Located on the western shore of Matanzas Bay in St. Augustine, the Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. The Spanish fort was built to defend the trade routes between the Atlantic Ocean and Florida. The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument embodies over 450 years of history and culture.
If you have always wanted to hit the road to see the beautiful national parks, forests, and preserves, it might be time to consider renting an RV. While on vacation, you can enjoy all the comforts of home as you travel around this amazing country. When you book with RVshare, you can relax on your vacation. You can choose from a wide selection of vehicles, including motorhomes, campervans, and fifth-wheels.
Many of the activities at Castillo de San Marcos National Monument are designed to be self-directed. You can walk through the fort's casement and take in the historical exhibits when you are there. There are maps and brochures available to guide you around the site and you can even download the self-guided tour on your mobile device. If you want to learn more about this Spanish fort's history, make sure to visit the Theater Room for a presentation of films. During certain times of the year, living history actors walk around the fort and answer your questions.
Hiking TrailsOne popular walking trail takes you from Castillo de San Marcos to downtown St. Augustine. You can visit the oceanfront fort and the legendary Ponce de Leon Park. The trail also travels near the Old Town section and the historic cemetery.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, St. Augustine, FL
1.1 Miles
Easy
This back trail is located near the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. While on the path, you will pass near a river and see plenty of beautiful local plants and flowers. The Moses Creek White Trail is suitable for all skill levels, and horses are allowed to use this trail as well.
Moses Creek Conservation Area, St. Augustine, FL
4 Miles
Easy
Cape Francis Beach Walk is located in Anastasia State Park. This lightly trafficked back trail provides plenty of chances to see wildlife, and it is the perfect course for all skill levels. The path is often used for hiking, running, and camping.
Anastasia State Park, St. Augustine, FL
7.3 Miles
Easy
SightseeingThe most popular recreational area in St. Augustine is Anastasia State Park. This state park is the perfect place to see birds, including ospreys, eagles, roseate spoonbills, warblers, and painted buntings. If you want a unique look at the park, hike down the Ancient Dunes Nature Trail or take a kayak on the water.
300 Anastasia Park Road, St. Augustine, FL 32080
The St. Augustine Light Station is an active and historic lighthouse. It was built between 1871 and 1874, and it is the second lighthouse to stand at the north end of Anastasia Island. You can learn about the lighthouse's history through hands-on displays, exhibits, and presentations. There are even guided tours of the light station.
100 Red Cox Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32080
This private 15-acre park is located in St. Augustine. It is often touted as the likely 1513 Florida landing site of Ponce de Leon's expedition. Visitors to this park often look forward to the opportunity to take a sip of the Fountain of Youth's waters.
11 Magnolia Avenue, St. Augustine, FL 32084
MuseumsIf you are interested in pirate history, make sure to visit the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum. This museum transports you back 300 years to Port Royal in Jamaica. You can tour the exhibits and displays that detail the Golden Age of Piracy.
12 South Castillo Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32084
The Lightner Museum houses plenty of antiquities, including an extensive collection of American Gilded Age pieces. It is located in the historic Hotel Alcazar in downtown St. Augustine. The 1887 Spanish Renaissance Revival building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
75 King Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084
The Spanish Military Hospital Museum features exhibits on Spanish medical practices. You can tour the museum throughout the day and see the live surgical and apothecary demonstrations. While you are there, make sure to visit the medicinal herb garden.
3 Aviles Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Nearby Shops and RestaurantsHarry's Seafood Bar & Grille was established in 1987, and it serves up Cajun, Creole, and Southern flavors in classic and modern dishes. If you want to enjoy a drink, the full bar offers beer, wine, and liquor. Harry's menu also features unique cocktail creations.
46 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084
If you are looking for a modern twist on classic American foods, then make sure to stop by Uptown Scratch Kitchen. The menu includes everything from chicken sandwiches to beef burgers.
509 South Ponce de Leon Boulevard, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Many residents in Florida love the Publix grocery store chain. You can find many items, including produce, meat, seafood, and dairy. Publix's chicken tender sub is the most famous item in the store. You can order this sandwich at the deli and choose a few ingredients to create a delicious lunch treat.
125 Jenkins Street, St. Augustine, FL 32086
Winn-Dixie is another major supermarket chain in St. Augustine. You can find plenty of products to stock up your RV. This store also includes a pharmacy and liquor store.
1010 South Ponce de Leon Boulevard, St. Augustine, FL 32084
If you are traveling from Interstate 95, take exit 318. Turn onto State Road 16 and follow it to U.S. 1. Turn right, then continue to follow U.S. 1 to West Castillo Drive. At this spot, turn left and follow the road to the traffic light at San Marcos Avenue. You will need to turn right at the light. The parking lot is located on the left.
1 South Castillo Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Person) $15.0
If you love history, you will want to visit Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. You can take a self-guided tour and learn about the fort's history. With an RV, you can enjoy your vacation at a slower pace. RVshare is ready to help you find the perfect vehicle for your next trip.
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