Overview

Step into the story of St. Augustine at Flagler College—where history, art, and innovation come together inside one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1888 by Henry M. Flagler as the grand Hotel Ponce de Leon, this National Historic Landmark offers visitors a chance to experience the Gilded Age in a truly unforgettable setting.

Your guided tour begins in the stunning Rotunda, where a soaring hand-painted dome and intricately carved details set the tone for what’s to come. From there, you’ll move into the breathtaking Dining Hall, home to 79 original stained-glass windows by Louis Comfort Tiffany—one of the largest collections of its kind in the world. Along the way, expert guides share stories that bring the building—and the people behind it—to life.

Now, the experience goes even further. Newly added interactive exhibits invite you to engage with history in hands-on ways. Design your own Tiffany-inspired window, explore headlines from 1888 through today at a digital newspaper stand, and meet the personalities of the past through immersive digital portraits. A recreated early 20th-century guest room offers a glimpse into what it felt like to stay at one of the most luxurious resorts of its time, while the courtyard features new interpretive elements and a statue honoring Henry Flagler’s lasting legacy.
Tours depart from 74 King Street and are designed to fit easily into your day in St. Augustine. As an active college campus, access is limited to the beautifully preserved ground floor of the former hotel and does not include student living spaces.

Whether you’re drawn by architecture, history, or simply looking for a meaningful way to experience the city, this tour offers a rich, engaging look at the place where it all began.