Wanderlust World Wanderlust World St. Augustine, Florida, located on the Atlantic coast in the northern part of the state, is the oldest city in the United States. St. Augustine is approximately 36 miles from Jacksonville and has a population of approximately 12,400. Known for its mild climate, beaches and historical landmarks, St. Augustine is a popular vacation destination.
St. Augustine was founded 42 years before the colonization of Jamestown and was originally populated by the Timucuan Indians. Spanish explorer Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles came ashore in 1565 and established St. Augustine as the first European settlement. He named the area in honor of the Catholic saint on whose feast day land was sighted. St. Augustine was under English rule from 1763 to 1783 and Spanish rule again from 1783 to 1821. It became part of the U.S. on July 10, 1821. Henry Flagler's arrival in 1885 marked a period of growth for St. Augustine. A tycoon and partner of John D. Rockefeller in Standard Oil, Flagler saw the potential in Florida and his establishment of a train depot, hospital, hotels and city hall helped turn St. Augustine into the resort community it is today.
St. Augustine is warm and humid during summer months, with temperatures in the 80s. The warmest month is July, with high temperatures near 90 degrees. The coolest month of the year is January, which may have low temperatures in the mid 40s. Temperatures between day and night may vary from 16 to 20 degrees throughout the year. St. Augustine's average rainfall is 47.42 inches annually. September is the wettest month, with an average rainfall of 6.45 inches.
St. Augustine offers a number of historical attractions, including the Castillo de San Marcos, which was used by Spanish, British and American forces and protected the city, and the Old Jail, which was built by Henry Flagler in 1891 and operated until 1953. The city is also home to the original Ripley's Believe It or Not museum; the Lightner Museum, which displays 19th century art and objects; and the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, which offers guests a drink from the famed fountain as well as an opportunity to visit a Native Timucuan Indian village and a planetarium. St. Augustine also offers eco-tours, ghost tours, scenic cruises and a winery.
There is a variety of accommodations for travelers in St. Augustine, from beachfront locations to the historic downtown area. Travelers on a budget or those interested in outdoor activities may opt for a traditional campground, fish camp or RV resort. Motels, hotels and bed and breakfasts are available in a wide range of prices. Condominiums and apartments are also available for rent on a daily or weekly basis and provide all the comforts of home.
St. Augustine hosts a number of special events and celebrations throughout the year. In the fall, residents hold an annual celebration in honor of the founding of their city on September 8, 1565. The festivities include a mass held in the city's honor and a party where guests sing "Happy Birthday" and enjoy cake. Other events held throughout the year include a Christmas parade, the Earth and Spirit Festival, a Greek festival, Nights of Lights and a seafood festival.