St. Augustine Educational Tours

The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is a must-see historical site, showcasing the 17th-century Spanish fort that once protected St. Augustine from attacks. Students can explore its impressive stone walls, bastions, and watchtowers, while learning about the fort’s military history and strategic importance during colonial times. The monument offers an immersive experience with reenactments, including musket and cannon firing demonstrations, that bring the past to life.

As the oldest masonry fort in the U.S., the Castillo de San Marcos provides a fascinating look at the early military and colonial history of St. Augustine. Visitors can learn about the struggles and successes of early settlers defending the city against the British and the indigenous populations. With its scenic views over the Matanzas Bay, the fort offers both an educational experience and a beautiful vantage point of the city’s waterfront.

The St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum is an essential stop for students interested in maritime history. Standing tall at 165 feet, the lighthouse provides spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the city. Climbing to the top allows students to understand the role of lighthouses in early navigation and explore how St. Augustine’s lighthouse guided sailors safely along the coast.

The museum features engaging exhibits on the region’s rich maritime history, including shipwrecks, treasure hunting, and the lives of the lighthouse keepers. Through interactive displays and educational programs, students will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by sailors and the significance of the lighthouse in the city’s development. The museum also highlights the area’s diverse marine life and the historical role of St. Augustine in American seafaring.

St. Augustine’s Old City is a vibrant area where students can explore centuries of history, from its Spanish roots to its colonial architecture. The cobblestone streets and preserved buildings offer a unique atmosphere for discovering the culture and history of the nation’s oldest city. Visitors can learn about the city’s founding in 1565 and its role in shaping American history through historical sites, museums, and landmarks.

The Heritage Museum offers a deeper dive into St. Augustine’s rich past, with exhibits that explore the city’s Spanish, British, and American influences. Through artifacts, documents, and interactive displays, students can learn about the early settlers, the native Timucua people, and the cultural fusion that formed St. Augustine. The museum provides a comprehensive understanding of how the city evolved over centuries, making it a perfect complement to a tour of the Old City.

Anastasia State Park is a perfect destination for students to experience Florida’s natural beauty. The park features miles of pristine beaches, salt marshes, and tidal flats, offering a wide range of educational opportunities for studying coastal ecosystems. Students can explore the park’s diverse wildlife, including birdwatching and learning about the region’s unique flora and fauna.

In addition to its stunning landscapes, Anastasia State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking, and picnicking, allowing students to connect with nature. The park’s natural beauty, combined with educational programs and exhibits, makes it an excellent location for exploring the ecological significance of Florida’s coastline. Whether studying the local wildlife or simply enjoying the views, Anastasia State Park provides a perfect mix of recreation and learning.

Legend has it that in 1513, while searching for the Fountain of Eternal Youth, Ponce de Leon discovered Florida. Today, the site of his historic landing is home to an archaeological park where visitors can explore the fabled fountain and even drink from its waters. The 15-acre park also marks the location of the original 1565 St. Augustine settlement, where Spanish settlers lived alongside the native Timucua Indians.

With living history demonstrations, such as cannon firing and blacksmithing, the park brings the survival of early Spanish settlers to life. Explore fascinating exhibits showcasing archaeological finds from the first settlement, and enjoy a rich blend of history and natural beauty, even if it doesn’t make you feel younger.