Stay Cool This Summer
As the summer sun warms the cobbled streets of St. Augustine, finding ways to stay cool becomes an essential part of life in America’s Oldest City. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longtime resident, The Newcomer Group is here to help you make the most of the balmy weather while exploring the best our city has to offer. From historical tours in the morning to enjoying icy treats in the shade, we have handpicked a variety of the “coolest” activities promising relief from the heat. And, hey, you might even learn something along the way.
Tour the Castillo de San Marcos
Dive into the rich history of St. Augustine by visiting the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. To make the most of your visit and beat the heat, plan to explore the fort in the early morning or late afternoon. These times not only offer cooler temperatures but also softer light, perfect for photography. The fort’s massive coquina walls and strategic position by the sea offer a glimpse into the past strategic defenses and daily life of the soldiers stationed there. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the fort’s history and architecture. This is a great place to start any visit to downtown St. Augustine as it will help orient you to the city, geographically and historically.
Additionally, the open grounds surrounding the fort offer breezy views of the Matanzas River, making for a refreshing walk as you wrap up your visit.
Image Courtesy of Philip Davis via Unsplash
Indulge in Ice Cream and Frozen Treats
Cool off this summer in St. Augustine by trying some of the city’s best frozen treats. Visit Cousteau’s Waffle and Milkshake Bar for an inventive selection of ice cream flavors, paired perfectly with their famous Belgian waffles or crafted into a rich milkshake. If you’re in search of something new, check out Cookiebird Ice Cream Bar which specializes in premium soft serve ice cream and just opened on San Marcos Ave. For a local favorite, stop by Mayday Ice Cream, where you can enjoy unique, handcrafted flavors. Don’t forget to also check out The Hyppo Gourmet Ice Pops, offering a wide range of refreshing popsicles made from fresh, natural ingredients in both classic and unexpected flavor combinations – have you ever heard of an “Elvis” popsicle?
Attend a Nighttime Event
The vibrant cultural scene of the Ancient City comes alive during the summer evenings, providing perfect opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities in cooler temperatures. One of the highlights is the Concerts in the Plaza series, held in the heart of downtown at the Plaza de la Constitución. These concerts feature a variety of musical acts ranging from local bands to regional favorites across genres like jazz, rock, folk, and more. Bring a blanket or a chair and settle in for a night of live music under the stars. The series typically runs weekly on Thursday nights during the summer. St. Augustine hosts other nighttime events throughout the summer, including art walks and outdoor movie screenings, each providing a unique way to explore the city’s rich history and arts scene while enjoying the pleasant evening breeze.
Don’t forget to mark your calendar for the Night Market at the Amphitheatre. Occurring on four select Tuesdays throughout the year (once each season), this family-friendly event hosts live music, food trucks, local vendors, and is free for all ages.
Visit the Lightner Museum
Step into the cool, air-conditioned spaces of the Lightner Museum, housed in the historic Alcazar Hotel built by Henry Flagler in 1887. This museum is not only a refuge from the heat, but a treasure trove of fine and decorative 19th-century art. As you wander through its expansive halls, you’ll encounter collections that include everything from stained glass works by Louis Comfort Tiffany to exquisite pieces of cut glass, porcelain, and fine furniture. The museum also hosts a fascinating array of costumes, textiles, and mechanical musical instruments.
The museum’s setting is itself a piece of art, with stunning architecture featuring Romanesque Revival style and a beautiful courtyard garden that was once the world’s largest indoor swimming pool. Take your time to explore the museum’s three floors, enjoy the art galleries, and perhaps stop by the café for a refreshment.
Image Courtesy of Moses Roldan via Unsplash
Find Your Sea Legs with a Sailing Tour of St. Augustine
There’s no better way to spend a summer day than cruising out on the water with the wind and salt spray in your face. Don’t worry if you don’t know how to sail – there are plenty of boat and sailing tours for all ages and skill levels in St. Augustine.
One of the most popular sailing tours is onboard the Schooner Freedom, a genuine tall ship and the largest sailing vessel based in St. Augustine. They have a variety of sails, including day time adventures, nighttime ghost tours and private charters. If the weather is good you might even get to take a turn at the helm!
Join a Brewery Tour
St. Augustine isn’t just about historic sites; it’s also a hub for craft beer enthusiasts! One of the best ways to enjoy this aspect of the city while escaping the summer heat is to check out some of the awesome local breweries like Ancient City Brewing, Dog Rose Brewing, Bog Brewing Company and Old Coast Ales.
You can learn more about the process of brewing beer on a tour or just by chatting with the friendly bartenders in the tasting rooms. One of our favorite activities is to roll over to Old Coast Ales and order food from Osprey Tacos next door – even better, they’re pet-friendly!
Image courtesy of Katherine Conrad via Unsplash
Go for a Scenic Drive
The picturesque coastal A1A state road snakes down Florida’s eastern coastline, offering expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean and natural air conditioning alongside access to a series of charming beaches and historic sites. As you drive, you’ll pass by landmarks such as the St. Augustine Lighthouse, Anastasia State Park, various beachfront parks (and even The Newcomer Group office!), where you can stop to dip your toes in the water or simply relax and take in the scenery.
The drive along A1A is particularly magical early in the morning or late in the afternoon, avoiding the peak sun hours and catching the soft light of sunrise or sunset that enhances the natural beauty of the coastline.
Picnic at the Fountain of Youth
The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, a landmark historical site in St. Augustine, offers a blend of history, nature, and relaxation. Plan a visit in the late afternoon when the heat begins to subside, making it an ideal time to enjoy a leisurely picnic. The park features beautifully shaded picnic areas where you can spread out a blanket and enjoy some refreshments while surrounded by sprawling oak trees draped with Spanish moss.
After your meal, take the opportunity to explore the various exhibits and demonstrations within the park, including the famous Fountain of Youth, a natural spring that has been attracting visitors for over a century with its legendary promise of rejuvenation. Is it real or just a legend? There’s only one way to find out.
Take a Ghost Tour
Guided by experts who are well-versed in the local lore, an evening of wandering through narrow, lamp-lit streets, exploring haunted sites and historic landmarks might be one of the best ways to explore St. Augustine. Each story is a blend of historical fact and supernatural claims, providing insights into the lives of former residents whose spirits are said to linger. Popular stops often include the Old Jail, known for its chilling history and ghostly sightings, the St. Augustine Lighthouse, where mysterious shadows and the laughter of children are often reported, and the ancient Spanish Military Hospital, where the moans of the past patients are said to echo through the halls.
Taking a ghost tour here offers an eerie yet thrilling way to experience the city’s darker past, especially appealing during the cooler evening hours. These tours typically begin after sunset, setting the perfect stage for storytelling under the cover of darkness.
