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Casa de Solana Bed and Breakfast Logo
St. Augustine, FL
904-824-3555
Casa de Solana Bed and Breakfast Logo
A night view of St. Augustine, Florida, during the Nights of Lights festival. The iconic Lightner Museum, adorned with Christmas lights, is the focal point of the image. Other buildings and streets are also illuminated, creating a festive atmosphere.

Experience St. Augustine's Charm

A Perfect Escape Close to Casa de Solana Bed and Breakfast

Uncover the captivating allure of St. Augustine, Florida, a coastal gem where history, adventure, and natural splendor converge. Just a short walk from Casa de Solana Bed and Breakfast, this lively city offers a diverse array of activities and attractions. From iconic landmarks like Castillo de San Marcos and the Lightner Museum to thrilling encounters at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm and immersive Eco Tours, there's something for everyone. Explore the charming historic streets with Old Town Trolley Tours, indulge in local flavors at beloved eateries such as Prohibition Kitchen and Harry's Seafood, or delve into the city's spectral past on a Ghosts & Gravestones adventure.

Whether it's your first visit or a return journey, St. Augustine guarantees memorable experiences for all.

An aerial view of Castillo de San Marcos National Monument in St. Augustine, Florida. The fort is a large, stone structure surrounded by water on three sides. There are walkways, buildings, and trees within the fort.

A Tapestry of History & Culture

St. Augustine boasts a rich historical legacy, offering numerous museums and sites to explore:

  • Lightner Museum: Take a guided tour of this historic building, delving into its past, and enjoy a meal at its restaurant. (904-824-2874; 75 King Street, Historic District)
  • Castillo De San Marcos: This National Historic Monument is the oldest Spanish-built masonry fort in the continental U.S.
  • Flagler College Tours: Discover the architectural grandeur and history of the former Hotel Ponce de Leon.
  • Ximenez-Fatio House Museum: The Ximenez-Fatio House Museum in St. Augustine offers a fascinating glimpse into early Florida life, particularly the burgeoning tourism industry of the 19th century. Built in 1798 of coquina, a local shell-based stone, it is one of the best-preserved Second Spanish Period residential buildings in the city. (904-829-3575; Aviles Street, Historic District)
  • St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: Situated on the site of a 16th-century Spanish Watch Tower, this museum highlights Florida's maritime heritage through artifacts and archaeological findings. (904-829-0745; 81 Lighthouse Avenue, Anastasia Island)
  • Oldest Wooden School House: (888-653-7245; 14 St. George Street, Historic District)
  • The Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center: (904-824-1191; 1102 ML King Avenue, Historic District)
  • Spanish Military Hospital Museum: Learn about medical practices from the Colonial era. (904-342-7730; 3 Aviles Street, Historic District)
  • Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum: (904-824-1606; 19 San Marco Avenue, Historic District)
  • Mission of Nombre de Dios: This is where it all began: St. Augustine is home to the oldest Catholic Parish in the United States. The first mass took place at the Mission of Nombre de Dios in 1565. The beautiful grounds make for an ideal place to have a picnic or just unwind. Located just north of the antique district, the Mission is impossible to miss thanks to its giant cross (800-342-6529; 27 Ocean Avenue, Downtown)
  • St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum: Home to the world's largest collection of pirate treasures, featuring interactive exhibits.
  • Ponce De Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park: Uncover the tales of Juan Ponce de Leon and the Timucua civilization.
  • Old Jail: Explore St. Augustine's past criminal justice system at this historic site.
  • Oldest House Museum (Gonzalez-Alvarez House): Recognized as the oldest surviving Spanish colonial residence in Florida.
  • Fort Matanzas National Monument: Located a 15-minute drive from downtown St. Augustine at the southern tip of Anastasia Island, the fort was built in 1740 to guard the Matanzas River’s southern inlet entrance. Considered a “backdoor” to St. Augustine, the river could allow intruders to attack without warning. Guests especially enjoy the short ferry ride across the river to the remote island.
  • Father Miguel O’Reilly Museum: Located on 32 Aviles Street, this museum features three main themes: the story of Father Miguel O’Reiley who built the house, the home’s construction and architecture, and the house’s role in keeping Catholic tradition. The museum is open and free of charge, Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and is closed on days of inclement weather (call to check at 904-826-0750).
  • Pena-Peck House: Built in 1750 by order of the King of Spain, this historic home served as the residence of many iconic residents, including the King’s Royal Treasurer, Juan Esteban de Pena. The home is located at 143 St. George Street, and free guided tours are available Sunday – Friday from 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Villa Zorayda Museum: A distinctive Moorish-inspired building listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
A wooden pier extends over calm waves under a clear blue sky.

Nature & Wildlife Encounters

Experience St. Augustine's natural beauty and diverse wildlife:

  • Fort Mose Historic State Park: (904-823-2232; 15 Saratoga Blvd, North of Downtown)
  • St. Augustine Eco Tours: Embark on boating, kayaking, and sailing trips to observe local wildlife.
  • St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park: The only location where you can see all crocodilian species, along with exciting animal shows.
  • St. Augustine Beach: Beautiful, uncrowded beaches are a short 4.5-mile drive from the Inn, just across the Bridge of Lions on Anastasia Island.
  • Vilano Beach Fishing Pier: Located north of the city, the Vilano Beach Causeway is in the small town of Vilano Beach. The Vilano Beach fishing pier juts out into the Matanzas Bay. Here, the fishing is good, and the sunsets are spectacular.
A decorative fountain in the foreground with a historic building featuring red roofs and palm trees in the background.

Tours & Entertainment

Discover the city through various tours and enjoy its entertainment options.

  • St. Augustine Amphitheatre: St. Johns County's leading concert venue, hosting renowned artists year-round. It also hosts the Farmers’ Market every Saturday. (904-471-1965; A1A South, Anastasia Island)
  • Black Raven Adventures: (904-826-0000; 111 Avenida Menendez, Bayfront)
  • Scenic Cruise: (800-542-8316; 111 Avenida Menendez, Bayfront)
  • Ripley’s Sightseeing Trains: (904-829-6545; 19 San Marco Avenue, Historic District)
  • Ponte Vedra Concert Hall: (904-209-0367; 1050 A1A North, Ponte Vedra)
  • Marineland: (904-471-1111; 9600 Oceanshore Blvd, South)
  • Whetstone Chocolate Factory: (904-217-0275; 139 King Street, Historic District)
  • Colonial Quarter: (904-342-2857; 33 St. George Street, Historic District)
  • Old Town Trolley Tours: An excellent way to explore the historic city, offering various tour choices. (904-829-3800; 167 San Marco Avenue, Historic District)
  • “Nights of Lights“: Recognized by National Geographic as one of the top 10 Holiday Lighting Displays globally.
  • Ghosts & Gravestones Tour: Uncover St. Augustine's spooky past with tales of pirates and ghosts.
  • San Sebastian Winery: Offers guided tours and tastings of premium, sparkling, and dessert wines.
  • St. George Pedestrian Street: A historic thoroughfare filled with shops, restaurants, and landmarks.
  • St. Augustine Walking Tour: See the city at your own pace. The tour follows a route through the old town and highlights points of interest.
  • Farmers’ Market: Located on Anastasia Island at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, our city’s Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Though goods are sold and are not free, the fun experience is free!
A sizzling skillet of grilled meat topped with onions, cilantro, and lemon wedges.

Culinary Delights

Savor the local flavors at these recommended dining spots:

  • Prohibition Kitchen: A spacious pub with a Prohibition-era ambiance, serving cocktails, pub fare, and live music.
  • Harry's Seafood, Bar & Grill: A local favorite renowned for its Creole dishes.
  • Columbia Restaurant: A traditional Spanish eatery known for its extensive Spanish wine collection, excellent bread, and sangria.
  • Nonna’s Trattoria: Offers over 20 outdoor seats and a spacious indoor dining area. Guests can watch chefs in the open kitchen or enjoy the ambiance of Aviles Street.
  • Forgotten Tonic: A hidden gem in St. Augustine's historic art district, featuring modern takes on American comfort food, a wide wine list, handcrafted cocktails, and warm Southern hospitality.
  • Catch 27: This restaurant focuses on fresh, local seafood from Florida, the 27th state. It offers an upscale yet casual dining experience in the heart of the historic district.
  • St. Augustine Fish Camp: Located on the waterfront, this restaurant offers upscale fresh coastal seafood favorites and cocktails in a beautiful setting.
  • Collage Restaurant: Praised for its eclectic menu, Collage offers an intimate dining experience with a focus on fresh local seafood, steaks, lamb, and veal, incorporating international flavors.
  • Ice Plant Bar: A unique bar experience where crafting a cocktail is an art. Enjoy custom ice cubes in your drinks, unlike any other bar.