St. Augustine, FL
Is your family considering a move to St. Augustine? This historic and fascinating city successfully blends the old with the new, which means that it appeals to most home buyers.
What makes St. Augustine so special? Keep reading to find out!
History of St. Augustine
Recognized as the first permanent European settlement in America, St. Augustine has a fascinating back story. In 1565, Spanish soldier Pedro Menendez de Aviles arrived on the site that the city now occupies. The Spanish had one goal in mind: Ousting the French from Fort Caroline, which had been established near where Jacksonville stands today.
Aided by a hurricane that destroyed the French fleet of ships, the Spaniards were successful in their efforts. St. Augustine soon was the center of Spanish power in the region. However, this made the city a target for Spain’s enemies. The British would eventually defeat them, but Florida soon became a U.S. territory and then state.
Things To Do
History buffs love to visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, which was the city’s major fortification for more than 200 years. Known as the only surviving military site built in the 17th-century in America, this is a must-see for residents and locals.
If you want to take the family to a fun spot to stroll, shop and tour museums, then spend the day on St. George Street. This is where you’ll find the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, the Oldest Wooden School House, the Old City Gates and the Colonial Quarter. Plenty of shopping and dining are available too.
Of course, some days are just meant to be lazy, so why not head out to St. Augustine Beach? It’s the perfect place to hunt for shells and play in the waves. There’s even a splash pad for the kids and a fishing pier.
Other attractions and activities that the locals enjoy include the St. Augustine Wild Reserve, a non-profit sanctuary for rescued exotic animals, and the Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park.
Fun Facts
With a history as long and varied as St. Augustine’s, it’s no surprise that many fun facts are connected to this area.
- The city is home to an ice plant that was established in 1927. Today, you can visit a distillery on the site and have a drink at the Ice Plant bar.
- Bill Murray and his brothers own a restaurant in World Golf Village and are frequently seen here.
- St. Augustine’s Treasure Street is the narrowest in the country at only seven feet across.
- You can enjoy encounters with dolphins at Marineland.
- Some say that St. Augustine is the country’s most haunted city. Take a ghost tour to find out why.
St. Augustine Real Estate
With St. Augustine’s rich and colorful history, it comes as no surprise that some of the local neighborhoods are lush with Old World appeal. However, there’s no reason to think that this city is stuck in the past. St. Augustine also is the site of plenty of modern development.
Will your family choose the historic or the modern? It may depend upon which neighborhood you prefer.
If your family is fascinated by history, then consider living in Downtown or Historic St. Augustine. It’s the site of many landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos, numerous museums and Flagler College. This is a touristy spot that boasts lots of dining options, and this is the place to be if you prefer to get around by foot or bicycle.
If someone in your family is an avid golfer, then consider owning property in the World Golf Village area. Considered a major hub between St. Augustine and Jacksonville, this neighborhood is recognized for its IMAX 3D screen and golf museum. Those wanting to live in St. Augustine and commute to Jacksonville may find this a convenient location. Popular neighborhoods that you might want to explore include Palencia, Heritage Landing, Samara Lakes and Murabella.
For modern, bustling neighborhoods, look to the Nocatee, Ponte Vedra and Beaches area. It’s located in the northeast corner and boasts plenty of enticements for young families. Two water park play areas are located here, and the neighborhood hosts many events throughout the year. Choose Ponte Vedra real estate if you want to experience upscale coastal living. This is where THE PLAYERS Championship is held each year.
The St. Augustine Beaches neighborhood is ideal for those who want to live on the water. You could enjoy expansive views of Anastasia Island and the historic Bridge of Lions. With a splash park for the little ones, a pier that includes a playground and numerous shopping and dining options, this is a wonderful place to find single-family dwellings.
Are you torn between wanting older real estate and something that’s brand new? Then it’s a good idea to check out southern St. Augustine. This is where you’ll find St. Augustine Shores, one of the city’s original neighborhoods. However, this also is a thriving center, which means that you’ll find plenty of new development as well. Lots of shopping and dining are available here, and Crescent Beach is just a short drive away. This is an especially affordable and family friendly area.
Families hoping to get the most bang for their buck may want to check out the real estate in Southwest St. Johns County and Hastings. This is rich agricultural country, and there is definitely a laid-back lifestyle that goes with it.
Lots of new growth is occurring in the St. Johns Bartram and 210 area. In fact, this neighborhood has the distinction of being St. Augustine’s fastest growing. The addition of an interstate extension has made reaching this neighborhood and other points in the city a breeze. Jacksonville commuters will definitely be drawn to this locale.
Families who like to spend plenty of time outdoors will definitely want to spend a few hours browsing for real estate in Julington Creek and Fruit Cove. With the St. Johns River running through these neighborhoods, there are lots of opportunities for recreation. The neighborhoods here are new, stunning and filled with family friendly amenities.
Contact Florida's Choice Realty
Are you considering a move to St. Augustine? If so, you’re in luck! The professionals at Florida’s Choice Realty are experts when it comes to the real estate in St. Augustine. Whether you are looking for a single-family home, a condo, a townhouse or something else, we can certainly help you find it.
St. Augustine is not only a top tourist destination but also an amazing, charming and affordable place to live. With the Realtors at Florida’s Choice Realty, you can explore each of the city’s neighborhoods so that you can find the perfect home for your family.
