Explore the past with a visit to St. Augustine,
Florida, the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited European-founded city.
Although the city was settled by Spain in 1565, landmark attractions hail from
various eras of the region’s storied past, including Victorian mansions, a
17th-century fort and an 18th-century wooden schoolhouse. Take a break from the
history lesson and enjoy a relaxing day on white sand beaches that dot the
surrounding barrier island. Although St. Augustine can be pricey, affordable lodging
is available throughout the city. Budget hotels include rooms for less than
$100 a night, although rates vary based on the season, holidays and school
vacations.
In the Heart of History
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Stay near such famed sights as Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine’s
1672 fort. Days Inn St. Augustine/Historic Downtown includes a 24-hour on-site
diner and is steps from a host of sit-down and fast food restaurants. Dogs
weighing 25 pounds or less are allowed, but require a fee. Stay at Quality Inn
Historic District, where basic amenities include in-room microwaves and
refrigerators. The hotel provides free transportation to St. Augustine -- St.
Johns County Airport, and to the depot of a local sightseeing trolley company
with tickets purchased.
Near the Fountain of Youth
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Book a room near the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park,
supposed landing site of Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon and home to
excavated items from 16th-century Native American villages. Knights Inn St
Augustine/Historic District serves free breakfast each morning, and all the
rooms have microwaves and refrigerators. Kids 17 and younger stay free when
with a paying adult. In addition to free coffee throughout the day, Howard
Johnson Inn -- Historic St. Augustine provides free breakfast and coin-operated
laundry facilities. For a bit of romance, book the honeymoon suite, outfitted
with an in-room hot tub.
Park Yourself Near the Park
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Peruse Anastasia State Park, a 1,600-acre beachfront park with
opportunities for boating, camping, swimming, fishing and windsurfing.
Wallet-friendly Budget Inn St. Augustine has a picnic and play area for kids
and adults. Grab a snack from the on-site vending machine or walk to nearby
bars and restaurants. Historic Inn is a small motel with an outdoor pool. For
added comfort, book a room with a full-size hot tub. Free coffee is available
in the lobby throughout the day.
The Beach Beckons
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Americas Best Value Inn St. Augustine Ocean Inn is just 10
minutes on foot from the beach. Take a dip in the outdoor pool and soak up the
rays on the sun deck outfitted with lounge chairs and tables. The hotel serves
free continental breakfast each morning. Some suites include two-person
whirlpool tubs. St. Augustine Island Inn is just two blocks from Ocean Hammock
Park Walkway, a raised boardwalk that leads directly to the beach. Enjoy rooms
with upgraded amenities, such as large balconies and two-person hot tubs. Book
a romance package that includes a bottle of wine, voucher for dinner at a
nearby restaurant and late checkout.
