Arrr, matey. If you're in St. Augustine and looking for something that's actually fun, educational,…read moreand blessedly air-conditioned, set your course for the Pirate & Treasure Museum. Our guide, Dianne the Dastardly, did an outstanding job bringing the history of piracy to life. She was interesting, patient, and interactive without making the whole experience feel like you were trapped on a pirate ship with someone who had just discovered the word "ARRR." The stories of Blackbeard and other infamous pirates were fascinating, and the museum has some genuinely impressive pieces. They have the only restored pirate treasure chest in the world and one of only three original Jolly Roger flags. That's the kind of thing that makes you stop and think, "Wait a minute... this is the actual stuff." The museum does a great job of making the experience interactive, which helps keep it interesting for both kids and adults. And here's a very practical St. Augustine travel tip: on a hot Florida day, this place has something almost as valuable as buried treasure. Air conditioning. After walking around the historic district in the heat, stepping into a cool museum filled with pirates, treasure, and stories of high-seas adventure felt like discovering the greatest treasure of all. Five stars. Great history, a fun guide, fascinating artifacts, and a perfect escape from the Florida heat.

First time here and it was a nice thing ToDo that was inside. Unfortunately it started to rain a…read morelittle but we were headed there anyway. There was actual pirate treasure in there along with replicated pieces and the pirate stories that go along with the pirates. Blackbeard, Captain Morgan, etc, it was fun and I was able to add to my magnet collection.

This was the first time for both of us, and in our opinion, it was completely worth the time and…read moremoney. It is definitely graphic, so keep that in mind, but it's also very informative and well done. We learned a lot about historical torture methods and the context behind them. While it's intense, it's also fascinating in a "history is wild" kind of way. If you're into darker history or want something different to do in St. Augustine, this is a solid experience. It also wasn't very crowded, which made it easier to take everything in at our own pace.

This museum focuses on torture, punishment, and execution methods from medieval times and other…read moreeras. Displays include the rack, iron maiden, torture chair, Spanish boot, pillory, barrel for drunkards, scales for determining witch status, and more. The 100+ items are replicas or recreations, but they're life-size and historically accurate. The museum is part of a chain with locations in Chicago and LA, and admission includes an audio guide for your phone. It was interesting, but definitely dark and not for everyone. They also use wax figures to show how the devices worked, which makes it feel even more intense. Only complaint: Price is a bit high and less worth it IMO...

Truly a unique and beautiful museum experience I recommend to anyone visiting the area. It also has…read moresome exceptional photo spots!

This family owned museum has so many treasures inside and outside. If you are interested in Arabic…read moreand Asian architure and accessories, then you definitely need to visit this amazing 2 story museum. There are no elevators. I tried to pick the best photos that I could but there is so much there to photograph that you will just need to visit to see it all for yourself. The audio tours average between 45 and 60 minutes depending on the pace that you are comfortable with. Touring the Villa Zorayda Museum requires standing and walking for the length of your visit. Limited seating is available in certain areas. The tickets are $15 with a discount for seniors. The family members,are there to answer any questions. There is parking nearby. This place is located across from the Lightner Museum. Make this a priority if you love all things Arabic and Asian.

This was my second time at the Museum of Science and History. My first time was several years ago…read moreat a Yelp event, which was a much different experience. I wondered through each section. My favorite was the reptile exhibit. I saw a large and small owl, two of my favorite majestic birds. I also saw a couple of snakes and several turtles. I also enjoyed the exhibit that included a few replica space suits. There was a very cute under the sea exhibit with a submarine. I also liked the large shell! This is a great place to take children as there were lots of interactive learning activities.

Family went over memorial weekend. There were quite a few interactive exhibits that didn't work…read more The 3rd floor was closed down and the 2nd floor near the planetarium didn't make sense. You can tell the museum is closing down. The shows in the planetarium were great. They were very educational and entertaining. Other than that my other favorite part was the "Currents of Time." Seeing the evolution of the Jacksonville area. I definitely will check out the new location once it's done.

Cafe is managed by The Chef's Garden catering and they serve a variety of different dishes - in a…read morevery small kitchen. Reservations are important - especially with any groups. My go to is tomato bisque soup and the gourmet grilled cheese. The Cobb salads are delicious too -- and a signature dish is Shrimp & Grits. When we were there, a server had called in sick and Tracy was running in and out trying to keep up - she did a great job! The museum is outstanding - the staff very welcoming and friendly. The exhibits are excellent and the displays highlight the work. Self-guided tours are no problem - as many placards provide insights. The grounds - simply beautiful. Definitely recommend a visit!

The museum was having a plant market right in front of the museum a few weeks ago and that's what…read moredrew me into coming here. The vendor I bought from told me that it was free that day to go into the museum and Gardens so my family and I decided to look at the beautiful garden to welcome spring. Sadly, we didn't have time to explore the inside of the museum, but that will be for next time. The garden is absolutely stunning and breathtaking with a plethora of colors and the river in the back it's just so pretty. I loved how you could just walk around and see the different parts of the garden and then stand by the river as well. They had super unique flowers. I especially loved the ones that looked like little red lanterns and I loved all the beautiful trees. I was so happy to come here and I loved that they had a little plant market that drew you in to come and actually check out the garden. I can't wait to go back and explore the museum and make a whole day out of it. You definitely need to add this to your list if you haven't gone yet.

Spoiler alert: I think this is a must see while visiting St Augustine! Wasn't sure what to expect…read morefrom the lighthouse visit. The fee at first seemed a little steep. But, it was worth every penny of it (see last paragraph for additional things to see on the property). This lighthouse was lovingly restored by a group of passionate people- who also kept the property from being razed and becoming condominiums! The preservation work is ongoing and informative. The history is very interesting- you will see it as you climb the stairs up the lighthouse. One story about a cat and a parachute was particularly interesting. The staff member at the top of the lighthouse was very informative. The glass prisms making up the light part are amazingly beautiful, and so are the views from the top of surrounding Anastasia Island! The lighthouse itself maybe the main draw, but the property offers much more to visit. There is an archeological preservation building - which you can enter and discover how they preserve historical items. There is the lighthouse keepers house to explore. Several small sailing boats are on the premises with information regarding their history,and also a short trail through native trees and plants. A small restaurant/ snack bar is also located on the premises.

The lighthouse is a MUST when visiting St. Augustine! It's a bit of a climb to the top, but the…read moreviews are incredible and totally worth it. I especially enjoyed learning about the history of the lighthouse, and the ghost stories added a really fun, slightly spooky touch. Definitely add this to your St. Aug itinerary! Images: The lighthouse and the view from the top

The Colonial Quarter is the heart of the downtown historic district of St Augustine…read more As a whole, there are a few attractions for the kiddies like live blacksmithing, cannon blasts and climbing a watchtower, but mostly adult activities. Kids will get bored within thirty minutes then feed their face with ice cream, pizza and popcorn to stop the tears. The live rock and roll music at the Colonial Oak Music Park thats hosts two bars was fantastic. Directly across from the oldest wooden school house in the USA. Fun times here if you are a history buff.

This place is so fun for concerts, I've been many times and I always enjoyed. The place have some…read morepicnic tables, you can buy food next door and they sell drinks there. The only thing is that you have to go to the public bathroom sometimes and it's disgusting to be honest. But if you eat next door you can use the bathroom there.

This is the oldest house in St Augustine It has held up very well for about 400 years with a few…read morerenovations and additions in the early 1700s in Spanish architecture. I was amazed at how well it looks. The garden is beautiful in ornamental style. The Oldest House Museum is located in St. Augustine, Florida in St. Johns County, Florida. It is operated by the St. Augustine Historical Society and includes the González-Alvarez House, the Manucy Museum of local history and the Edwards Gallery. The museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tickets are $8 per person for the guided tour and lasts about 1/2 hour.

Lynda was a wonderful tour guide! Such a great quick excursion to take on your way around town…read more It's half off if you are staying at the st Francis inn.