Saint Augustine Day Trip From Orlando

Nestled just an hour’s drive from the thrill of Orlando, the Saint Augustine Day Trip offers a chance to step back in time and explore America’s oldest city. Visitors can discover captivating historic landmarks, take in scenic waterfront views, and enjoy the colonial-era ambiance that defines this unique destination. Whether it’s touring the imposing Castillo de San Marcos or uncovering the darker recesses of the Medieval Torture Museum, this comprehensive excursion promises to transport travelers to a bygone era and leave them eager to…

Key Points

• Explore the historic city of St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States, on a 10-hour excursion from Orlando.
• Visit the iconic Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century Spanish stone fortification, and the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse dating back to the late 1700s.
• Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Matanzas Bay, offering breathtaking views of the historic city skyline and coastal surroundings.
• Set out on a 90-minute sightseeing trolley tour to efficiently explore St. Augustine’s must-see landmarks and attractions.
• Discover the harrowing history of medieval torture at the Medieval Torture Museum, featuring authentic instruments and reenactments.

Trip Overview

This day trip from Orlando to St. Augustine provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the oldest city in the United States, seeing its rich colonial history and charming atmosphere.

The 10-hour excursion allows ample time to discover the historic landmarks, including the iconic Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest fort in the country.

Guests can stroll along the pedestrian-friendly St. George Street, lined with quaint shops and restaurants, and visit the Oldest Wooden School House.

Travelers can further enhance their experience by upgrading to include a scenic cruise on Matanzas Bay or a sightseeing trolley tour.

With convenient pickup and drop-off locations, this day trip offers a well-rounded and memorable exploration of St. Augustine’s captivating heritage.

Historic Landmarks

Among the historic landmarks visitors can experience on the day trip is the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest fort in the United States. Constructed in the 17th century by the Spanish, this formidable stone fortification commands a strategic position along the Matanzas Bay, offering insight into the region’s colonial past.

Visitors can explore the impressive structure, admiring its thick coquina walls and learning about the fort’s role in defending St. Augustine from various invaders over the centuries.

Plus, the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse in the country, dating back to the late 1700s, provides a glimpse into the educational facilities of early colonial America, adding to the day’s immersive historical experience.

Scenic Cruise Option

Visitors can upgrade their St. Augustine day trip to include a scenic cruise through the Matanzas Bay, offering breathtaking views of the historic city skyline and its coastal surroundings.

This hour-long journey provides a unique perspective of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as:

• The Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States
• The Bridge of Lions, a picturesque drawbridge connecting the downtown to Anastasia Island
• The stately Victorian-style buildings that line the waterfront
• The serene natural beauty of the bay and its surrounding marshlands

This optional cruise adds a relaxing and visually stunning element to an already enriching St. Augustine experience.

Sightseeing Trolley Tour

Travelers can also opt for a 90-minute sightseeing trolley tour that allows them to hop on and off at various historic sites throughout the city. The trolley tour provides an overview of St. Augustine’s rich history and landmarks, including the Castillo de San Marcos, the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse, and the charming streets of Old St. Augustine Village. Riders can disembark at any stop to explore on their own before rejoining the trolley. This flexible sightseeing option is a great way to make the most of the day trip and ensure visitors don’t miss any of the city’s must-see attractions.

Stop	Attraction	Duration
1	Castillo de San Marcos	30 mins
2	Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse	20 mins
3	Old St. Augustine Village	40 mins
4	Flagler College	15 mins
5	Bridge of Lions	10 mins

Medieval Torture Museum

For those interested in the darker side of history, the Medieval Torture Museum in St. Augustine offers a chilling glimpse into the grim realities of punishment and interrogation techniques from the Middle Ages.

The museum’s collection includes:

• Authentic instruments of medieval torture, such as the iron maiden, rack, and thumbscrews
• Historical exhibits detailing the evolution of torture methods across Europe
• Reenactments and dioramas that bring these harrowing practices to life
• Informative guides who provide context and insight into this controversial aspect of the past

Through this immersive experience, visitors gain a sobering understanding of the brutality that was once commonplace, underscoring the progress humanity has made in advancing human rights and criminal justice.

Pickup and Drop-off

The tour typically includes pick-up and drop-off service from designated meeting points in Orlando, Kissimmee, Disney Lake Buena Vista, and Universal. This convenient transportation option allows travelers to relax and enjoy the day without worrying about driving. The pickup and drop-off locations are as follows:

Location	Address
Orlando	8819 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819
Kissimmee	5883 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, Kissimmee, FL 34746
Disney Lake Buena Vista	1486 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Universal	6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819

This service ensures a seamless start and end to the Saint Augustine day trip, allowing travelers to focus on the sights and experiences that await them in the historic city.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the Saint Augustine day trip are pickup and drop-off services from designated locations in Orlando, Kissimmee, Disney Lake Buena Vista, and Universal.

Depending on the selected option, the tour also encompasses a boat cruise through Matanzas Bay or a 90-minute sightseeing trolley tour, as well as admission to the Medieval Torture Museum.

However, the tour doesn’t include gratuities, food, or drinks.

The key inclusions are:

• Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points
• Boat cruise or sightseeing trolley tour (if option selected)
• Admission to the Medieval Torture Museum (if option selected)

The exclusions are:

• Gratuities
• Food and drinks

Additional Information

According to the provided information, confirmation for the Saint Augustine day trip is received at the time of booking, unless the reservation is made within 4 days of the travel date. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed, and infants must sit on laps. Most travelers are able to participate in the excursion, which has a maximum group size of 14 individuals.

Additional Information
Confirmation	At time of booking
Wheelchair Accessibility	Not accessible
Stroller Accessibility	Allowed
Group Size	Max 14 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Parking Options at the Meeting Point?

Parking options at the meeting point typically include nearby public parking lots or garages. Guests should arrive early to allow time to find and pay for parking. The tour operator can provide additional details on recommended parking locations.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though they are not included in the tour price. The tour focuses on exploring the historic landmarks of St. Augustine during the day trip.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specific dress code for this tour. Comfortable, casual clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves exploring historic sites and walking through the city. Bringing a light jacket or sweater is also advisable.

Can I Extend My Stay in St. Augustine After the Tour?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in St. Augustine after the tour. The tour only provides transportation to and from the city, so visitors are free to explore on their own for as long as they’d like.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?

The tour company occasionally offers discounts or package deals, such as bundling the tour with other activities in the area. Customers should check the website or contact the company directly to inquire about any special offers or promotions.

Recap

This Saint Augustine day trip from Orlando provides a comprehensive introduction to the historic city. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks, enjoy a scenic cruise, and learn about the region’s past at the Medieval Torture Museum.

With convenient pickup and drop-off, this excursion offers a seamless way to discover the oldest city in the United States.