Travel FAQ list for St Augustine

St. Augustine

Question: Late March Spring Break Advice

Answer: St. Augustine is a fantastic choice for spring break if you’re looking for a more relaxed, historic, and less crowded alternative to the major Florida beach destinations. Late March can be a pleasant time, with milder temperatures than the peak summer months, though the water may still be on the cooler side for swimming.

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St. Augustine

Question: Transportation services to/from JAX and St. Augustine

Answer: Traveling between Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) and St. Augustine without a rental car is very doable, and there are a few transportation options depending on your preference for convenience, cost, and comfort.

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St. Augustine

Question: Things to do

Answer: St. Augustine is a charming and historic city with plenty to offer, especially for a girls trip! With your stay at the DoubleTree Hilton, you’ll be close to many of the top attractions, restaurants, and bars. Here’s a guide for things to do, great spots for food and drinks, and the best tours in the area.

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St. Augustine

Question: Rental agencies

Answer: St. Augustine is a beautiful area to spend the winter, and both St. Augustine Beach and Crescent Beach offer great spots for snowbirds. If you're looking for pet-friendly rentals and reliable real estate agencies to help with your search, here are a few recommendations, including your mentions of Coastal Realty and Sunshine Realty:

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St. Augustine

Question: Is the Historical District Quiet at Night?

Answer: The St. Augustine Historic District tends to be relatively quiet at night, especially midweek in May, as this is just before the summer tourist rush. You will likely hear some ambient sounds from the occasional evening strollers, bars, or restaurants, but it’s not typically noisy like larger cities or beachside party areas.

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St. Augustine

Question: Alligator Farm

Answer: The Alligator Farm in St. Augustine is a great attraction, and it typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the park at a leisurely pace. This includes walking around the various exhibits, enjoying the shows or demonstrations, and spending time with the alligators and other wildlife. There are a lot of exhibits to see, including crocodiles, snakes, and birds, and there are also a few interactive experiences, such as the chance to feed some of the animals, which might take a little extra time. If you're planning on doing everything without rushing, I'd recommend budgeting around 2 hours for the Alligator Farm visit.

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St. Augustine

Question: Transportation Jacksonville Airport to Historic District

Answer: Traveling from Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) to St. Augustine's Historic District without renting a car is entirely possible, though options are somewhat limited due to the distance of about 55 miles. Here’s a breakdown of practical ways to make the trip.

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St. Augustine

Question: Edgewater vs Marker 8

Answer: It sounds like you’re considering some great options for your stay in St. Augustine, and I can understand why you’re weighing the pros and cons of Edgewater, Marker 8, and St. Augustine Beach House. Each has its own unique charm, and the decision often comes down to personal preferences, particularly when it comes to location, service, and amenities.

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St. Augustine

Question: Uber or Lyft

Answer: In St. Augustine, it is generally easy to get an Uber or Lyft, but there are a few things to keep in mind. While both services are available in the area, the availability of drivers can vary depending on the time of day and the season. During peak tourist seasons, such as holidays and weekends, you’ll likely find more drivers available, but during slower times, there may be fewer options.

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Vilano Beach

Question: Only 3 days, We need four beach chairs after we fly in!

Answer: Good question. For getting four beach chairs for just three days in mid-April while staying in Vilano Beach / St. Augustine, here are some solid options and tips to make it easy and efficient.

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St. Augustine

Question: Is something going on in St. Augustine on November 6 or 7?

Answer: It sounds like you're planning a lovely trip to St. Augustine in early November! I can understand your concern about potential crowds, especially with the Spanish Military Hospital Museum having limited availability on November 6 and 7. While I don’t see any major events listed on the event calendar for those specific days, there are a few things to keep in mind that might be affecting availability:

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St. Augustine

Question: Lunch Stop Recs -driving in from JAX

Answer: Driving from Jacksonville Airport to Vilano Beach is a relatively short trip, so you don’t need a long lunch stop, but there are a few nice spots along the way, especially as you get closer to St. Augustine and the Coastal Highway area. Choosing a place near the beach or the historic district can make your stop both convenient and enjoyable.

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St. Augustine

Question: Nights of Lights recommendations for Dec 1st 2025

Answer: Visiting St. Augustine for just one night during the Nights of Lights is a wonderful idea! Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the most of your short trip on December 1st, 2025.

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St. Augustine

Question: Places to stay

Answer: St. Augustine is one of the oldest cities in the U.S., and staying in the historic district is an excellent choice if you want to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history. The historic district is walkable, charming, and full of museums, shops, historic landmarks, and restaurants, making it easy to enjoy the city without needing a car. July is hot and humid, so staying within walking distance of most attractions is ideal.

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St. Augustine

Question: Food and Wine Festival - 2025

Answer: The St. Augustine Food and Wine Festival is generally well-regarded for offering a fun, relaxed atmosphere with a good mix of local cuisine, craft beverages, and live entertainment. Attendees often highlight the quality of the food vendors and the opportunity to try regional specialties, paired with wines, craft beers, and cocktails from local producers.

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St. Augustine

Question: Excursions from St A?

Answer: St. Augustine is a fantastic base for a family-friendly trip with a mix of history, nature, and outdoor activities. While a week allows plenty of time to explore the city itself, there are also several drivable excursions that can appeal to all ages.

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St. Augustine

Question: How long to tour Fountain of Youth facility

Answer: The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park in St. Augustine is a compact but engaging historic site. Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the grounds, exhibits, and tasting the “famous” spring water. If you plan to watch all the short demonstrations, talk to interpreters, and take photos, budgeting around 2 hours is comfortable.

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St. Augustine

Question: Your general opinion?

Answer: Both St. Augustine and the Florida Panhandle have their own unique charms and lifestyle offerings, so your decision may depend on the type of environment and activities you prefer as seniors seeking a new adventure.

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Saint Augustine Beach

Question: Cottages on St Augustine Beach

Answer: The Vilano Beach area of St. Augustine is known for its quaint, smaller-scale cottages, many of which are two to three stories and offer direct or short beach access. These properties often feature classic Florida coastal architecture, with wood siding, porches, and open decks overlooking the Atlantic.

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St. Augustine

Question: Transportation during Nights of Lights

Answer: Visiting St. Augustine during Nights of Lights is magical, but it can be challenging to navigate with an elderly family member who has limited mobility, especially if you want to access areas off the main tourist paths like Orange Street. While rideshare options like Uber or Lyft may be limited during the holiday season or in very busy areas, there are other transportation avenues to consider.

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St. Augustine

Question: February weather and activities

Answer: Visiting St. Augustine in mid-February can be a lovely experience, though it’s one of the cooler months in Florida. You can generally expect mild and comfortable weather, with average daytime highs around 65–70°F (18–21°C) and nighttime lows around 45–50°F (7–10°C). Rain is possible but not overly common, and it’s a good time to enjoy outdoor sightseeing without the intense summer heat or crowds.

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St. Augustine

Question: First weekend in June weathet

Answer: Visiting St. Augustine in the first weekend of June can be very pleasant if you plan ahead, but it will definitely be warmer and more humid than what you’re used to in the Pacific Northwest.

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St. Augustine

Question: Where are the best beaches to go to for beachcombing?

Answer: St. Augustine and the surrounding areas of northeast Florida offer some excellent spots for beachcombing, whether you’re looking for shells, shark teeth, or other interesting finds. The beaches here have a mix of sandy shores and tidal areas, which can reveal fossils and shells, especially after storms or strong tides.

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St. Augustine

Question: Late october anniversary trip

Answer: Visiting St. Augustine in late October is a great choice for an anniversary trip. The weather is usually very pleasant, with daytime highs in the low to mid 70s–80s °F and cooler evenings. Humidity is lower than in the summer months, and the peak tourist crowds of summer have started to taper off, making it easier to enjoy the city’s historic sites and attractions without long waits.

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St. Augustine

Question: 2 nights to see anything new?

Answer: St. Augustine has a rich history, and even for frequent visitors, there are always new things to explore. Since you love the historical aspects and have favorites like the fort and Villa Zoraida, you might enjoy some of the newer exhibits and walking experiences that have opened or evolved recently.

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Saint Augustine Beach

Question: "Non-Touristy" restaurants/activities

Answer: St. Augustine is a beautiful city with plenty of history, but there are also many "off the beaten path" places where locals love to hang out, eat, and explore. If you're looking for some hidden gems that aren't full of tourists, here are a few recommendations for restaurants and activities that are more local-centric and less touristy:

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St. Augustine

Question: St Aug. parking? and where to stay

Answer: St. Augustine is a popular destination, so parking can be a bit challenging, especially in the historic downtown area. However, there are plenty of options available, and with a little planning, you should be able to park and enjoy the sights without too much hassle.

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St. Augustine

Question: New Years Eve 2024

Answer: Spending New Year’s Eve in St. Augustine is a great experience, and enjoying a long, leisurely lunch is a wonderful way to soak in the city’s historic charm. Since it’s a popular day, it’s a good idea to make reservations early if possible.

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St. Augustine

Question: Restaurant recommendations

Answer: St. Augustine has a fantastic culinary scene, especially for seafood lovers, and there are several spots that consistently receive rave reviews for both quality and atmosphere. Since you’re a light eater, I’ve focused on places where you can get fresh, flavorful seafood without feeling overwhelmed by portions.

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St. Augustine

Question: Special occasion restaurant

Answer: Congratulations on your 50th wedding anniversary! St. Augustine offers a variety of romantic dining experiences perfect for celebrating such a milestone. The city combines historic charm with excellent cuisine, making it ideal for a special evening.

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St. Augustine

Question: Ocean gate

Answer: Ocean Gate Resort in St. Augustine has had a mix of reviews, but there have indeed been some renovations and improvements over the past year. If you're concerned about past reviews, here’s what you can expect based on the recent changes:

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St. Augustine

Question: Highlights of recent trip

Answer: It sounds like you had an amazing first visit to St. Augustine! Here’s a summary of your highlights and recommendations based on your experience:

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St. Augustine

Question: Which location

Answer: Both the Hilton Garden Inn Historic District and the DoubleTree Historic District in St. Augustine offer convenient access to the historic downtown area, but there are some differences that might influence your choice.

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St. Augustine

Question: Travel suggestions

Answer: St. Augustine is a fantastic base for exploring Northeast and Central Florida, especially if you enjoy history, gardens, biking, and kayaking. Spending 3 days in St. Augustine allows you to see the highlights, and then you have a variety of destinations within a 2-hour radius to explore further south or north.

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Saint Augustine Beach

Question: Christmas ..

Answer: Visiting St. Augustine and Saint Augustine Beach over Christmas can be a charming experience, though it’s important to plan ahead as many local businesses and attractions may have altered hours on December 24th and 25th.

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St. Augustine

Question: Lincolnville or downtown area

Answer: If your main goal in St. Augustine is to be within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and historic attractions, staying in either the downtown historic district or Lincolnville can work, but they offer slightly different vibes and conveniences.

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St. Augustine

Question: A1A Works restaurant/Bar

Answer: Yes, A1A Works by the bridge in St. Augustine did indeed close some time ago, and it has since been replaced by a new establishment. The area is popular for dining and bars, and several businesses have taken advantage of the prime location near the bridge and waterfront views. Here's what you can expect now:

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Saint Augustine Beach

Question: Activity

Answer: Staying at Guy Harvey Resort on Saint Augustine Beach gives you a great base to explore the barrier island without needing to drive into historic downtown again. Since you’re focusing on relaxing and enjoying local spots, there are several good options for breakfast, casual exploring, and scenic activities.

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St. Augustine

Question: Renaissance Historic downtown vs the Hilton bayfront histori

Answer: Both the Renaissance Historic Downtown and the Hilton Bayfront Historic are excellent options in St. Augustine, and your decision largely depends on how much you value location and views versus overall cost. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

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St. Augustine

Question: Doubletree or Hilton Garden Inn for historic district

Answer: Both the DoubleTree and Hilton Garden Inn in St. Augustine are solid options for your weekend stay, and each has its own set of advantages, especially if you're looking for a quieter, more restful experience. Here’s a breakdown of both properties to help you decide:

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St. Augustine

Question: St Augustine for 3 or 4 days

Answer: St. Augustine is a charming and historic city that is perfect for a relaxing solo trip, especially if you want to focus on walking around, exploring shops, enjoying restaurants, and soaking in the atmosphere rather than hitting the beach. Since you prefer reasonably priced accommodations with a pool, and want to be near restaurants and shops, focusing on the historic downtown and the Anastasia Island area is ideal.

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St. Augustine

Question: Time to leave St Augustine for Jax airport

Answer: For a 2:38 pm flight out of Jacksonville (JAX) on a Saturday, planning your departure from St. Augustine requires accounting for driving time, rental car return, airport security, and possible traffic.

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St. Augustine

Question: Where to stop.after St Augustime

Answer: Your summary is accurate and well-structured. To add a bit more detail for planning purposes:

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St. Augustine

Question: Best place to park to take a nice beach stroll?

Answer: For a quick morning beach stroll near St. Augustine, you’re correct that Anastasia State Park is the most convenient option. It’s just a few minutes’ drive from the main historic area, and it offers wide, clean beaches with easy access for walking. The park has parking lots right near the beach, so you can easily start your walk without a long trek from your car.

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Saint Augustine Beach

Question: Breakfast places

Answer: St. Augustine and the nearby beach area have a growing breakfast scene, ranging from cozy cafes to classic diners. For a first-time visitor, you’ll want spots with great coffee, friendly service, and a mix of local flavors. Here’s a curated list of top recommendations:

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St. Augustine

Question: Beach hotels

Answer: St. Augustine Beach has several beachfront hotels and motels that are conveniently close to dining and bars, making it easy to enjoy both the sand and local cuisine without long drives. Staying right on the beach gives you immediate access to the water and often a great view for sunsets.

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St. Augustine

Question: All you can eat crab legs

Answer: Good question. I couldn’t find any restaurants in St. Augustine, FL that clearly offer *all-you-can-eat crab legs* on Fridays or Saturdays based on current menus and local reviews. Here’s a breakdown of what *is* available and some relevant notes, plus some suggestions for nearby or alternative seafood experiences.

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St. Augustine

Question: How far ?

Answer: The Hampton Inn on Vilano Beach is located just across the Matanzas River from the main historic district of St. Augustine. The distance to downtown St. Augustine is approximately 4–5 miles, which usually translates to about a 10–15 minute drive depending on traffic.

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St. Augustine

Question: Beachfront condo rentals

Answer: St. Augustine offers a variety of beachfront condo rentals suitable for a couple, ranging from cozy one-bedroom units to more spacious two-bedroom options. Many of these condos provide direct beach access, private balconies with ocean views, and amenities such as pools, BBQ areas, and onsite parking.

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Saint Augustine Beach

Question: Best Coffee shops with Espresso drinks

Answer: St. Augustine has a number of great coffee shops that cater to espresso drink lovers, and you'll find some excellent options close to your stay at Ocean Villas on St. Augustine Beach. Here are a few favorites that I recommend checking out:

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Saint Augustine Beach

Question: Transportation to and from JAX and St Augustine Beach

Answer: Traveling between Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) and St. Augustine Beach can be straightforward, though your choice depends on convenience, budget, and travel style. The distance is roughly 55–60 miles, which translates to about a 1–1.5 hour drive depending on traffic.

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St. Augustine

Question: Harry's Seafood - wait time?

Answer: St. Augustine in early November is generally less crowded than peak summer months or holiday weekends. The weather is pleasant, and many tourists have returned home, making it a good time to visit popular restaurants without extremely long waits.

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St. Augustine

Question: need some suggestions please

Answer: If you’re planning a day trip to St. Augustine from Jacksonville and mainly want to walk around the Historical District without focusing on museums, there’s still plenty to see and do. The city has a charming mix of history, architecture, and scenic spots, and you can comfortably explore much of it on foot within your time frame.

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St. Augustine

Question: beach

Answer: Yes, many of the beaches in St. Augustine offer umbrellas and deck chairs for rent, making it convenient for visitors who don’t want to bring their own gear. Rentals are generally available at the more popular public beaches as well as at some beachfront hotels and resorts.

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St. Augustine

Question: Dinner before festival of lights on Sat night

Answer: Great question! With a 10 pm Nights of Lights tour, you'll want to pick a restaurant that: (a) can accommodate your group of 7, (b) is downtown or nearby so you're close to the lights, and (c) has dinner service late enough to relax before your tour.

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St. Augustine

Question: seeking non-meat restaurants (pescatarian/vegetarian)

Answer: St. Augustine has a great selection of pescatarian and vegetarian-friendly restaurants, even though many of the fish-focused places do feature meat-heavy dishes. Here are some options where you can enjoy flavorful, meat-free meals, whether you're looking for lunch or dinner, and with some nice ambiance, either in the historic district or near the water:

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St. Augustine

Question: Historic Walking Tour Recommendation Please

Answer: St. Augustine is full of rich history, and a walking tour is one of the best ways to experience the city and learn about its fascinating past. There are many companies offering historic walking tours, and the quality of the guides can vary, so it's great that you're looking for recommendations. Based on recent feedback and experiences from other visitors, here are some of the best options for guided walking tours in St. Augustine:

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St. Augustine

Question: Guy harvey

Answer: The Guy Harvey Resort in St. Augustine is conveniently located near a number of restaurants and bars that are within walking distance or a very short drive. While the resort itself has dining options, venturing out gives you a chance to experience some local flavors and casual spots.

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St. Augustine

Question: St. Augustine Amphitheater Parking

Answer: Parking for events at the St. Augustine Amphitheater can be somewhat limited, so planning ahead is recommended. One convenient option is the Alligator Farm parking lot, which is just a short walk from the venue.

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St. Augustine

Question: Transportation

Answer: Traveling from Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) to St. Augustine is fairly straightforward, as the distance is approximately 55–60 miles and typically takes about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes by car. There are several transportation options depending on your preferences for convenience, cost, and flexibility.

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St. Augustine

Question: Looking for nightlife & afternoon fun- singles over 40

Answer: St. Augustine and Vilano Beach offer a mix of relaxed beach vibes and lively spots for music, drinks, and socializing. For a group of singles over 40 looking for both afternoon fun and nightlife, there are plenty of options within a short drive or Uber ride.

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St. Augustine

Question: Fun Friday Late Lunch

Answer: St. Augustine’s historic district has a wealth of charming restaurants that make for a fun late lunch experience. Since you are looking for something enjoyable for six adults in the mid-afternoon, you’ll want a place with good food, a lively atmosphere, and comfortable seating.

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St. Augustine

Question: 2025 Nights of Lights

Answer: Visiting St. Augustine for the Nights of Lights from December 12-15 is a great plan! Four days (Friday to Monday) gives you enough time to explore the historic district, enjoy the light displays, and even take a few excursions outside the city.

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St. Augustine

Question: Mother’s Day 2025

Answer: Spending Mother’s Day in St. Augustine is a wonderful idea, as the city offers a mix of history, culture, and beautiful scenery. Since it’s a special day, you’ll want a combination of relaxing, sightseeing, and perhaps a little indulgence for Mom.

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