 years now and have an astonishing amount of gators. The boat ride through part of the lake area where they live was very serene with the large trees, and mossy green top layer surrounding these massive predators. The boat is run on a super quiet electric motor which is super cool in my opinion. The staff there is very knowledgeable about the animals as well as the establishment so asking questions is a must for the full experience! I learned some and had a great time.
Sydnie Collins — Google review
Had an incredible experience! Would highly recommend! We got to hold and pet lots of different animals including a baby gator! We also saw the gators get fed and jump out of the water! And got to go on a boat ride to get a closer look!
The staff was really knowledgeable especially Alex! She gave all of the talks we saw about the animals and fed the gators herself too!
Will come again next time I’m in the area! Great for groups of friends and would recommend getting feed bags to give to somemof the animals on the property!
Sid Hillman — Google review
Jungle Adventures is such a fun and amazing place to see what true Florida looks like with 300+ gators. They offer an animal show, boat ride, gator feeding, and native American village talk which is so informative and fun! Along with all of the gators they have various animals, many of which are rescues. I 100% recommend Jungle Adventures. This is one of my favorite places to go and I am always bringing new friends and family here spending at least 2-3 hours in the park. 🐊
Isabelle Hair — Google review
It's best place to explore for all the age groups. They have a wildlife show, the instructor Alexandra shared information about native floridians, alligator feeding and a boat ride and Alexandra shared interesting facts about the animals, she made the whole experience better. It's a lot of fun and a lot to explore. They have bunch of crocodiles, a wolf, Florida panther and bunch of birds.
Avdhoot Mahamuni — Google review
We went here on a random whim one day at it was BEYOND all expectations. Myself, my two friends and my toddler (2yo) went here and we all had a blast. We got hands on experience with some animals as well as up close and personal with gators in the swamp. We got to see them feed meat to the gators as well as a boat ride through the swamp. They offer military discounts up to 50% off or BOGO. My ticket plus a toy was only $20. Please please go here! It is so worth it.
MK — Google review
This place is awesome. Have visited twice and will continue to visit semiannual. What makes this place special is they offer everything the more well known gator parks have but without the large crowds. Everything is included with park admission meaning you don't have to pay extra to hold/take a picture with a gator or go on a boat ride through the swamp. The staff are very friendly, In fact they don't really feel like staff at all but more like uncle Randy or aunt Karen taking you and the kids around to see all their cool animals. The visit today was marred by unfavorable weather but the tour guide did everything possible to make sure me,my family, and other guests in the park had a memorable experience. At other similar parks it is up to you make sure you show up to the scheduled times of the events/shows but here it seems that they make sure every person that walks into the park leaves with experiencing all they have to offer. All in all this felt like a VIP experience for a standard price.
Kenny Wenk — Google review
I was honestly pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this place. I went with both my little kids and we just enjoyed everything so much. The staff is super friendly. The animals are so visible and entertaining. Probably one of the best places I have been to and we are military so we have been to so many places. The jumping gators was super cool and the boat ride is relaxing and safe for little kids. I was nervous about that. But it has rails all around. I will definitely go back and take my parents too.