Arts & Culture

St. Augustine is rich in history, and in the late 1800s, "rich" was the operative word. It was a grand time of magnates, marvels and magnificent monuments... theatrical resorts, lavish architecture and conspicuous luxury. Once a sparsely inhabited near-wilderness, the little town burgeoned as a premier resort destination for well-to-do northerners. It all began in 1883 with an auspicious visit by Henry Morrison Flagler.

Lovers need look no further... St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and the Beaches is dripping with romance. Saunter hand-in-hand down centuries-old streets; ride horses along the ocean's edge, take sunset sails and moonlit strolls. Savor creamy chocolates after a gourmet candlelit meal. Cuisine is as inspired as art and culture, and naturally, history speaks for itself. Come. Create some of your own.

Set your itinerary on a historical pace by starting with Spanish-period sights. After an introduction to the Old City's Native American and Spanish foundation at Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, glance skyward and follow the cross to Mission Nombre de Dios.