St. Augustine, Florida
History and Culture in the Nation’s Oldest City
Take a break from the gray skies of Indiana and head down south to America’s Oldest City — St. Augustine. Known for its Spanish colonial style architecture, sandy beaches, and extensive shopping and dining opportunities, St. Augustine is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Oil tycoon Henry Flager was so charmed by the city on his honeymoon in 1883 he began building grand hotels, attracting the wealthiest Americans to winter along the Florida coast.
Join Ambassadair on a stroll along the brick-lined streets and delight in the city’s European flavor, with centuries-old buildings, horse-drawn carriages, and hidden courtyards. Saint Augustine has plenty of history to explore — more than 450 years of it!
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE
PACKAGE INCLUDES
Itinerary
Tue, Feb 11: Depart Indianapolis for Florida. After transferring from Jacksonville to St. Augustine start your adventure on a narrated driving tour of the city, learning about its long and storied history dating back to its founding by Spanish explorers in 1565; 42 years before the English colonized Jamestown, 45 years before the Spanish established Santa Fe and 55 years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock. The architecture and ambiance found throughout the city still reflects its Spanish origins. A stop with lunch at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park delves into the saga of Juan Ponce de León’s expedition to find a mythical spring that would allegedly restore the youth of anyone who drinks or bathes in its waters. After a sip from the fountain check into your hotel located in the historic district, your home for the next four nights. Top off the day with a delicious welcome dinner at a local favorite restaurant. (Meals: Lunch, Dinner)
Wed, Feb 12: Following an included breakfast at the hotel, a short walk along Matanzas Bay takes you to a site with history almost as long as the city itself: the Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States, whose construction began in 1672. Then take a guided tour of the Lightner Museum, which began its life as the Hotel Alcazar, a Gilded Age resort. The historic setting adds another layer of intrigue to the eclectic “collection of collections” and exhibits you will see here. After a break for lunch on your own be invited into an extravagant residence turned museum, the Villa Zorayda Museum. Inspired by the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain this museum has a long, fascinating history and impressive collection of original art and antiques. (B)
Thu, Feb 13: This morning visit St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. Learn about the area’s maritime history beginning with Ponce de Leon’s first sighting of Florida in 1513 to the worldwide shrimping industry that began in northeast Florida in the early 20th century. The 140-foot view from the top of the Lighthouse boasts incredible ocean vistas if you’re up for the climb! Then walk on the wild side with a self-guided visit to a quintessential Florida attraction that has been in business for more than 125 years, the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park. Be both thrilled and educated while getting up close to the many species that live here (not just reptiles!). Enjoy an included lunch before returning to the historic district for an evening at leisure. (B,L)
Fri, Feb 14: Today is free to enjoy St. Augustine as you please! Explore more of the shops and cafes located in the historic district. Visit one of the many unique museums located here, such as the Spanish Military Hospital Museum or the Pirate & Treasure Museum. If you’re feeling courageous tour the Medieval Torture Museum or book an evening ghost tour at the Old Jail! Charter a fishing excursion or enjoy a tasting at a local distillery. Enjoy a romantic dinner with your loved one to celebrate Valentines Day. The possibilities are endless! (B)
Sat, Feb 15: Soak up some final moments in the Sunshine State before departing from the hotel. Return to Indianapolis in the afternoon. (B)
Hotel
Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront. Admire the Spanish Colonial style architecture of this hotel located in the Historic District with views of beautiful Matanzas Bay. Highlights: in-room coffee/tea maker, mini refrigerator • complimentary WiFi Internet access • restaurant • concierge • outdoor pool • fitness center.
Pricing
*Subject to change due to fuel surcharge