St. Augustine’s Historic Forts
St. Augustine, founded in 1565 by Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, is renowned for its rich history. The city’s historic forts, enduring symbols of Spanish, British, and American eras, stand as must-visit landmarks for vacationers and history buffs. These forts hold memories of defense, resilience, and cultural evolution, and offer a window into the city’s storied past and the role it played in the history of the United States. In this blog, we highlight St. Augustine’s can’t-miss historic forts, from the iconic Castillo de San Marcos to the lesser-known Fort Mose. Each fort offers a unique perspective, making them essential stops for anyone seeking to uncover the layered history of America’s oldest city.
Castillo de San Marcos
The historic district is the soul of St. Augustine, offering a wealth of things to do in St. Augustine for history buffs, romantics, and families. At its core is the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. Singles can delve into its storied past through self-guided tours, learning about Spanish colonial history. Couples will love the romantic ambiance of the fort’s ramparts, perfect for a sunset stroll with bayfront views. Families can enjoy interactive experiences like cannon firings, which captivate kids and adults alike. The fort’s history, dating back to 1672, makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking to connect with St. Augustine’s roots.
Visitors are captivated by the star-shaped bastion design of this St. Augustine historic fort, a hallmark of 17th-century military architecture. Weekend cannon-firing demonstrations bring history to life, while ranger-led tours explore its past. Located downtown near St. George Street, this St. Augustine historic fort is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Admission is $15 for adults, free for children under 15. Visit early mornings or weekdays to avoid crowds. The fort’s thick walls and moat-like surroundings are a photographer’s delight.
From the water, this St. Augustine historic fort’s imposing presence is breathtaking. A boat charter along Matanzas Bay, offered by St. Augustine Sailing, reveals its strategic coastal position, perfect for photography, especially at sunset.
Fort Mose Historic State Park
Fort Mose Historic State Park, a unique St. Augustine historic fort, was established in 1738 as the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in the U.S., named Gracia Real de Santa Teresa de Mose. Freed enslaved people from British colonies found sanctuary in St. Augustine, gaining freedom by defending the city for Spain. This St. Augustine historic fort played a pivotal role in the 1740 Battle of Bloody Mose, repelling a British attack.
No original structures remain at this St. Augustine historic fort, but the park, 20 minutes north of downtown St. Augustine, offers a museum, boardwalk, and picnic areas. Reenactments and festivals celebrate its African American heritage. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the museum charges $2, while the grounds are free. It’s ideal for history buffs exploring St. Augustine’s diverse past.
Though not directly visible from the water, a charter along the Intracoastal Waterway with St. Augustine Sailing provides context for this St. Augustine historic fort’s northern defensive role, enriched by wildlife sightings like dolphins or egrets.
Fort Menendez
Fort Menendez, part of the Old Florida Museum, offers a distinct take on St. Augustine’s historic forts. Unlike traditional forts, this St. Augustine historic fort is an interactive museum recreating 16th-century European settlement life in St. Augustine. Visitors engage with recreated tools, barter, and solve historical challenges, making it a hit with families and school groups seeking hands-on learning about St. Augustine’s colonial era.
Located near St. Augustine, about 20 minutes from downtown, this St. Augustine historic fort’s hours and event schedules vary, so check their website or call ahead. Admission fees apply, tailored to group sizes.
Lesser-Known Sites
St. Francis Barracks, a historic coquina stone building constructed between 1724 and 1755, was a Spanish military structure and now serves as the Florida National Guard headquarters. The building was constructed by monks of the Order of St Francis to replace a series of previous wooden buildings which were destroyed in 1702. A portion of the area is also the site of the St Augustine National Cemetery. Visible from Matanzas Bay, this St. Augustine historic site underscores the city’s layered history.
Inland, the ruins of Fort Picolata and Fort Peyton enrich St. Augustine’s historic narrative. Fort Picolata, built in the 1730s along the St. Johns River, secured Spanish trade routes. Fort Peyton, established in 1837, played a role in the Second Seminole War.
Though not accessible by charter, their stories deepen the historical context of St. Augustine’s historic forts during a sailing tour.
Immerse Yourself in History
At St. Augustine Sailing, we offer private and shared sailing charters that immerse you in the history and beauty of St. Augustine. We sail our luxury yachts and catamarans through Matanzas Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway, providing an intimate way to experience the city’s scenic waterways. Whether you’re a family, couple, or group, we show you St. Augustine’s historic forts, like Castillo de San Marcos and Fort Matanzas, from unique water perspectives, highlighting their strategic coastal roles.
Our popular other tours, like the Dolphin Watch & Historic Harbor Sail, let you spot dolphins while we share local history, while our Nights of Lights cruise transforms the skyline into a twinkling spectacle during the holidays. We provide expert narration, comfortable amenities, and chances to see wildlife like egrets and manatees. It’s a picture-perfect getaway for singles, couples and families.
Our private charters offer tailored experiences for special occasions, while our shared options create social, budget-friendly adventures. We ensure unforgettable memories with personalized service. Book your St. Augustine adventure today.
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