Explore History, Flavor & Culture— One Trail at a Time
Trails of Time & Taste
On Florida’ s Historic Coast, every path leads to a story— and often, a delicious one. From centuries-old forts to fragrant datil pepper fields, the Trails of Time & Taste invite you to slow down, look deeper and savor the region’ s most meaningful experiences. These themed itineraries are more than routes— they’ re immersive journeys into the soul of St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches.
Explore History, Flavor & Culture— One Trail at a Time
HISTORY ON FOOT
Wander along St. George Street, past colonial buildings, the Castillo de San Marcos and the Mission Nombre de Dios. Guided and self-guided walking trails reveal more than 460 years of layered stories— Spanish explorers, African American pioneers, Gullah Geechee communities and Minorcan families who shaped the city’ s enduring character. Dive deeper into this living history with immersive experiences like the Colonial Quarter Experience, authentic storytelling on a St. Augustine True History Tour, a laid-back stroll with St. Augustine Free Walking Tours or guided explorations with Spyglass Travel & Tours. For a broader perspective, combine scenic views and rich narrative on a St. Augustine Land and Sea Tour that brings the past— and the shoreline— to life.
LINCOLNVILLE LEGACY TRAIL
Explore the vibrant African American history of Lincolnville. This self-guided route features historic homes, churches, murals and the Lincolnville Museum & Cultural Center, spotlighting everything from Civil Rights milestones to jazz icons who once played here.
THE SPANISH ROOTS TRAIL
Discover the enduring influence of Spain on architecture, food and faith. Highlights include the Cathedral Basilica, Avilés Street and tapas-inspired bites at local restaurants like La Cocina at the Cellar Upstairs, Casa Maya, Spanish Bakery, Paladar Cuban Eatery and Columbia Restaurant, where Spanish flavors meet coastal flair. Look for signs of the past in iron balconies, sun-drenched courtyards and colorful tile mosaics that echo centuries of Iberian heritage woven into the city’ s charm.
NATURE’ S STORY, NATURALLY
Whether you’ re biking The Palatka-to-St. Augustine State Trail, kayaking salt marshes or walking through Anastasia State Park, you’ ll uncover nature’ s role in shaping the culture here. Listen for birdsong where soldiers once marched and paddle the same waterways once traveled by Timucua, Spanish and African settlers. Wander through the lush landscapes of the St. Johns Botanical Gardens & Nature Preserve, where native flora and global plant species come together in a living tribute to biodiversity and cultural connection. And for a small-town experience rich in heritage, shop and eat along Hastings Main Street in downtown Hastings, where local flavor and friendly faces make every stop memorable.
TASTING TRADITIONS
Datil peppers. Minorcan chowder. Empanadas. Cornbread. These aren’ t just local dishes— they’ re cultural heirlooms. Follow the Flavors of the Coast Trail to sample stories on a plate: heritageinspired dishes passed down through generations, reimagined by today’ s chefs. Savor modern
interpretations at Odd Birds Cocktail Lounge & Kitchen, Aunt Kate’ s on the River, Pesca Rooftop, Castillo Craft Bar + Kitchen and Asado Life, where tradition meets creativity in every bite— and sip.
THE CRAFT SIPS TRAIL
From historic distilleries and local breweries to family-run wineries, this trail pairs well with every kind of explorer. Enjoy a chilled sangria after a museum visit or sip a locally brewed ale after walking the Time Traveler’ s route. Discover the refined flavors at Carrera Wine Cellar, savor award-winning spirits at St. Augustine Distillery, enjoy handcrafted cocktails at City Gate Spirits and take in rooftop views with a glass of wine at San Sebastian Winery. Each pour reflects the area’ s deep-rooted hospitality and creative spirit.
ARTS & MAKERS TRAIL
Meet the creatives who carry the region’ s story forward. From Gullah-inspired quilts and Spanish ceramics to datil-pepper infused oils, local artisans share their heritage through their work. Galleries, boutiques and open studios dot this trail, each with a story to tell.
PLAN YOUR PATH
Pick a theme— or mix and match! Whether you’ re visiting for a day or a week, the Trails of Time & Taste are designed to help you build a personalized itinerary that celebrates everything that makes this coast so unforgettable.
READ MORE
22