As America’s oldest city, chances are most of us are familiar with St. Augustine on the northeast coast. Founded in 1565 by Spanish explorers, it provides a fascinating window into the past with its brick-lined streets, Spanish Colonial architecture and centuries-old monuments. However, it offers so much more than just a glimpse into history and is quite unlike any other city you’ll visit — just ask the experts at Tourlane!
Located about 4-and-a-half to 5 hours from Miami, the historic district has topped the list as the country’s “most charming old town” by the travel site, which recently conducted a study involving 65 cities worldwide and their historical centers.
St. Augustine voted the most charming U.S. old town
To put together the ranking, the site evaluated each destination on four main criteria: its age, appeal for pedestrians, the cost of a guided tour and its popularity across social networks. St. Augustine, with its classified architectural treasures and unique atmosphere, certainly fits the bill. The city is described as being “perfectly walkable,” with 2 million Instagram posts and the average walking tour costing $35, per Tourlane.
Much of the city’s gems can be explored on foot, such as St. George Street, which is lined with quaint shops, restaurants and historic buildings like the oldest surviving wooden schoolhouse in North America. You can also stroll along Aviles Street, noted as the nation’s oldest street with a distinct Old World feel.
Along your trip, you’ll find a blend of architectural marvels and Gilded Age grandeur, such as the iconic Lightner Museum and Flagler College — featuring impressive Tiffany stained-glass windows. But most famous of all is the 17th-century majestic stone fortress known as the Castillo de San Marcos, bearing witness to centuries of colonial defense.
Other highlights include the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, The Colonial Quarter museum and the scenic Bridge of Lions. And with 42 miles of coastline, St. Augustine boasts some pretty pristine and secluded beaches above all!
History of St. Augustine
As the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the U.S., St. Augustine is well worth having on any history buff’s radar. It was founded in 1565 by Spanish admiral Don Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, 55 years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock, and became the capital of Spanish Florida. Over centuries, the city witnessed pirate raids, sieges by the British and transitions of colonial control between Spain, Britain and eventually the U.S.
Today, it maintains its rich character through community efforts. It offers a diverse, art, music and dining scene, bending preserved structures with lively venues and modern creativity for locals and visitors alike. Following St. Augustine in Tourlane’s ranking, there’s Charleston, South Carolina in second and New Orleans, Louisana in third. You can find the full list here.