Florida's Historic Coast Travel Planner 2015 | Page 31

Attractions No matter what your hobby or interest, we have an attraction for that! Explore on foot in the pedestrian-friendly historic district or hop aboard the Old Town Trolley or Ripley’s Red Train. Conquistadors, Pirates and Alligators, Oh My! Visitors can explore the 144-square block historic district lined with 34 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. The Castillo de San Marcos, one of the country’s most popular National Parks, rises prominently above the seawall in the Oldest City. But there’s more than history here. There’s pirates! The St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum contains the world’s largest collection of authentic pirate artifacts. The museum’s “treasure hunt,” entertaining pirate guides and surround-sound experience of a Get on your feet! Choose from walking tours of the old city devoted to a wide range of topics — you can even eat your way around town. Intrepid souls can search for ghosts on walking and riding tours each night. battle on the high seas will have adults and kids alike happily chanting, “Arrgghhh!” Standing watch over the Oldest City, the St. Augustine Lighthouse offers a breathtaking view, which makes the climb up 219 steps worth it! And, if you’re so inclined, visit the place of eternal youth. The Fountain of Youth is more than legend, it is the place where Pedro Menedez founded St. Augustine and the original inhabitants, Attractions here can be a little wet and wild. Swim with dolphins, glide alongside manatees and visit the only place in the world where every species of crocodilian can be seen. With more than 60 attractions to choose from, including some great new additions, any visitor’s “to-do” list of adventure is going to be several days in length. TOP PHOTO: COURTESY JOHN CIPRIANI; LEFT, FLORIDASHISTORICCOAST.COM What’s old is new again including the First Colony at the Government House. Explore the area’s Spanish origins through interactive displays and artifacts providing insight into the lives of early Spanish settlers. A visit to the Colonial Quarter takes you on a journey through three centuries with engaging programs, restaurants and taverns. the Timucuans, first welcomed him. Experience the gilded age at the Lightner Museum, Villa Zorayda or a tour of the Hotel Ponce de Leon, now Flagler College. FloridasHistoricCoast.com 29 SJVCB_141200_ATTRACTIONS.indd 29 12/19/14 1:19:43 PM