St. Augustine, Florida

Budget-Friendly Family Getaway: Discover St. Augustine, Florida

Looking for a perfect family getaway destination in the USA? St. Augustine, Florida, offers an affordable and enriching vacation experience. Known for its historical significance, charming architecture, and beautiful beaches, St. Augustine provides a variety of activities that cater to all ages and budgets. In this guide, you'll find a detailed weekend itinerary, must-try restaurants for every budget, accommodation options, must-see events and festivals, and money-saving tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Why Choose St. Augustine for a Family Getaway?

St. Augustine stands out as a top destination for family vacations due to its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether your family enjoys exploring historical sites, lounging on the beach, or savoring delicious food, St. Augustine has something for everyone. Plus, many activities in St. Augustine are either free or very affordable, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.

Sample Weekend Itinerary for a Family Getaway in St. Augustine

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning: Arrival and Check-in

Budget-Friendly Accommodations:
Budget: The Pirate Haus Inn - Located in the heart of downtown, this quirky and affordable inn offers family-friendly rooms and free breakfast.
Mid-Range: The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens - Provides a unique experience with historic charm and modern amenities.
Luxury: Casa Monica Resort & Spa - For a splurge, enjoy luxurious accommodations with beautiful architecture and a prime location.

Afternoon: Historic Downtown Exploration

Free Activities:
Stroll through St. George Street and enjoy the local shops, historic buildings, and street performers.
Visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument (free for children under 16).
Explore The Colonial Quarter, where kids can engage in interactive historical exhibits.

Evening: Family Dinner

Budget-Friendly Restaurants:
Budget: Pizza Time - Known for its New York-style pizza and affordable prices.
Mid-Range: The Floridian - Offers Southern comfort food with many dishes under $20.
Luxury: Collage Restaurant - A fine dining experience with a focus on local ingredients.

Day 2: Beaches and Museums

Morning: St. Augustine Beach

Free Activity:
Enjoy a relaxing morning at St. Augustine Beach. Bring your own snacks and drinks to save money.

Afternoon: Museums and More

Affordable Activities:
Visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. The admission is affordable, and the view from the top is breathtaking.
Explore the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. Look for online discounts and coupons to save on admission.

Evening: Family Fun and Dining

Budget-Friendly Restaurants:
Budget: Mojo Old City BBQ - Offers delicious BBQ in a casual setting.
Mid-Range: Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille - Known for its Creole and Cajun dishes.
Luxury: Michael’s Tasting Room - Offers a refined dining experience with a Spanish flair.

Day 3: Local Attractions and Departure

Morning: Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

Affordable Activity:
Visit the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park. It offers interactive exhibits and beautiful grounds for a reasonable entrance fee.

Afternoon: Explore Local Markets and Departure

Free Activities:
Visit the St. Augustine Farmers Market for local produce and handmade crafts.
Take a stroll along the Bayfront, enjoying the scenic views and fresh air.

Must-Try Restaurants in St. Augustine

For Budget Travelers:

Pizza Time: Affordable and highly-rated pizza in a casual setting.
The Bunnery Bakery & Café: Offers a variety of breakfast and lunch options at reasonable prices.
Nalu’s Tropical Takeout: Known for its Hawaiian-inspired dishes and budget-friendly menu.

For Mid-Range Budgets:

The Floridian: Southern comfort food with many dishes under $20.
Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille: Creole and Cajun cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
The Ice Plant: Offers farm-to-table dishes and craft cocktails in a historic setting.

For Luxury Dining:

Collage Restaurant: Fine dining with a focus on local ingredients and creative dishes.
Michael’s Tasting Room: Refined Spanish cuisine with an extensive wine list.
Raintree Restaurant: Offers a sophisticated dining experience in a historic building.

Accommodation Options for Every Budget

Budget Accommodations:

The Pirate Haus Inn: Quirky and affordable with a central location.
Days Inn by Wyndham St. Augustine: Offers basic amenities and complimentary breakfast.

Mid-Range Accommodations:

The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens: Historic charm with modern amenities.
Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront: Convenient location with comfortable rooms and great views.

Luxury Accommodations:

Casa Monica Resort & Spa: Luxurious accommodations with beautiful architecture.
Marker 8 Hotel & Marina: Offers upscale amenities and stunning views of the marina.

Must-See Events and Festivals

Spring:

St. Augustine Celtic Music & Heritage Festival (March): Celebrate with traditional Celtic music, food, and activities for all ages.
Rhythm & Ribs Festival (April): Enjoy delicious BBQ, live music, and family-friendly activities.

Summer:

Concerts in the Plaza (June-August): Free concerts in the historic Plaza de la Constitución.
Fourth of July Fireworks: A spectacular fireworks display over the Matanzas Bay.

Fall:

St. Augustine Spanish Wine Festival (September): Enjoy Spanish wines, food, and cultural events.
Datil Pepper Festival (October): Celebrate the local datil pepper with food, contests, and family fun.

Winter:

Nights of Lights (November-January): The city lights up with millions of white lights, creating a magical holiday atmosphere.
Colonial Night Watch (December): A historical reenactment with parades and activities.

Money-Saving Tips and Hacks

Book in Advance: Plan and book your accommodations, activities, and tickets ahead of time to take advantage of discounts.
Visit Free Attractions: Explore the many free attractions in St. Augustine, such as parks, historical sites, and public art installations.
Use Public Transportation: Save money on transportation by using St. Augustine’s trolley system or walking.
Eat Local and Affordable: Choose budget-friendly restaurants and take advantage of local markets for snacks and meals.
Family Discounts: Look for family discounts at attractions and always ask if there are reduced rates for children.
Pack Snacks and Water: Save on food costs by packing your own snacks and water bottles for outings.

SimpleSmarties Travel Pro Tips

Travel Off-Season: Visit St. Augustine during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) to enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds.
Stay Outside the City Center: Consider staying in accommodations slightly outside downtown to save money.
Local Deals and Coupons: Check local tourism websites and brochures for deals and coupons on attractions and dining.
Free Activities: Prioritize free activities such as exploring historic sites, parks, and attending free events.
Set a Budget: Plan a daily budget for activities, meals, and souvenirs to keep your spending in check.

St. Augustine, Florida, is a perfect destination for a budget-friendly family getaway. With its rich history, charming architecture, and beautiful beaches, there's something for everyone to enjoy. By following this guide, you can plan a memorable and affordable trip to St. Augustine that your family will cherish. Happy travels!