The Lightner Museum was founded in 1948 in St. Augustine.
Also known as Florida’s Historic Coast, St. Augustine and Ponte Vedra are roughly an hour from Jacksonville International Airport. These secluded areas offer small-town charm, historic sites and gorgeous coastlines, and it only takes a few days to fall in love with the destination. For more on the region, head to floridashistoriccoast.com.
Day 1: Culture and Craft Cocktails
11:00 AM
Founded in 1948, the Lightner Museum features crystal, Tiffany lamps, Victorian mechanical musical instruments and more. The collection is housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, a Gilded Age resort commissioned by Henry Flagler; the café stands where the swimming pool used to be.
3:00 PM
Get a taste of Florida spirits at the St. Augustine Distillery, which produces rum, bourbon, gin and vodka, as well as tonic, and Old Fashioned and mule mixers so you can play mixologist at home. Free tastings and self-guided tours are available seven days a week.
Day 2: In the City
9:00 AM
Explore St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, with Pineapple Ride and Tour. Options include gallery, historical, landmark and photo tours.
1:00 PM
Before you leave town, buy some souvenirs for your family (or yourself). First Look, the Artisan’s Market, sells handcrafted pieces from local vendors, such as glassworks, paintings, candles, photography and more.
5:00 PM
On a picturesque street in the heart of the city, Casa de Vino 57 is a haven for wine and cheese lovers. Beer and cocktails also are on the menu, as well as charcuterie. The wine bar offers tours and private tastings, plus live music on weekends.
Day 3: On the Water
10:00 AM
Get adventurous on the water with a stand-up paddleboard. North Guana Outpost takes groups on eco-tours through the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve, one of a few estuarine reserves in the country and home to more than 350 bird and 300 fish species. Or test your balance by taking one of their SUP yoga classes.
7:00 PM
After exploring the waters, enjoy fresh seafood at Palm Valley Fish Camp in Ponte Vedra. Staples include fried scallops, ceviche, blackened mahi and the broiled seafood platter. Grab a table outside to enjoy evening views of the Intracoastal Waterway.