St. Augustine: Waterfront and Downtown Golf Cart Tour

Explore the nation’s oldest city on a captivating golf cart tour through St. Augustine’s historic downtown and waterfront. Discover the charming Aviles Street, dating back to 1565, and marvel at iconic landmarks like the Bridge of Lions and Castillo de San Marcos. Explore the city’s rich Spanish colonial heritage and British colonial influences, showcased through stunning architecture and cultural exhibits. Along the way, uncover the secrets of the Fountain of Youth and admire Tiffany stained glass masterpieces. This small group guided experience offers a comprehensive glimpse into St. Augustine’s storied past. Prepare to be captivated by the city’s timeless allure.

Key Points

• Explore the historic Aviles Street, the oldest street in America, and discover its Spanish colonial architecture.
• Marvel at iconic landmarks like the Bridge of Lions, Castillo de San Marcos, and the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park.
• Admire the Spanish colonial architectural features, such as stucco walls, red-tile roofs, and ornate balconies.
• Uncover the British colonial heritage of St. Augustine, including the Flagler College campus and the Ponce de Leon Hotel.
• Appreciate the stunning Tiffany stained glass masterpieces displayed in the Ponce de Leon Hotel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Oldest Street in America

Aviles Street, located in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, claims the distinction of being the oldest street in the United States.

Dating back to the city’s founding in 1565, this charming cobblestone thoroughfare showcases the enduring legacy of Spanish colonial architecture and serves as a captivating introduction to the tour’s exploration of the nation’s oldest city.

As visitors stroll along Aviles Street, they’ll be transported back in time, surrounded by historic buildings, quaint shops, and the vibrant energy that has defined this iconic setting for over four centuries.

The street’s well-preserved character offers a glimpse into St. Augustine’s rich cultural heritage, setting the stage for the remarkable sights to come.

Iconic Bridges and Landmarks

As visitors traverse the golf cart tour, they’ll catch glimpses of several of St. Augustine’s most iconic bridges and landmarks.

The Bridge of Lions, a graceful span adorned with towering sculptures, connects the downtown historic district to Anastasia Island.

Nearby, the imposing Castillo de San Marcos stands as a reminder of the city’s Spanish colonial past, its coquina walls having withstood the test of time.

Further along the route, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park beckons, promising a glimpse into the city’s storied history and the legend of its founding by Ponce de Leon.

These architectural and historic wonders offer a captivating window into St. Augustine’s rich and diverse heritage.

Spanish Colonial Architecture Highlights

The golf cart tour showcases St. Augustine’s rich architectural heritage, with many examples of Spanish colonial-style buildings lining the streets. These structures, characterized by their stucco walls, red-tile roofs, and ornate balconies, reflect the city’s Spanish roots. As the tour winds through the historic district, guests can admire the intricate details and craftsmanship of the Castillo de San Marcos, the Lightner Museum, and the Flagler College campus, formerly the Hotel Ponce de Leon. A closer look at the table below highlights some of the most notable Spanish colonial architectural features found throughout the tour.

Feature	Description
Stucco Walls	Smooth, white exterior walls providing thermal insulation
Red-Tile Roofs	Curved, overlapping tiles offering shade and rainfall protection
Ornate Balconies	Decorative, wrought-iron balconies overlooking the streets
Arched Entryways	Semicircular doorways and windows, a signature design element
Courtyards	Enclosed outdoor spaces providing natural light and ventilation

British Colonial Heritage Explored

Beyond the Spanish colonial influence, the golf cart tour also showcases St. Augustine’s rich British heritage, with several sites reflecting the city’s time under British rule in the 18th century.

The tour passes by the Bridge of Lions, which was constructed during the British occupation to connect the city center with the fort. Participants also get a glimpse of the former British governor’s mansion, now known as the Flagler College campus.

Plus, the tour highlights the architectural styles of the era, such as the Georgian-inspired design of the Ponce de Leon Hotel. Through these landmarks, visitors gain a deeper understanding of St. Augustine’s multifaceted history as a crossroads of colonial powers.

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Tiffany Stained Glass Masterpieces

Alongside the Spanish colonial architecture, the Ponce de Leon Hotel boasts an impressive collection of Tiffany stained glass masterpieces that captivate visitors.

These stunning works of art, created by the renowned Louis Comfort Tiffany, adorn the hotel’s interior, adding a touch of elegance and beauty.

Visitors can admire the intricate designs, vibrant colors, and expert craftsmanship that define Tiffany’s iconic style.

The collection includes ornate windows, lamps, and other decorative elements that showcase the artist’s unparalleled skill and creativity.

Exploring this Tiffany treasure trove is a highlight of the golf cart tour, allowing visitors to enjoy the opulence and grandeur of the Ponce de Leon Hotel’s rich heritage.

Discovering the Fountain of Youth

Among the many historic sites visited during the golf cart tour is the renowned Fountain of Youth, a legendary spring believed to have restorative properties.

Guests have the opportunity to sample the spring’s reputed waters and learn about the site’s rich history as the first settlement in Florida established by Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León.

Visitors can explore the archaeology exhibit, which showcases artifacts from the original 16th-century Spanish settlement.

The tour also highlights the Fountain of Youth’s Native American heritage, with demonstrations of traditional crafts and a replica of a Timucua village.

Whether seeking the secrets of longevity or simply a glimpse into Florida’s past, the Fountain of Youth is a captivating stop on the golf cart tour.

Small Group Guided Experience

The small group size of the Waterfront and Downtown Golf Cart Tour in St. Augustine allows for a more personalized and intimate experience as participants explore the historic city. With a maximum of 10 people, the tour offers ample opportunities for travelers to engage with the knowledgeable guide and ask questions about the sights they encounter.

Some key benefits of the small group format include:

1. Easier navigation through the charming streets and alleyways of downtown.
2. More attentive service and personalized attention from the guide.
3. Increased flexibility to accommodate individual interests and preferences.
4. A more relaxed and leisurely pace to fully immerse in the city’s rich history and architecture.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Where does the Waterfront and Downtown Golf Cart Tour in St. Augustine begin?

The tour meeting point is located at the Plaza de la Constitucion, on the corner of St. George and 48 Cathedral Place. This central location in the heart of the city’s historic district provides easy access to the starting point of the tour.

Guests will meet their certified driver/guide at the designated spot and then board the comfortable golf carts to embark on their 1-hour journey through the streets of the oldest city in the United States.

With a small group size limited to 10 participants, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience exploring St. Augustine’s iconic landmarks and charming architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if the tour is cancelled at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations may result in partial or no refund, subject to the tour operator’s discretion.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible. The golf carts used can accommodate wheelchairs, and the route takes participants through the historic downtown area, allowing those with mobility needs to fully experience the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Golf Cart?

You can’t bring your own golf cart on the tour. The tour includes a certified driver and golf cart for the group, so participants don’t need to provide their own transportation.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions, and participants of all ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The small group size ensures a personalized experience for guests on the golf cart tour.

Do You Offer Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?

The tour company offers discounts for seniors aged 65 and above as well as students with valid ID. Discounts range from 10% to 15% off the regular tour price. Interested participants should inquire about these discounts when booking the tour.

Recap

The St. Augustine Waterfront and Downtown Golf Cart Tour provides an immersive journey through the nation’s oldest city.

Visitors will explore the historic Aviles Street, marvel at iconic landmarks, and discover the city’s rich Spanish colonial architecture and British colonial influences.

Tiffany stained glass masterpieces and the Fountain of Youth add depth to this captivating small group guided experience, offering a comprehensive glimpse into St. Augustine’s storied past.

You can check availability for your dates here: