April 2018 Social Media Performance Report

5/16/18 Performance Insights

The focus for April was general with only one paid promotion to support the Florida Travel Chat on Twitter. With the focus only on organic posts, there was a drop in performance numbers.

As for creative, location images continue to resonate with followers. The image of the Bridge of Lions was popular among followers yielding 609 likes on Instagram and 312 reactions on Facebook.

5/16/18 2 Activity Overview

62,649 3,274 18,534 IMPRESSIONS RESULTS FANS

5/16/18 3 Audience Growth vs. Previous Month Total Channel Total Change % Change Followers

Facebook 7,124 -7 -0.10%

Twitter 136 1 0.74%

Instagram 11,274 2 0.19%

Totals 18,534 -4 0.02%

5/16/18 4 Social Channel Performance

Channel Impressions Results Results Rate

Facebook 19,049 773 4.06%

Twitter 27,831 1,430 5.14%

Instagram 15,769 1,071 6.79%

Totals 62,649 3,274 5.23%

*Organic Impressions only; ** Paid Impressions only

5/16/18 5 Paid Social Performance

April 2018 Paid Social

TWITTER (1 Goal Completions) Result Rate Link Tweet Engagement Video View Total Outbond Ad Name Results (USD) Clicks CTR Impressions Engagement Rate Views Rate Follows Conversions Clicks Downloads SJCi296558_FL Travel Chat_Neighborhoods_CTW_4.10-4.10 23 Link clicks 0.33% 23 0.33% 6,876 85 1.24% - - - 0 0 0 SJCi296558_FL Travel Chat_Itineraries_CTW_4.10-4.10 1407 Link clicks 6.72% 1,407 6.72% 20,931 1,411 6.74% - - - 1 0 1

1430 1,430 5.14% 27,807 1,496 - 0 1 0 1

5/16/18 6 Facebook

5/16/18 7 Facebook Audience Engagement

5/16/18 8 Facebook Video Performance

5/16/18 9 Facebook Organic Performance: Top 2 Based on Conversions

#1 Post Creative: Plein Air

Impressions 1,414 Conversions* 3 Reactions 18 Engagement Rate 4.41% Video Views N/A View Rate N/A

* Conversions are considered Website visits that resulted in a download or outbound link click

18 5/16/18 Facebook Organic Performance: Top 2 Based on Conversions

#2 Post Creative: Roscolusa

Impressions 1,230 Conversions* 3 Reactions 9 Engagement Rate 4.45% Video Views N/A View Rate N/A

* Conversions are considered Website visits that resulted in a download or outbound link click

19 5/16/18 Twitter

21 5/16/18 Twitter Audience Engagement

22 5/16/18 Twitter Post Performance: Top Posts $ Based on Conversions

Post Creative: FL Travel Chat - Itineraries

Impressions 20,931 Conversions* 1 Link Clicks 1,407 Engagements 1,411 Video Views N/A View Rate N/A

* Conversions are considered Website visits that resulted in a download or outbound link click

23 5/16/18 Twitter Post Performance: Top Posts $ Based on Conversions

Post Creative: FL Travel Chat - Neighborhoods

Impressions 6,876 Conversions* 0 Link Clicks 23 Engagements 85 Video Views 1,087 View Rate 15.81%

* Conversions are considered Website visits that resulted in a download or outbound link click

24 5/16/18 Instagram

25 5/16/18 Instagram Audience Engagement

26 5/16/18 Instagram Top Organic Posts

30 5/16/18 Outbound Hashtag Performance

Most Used Hashtags Most Engaged Hashtags #staugustine 4 #staugustine 931 #lovefl 2 #lovefl 773 #fountainofyouth 1 #fountainofyouth 163 #tbt 1 #pleinair 104

31 5/16/18 Glossary

32 5/16/18 General Terms

• Impressions: Number of times Paid Ad was displayed by Social site • Reach: The number of users that were served any content associated with your Page via the News Feed, ticker, or visits to your Page (now available on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) • Paid Engagements (total of the following): – Post Reactions (like, love, favorite, etc.) – Post Comments/Replies – Post Shares/Retweets/Regrams/Repins – Photo Views/Media Engagements: Clicks to expand/view photos or play videos – Link Clicks: Clicks on URLs in copy – Button Clicks: Clicks on Call-to-Action button (e.g. Learn More) – Video Views: videos viewed for more than 3-seconds – Video Completion Rate: Total number of views to 100%/Total number of Views = VCR • Amount Spent: media cost • Event Responses: RSVPs to promoted event • Acquisition: New Fans/Pages Likes/Followers • Conversions: Off-platform, floodlight tracked user actions (e.g. Landing Page Visits, Form Fill Completions, Itinerary Downloads, Coupon Downloads)

33 5/16/18 Thank you!

5/16/18

HistoricCoastCulture.com WEBSITE PERFORMANCE REPORT

HistorisCoastCulture.som Revised for St Johns Cultural WEBSITE PERFORMANCE - PAGE 1 Fro mmFro Apr 07, 2018 toto May 06, 2018 CreatedCre ate d On May 07, 2018

Key Performanse Indisators (KPIs)

9,779 7,370 9,128 322 80.62% 14,217 1.45 00:00:43

4,924 3,559 4,522 162 70.06% 9,274 1.88 00:01:10

 50%  52%  50%  50%  13%  35%  30%  63% Sessions New Users Users Avg Sessions Per Day Bounse Rate Pageviews Pages / Session Avg. Session Duration

Website Event Performanse

Event Category Total Events Unique Events Sessions with Event

Downloads 139 122 113

Outbound Links 433 419 365

T o taltalTo 572572 541541 478478

Sourses of Traffis by Marketing Channel Over Last 6 Months

35k

30k

25k

20k

15k

10k

0 Nov 2017 Des 2017 Jan 2018 Feb 2018 Mar 2018 Apr 2018

Video Preroll: Sessions Native: Sessions Audio: Sessions (Other): Sessions Sosial: Sessions

Referral: Sessions Organis Searsh: Sessions Email: Sessions Display: Sessions Direst: Sessions

To matsh the bar solors with traffis sourses start at the top of eash month's bar, read the legend or key left to right, top to bottom. HistorisCoastCulture.som Revised for St Johns Cultural WEBSITE PERFORMANCE - PAGE 2 Fro mmFro Apr 07, 2018 toto May 06, 2018 CreatedCre ate d On May 07, 2018

Traffis by Devise Over Last 6 Months Traffis By User Type Over The Last 6 Months

35k 35k

30k 30k

25k 25k

20k 20k

15k 15k

10k 10k

5k 5k

0 0 Nov 2017 Des 2017 Jan 2018 Feb 2018 Mar 2018 Apr 2018 Nov 2017 Des 2017 Jan 2018 Feb 2018 Mar 2018 Apr 2018

tablet: Sessions mobile: Sessions desktop: Sessions Returning Visitor: Sessions New Visitor: Sessions

Top Campaigns by Targeted Tier or Message Top Traffis Sourses

CampaignCampaign SourseSourse Ad Content SessionsSessions Total Events SourseSourse MediumMedium SessionsSessions Bounse Rate Total Events

many-sultures fasebook-pd events-round-up 1,175 161 fasebook-pd sosial 1,627 74.06% 204

event fasebook-pd romanza 350 40 google organis 839 78.07% 62

Weekly_Newsletter Constant_Contast Home 137 22 Constant_Contast Email 785 61.02% 139

Weekly_Newsletter Constant_Contast amp 92 7 floridashistorissoast.som referral 478 52.51% 46

itineraries hss itinerary 60 30 (direst) (none) 397 66.75% 36

Weekly_Newsletter Constant_Contast april 55 14 digilant preroll 139 100.00% 0

rev-neighborhoods digilant Tier3 53 0 fasebook sosial 99 83.84% 8

Weekly_Newsletter Constant_Contast lightner 49 23 digilant display 88 77.27% 0

Weekly_Newsletter Constant_Contast Festivals 44 2 m.fasebook.som referral 81 83.95% 2

rev-neighborhoods digilant Tier2 43 0 hss banner 60 38.33% 30 HistorisCoastCulture.som Revised for St Johns Cultural WEBSITE PERFORMANCE - PAGE 3 Fro mmFro Apr 07, 2018 toto May 06, 2018 CreatedCre ate d On May 07, 2018

Top Landing Pages Top US Metro Losations

BounseBounse T otalTotal MetroMetro SessionsSessions Pages / Session Bounse Rate Landing Page SessionsSessions RateRate EventsEvents Orlando-Daytona Beash-Melbourne FL 1,575 1.56 71.11% /maps/neighborhoods/ 1,380 73.55% 160 Jasksonville FL 1,454 2.57 61.00% / 892 50.11% 97 (not set) 178 1.56 73.60% /event/st-augustines-romanza-festivale-arts/ 459 78.00% 56 Miami-Ft. Lauderdale FL 137 1.59 76.64% /travel-itineraries/ 151 76.16% 31 Savannah GA 132 1.43 68.18% /event/taste-st-augustine-2/ 113 76.11% 11 Atlanta GA 114 1.44 74.56% /event/51st-annual-st-augustine-art-sraft- 75 73.33% 3 festival/ Tampa-St. Petersburg (Sarasota) FL 111 1.77 69.37%

/event/st-augustine-musis-festival-3/ 67 89.55% 2 Gainesville FL 92 1.35 77.17%

/event/gatsbys-lost-generation/ 66 53.03% 24 Washington DC (Hagerstown MD) 77 1.49 77.92%

/sategories/festivals/ 65 64.62% 2 New York NY 76 1.64 81.58%

/event/st-augustine-plein-air-paint-2nd-annual/ 63 85.71% 5

Top PDF Downloads

Event Label Total Events Unique Events

https://www.historissoastsulture.som/wp-sontent/uploads/sites/www.historissoastsulture.som/images/2018/04/2018NeighborhoodItinerary.pdf 105 96

https://www.historissoastsulture.som/wp-sontent/uploads/sites/www.historissoastsulture.som/images/2017/07/Aug2017_SpanishHeritageItinerary-min.pdf 9 1

https://www.historissoastsulture.som/wp-sontent/uploads/sites/www.historissoastsulture.som/images/2018/02/2018_visualArts_itinerary.pdf 6 6

https://www.historissoastsulture.som/wp-sontent/uploads/sites/www.historissoastsulture.som/images/2017/07/downtown-guide.pdf 5 5

https://www.historissoastsulture.som/wp-sontent/uploads/sites/www.historissoastsulture.som/images/2016/10/pvb-vilano-guide.pdf 3 3

https://www.historissoastsulture.som/wp-sontent/uploads/sites/www.historissoastsulture.som/images/2017/06/sjs282321_2017_NationalParksItinerary_web_rSg.pdf 3 3

https://www.historissoastsulture.som/wp-sontent/uploads/sites/www.historissoastsulture.som/images/2018/01/St.-Augustine-Afrisan-Amerisan-Heritage-Itinerary.pdf 2 2

https://www.historissoastsulture.som/wp-sontent/uploads/sites/www.historissoastsulture.som/images/2018/04/JO-SINCLAIR-Bio-2018.pdf 2 2

https://www.historissoastsulture.som/wp-sontent/uploads/sites/www.historissoastsulture.som/images/2018/05/Flagler_GildedAge_Itinerary.pdf 2 2

https://www.historissoastsulture.som/wp-sontent/uploads/sites/www.historissoastsulture.som/images/2016/10/anastasia-blvd-guide.pdf 1 1 HistorisCoastCulture.som Revised for St Johns Cultural WEBSITE PERFORMANCE - PAGE 4 Fro mmFro Apr 07, 2018 toto May 06, 2018 CreatedCre ate d On May 07, 2018

Top Outbound Link Clisks

T otalTotal UniqueUnique Event Label EventsEvents EventsEvents

http://www.romanzafestivale.som/ 43 40

https://visitor.r20.sonstantsontast.som/manage/optin?v=001J6Npdb-1Osl1nd1sw_YJ1f- 37 37 QVB3KBz4XhMUDVu8IOP8ApYMR8AQhRGGrVVCAVt5jmIVi6vNBj51EWk2DsRXEjgiAk2h9MnYLUN55E1QwC1I%3D

https://www.gatsbyforsharity.som/ 18 17

https://rossolusa.som/ 15 15

https://www.gatsbyforsharity.som/store/s1/Featured_Produsts.html 14 14

http://www.gamblerogersfest.org/ 13 13

http://www.episbh.org/taste-of-st-augustine/ 12 12

http://www.staaa.org/pleinair 11 11

https://www.eventbrite.som/e/2018-floridas-birding-photo-fest-tiskets-41758976222 9 9

http://www.hfm.slub/ 8 8

http://www.saintaugustinehistorisalsosiety.org/ 8 8

http://www.tisketmaster.som/event/22005458E349C519 7 6

http://www.romanzastaugustine.org/ 6 5

https://www1.tisketmaster.som/little-big-town-the-breakers-tour-st-augustine-florida-05-04-2018/event/2200533DA22498CA? 6 6 artistid=960074&majorsatid=10001&minorsatid=2

http://bit.ly/FCTours 5 5

http://www.sjsfl.us/Resreation/index.aspx 5 5

http://www.tisketmaster.som/event/22005449251EB7AD 5 5

http://www.floridasbirdingandphotofest.som/ 4 3

http://www.pupsandsups.som/ 4 4

http://www.sjsfl.us/CulturalEvents/index.aspx 4 4

https://www.staugamphitheatre.som/p51-farmer-s-market.aspx 4 4

https://www.tisketmaster.som/event/22005475D412B179?bba=1 4 4

http://www.fasebook.som/StAugustineJewishHistorisalSosiety 3 3

http://www.pastagalleryart.som/ 3 3

http://www.staugustineartfestival.som/ 3 3 Circulation Unique visitors/ Date Outlet Topic/Title Outlet Type /Audience month URL 3/28/18 Folio Weekly Arts & Events: Corpse Magazine/Online 25,759 32,337 http://issuu.com/folioweekly/docs/folioweekly_032818_sm 4/1/18 Buzz Magazine Music Locale: Roscolusa Songwriters Festival Magazine/Online 50,000 http://issuu.com/iwantabuzz.com/docs/april_buzz_2018_digital 4/1/18 Jacksonville Magazine Jax Life To Do List: Romanza Festivale of the Arts Magazine/Online 20,593 http://trendmag2.trendoffset.com/publication/index.php?i=485046&m=&l=&p=1&pre=1&ver=html5#{%22page%22:34,%22issue_id%22:485046} 4/1/18 Jacksonville Magazine Best Fests: Taste of St. Augustine Magazine/Online 20,593 http://trendmag2.trendoffset.com/publication/index.php?i=485046&m=&l=&p=1&pre=1&ver=html5#{%22page%22:34,%22issue_id%22:485046} 4/1/18 EU Jacksonville April/May Events: Neil Burg's 100 Years of Broadway, Plein Air Paint Out, Roscolusa, TasteMagazine/Online 30,000 2,862 http://en.calameo.com/read/003079928cf94cef8dcc9 4/1/18 EU Jacksonville Eat Up Jax: 22nd Annual Taste of St. Augustine Festival Magazine/Online 30,000 2,862 http://en.calameo.com/read/003079928cf94cef8dcc9 4/2/18 Orlando Sentinel Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 4,767,825 http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/destinations/florida/st‐augustine/os‐st‐augustine‐after‐dark‐20180312‐story 4/2/18 Sun Sentinel Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 4,767,978 http://www.sun‐sentinel.com/travel/os‐st‐augustine‐after‐dark‐20180312‐story.html 4/2/18 WJXT‐News4Jax/River City Live Roscolusa Music Festival Broadcast/Online 2,062,581 http://news4jax.com/river‐city‐live/roscolusa‐music‐festival‐song‐from‐kim‐paige 4/2/18 Orlando Sentinel St. Augustine calendar of events Newspaper/Online 4,767,825 http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/destinations/florida/st‐augustine/orl‐travel‐st‐augustine‐calendar‐story.html 4/3/18 RV Life Visiting The Oldest City In The United States News Web Site 28,079 http://rvlife.com/st‐augustine‐fl/ 4/4/18 Jacksonville Moms Blog A Jacksonville Mom's Guide to the Month of April Blog 36,229 http://www.jaxmomsblog.com/in‐around‐jax/jacksonville‐moms‐guide‐month‐april/#1522800176079 4/6/18 Quick Whit Travel 10 Things to Do in St. Augustine Blog http://quickwhittravel.com/2018/04/06/10‐things‐to‐do‐in‐st‐augustine 4/9/18 Columbus Ledger‐Enquirer Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 330,198 http://www.ledger‐enquirer.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Merced Sun Star Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 188,549 http://www.mercedsunstar.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Bradenton Herald Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 860,743 http://www.bradenton.com/living/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Virginian‐Pilot Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 1,493,792 https://pilotonline.com/life/travel/article_2b9ebaf6‐0ed1‐50ce‐b50a‐f08db7ac659b.html 4/9/18 Boston Herald Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 8,955,300 http://www.bostonherald.com/lifestyle/travel/2018/04/chill_out_or_be_chilled_in_st_augustine_after_dark 4/9/18 Roanoke Times Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 1,535,569 http://www.roanoke.com/life/travel/wire/chill‐out‐or‐be‐chilled‐in‐st‐augustine‐after‐dark/article_bd4c7d23‐a120‐5688‐9904‐4e4e44b19900.html 4/9/18 Charlotte Observer Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 4,762,683 http://www.charlotteobserver.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Sun Herald Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 856,111 http://www.sunherald.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Fresno Bee Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 1,107,393 http://www.fresnobee.com/living/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Lexington Herald‐Leader Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 2,116,614 http://www.kentucky.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 News Tribune Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 1,108,523 http://www.thenewstribune.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Modesto Bee Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 841,039 http://www.modbee.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Kansas City Star Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 4,772,527 http://www.kansascity.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Telegraph Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 864,663 http://www.macon.com/living/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Centre Daily Times Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 855,661 http://www.centredaily.com/living/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Idaho Statesman Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 1,107,234 http://www.idahostatesman.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Olympian Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 855,783 http://www.theolympian.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Tri‐City Herald Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 834,846 http://www.tri‐cityherald.com/living/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Sun News Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 140,416 http://www.myrtlebeachonline.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Herald Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 312,527 http://www.heraldonline.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Wichita Eagle Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 1,114,161 http://www.kansas.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Tribune Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 856,264 http://www.sanluisobispo.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 State Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 2,112,639 http://www.thestate.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Miami Herald Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 8,942,385 http://www.miamiherald.com/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Sacramento Bee Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 4,766,513 http://www.sacbee.com/entertainment/living/travel/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Belleville News‐Democrat Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 852,742 http://www.bnd.com/living/article208312839.html 4/9/18 Bellingham Herald Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 848,714 http://www.bellinghamherald.com/living/article208312839.html 4/9/18 iKnowJax Fun Things to do in April News Web Site http://iknowjax.com/2018/04/april 4/10/18 Edible Orlando Taste of St. Augustine is April 29 Magazine/Online 11,288 http://www.edibleorlando.com/taste‐st‐augustine‐april‐29 4/11/18 Trusted Tours Travel Guide Orlando to St. Augustine Day Trip News Web Site http://guide.trustedtours.com/orlando‐to‐st‐augustine‐day‐trip 4/13/18 College Magazine 24 Things to Do in St. Augustine in 24 Hours Magazine/Online 95,728 https://www.collegemagazine.com/things‐to‐do‐in‐st‐augustine/ 4/14/18 Lincoln Journal Star Travel: Ghosts and stories about in St. Augustine Newspaper/Online 2,048,834 http://journalstar.com/lifestyles/travel‐ghosts‐and‐stories‐about‐in‐st‐augustine/article_fd77422c‐e42c‐5448‐bdfd‐9d645889c7cc.html 4/14/18 Florida Times‐Union/Jacksonville.com Art Notes: Garden Conservancy give $20,000 to Cummer Newspaper/Online 47,835 2,100,231 http://www.jacksonville.com/news/20180414/arts‐notes‐garden‐conservancy‐give‐20000‐to‐cummer 4/16/18 My Palm Beach Post Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 633,099 https://www.mypalmbeachpost.com/travel/chill‐out‐chilled‐augustine‐after‐dark/jtyGkVmw9bCzW5rKeaPWFI/ 4/16/18 Austin American‐Statesman Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 2,119,861 https://www.mystatesman.com/travel/chill‐out‐chilled‐augustine‐after‐dark/jtyGkVmw9bCzW5rKeaPWFI/ 4/16/18 Atlanta Journal‐Constitution Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 11,840,034 https://www.myajc.com/travel/chill‐out‐chilled‐augustine‐after‐dark/jtyGkVmw9bCzW5rKeaPWFI/ 4/16/18 Bulletin Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 191,939 http://www.bendbulletin.com/lifestyle/6154479‐151/chill‐out‐or‐be‐chilled‐in‐st‐augustine?referrer=home 4/16/18 Batavia Daily News Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 10,099 4/16/18 Hartford Courant Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 2,118,601 http://www.courant.com/travel/ct‐st‐augustine‐night‐life‐20180413‐story.html 4/16/18 Chicago Tribune Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 23,930,802 http://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/travel/ct‐st‐augustine‐night‐life‐20180413‐story.html 4/16/18 South Florida Sun Sentinel Online Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark Newspaper/Online 4,767,978 http://www.sun‐sentinel.com/travel/ct‐st‐augustine‐night‐life‐20180413‐story.html 4/18/18 Orlando Weekly There's more to explore in St. Augustine than just Castillo De San Marcos Newspaper/Online 40,000 472,412 https://www.orlandoweekly.com/orlando/theres‐more‐to‐explore‐in‐st‐augustine‐than‐just‐castillo‐de‐san‐marcos/Content?oid=12828024 4/18/18 Folio Weekly Arts & Events: Bad Jews, Plein Air Paint Out Magazine/Online 25,759 32,337 https://issuu.com/folioweekly/docs/folioweekly_041818_sm 4/23/18 WJXT‐News4Jax/River City Live Taste of St. Augustine Broadcast/Online 2,062,581 https://www.news4jax.com/river‐city‐live/taste‐of‐st‐augustine 4/22/18 Reading Eagle Chilling and being chilled in St. Augustine Newspaper/Online 437,183 http://www.readingeagle.com/life/article/chilling‐and‐being‐chilled‐in‐st‐augustine 4/23/18 Folio Weekly Arts & Events: Bad Jews, Plein Air Paint Out Magazine/Online 25,759 32,337 https://issuu.com/folioweekly/docs/folioweekly_042518_ 4/26/18 GoGirlfriend Florida's Historic St. Augustine Blog 7,793 http://www.gogirlfriend.com/reviews/floridas‐historic‐st‐augustine‐31540 4/26/18 The Beaches Leader Summer Festivals: Romanza Festivale of Music and the Arts Newspaper/Online https://etypeservices.com/SWF/LocalUser/Beaches1//Magazine215166/Full/index.aspx?II=215166 4/28/18 Travel Channel Discover St. Augustine's Old‐World Charm Broadcast/Online 9,422,136 https://www.travelchannel.com/destinations/us/fl/articles/discover‐st‐augustines‐old‐world‐charm

316,298 132,197,440

Monthly Impressions = 132,513,738 Monthly Placements= 62 YTD Impressions = 534,478,618 YTD Placements = 483 April 2018 Paid Social

TWITTER (1 Goal Completions) Result Rate Link Tweet Engagement Video View Total Outbond Ad Name Results (USD) Clicks CTR Impressions Engagement Rate Views Rate Follows Conversions Clicks Downloads SJCi296558_FL Travel Chat_Neighborhoods_CTW_4.10-4.10 23 Link clicks 0.33% 23 0.33% 6,876 85 1.24% 1,087 15.81% - 0 0 0 SJCi296558_FL Travel Chat_Itineraries_CTW_4.10-4.10 1407 Link clicks 6.72% 1,407 6.72% 20,931 1,411 6.74% - - - 1 0 1

1430 1,430 5.14% 27,807 1,496 1,087 0 1 0 1

https://issuu.com/folioweekly/docs/folioweekly_032818_sm

https://issuu.com/iwantabuzz.com/docs/april_buzz_2018_digital

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https://en.calameo.com/read/003079928cf94cef8dcc9

Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark

When visiting St. Augustine, there are plenty of options for ghost hunting after dark.

Richard TribouContact Reporter Orlando Sentinel

Hair standing up on the back of the neck? Check. Chill running down

spine? Check. No one standing behind you? Double check. St. Augustine

visitors traditionally pack the pedestrian-friendly streets of downtown

during the day, soaking up historic landmarks amid art galleries,

restaurants and shops galore. But while there’s plenty to do in the

daylight, the nation’s oldest city has a sleepy reputation after the sun goes down. But don’t be fooled. For those who know where to look, some entertaining doors remain open way past bedtime. At the top of St. Augustine’s after-dark to-do list: ghost hunting. There are ghost tours with pirates in costume as guides. Others include a chauffeur-driven hearse to haunted sites and a Ripley’s Believe It or Not ghost train adventure. There’s even a haunted pub crawl for those who like to mix spirits with spirits. GhoSt Augustine

(ghostaugustine.com) offers a variety of tours, using the city’s historic quarter as its stomping ground. Among the offerings is the Ghost Walk ($16), a guided tour with stories of the purported hauntings and macabre history of the city.

There’s even a more intense, hands-on option for those who want to use the tools of the paranormal trade and gain access to buildings seen on television shows such as Syfy’s “Ghost Hunters.” Paranormal Investigations ($25 for adults, $35 for semi-private tour) arm visitors with devices such as electromagnetic field (EMF) meters and something called a spirit box, which scans radio frequencies in an attempt to capture voices of the dearly departed. The pricier semi-private version has no more than 12 people and lasts a little over two hours. It includes a stop in a Victorian-era antiques and collectibles store, where visitors are allowed to explore the dark rooms before gathering in a small hallway monitored by infrared cameras. The guide sets up flashlights with the contact points slightly apart so the lights go out. He then calls on any spirits in the room to show their presence. The lights, which can be inspected by skeptical tour takers, often turn on and off in creepy measure. Upping the heebie-jeebie factor is the visible presence on the various infrared cameras of balls of light that would flash on screen momentarily. The chilling destination was a highlight of the tour that also featured stops at two cemeteries, Flagler College and the Lightner Museum, all with their own grim ghost tales. The final stop of the evening was Castillo de San Marcos, the Spanish fort built in the 1700s. Bathed in eerie floodlights, its more infamous history was reflected in the firing squad wall, still pocked with musket ball holes centuries after those sentenced to death met their fate. While the historic quarter is the main draw for those hunting for ghost stories, one other must-see stop for spectral curiosity seekers is the St. Augustine Lighthouse. Separated from the city by the Matanzas River, the 164-foot-tall

beacon opened in 1874. The Dark of the Moon Ghost Tour (staugustinelighthouse.com/events/darkofmoon.html) takes visitors into the buildings and around the walking paths through forests surrounding the compound. But the trip up the lighthouse’s spiral staircase in the dark is the prize for chill seekers, who brave the “something-is-behind-you” feelings that inevitably come while hiking up and down the 219 steps. The nighttime views from the top are well worth the $25 for adults. The massive Fresnel lens pierces the surrounding night sky for 20 miles as it swings around in 30-second intervals.

Looking out over the lights of the city and into the darkness of the Atlantic Ocean is a moment of serenity atop the structure, even if it’s amid tales of hauntings. To that end, visitors can rent EMF meters as they take the nearly two-hour tour with guides dishing ghost stories complete with smartphones full of images of those who once lived on the grounds.

This is also home to one of the more famous “Ghost Hunter” episodes, and guides will be more than happy to show images of a humanesque shadow figure peering over the lighthouse spiral railings from a few floors above. The night tour is not for the squeamish. The basement of the lighthouse keeper’s house and the walk through the trees are enough to give anyone the willies. Taking flash photos in regular intervals ups the creepy factor, especially as the mind’s eye is wont to create images out of shadows and streaks of light that are captured on digital imagery. For skeptics, it’s enough to maybe open the mind. For believers, it’s worth the visit. Of course, all this ghost hunting is enough to set anyone’s nerves on edge, and the city has a decent selection of places to take the edge off. There are oodles of small bars with patio seating peppering downtown that are just waiting to invite travelers with a glass of wine, a mixed drink or a beer. Many also come with musical treats, although to be honest, St. Augustine’s last call is a challenge from venue to venue. In one night, visitors may find themselves shuttled from one bar to the next as things can close down as early as 10 p.m. For wine lovers, try Sangria’s Wine & Piano Bar (visitstaugustine.com/restaurant/sangrias). It has second-floor balconies overlooking St.

George Street where guests can people-watch while eating tapas and sipping on the wide variety of reds and whites.

Closing time: Usually 11 p.m. or midnight. Nearby Casa Maya (casamayasta.com) has a gorgeous patio to try one of its many tequila-based concoctions as well as great seafood. The Smoke & Fire, for example, is a jalapeno-infused tequila with mezcal, chile ancho liquor, lime, orange juice, agave and spicy bitters. Closing time: 10 p.m. On Fridays and Saturdays,

San Sebastian Winery (sansebastianwinery.com) on King Street opens up the Wine Bar, a rooftop wine, jazz and blues bar with light bites. The wine selection includes San Sebastian’s Florida-grown, muscadine-grape vintages. Closing time: 11 p.m. For those hoping to sing along to “The Unicorn Song,” the best bet is Meehan’s Irish Pub (meehansirishpub.com) along the waterfront on Avenida Menendez. The venue is home to nightly entertainment ranging from rock to folk, and often playing until midnight. The kitchen has a sizable menu and is often serving until 10 or 11 p.m. depending on the crowds. Closing time: 2 a.m. For those more interested in domestic beer, mixed drinks and loud music, the White Lion

(whitelion.bar) is the best bet. Like Meehan’s, it’s one of the few venues with a 2 a.m. closing time, and as such, is popular with the crowd from Flagler College and tourists alike. It also serves food, but the kitchen closes earlier. For a better beer selection, try A1A Ale Works restaurant and taproom (a1aaleworks.com) on King Street. Closing time: 1 a.m. Friday and

Saturday, 11:30 p.m. Sunday-Thursday. With many of these locations, the kitchens close before 9 p.m., so finding a late- night dinner in St. Augustine is a challenge, especially if you’re trying to mix dinner and a ghost tour. There are a few options. Just across the Bridge of Lions on Anastasia Island, visitors will find the intriguing Sarbez! This bar

(sarbezstaugustine.com) touts grilled cheese sandwiches and craft beer until 2 a.m. The Hashton Kutcher ($8) features cheddar, sausage, fried egg, hash browns and Sarbez Sauce on rye bread. Work by local artists adorns the walls, and the entertainment features an eclectic mix of touring bands. There are plenty of games including pool, darts, shuffleboard and an arcade. If beer and cheese-based sandwiches aren’t tempting, perhaps farm-to-table dishes with mixed drinks from the purest water in town is an option. The Ice Plant (iceplantbar.com) on King Street shares space with the St. Augustine

Distillery. The dining venue is housed in an old ice-making plant, and the look and feel is the combination of romance and industry. Each day, a 300-pound block of ice is used to create distinct ice-cube shapes for the original and classic concoctions served by waiters in period get-ups. The menu changes seasonally with dinner served daily 5-10 p.m. as well as lunch and brunch hours. The current lineup features a slew of intriguing approaches such as the pan-seared fish with a potato-parsnip puree, shitake mushrooms, roasted grapes, pomegranate molasses and brown butter. The mixed drinks, though, and the ice that comes with it, are the main draw. Bartenders craft various shaped cubes for drinks that often feature the local alcohols from the St. Augustine Distillery. Those include The Florida Mule, which is St. Augustine Vodka, ginger, lime, soda and mint; the New World Gin & Tonic with the distillery’s New World Gin, tonic, soda and grapefruit peel; and the Rum Tiki with St. Augustine Distillery Rum, pineapple, coconut, lime, orgeat and cinnamon. The eclectic flavors combined with the authentic early 20th-century vibe make dinner and drinks at the Ice Plant a must among St.

Augustine’s nighttime adventures. So whether seeking the chills of a ghost hunt, the chill of the perfect ice cube or just chilling out to some good music, St. Augustine isn’t so sleepy after dark after all.

St. Augustine

What: Founded in 1565, the nation’s oldest city is in Northeast Florida. Where: Situated 43 miles south of Jacksonville in St. Johns County, St. Augustine is about 110 miles from Orlando. Getting there: From Orlando, take Interstate 4 east, then head 50 miles up Interstate 95 north to Exit 311. Take State Road 207 North for 5 miles, then turn left onto U.S.

Highway 1 North. Head north for 1 mile, then take a right onto King Street, which will take you through the heart of historic downtown St. Augustine. Population: According to 2016 U.S. Census Bureau estimates, the population of St.

Augustine is 14,280. Accommodations and activities: Historic downtown St. Augustine is home to high-end hotels such as the Casa Monica Resort, quaint bed and breakfasts and major hotels. Main draws are the historic Castillo de San

Marcos, the St. Augustine Lighthouse, the Lightner Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not and the Alligator Farm. Call: 1-

800-653-2489 Online: floridashistoriccoast.com

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/destinations/florida/st-augustine/os-st-augustine-after-dark-20180312- story.html

Chill out or be chilled in St. Augustine after dark

When visiting St. Augustine, there are plenty of options for ghost hunting after dark.

Richard TribouContact Reporter Orlando Sentinel

Hair standing up on the back of the neck? Check. Chill running down

spine? Check. No one standing behind you? Double check. St. Augustine

visitors traditionally pack the pedestrian-friendly streets of downtown

during the day, soaking up historic landmarks amid art galleries,

restaurants and shops galore. But while there’s plenty to do in the

visitors into the buildings and around the walking paths through forests surrounding the compound. But the trip up the lighthouse’s spiral staircase in the dark is the prize for chill seekers, who brave the “something-is-behind-you” feelings that inevitably come while hiking up and down the 219 steps. The nighttime views from the top are well worth the $25 for adults. The massive Fresnel lens pierces the surrounding night sky for 20 miles as it swings around in 30-second intervals.

George Street where guests can people-watch while eating tapas and sipping on the wide variety of reds and whites.

(sarbezstaugustine.com) touts grilled cheese sandwiches and craft beer until 2 a.m. The Hashton Kutcher ($8) features

cheddar, sausage, fried egg, hash browns and Sarbez Sauce on rye bread. Work by local artists adorns the walls, and the entertainment features an eclectic mix of touring bands. There are plenty of games including pool, darts, shuffleboard and an arcade. If beer and cheese-based sandwiches aren’t tempting, perhaps farm-to-table dishes with mixed drinks from the purest water in town is an option. The Ice Plant (iceplantbar.com) on King Street shares space with the St. Augustine

St. Augustine

Marcos, the St. Augustine Lighthouse, the Lightner Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not and the Alligator Farm. Call: 1-

800-653-2489 Online: floridashistoriccoast.com

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/travel/os-st-augustine-after-dark-20180312-story.html

River City Live – Roscolusa Music Festival April 2, 2018

I’m gonna go out on a limb here and say this is one of the best festivals in Northeast Florida and it comes once a years. It’s called Roscolusa and the founder is Kim Page. I know she seems very young to be a founder, but she’s an accomplished singer songwriter and founder of Roscolusa – Hey Kim! So, tell everyone what it is.

Hi! Uh, yeah, Roscolusa – this is going to be our seventh year, which is crazy. I can’t believe how fast time goes. But we bring in hit songwriters from Nashville, Tennessee to the warm beaches here in Florida and they perform their original songs that they worked so hard to create, that you would kinda just assume the person on the radio singing it wrote. Sometimes they did, of course, but that’s what we’re doing. We’re bringing in the hit songwriters who wrote the songs and they get to tell the stories behind it and kind of give you a glimpse into the creative world of songwriting.

It’s really cool because these songs that might have been your favorite and you didn’t really have a clue who wrote them and then they’re up there singing right in front of you, hit songs such as?

Well, the Garth Brooks song Friends in Low Places, he didn’t write it! Earl Bud Lee did, and Earl Bud Lee is gonna be there.

And Jeffrey Steel, who was fantastic last year at Rocsolusa and wrote so many great songs by Rascal Flatts. I don’t think he was gonna stop playing though, I think he would have gone all night long. It’s a great event, what’s the date?

April 28 in Nocatee. General admission tickets are $10 and we’re selling cooler passes again, because that was such a hit last year. So people can pay $25 and bring in their own cooler, or VIP. And I assume you’re looking out for the J Fund again? We are. So are trying to raise as much funds as possible for the Tom Coughlin J Fund, helping local families tackling childhood cancer. That’s why we put the event on. It’s such a fun night for everyone and the community involved, but that’s the best part for sure. One of the many performers playing their own music that they composed and wrote, Kim Page!

So let’s hear one of those songs. Every time you come here you leave us with an ear worm, something that sticks with us, which means it’s a good song. I already happen to know the words to this one, so I’m just gonna go over here and sing along. Yeah, will you mouth them to me so I don’t forget the words?

Okay, great. Thank you!

https://www.news4jax.com/river-city-live/roscolusa-music-festival-song-from-kim-paige

St. Augustine calendar of events

April 2, 2018, 9:50 AM Travel to St. Augustine and take advantage of these great events in the surrounding area. April 6 - 8: St. Augustine Rhythm & Ribs Festival, St. Augustine. If you are looking for a treat for your taste buds and ear candy too you may wish to check out this one: The Annual St. Augustine Rhythm & Ribs Festival will be serving up scrumptious barbecue and music all weekend long. Admission is between $5 and $10. www.rhythmandribs.net

April 6: First Friday Art Walk, St. Augustine. The Art Galleries of Saint Augustine founded and sponsors the award-winning First Friday Art Walk event on the first Friday of every month. Galleries open their doors from 5 pm to 9 pm, offering new art exhibits and lively receptions to the public. Free. artgalleriesofstaugustine.org

April 14: Free Admission to Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine. For the weekends bookending National Park Week, the city's iconic national monument will waive its admission fee. During the week, children ages 4-14 can become Junior Rangers at the Castillo to earn a Junior Ranger badge. Located on Matanzas Bay, the coquina structure is the only 17th-century fort in the U.S., with construction having begun in 1672. 8:45 am to 5:15 pm. www.nps.gov/casa/index.htm

May 4-6: Gamble Rogers Folk Festival, St. Augustine. This 23rd annual event celebrates the best in folk and Americana for three days with music, stories and dance that made Gamble Rogers famous. Food and drinks are available at the Colonial Quarter's restaurants and beverage sales areas, a jam area, and a children's area that features interactive music making, folk arts and crafts demonstrations, and storytelling. Tickets are $30 for the entire weekend, $20 for either Friday or Saturday alone, and $10 for just Sunday. 33 St George St, St. Augustine, 32084. 904-794-4163. www.gamblerogersfest.org May 4-13: Romanza Festivale Week, St. Augustine. A celebration of art and music in the Old City featuring more than 60 productions and presentations by dozens of organizations. Daily events include music and dance performances, concerts, art shows, dramatic productions and more at locations throughout the city. Many of the events are free; admission is required for others and prices vary. www.Romanzafestivale.com May 19: Riding Into History, St. Augustine. Riding Into History, one of America's premier motorcycle events, returns to World Golf Village in St. Augustine. The event features hundreds of classic American motorcycles along the Village's Walk of Champions. Vendors, exhibitors and entertainment included. 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is $10, with all proceeds benefitting K9s for Warriors. 1 World Golf Place. 904-677-9452. ridingintohistory.org

http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/destinations/florida/st-augustine/orl-travel-st-augustine- calendar-story.html

Visiting The Oldest City In The United States You are here: Home / Blog / Visiting The Oldest City In The United States By Rick Stedman - The 19th Hole Leave a Comment 51 SHARES 371 VIEWS April 3, 2018 ShareTweet Legend has it that Spanish explorer Ponce de León came to St. Augustine looking for the fountain of youth, which he never found. That hasn’t discouraged today’s visitors who still come searching for their own version of the fountain of youth, whatever that might be. Located about 40 miles south of Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Florida is known as the oldest city in the United States, dating back to 1565. Though relatively small with 15,000 residents, St. Augustine has plenty to offer in the way of beaches, history, and outdoor activities. Anastasia State Park is a good place to camp while exploring the many attractions throughout the area. As state parks go, this is a decent one with plenty of amenities including 139 sites with 30/50 amp electric, water, restrooms, and Wi-Fi. The beach is just a short walk or bike ride away, and concessioners rent bicycles, paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes.

As the Sunshine State is well-known for its variety of quality golf courses, visitors will thoroughly enjoy St. Johns Golf and Country Club located halfway between Jacksonville and St. Augustine. Opened in 2001, this 18-hole Clyde Johnston-designed course is the St. Augustine beach. Photo by Heather Paul, Flickr community’s centerpiece that welcomes all visitors. The par 72 track stretches to 7,236 yards and features tree-lined fairways and large, fast greens. In addition to the course, St. Johns Golf & Country Club also offers extensive practice facilities including a 10,000 sq. foot putting green, chipping green, and a double-sided driving range. After a round of golf, be sure to check out the Grille Room, which overlooks the 9th and 18th greens. The Grille Room is open daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

One of the top attractions in the area is the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum. An active lighthouse and educational museum offering spectacular views and local history, the current lighthouse was built in 1874 and is situated at the north end of Anastasia Island Check out the legendary Fountain of Youth while you’re in St Johns Golf & Country Club downtown St. Augustine. Back in 1901, an enterprising woman bought an estate in St. Augustine and began to charge people to drink from the fountain located on the property. She claimed that it was Ponce de Leon’s fountain of youth, and patrons immediately began flocking to the site. Whether or not you believe in the legend, take a sip of the water and see what happens!

http://rvlife.com/st-augustine-fl/

Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park in St. Augustine

A Jacksonville Mom’s Guide to the Month of April by Bernadyn on Apr 4, 2018 in Free Activities, In & Around Jax, Things to Do April is here and spring is in the air! We’ve got your month covered with fun events happening all month including fairs and festivals that will be in town. Start the month at Disney Junior Dance Party On Tour! – Jacksonville, FL and the Jacksonville Lantern Parade. Don’t miss out on the 2nd Annual Bloom: An Event for New & Expecting Moms. See the calendar for more events!

April 29: The Taste of St. Augustine 11:00-5:00 pm Everyone likes to eat! The Taste of St. Augustine highlights the culinary heritage and culture of St. Johns County by showcasing new restaurants and established favorites. Sample our local cuisine and learn about our area’s food culture!

https://www.jaxmomsblog.com/in-around-jax/jacksonville-moms-guide-month-april/#1522800176079- 8b33f7f1-f570 Quick Whit Travel Travel Outside the Suitcase

10 Things to Do in St. Augustine April 6, 2018quickwhittravel

It’s Faraway Friday! This week, however, it’s also Flashback Friday. With Steve’s and my 4th wedding anniversary coming up in just a few weeks, I’m feeling nostalgic. The last trip I ever took as a single lady was to beautiful St. Augustine, Florida, with my girl friend Andrea! It was my bachelorette trip, and I was so excited. St. Augustine is the oldest European settlement in the United States, and as a history lover, that is right up my alley! Here are 10 things to do in St. Augustine, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or with family!

10. Get Some Amazing Iced Coffee and Ice Cream

It was actually pretty chilly in northern Florida that March, but our last day was warm enough to warrant some incredible ice cream! We stumbled upon the cutest little coffee and homemade ice cream shack called the Crucial Coffee Cafe, and it was incredible! It was the best way to round out our trip (and the sweetest!).

9. Take a Ghost Tour

At the time, I was giving ghost tours back home in Virginia, so we had to take a ghost tour here! Between the long history, the pirates, the battles, and the bars, there are plenty of ghosts and mysteries to hear about in Old St. Augustine. This was a highlight for us!

8. Explore Old St. Augustine

And speaking of the old city gates, St. Augustine’s Old Town is not only one of the oldest in the country, it’s also one of the most charming! Check out the old school house, the oldest wooden house, boutique shops, and Colonial architecture. It’s great for history lovers and cute town lovers alike!

7. Visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse

Climb the 219 steps to enjoy the views at the top! There is a small maritime museum here, too, and the grounds are lovely to walk around. The lighthouse itself is the oldest surviving brick structure in St. Augustine, dating from the late 19th century. There has been a variety of watchtowers and lighthouses on this site since the 16th century, making the site “the oldest, permanent aid to navigation in North America.” 6. Tour the Ximenez-Fatio House

This former merchant’s home dates from 1798 and is both very well preserved and meticulously interpreted by the Colonial Dames of America. They take great pride in this house museum! I thought it was a great tour, and it gave some light to a portion of U.S. history I didn’t know anything about regarding Florida’s early days of statehood! If you’re into unique history, this is a great stop for you!

5. Tour the Castillo de San Marcos

This fort is hundreds of years old, but the most interesting thing about it to me is the material used to construct it. Coquina is a light, porous material that acts a little like styrofoam. Instead of shattering when impacted by a cannon like a hard stone would do, coquina stops the impact and absorbs it, preventing a cannon from destroying it! Be sure to ask questions to the costumed interpreters. They really know their stuff!

4. Explore the Lightener Museum

This was an unexpected delight. This eclectic museum is sort of a museum of hobbies. It’s a collection of collections! The museum itself is in the former Alcazar Hotel, built by Henry Flagler (of railroad riches). You can still see the hotel’s old pool, bowling alley, and gilded-age gym! You’ll also see unique artwork and novelty collections, like this collection of glass hats:

3. Tour Flagler College

Fun fact: Flagler College has the largest collection of Tiffany glass in the world. It is worth a tour of the college just for that! But the rest of the tour is pretty great, too. It was an all-girls school for a long time, but is now co-ed. Tours are offered every day at 10:00am and 2:00pm, and it was a highlight of the trip!

2. Say Hello to Ponce de Leon

Ponce de Leon is kind of a big deal here! There are several statues of him around, but this one is my favorite. Stop off to say hi and get a selfie with the famous Spanish Conquistador! And don’t forget to admire his puffy pants.

1. Visit the Fountain of Youth!

It’s a little cheesy, it’s a little silly, but it’s fun! It’s something they really took seriously in the 16th century, and Ponce de Leon really thought he found it. You can drink some water from the fountain for yourself to test it! Some might still mistake me for a youthful 28 even to this day!

Are you ready for your own trip to lovely St. Augustine? Tell me in the comments below! https://quickwhittravel.com/2018/04/06/10-things-to-do-in-st-augustine/ Fun Things to Do in April APRIL 9, 2018 BY JOE TALENTINO

There are so many fun things to do in the month of April in the Jacksonville area. We’re in the midst of Spring festival season, so this month we have a packed schedule.

STYX and Don Felder – April 13, 2018 St. Augustine Amphitheatre | 904-209-0367 | www.staugamphitheatre.com

Black Angels – April 14, 2018 St. Augustine Amphitheatre | 904-209-0367 | www.staugamphitheatre.com

Old City Farmer’s Market – April 14, 2018 Saturdays from 8:30 PM – 12:30 PM at St. Augustine Amphitheatre. Shop for fresh produce, baked goods, hand-crafted items and plants directly from the producers. There’s always live entertainment and there is fresh seafood in season. St. Augustine Amphitheatre | www.staugustinefm.com

The Beach Boys – April 15, 2018 St. Augustine Amphitheatre | 904-209-0367 | www.staugamphitheatre.com

Pups & Sups Surfing Competition – April 21, 2018 Hosted by K9s for Warriors, Surf Station and Guy Harvey Outpost Resort, this dog surfing contest takes place on St. Augustine Beach at 9 a.m. Check in starts at 8:30 a.m. Registration per “pawticipant” is $40 and is available at the Surf Station or online. All dog participants must wear a life vest while in the water. All proceeds benefit K9s for Warriors. St Augustine Beach | 904-471-2555 |http://www.facebook.com/events/138072523487508

Modest Mouse – April 21, 2018 St. Augustine Amphitheatre | 904-209-0367 | www.staugamphitheatre.com

Vilano Fest 2018 – April 20 – 21, 2018 The two-day Vilano Fest is “the best in tunes, tastings and tours in the area,” according to the entertainers who perform here and the fans who return each year. The event consists of a weekend of activities at the Vilano Town Center, including a Sea Turtle Soiree on Friday from 7-10 p.m. with a happy hour starting at 6 p.m., Tour of Homes on Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Music Fest on Saturday from noon-8 p.m. featuring a culinary student competition and arts and crafts vendors with entertainment for all ages. Vilano Beach, St Aug | http://www.vilanofest.com/

Old City Farmer’s Market – April 21, 2018 Saturdays from 8:30 PM – 12:30 PM at St. Augustine Amphitheatre. Shop for fresh produce, baked goods, hand-crafted items and plants directly from the producers. There’s always live entertainment and there is fresh seafood in season. St. Augustine Amphitheatre | www.staugustinefm.com

National Park Week April 21 – 29, 2018 National Park Week is America’s largest celebration of national heritage. It’s about making great connections, exploring amazing places, discovering open spaces, enjoying affordable vacations, and enhancing America’s best idea—the national parks! It is all happening in our national parks. Help us celebrate by visiting your national parks. This week every national park will give you free admission, including Castillo de San Marco in St Augustine. More info www.nps.gov

Yanni “25th Anniversary of Live at the Acropolis” St. Augustine Amphitheatre | 904-209-0367 | www.staugamphitheatre.com

Family Fun Fest, St Augustine – April 28, 2018 This is an all-day festival filled with activities for the kids and the kid in you at Francis Field. The event features live community entertainment, “Be the Hamster” snow cones, jumperamas, face painting, DJ line dancing, games, appearances by local law enforcement and military, fire trucks, car smash, costumed characters, community education, crafts, raffle items, vendors, beer, food trucks and more. New this year, 10 teams will compete in the team obstacle challenge course. Come out and watch the teams compete for the ultimate title. The event is from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for seniors, military and first responders. Admission for youth ages 12 and under is free. Francis Field, St. Augustine | 904-823-8588 Uptown Saturday, St. Augustine – April 28, 2018 From 5 – 9 p.m. every 4th Saturday of each month, experience live music, refreshments, new exhibits, book signings and much more at the galleries, antique stores and unique shop on St. Augustine’s San Marco Avenue between Ripley’s Museum and the Mission Nombre de Dios. The Mission Nombre de Dios provides FREE PARKING. San Marco Avenue | 904-823-9263 | www.floridashistoriccoast.com

Alan Parsons’ Live Project – April 28, 2018 It was Alan Parsons’ genius as a sound engineer for Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon that brought him to the attention of the music world but he has gone on to enjoy success as a producer, songwriter and performer. This 11-time Grammy nominee returns to the Florida Theatre performing his greatest hits such as ‘Sirius,” “Eye In The Sky,” “I Wouldn’t Want To Be Like You,” “Don’t Answer Me” and many more . Special guest Carl Palmer, acclaimed solo artist and legendary drummer of bands such as ASIA and Emerson Lake & Palmer, will join Parsons. Florida Theatre | 904.355.2787 | www.floridatheatre.com

Old City Farmer’s Market – April 28, 2018 Saturdays from 8:30 PM – 12:30 PM at St. Augustine Amphitheatre. Shop for fresh produce, baked goods, hand-crafted items and plants directly from the producers. There’s always live entertainment and there is fresh seafood in season. St. Augustine Amphitheatre | www.staugustinefm.com

Fernandina Beach Market Place Farmers Market – April 28, 2018 Saturdays 9:00 AM – !:00 PM. 1 North Seventh Street Fernandina Beach, Florida 32034. This is a weekly event where farmers, growers, and vendors sell locally grown and produced goods. Year round, rain or shine. Downtown Fernandina | www.fernandinabeachmarketplace.co

Jacksonville Sharks v.s Cobras – April 28, 2018 Game starts at 7 pm. Veterans Memorial Arena | www.jaxsharks.com

A Chorus Line – April 28, 2018 From the pen of legendary composer Marvin Hamlisch comes the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning singular sensation, A CHORUS LINE! Casting for a new Broadway musical is almost complete, and for 17 dancers, this audition is the chance of a lifetime and what they’ve worked their whole lives for. A CHORUS LINE brilliantly evokes both the glamour and grind of showbiz, and is the musical for everyone who’s ever had a dream and put it all on the line. The iconic score features such classics as “What I Did for Love,” “One,” “I Hope I Get It” and more! With its celebration and true-to-life depiction of performers and their struggle to achieve greatness on the Broadway stage, A CHORUS LINE has earned unanimous praise as one of the true masterpieces of live theater. Times-Union Center | www.artistseriesjax.org | 904-442-2929

The Franchise Show – April 28-29, 2018 The Franchise Show invites you to attend an exciting, two-day event where you can meet face-to-face with representatives from top franchise concepts who want to expand or develop in your area. Prime F. Osborn Convention Center | http://www.franchiseshowinfo.com/

Sunset/Moonlight Tour, St Aug Lighthouse – April 29, 2018 Enjoy the sunset and moonrise from the top of the Lighthouse. The $30 admission includes a champagne toast, provided by San Sebastian Winery, hors d’oeuvres from The Reef and an informative overview of the history of the St. Augustine Light Station. St. Augustine Lighthouse | http://www.staugustinelighthouse.org/

Taste of St. Augustine – April 29, 2018 Everyone likes to eat! The Taste of St. Augustine highlights the culinary heritage and culture of St. Johns County by showcasing new restaurants and established favorites. Sample our local cuisine and learn about our area’s food culture! Over 25 of St. Augustine’s finest restaurants offer samples of their signature dishes. Includes live music from The Pellicer Creek Band and Chillula. When you first arrive at the Taste, you will be greeted with the sights, sounds and delectable aromas from an eclectic mix of St. Augustine restaurants – from the casual to the upscale. As you pay your $5 admission (children admitted free and free parking), you will receive a map which indicates the participating restaurants, their location at the Taste and the dish(es) they are serving. $1.00 “Taste” tickets will be sold at the event to sample the restaurants food! This will allow you to make a plan for your culinary exploration! There will be a FREE children’s area too! The children’s area will include fun activities such as face painting and arts/crafts! St. Augustine Amphitheatre |www.epicbh.org/taste-of-st-augustine http://iknowjax.com/2018/04/april/

TASTE OF ST. AUGUSTINE IS APRIL 29 0 BY KENDRA LOTT ON APRIL 10, 2018 The Taste of St. Augustine, St. Augustine’s premiere outdoor food festival, is on Sunday, April 29, 2018 from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre. More than 25 of the area’s favorite restaurants will serve innovative fare and compete for the prestigious TOStA (Taste of St. Augustine) awards in Best Family Dining, Best Ethnic, Best Upscale, Best Beverage, Best Dessert and People’s Choice categories.

Admission is just $5 (kids under 11 free) and includes live music, parking and a Children’s Activity Area with crafts and other fun activities. Food and beverage tickets are $1 each; most tastes cost between 2 and 5 tickets.

Proceeds will benefit EPIC Behavioral Healthcare, a nonprofit serving St. Johns County families since 1973.Call (904) 829-3295 or visit www.epicbh.org for more information, including vendors, sponsors and hotel partners. http://www.edibleorlando.com/taste-st-augustine-april-29/

Trusted Tours Travel Guide Travel Info & Adventures from Here to There

Orlando To St. Augustine Day Trip

Published by Belablast at under St. Augustine

Separated by a 2+ hour drive, Orlando and St. Augustine are

worlds apart. Sprawling Orlando grew around the magic of

Disney. Tiny St. Augustine has been a continuous community

since it was settled by Spanish explorers in 1565. Spectacular

attractions at Disney World and other venues are an escape into

never-never land. Ancient forts, brick streets and an amazing

collection of historic buildings in America’s Oldest City are a fascinating walk through history. The drive from Orlando to St. Augustine is straightforward interstate travel. Leave early and stay late to avoid some of Orlando’s congestion. If you want to take a detour along the way, Daytona

Beach, home of Daytona International Speedway, is at the juncture of I-4 and I-95. Avid race fans may opt to give up time in St. Augustine to tour the home the Daytona 500. For others, a drive around the outer grounds and a taking selfies at the iconic Daytona International sign may be enough.

GETTING AROUND ST. AUGUSTINE

St. Augustine is small. On-street parking is limited. Park for a fee in the Visitor Information Center and walk everywhere. Or, head straight to the Old Town Trolley Tour complex on San

Marco Avenue where parking is free with the purchase of a tour ticket. If you park at the Visitor Information Center, Center, many historic sites, museums and architecturally interesting historic gems within walking distance. Other interesting sites and St. Augustine’s beautiful beaches are not within walking distance. You’ll need a car to drive to the Old Jail,

Fountain of Youth, the Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche, the Old Jail, Alligator Farm and the Lighthouse. If you park at the Old Town Trolley complex, purchase your tickets ahead through Trusted Tours & Attractions, check in and hop on the trolley for an interesting tour with the convenience of hopping off to explore at any of 23 stops. A bonus: the ticket includes free admission to small Florida Heritage Museum within the complex and a transfer pass to the St.

Augustine Beach Trolley. Also in the compound: the must-see Old Jail, the Oldest Store, snack food and restrooms.

Many historic sites and attractions are great for kids. Others are favored by visitors traveling without kids. Check out the choices below and pick out those that appeal to you. Allow 45 min to 90 minutes for each.

KIDS LIKE:

Cool forts. Explore fort casements on a self-guided tour of Castillo de

San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in continental U.S. Built by the

Spanish between 1672 and 695 as a walled defense line around the

settlement, on-sites exhibits, a video and occasional cannon and

musket firings are interesting. Park Rangers are onsite to answer

questions and give occasional talks. Pretending to be a Pirates. Don’t miss the Pirates & Treasure Museum, a kids’ favorite. Engaging interactive exhibits and activities, and tons of authentic artifacts creatively tell the story of those dastardly opportunists lurking at sea.

Selfies with celebs. Older kids and teenagers have a blast in Potters Wax Museum taking selfies with celebrities and legendary figures, even though they are made of wax. The museum is small and the broad selection of wax figures allows for great close-up encounters. Watching artists at work creating the figures is fun too. Anything with a creepy factor. Kids find the small Spanish Military Hospital Museum either cool or creepy. Attention-grabbing

“demonstrations” of Spanish Colonial period surgical instruments, treatments, herbal medicines are great for both adult and kids. The Old Jail is creepy and scary. Being inside what was once an actual jail with cells still intact, and hearing stories of what went on inside is fascinating and entertaining. It’s a must for anyone over 6 years old who doesn’t mind an occasional scare. Alligator encounters. Seeing an alligator tops any kid’s list. In addition to alligators, Alligator Farm & Zoological Park has wading birds, lemurs, pythons and fossils; exotic birds, native reptiles, giant tortoises. Older kids could spend all day traveling above crocodiles and roosting birds on the thrilling

Zipline. Taking a boat ride. Kids of all ages are thrilled to get out on the water. The 90 min. Birding and Nature

Boat Cruise is a great ride through the unique tidal marsh ecosystem filled with wading birds, sea creatures and an occasional bottlenose dolphin. Departing from Municipal Pier, it’s an awesome outing.

ADULTS LIKE:

The old world ambiance of historic St. George Street. Pass through historic City Gates for a stroll down 11 blocks of the pedestrian- only St. George Street. Look beyond the streams of tourists meandering down the street, popping in and out shops, restaurants and attractions to notice the quaint, Spanish-influenced details of the building, many with overhanging balconies.

Touring historic house museums. The details and simplicity of the furnished rooms in the Ximenez Fatio House, a boarding house catering to St. Augustine’s first visitors, provides interesting insight into life in the active town. The Oldest House Museum is a lovely walled property in one of the oldest sections of the historic district. The house is a fine example residential life in First Spanish and British Periods. Furnishings and artifacts on each floor define the difference. Experiencing the Gilded Age. In contrast to Spanish and British period houses, the museums in the Gilded

Age Triangle are immersions into the opulent lifestyle of St. Augustine’s wealthy residents and tourists in the late

1800s. The Lightner Museum is the largest. Its collection of eclectic and fine decorative 19thcentury art, artifacts, curios, antiques, furnishings, Tiffany stained glass, Egyptian mummies and taxidermy is extensive. Make lunch in Café

Alcazar, located in what was once the hotel’s indoor swimming pool, part of the experience. Catch a glimpse of the eccentric tastes of St. Augustine’s Gilded Age residents in small Villa Zorayda, distinctive inside and out. Furnishings, art and unusual curios from the private collections gathered during exotic travels of two of its original owners are fascinatingly eclectic. Exterior photos are all you might be able to get of the magnificent former Ponce de Leon

Hotel, now part of the Florida College campus. Tours of the fabulous interior are limited to times when classes are not in session. Walking an archaeological dig site. Although the legendary fountain draws the curious visitor to Fountain of

Youth Archaeological Park, several outdoor exhibits on the expansive waterfront property are interesting for history buffs. Walk through a replica Tumucuan village, check out the layout of what is thought to have been the first

Spanish settlement, and climb the lookout tower, precursor of the lighthouses, for a fabulous view of the marshes and beyond. Cruising along the waterfront. Take 90 minutes for a cruise along the town’s quaint waterfront and through tidal estuaries on Scenic St. Augustine Boat Cruise departing from Municipal Marina. Chilling out. Give your feet a break and your taste buds a treat at the San Sebastian Winery, which creates vintage varietals from Florida-grown hybrid and Muscadine grapes. Free guided tours and tastings are offered throughout the day. Chill on the rooftop at The Cellar Upstairs Wine and Jazz & Blues Bar for live music, tasty appetizers and a selection of San Sebastian wines.

https://guide.trustedtours.com/orlando-to-st-augustine-day-trip

24 Things to Do in St. Augustine in 24 Hours By Alexandra Blackwell | April 13, 2018

Waking up early and staying out late: That’s how you do St. Augustine the right way. The oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine not only offers some of the best tourist destinations in the nation, but also quaint hide-away spots a lot of people don’t know about. Living only about 30 minutes north of St. Augustine, I spent many a time venturing through the narrow cobblestone streets of this historic city. I like to call myself the St. Augustine expert. Lace up your favorite pair of tennis shoes and prepare for a lot of walking.

THESE THINGS TO DO IN ST. AUGUSTINE SHOW YOU WHY THE OLDEST CITY IN THE U.S. DESERVES THE NEWEST SPOT ON YOUR TRAVEL LIST.

6 A.M. WAKE UP WITH SUNRISE YOGA ON ST. AUGUSTINE BEACH What better way to welcome the day than by a relaxing sun salutation? Take in the fresh, salty sea air with each deep inhale and exhale. Listen to the Atlantic Ocean waves crash into the sand. Watch the colorful sky shift from pinks and oranges to light blue tones as the day wakes. St. Augustine Beach is located on Anastasia Island, not far from Anastasia State Park, which extends over most of the island. You can easily find the public beach access. A parking lot provides enough spaces for you and your gang to hang. The serene atmosphere will energize you for a day filled with adventure.

7 A.M. MAKE A KOOKABURRA COFFEE RUN After your yoga sesh, stroll on over to the Kookaburra on A1A for a coffee fix. Don’t forget to try one of their signature “Aussie Pies.” A short walk from the beach, the Australian culture-inspired spot offers a unique, vibrant atmosphere inside and out—complete with outdoor picnic tables and décor to suit your cool aesthetic. My favorite coffee delight has to be an Iced Honey Badger (definitely what I’m sipping on in this photo). Their “Brekkie,” or breakfast pie “Vejjo,” provides sweet potato and veggie goodness to get you going for your big day ahead.

8 A.M. HIKE THROUGH ANASTASIA STATE PARK A trek through the shaded grounds of the Florida environment sounds like a great idea after downing a hearty breakfast. Hop in the car and park at that state park entrance located on the north end of the beach stretch. The nature trail extends four miles to the Matanzas Inlet. While exploring this area, why not go on a kayaking adventure? “I’ve personally gone kayaking from the St. Augustine Yacht Club, but there are multiple places in the area to rent boats of all kinds,” said University of Florida junior Lucas Sanders. Don’t forget to check out the 300-year-old coquina quarries left in ruins by early American settlers. Enjoy the fresh air, chirping birds and funky critters hanging around. Oh, and watch out for Tarzan swinging from vine to vine!

9 A.M. VISIT THE LIGHTNER MUSEUM Catch the first round of tours right as the doors open to this grander venue of history. A must for the art enthusiast, the Lightner Museum consists of a display of some of the finest 19th century art works in the nation. The building itself dates back to 1888 when Henry Flagler (who the university in town is named after) opened it as the Alcazar Hotel. Because of all its ornate features, the hotel welcomed almost 25,000 guests within the first ten years of operation. Now, some 130 years later, it remains a landmark for the historic Ancient City.

10 A.M. EXPLORE FLAGLER COLLEGE CAMPUS St. Augustine is home to none other than the beautiful Flagler College. A liberal arts school, Flagler provides students a unique college experience, with a small city atmosphere, beautiful architecture and ghost tales that will send shivers up and down your spine. No question that the dormitories are haunted. “In college, I had several residents who didn’t know each other, report seeing ghost kittens in their dorms,” said Flagler graduate and past resident assistant Maria Laird. The student common area stays open to the public and the campus intertwines throughout the city, so remain on the lookout for students and teachers walking around who will gladly give you directions/suggestions.

11 A.M. WALK BAY-SIDE TO THE CASTILLO DE SAN MARCOS Another landmark that pops into the local’s mind when they think of their home town is this massive fort. Made from coquina, the structure dates back to 1672 when the Spanish originally built it. Since that time, Britain and Spain continued to fight over its ownership. Learn more about the complicated history of the fort by going on a tour or exploring the fort on your own. Climb to the top for a beautiful view of the city and bay.

12 P.M. STROLL DOWN ST. GEORGE STREET TO TAKE YOUR PICK FOR LUNCH St. George Street, located through St. Augustine’s old city gates, offers a variety of choices for food. The Columbia Restaurant, located at the intersection of St. George and Hypolita Streets, provides a more refined lunch experience with authentic Spanish cuisine and a fresh, relaxing atmosphere. Looking for something more casual and fun? My favorite has to be the Taco Shop for a sloppy fish or chicken taco. The Bunnery, located right across the street has the best apple strudel according to Florida State University junior Piper McInall. They also offer a wide variety of American style sandwiches if you don’t have a strong sweet tooth. Don’t forget Pizzalleys, right next store, for a quick slice of warm pie or a heaping mountain of pasta. The options never end on St. George Street.

1 P.M. VISIT THE ST. AUGUSTINE PIRATE AND TREASURE MUSEUM Did you know that St. Augustine was frequently visited by some of the most infamous pirates of the 18th century? Learn more about the 300-year-old Age of Piracy Exploration through an interactive and exciting museum experience. The museum is located down Castillo drive, off of St. George Street and down towards the bay. Take the perfect stroll through the city before sailing to your next adventure.

2 P.M. FEEL HISTORY AT THE OLDEST HOUSE MUSEUM Visit the structure considered the oldest home in the United States of America. Admission includes a guided tour, where you will learn about the ways colonial Americans lived hundreds of years ago. The guide will lead you through the house, a museum, an exhibit and a beautiful garden on the property.

3 P.M. GRAB A POPSICLE FROM THE HYPPO After all the walking, a refreshing break calls your name. “It’s so fun to wander around the city and you for sure have to get a popsicle at the Hyppo,” said FSU sophomore Rebecca Henderson. The hip spot offers delicious, healthy popsicles for maximum amounts of chill. With several locations hidden throughout the city, find one and indulge. The Hyppo accommodates a sweet tooth while not breaking health nut rules by offering vegan options. I recommend the decadent Dark Chocolate Avocado pop, my absolute favorite.

4 P.M. EXPLORE THE CATHEDRAL BASILICA OF ST. AUGUSTINE The Basilica of St. Augustine, known for its serenity and opulence, offers an example of fine architecture that characterizes the old, quaint city. You can find a beautiful sanctuary outside the basilica where you can take in the fresh air. Walk around the inside, reflect, pray if you want. No better place. “The Cathedral is beautiful and it’s really fun to go to a Saturday night mass and then go get ice cream after,” said UF junior Kelvy Alter. Keep this idea in mind for your next weekend getaway.

5 P.M. WALK DOWN KING STREET TO THE ST. AUGUSTINE DISTILLERY Join in for the last tour of the day at the St. Augustine Distillery, housed in Florida’s oldest Ice Plant, one of the “coolest” venues you will ever see. They offer free tours, which includes a free tasting for those over 21. “There’s free booze. You can’t go wrong,” said FSU graduate Belle Robinson. Watch as workers skillfully craft their products and learn all about the history of distilling in Florida since the old ice plant was renovated in 1917.

6 P.M. GRAB PRE-DINNER DRINKS AT THE ICE PLANT The Ice Plant takes “I’ll have a cold one” to a whole new level. Located in the old ice plant, right next door to the Distillery, the Ice Plant offers an environment almost as chill as their drinks. “The Ice Plant is my favorite bar to this day,” said University of Central Florida senior Case Scherer. Maybe order a “farm to table” style appetizer along with your chilled cocktail to prepare for the great night to come.

7 P.M. DINNER AT O.C. WHITES/A1A ALE WORKS St. Augustine is home to way too many restaurants to pick just one to enjoy. Both O.C. White’s and A1A Ale works offer a beautiful atmosphere and some delicious food. Fish lover? O.C. White’s will stun you. Feeling a burger and fries after a long day? A1A Ale Works will satisfy those hearty cravings. Both offer indoor and outdoor seating and views of the Bay to watch the beautiful Florida sky change colors during the sunset.

8 P.M. CHUG POST-DINNER COFFEE BOOST AT CAFÉ HIDALGO

Dragging after a day of adventure? You still have a long way to go. Pick up a cappuccino from the authentic Spanish café, Café Hidalgo, on St. George Street. A quick pit stop for a to-go order will allow you to peek in the other cute shops that St. George Street has to offer. Don’t forget to check out Earthbound across the street and Red Pineapple, a vintage inspired clothing and accessories store where you can find anything from 1950’s style house wear to stationary to sunglasses and so much more.

9 P.M. GET A CONE AT KILWIN’S ICE CREAM Continue the walk down St. George Street until you stumble on this sweet-lovers dream. This quaint ice cream shop offers flavors that will make your mouth water. “Just walking down the street and smelling the waffle cones being made always puts me in a good mood. Their ice cream is always to die for,” said Florida State College of Jacksonville student Alessandra Paratore. Not only do they offer ice cream, but caramel apples, chocolate and other sweet treats that will satisfy your cravings.

10 P.M. GET SPOOKY ON THE GHOST AND GRAVESTONE’S TOUR Welcome the night by boarding a spooky Ghost and Gravestone’s Tour. Visit cemeteries, the Old Drug Store and top it off with a trip to the Old Jail. Several people have spoken on creepy experiences at the Old Jail specifically. “I remember seeing eyes staring back at me from the cell,” said Alter. During the tour, listen to scary stories and learn more about the history of the Old City.

11 P.M. GET DOWN TO THE MUSIC AT PROHIBITION KITCHEN Don’t try to leave St. Augustine without experiencing the local jazz scene. Prohibition Kitchen offers a unique venue that transports you back in time to the 1920’s. “Prohibition Kitchen is amazing. If you want amazing live music, good drinks and great food, it’s the spot,” said St. Johns River State College senior Taylor Collins. After 10 p.m., the restaurant transforms into a jazz club scene where only the coolest cats are allowed.

12 A.M. WALK OVER THE BRIDGE OF LIONS Take in the crisp, night air and the beaming lights of the city while you stroll over the Bridge of Lions. Bridging the old city and the beach side of town, the Bridge of Lions is a famous spectacle for boaters and spectators alike, providing an amazing view of the nearby Atlantic Ocean, the bay and the city. Feel the breeze whisk through your hair as the cars pass by and feel alive.

1 A.M. CHECK OUT THE LOCAL MUSIC SCENE AT PLANET SARBEZ Right on the other side of the Bridge of Lions, you can find a spot famous to the locals of the city, Planet Sarbez. Sarbez, famous for their grilled cheese sandwich and for their support of local musicians, young and old and of every genre you can imagine. Pop in to try their signature item and listen to some unique tunes. Go out on a whim and ask for an autograph. The band or singer you hear may just be the next big thing.

2 A.M. VISIT THE PIER FOR LATE NIGHT STARGAZING Sit back, relax and star gaze. Maybe catch a glimpse of the man in the moon if it’s not too cloudy. The St. Augustine Beach Pier offers a scenic stroll out into the ocean waves where you can witness the destructive or calm wonders of nature. If you happen to be on a summer trip of sorts, I recommend visiting the area when the “Strawberry Moon” makes an appearance on June 28. Get ready to experience a full moon like no other, with its reflection bouncing off of the ocean surface, while you breathe in the fresh sea salt air. The pier also provides beach volleyball nets for use. Coerce your friends into a late-night tourney for some fun in the sand.

3 A.M. REVISIT DOWNTOWN St. Augustine offers so many narrow streets to explore complete with cobblestone roads, pretty architecture, gardens and so much more. Take some time to walk around the village square area located between the Basilica and A1A Ale Works. You may even run into some interesting people. “The steel drummer man is a must see,” said Flagler graduate Beau Beaudreau. You may find the street musician off St. George Street and around some crooked city corners. Make sure to check out my favorite street, Aviles Street, complete with galleries displaying unique artworks and quaint cafes. Cruise through the old Slave Market, look through windows at the many art museum displays and check out any of the cool bars that may still have some stragglers.

4 A.M. PICK A BAY BENCH AND REST A walkway located alongside the bay provides multiple benches to sit and relax. Choose one and rest after a long day of adventures and fun. Maybe take this time to search for the perfect photo to post on the Gram or your next Facebook profile pic because you know you took the artsiest shots throughout your busy day. Make all your friends have FOMO over your amazing trip to the old St. Augustine.

5 A.M. UBER TO THE NOMBRE DE DIOS TO CATCH THE SUNRISE Upon your entrance into St. Augustine, you may have noticed the colossal cross, stemming into the sky. Roam the grounds of the Mission Nombre de Dios and find the perfect spot to sit and welcome the new day. The mission grounds rest right on the bay, so the sunrise will provide the sky with the prettiest collage with the colors of the rainbow stretching across the sky. What a perfect ending to an even more perfect day.

https://www.collegemagazine.com/things-to-do-in-st-augustine/

Arts Notes: Garden Conservancy give $20,000 to Cummer

By Charlie Patton

Posted Apr 14, 2018 at 12:01 AMUpdated Apr 14, 2018 at 4:13 PM

‘BAD JEWS’ AT LIMELIGHT THEATRE

“Bad Jews,” a comedy by Joshua Harmon, opens at 7:30 p.m. Friday at Limelight Theatre, 11 Old Mission Ave., St. Augustine. Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday through May 13. Tickets are $26, $24 for people 62 and older, $20 for military and seniors, $10 for students 30 minutes before the curtain. Tickets will be $15 for a preview performance Thursday. They will be $30 for two tickets on Tuesday, April 24. They can be purchased at limelight-theatre.org or by calling (904) 825-1164.

PLEIN AIR PAINT OUT IN ST. AUGUSTINE

The St. Augustine Art Association’s 2nd annual St. Augustine Plein Air Paint Out begins Sunday, April 22. Interested artist can register through Monday at www.staaa.org/pleinair.

Send items for Arts Notes to [email protected].

April 18, 2018

There's more to explore in St. Augustine than just Castillo De San Marcos By OW Staff The oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine is a beach town with all the tourist trappings, a college town with Flagler College nestled in the heart of the city, a city rich in historical architecture, and a party town all at once. But it's also increasingly becoming known as a music town thanks to the St. Augustine Amphitheatre and various smaller venues dotted around the city, as well as a destination for those interested in good food and drink. We already know you're probably gonna visit Castillo De San Marcos, Ripley's and the Fountain of Youth while you're there, but save time for a leisurely stroll around downtown, where there's plenty to do and see either day or night, and maybe pop in to check out a few of these local treasures. Ice Plant Bar 110 Riberia St., St. Augustine, 904-829-6553, iceplantbar.com Retro in presentation down to the detail – think early 20th-century Prohibition Era chic – but very much modern in its locally sourced and adventurous food and drinks menu. A craft cocktail at Ice Plant is the perfect capper to a day of searching for the Fountain of Youth.

O'Steen's Restaurant 205 Anastasia Blvd., St. Augustine, 904-829-6974, osteensrestaurant.com This family-run seafood joint on Anastasia Island has been going strong for over half a century and is still packing them in with generous portions of fresh, fried (or broiled, as you like) seafood and sundry Southern dishes. Medieval Torture Collection 100 St. George St., St. Augustine, 904-373-7777, medievaltorturemuseum.com Discover the blood-soaked origins of Marsellus Wallace's immortal "get medieval on your ass" line from Pulp Fiction with this museum's recreations of the most sadistic and ghoulish instruments of torture in the name of God and/or country. Not for the faint of heart! Present Moment Cafe 226 W. King St., St. Augustine, 904-827-4499, presentmomentcafe.com If the terms "vegan" and "raw" signal narrowing culinary options to you, one visit to Present Moment will dispel that notion entirely. Their menu is a wonder of lovingly prepared, refreshing, healthy eats that are a testament to the creativity of the staff. Check out their extensive fresh juice selection too. St. Augustine Amphitheatre 1340C A1A South, St. Augustine, 904-209-0367, staugamphitheatre.com A unique partnership between St. Johns County and a dedicated staff of obsessive music fans has resulted in one of the most exciting outdoor venues in the state. The programming is eclectic and vibrant, with upcoming shows by everyone from Black Angels to Yanni to the National to Hank Williams Jr. Tonevendor 81 King St., St. Augustine, 904-342-7981, tonevendor.com Hiding in plain sight in the heart of the bustling downtown area, Tonevendor's unassuming exterior hides a music lover's mecca. It's stuffed to the gills with new and used records of all genres. Crucially, they place as much energy toward impressive jazz and electronic sections as they do good ol' rock and indie. Wolf's Museum of Mystery 46 Charlotte St., St. Augustine, 904-342-8377, wolfsmuseumofmystery.com Consider giving Ripley's a pass and instead check out this delightfully bonkers collection of oddities packed into what we can only conclude is a haunted house. Ostensibly the personal collection of namesake Wolfgang Von Mertz (an attorney by day), where else can you see Kevorkian paintings, a Fiji Mermaid, a Hammer Horror-level shrine to Countess Bathory, an iron lung and random cats sleeping among the exhibits?

https://www.orlandoweekly.com/orlando/theres-more-to-explore-in-st-augustine-than-just-castillo-de-san- marcos/Content?oid=12828024

https://issuu.com/folioweekly/docs/folioweekly_041818_sm

River City Live – Taste of St. Augustine April 23, 2018

We are in the Publix kitchen and we are dishing and, you know, I love to eat. But I love eating for a good cause. I have my man Collin from Epic Behavioral Healthcare down in St. Augustine and this is Executive Chef from South Beach Grill, Todd Andrews. Thank you guys for spending a little time with us. Of course. Happy to be here. So, Chef, Taste of St. Augustine is a big deal, so there’s gonna be a bunch of restaurants that are preparing dishes for a good cause – is this one of the signature dishes? This is signature for us. It’s signature for St. Augustine in general. I don’t even know a place that doesn’t do shrimp and grits, so this is big time. Alright, so you’re doing shrimp and grits. But we all do shrimp and grits, are you twisting it up? We’re twisting it up. We’re twisting it South Beach style, yes sir. Alright, so tell me how you’re doing that. What we did was, with the grits, these are Cajun style grits. Normally shrimp and grits is very hearty, but we’re putting a New Orleans style on it. Hearty grits full of vegetables, full of meats. We’re doing it all. He had me at meat – vegetables, eh! No, I’m kidding. While you’re working on that, the shrimp is going, we have the grits, we’ve done a little pre- prep. I say we, executive chef Todd has put in all the heavy work. Putting his foot in it people! Collin, tell me about Taste of St. Augustine. Sure, it’s a really fun event for the whole family. It’s at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, Sunday April 29th from 11 to 5 pm. We have restaurants from all over St. Augustine from dessert restaurants to Cajun to everything. So, the best part about it is that it’s a competition. So, we have restaurants from all over competing for the grand prize of the people’s choice. We have a couple thousand people that come to the event, they vote on their favorite restaurant, they get the people’s choice award and it’s a coveted award for everybody so we’re really excited about it. See, I thought people were just coming together to eat, but you’re adding some competition but it’s a fundraiser. For people who don’t know what you’re doing at Epic, let them know. Of course. Well, first off, we’ve been in business since 1973. We provide comprehensive behavioral health care for people in St. Johns County. So that means we offer mental health and substance abuse treatment services for people in St. Johns County. That ranges from prevention to counseling to substance abuse and detox treatment. So it’s a really cool thing that we’re doing here. And the best part about the Taste, I think, is that we do the Taste so that nobody is turned away for services from Epic Behavioral Healthcare. The funds go straight back into our community and we use those funds to make sure anybody, regardless of their ability to pay, they’re going to get licensed, insured, everything, experience. And that is definitely major because there’s so many of us who have dealt with it personally, or have dealt with it with a family member in that situation. And the expenses, they mount up so fast that – awesome. Thanks for what you’re doing. Now, Chef, why is it so important that you guys at South Beach are a part of this? Well, I think as Collin mentioned before, we are hunting that people’s choice award. It’s a competition, so we are ready to win, you know what I mean? We want to be the best and we people to come see us because they know we’re the best. So, you’re doing this, but you guys told me you’re also making a special dish. What is that going to be? Shrimp corn dogs. Yes, we are trying to wow the judges with some shrimp corn dogs. How does one come up with a recipe for shrimp corn dogs? Well, I think it’s the name in itself. When you hear the name shrimp corn dogs, you not only want to eat it, you probably want to see it, so. I think that wow factor has to come into play, everything’s gotta happen. We’ll be ready, we’ll have a team there helping us out. Consider me intrigued. Chef are we getting close to plate? We are a minute out. Minute out. Alright. Can I help out at all? Can I put some grits on a plate for you? What do you have in here? There’s andouille sausage, three kinds of peppers, St. Augustine datils in there just for a little heat. And we are gonna need some ice water after this. Well on a chilly day like this, I couldn’t ask for anything better. A little heat. And then we’ll worry about cooling off shortly. I’m going in. Alright so, shrimp and grits Cajun style, New Orleans style. Look at the cheese all melty on there. Let me tell you, that heat sneaks up on you but this is awesome. Go to River City Live.com, we’ll have more information about the Taste of St. Augustine Festival. We’ll be right back.

https://www.news4jax.com/river-city-live/taste-of-st-augustine

https://issuu.com/folioweekly/docs/folioweekly_042518_

Florida’s Historic St. Augustine Stacy Rosien | Apr 26, 2018 - 07:55

Exploring the oldest city in the United States

Celebrating nearly 500 years as the oldest continuously occupied European settlement in the United Sates, don’t be fooled by the age of this vibrant city. This abuela (grandmother) of american cities will surprise you with amazing restaurants, a vibrant city core, miles of beaches, a touch of sinfulness, and historic sites to explore that will turn back time.

St. Augustine from the Bridge of Lions (image provided by FloridasHistoricCoast.com) As a getaway destination, there is more than a few days needed to experience the scope of St. Augustine’s richness. As a couple’s romantic destination, a girlfriend’s weekend retreat or a family beach vacation, a simple walk over the Bridge of Lions will tease excitement of what historic St. Augustine has to offer.

Where to Eat in St. Augustine

Good question? Would you like the old city or the more modern? Would you like seafood (fresh catches right from the ocean), farm to table freshness, or have a specific taste preference? I’m certain St. Augustine can satisfy it.

Consider these great restaurants from our recent visit:

o Catch 27 – deliciously delivering fresh seafood made from scratch with the freshest of locally sourced ingredients – what a treat! Try their cheese board as an appetiser with smoked blue cheese and drunken cherries, and any cocktail that features the distinctive St. Augustine gin. o Present Moments Café – completely Vegan, fresh and organic. Many fresh appetizer, entrée and juice options to offer quite the diverse selection. Note: the Taco’s of Life were tasty enough to encourage this meat-eater to want to try another entrée another day! o Collage Restaurant – Top rated, upscale fine dining using fresh local seafood, steaks, lamb and veal. Prepare for a first-class dining experience

Cocktails anyone? A great drink experience and the places to see or be seen:

o Prohibition Kitchen – a vintage gastropub with great craft cocktails and live music (most nights) in the speakeasy era of flappers, moonshine and jazz! One of the hottest spots for dinner or a drink after strolling St. George St shopping and exploring. [Note: Prohibition Kitchen is an uber-popular spot in St. Augustine. GoGirlfriend recommends making reservations for seating as soon as you arrive to make sure you get a seat to share this great vibrant venue.] o Odd Birds Craft Cocktail Lounge – craft cocktails and small bites in a unique, eclectic atmosphere. The intimate courtyard lets you share in the vibe of the talented craft creations. o Colonial Oak Park – an intimate outdoor music venue under the shades of a very old oak tree. Part of the Colonial Quarter, with live music every Thursday – Sunday. o St. Augustine Distillery – make your own craft cocktails! Built within a century-old Ice Plant (how else did they have ice 100 years ago?), St. Augustine Distillery offers free tours and free tastings of their small batch gin, bourbon, rum and vodka. Their store offers all manors of these spirits and the elements to make your own cocktails. Consider your lunch stop at the Ice Plant Bar upstairs for some great food in the structure of the old Ice House. Since you’re already sinning, check out what else to do on “Sin Corner” (see below) before you get in your car and leave.

Special Treat: Combining the excellent spirits of the St. Augustine Distillery, and delicious fresh, local ingredients crafted by the Catch 27 Restaurant team, bar-meister Greg Goldstein (Bar Manager - Catch 27) has created a special recipe, exclusively available at Catch 27 for the upcoming season, to share with us – The Farmer’s Market Swizzle.

The Farmer’s Market Swizzle (exclusively at Catch 27):

o 2 oz St. Augustine Distillery Gin o ¾ oz Strawberry oleo yaupon tea syrup o ½ oz fresh lemon juice o ½ oz Dog Day Garden’s Honey-Lemon Shrub

Shaken with crushed ice & poured into a highball glass. Topped with Angostura bitters, citrus datil and salt- dipped lemon, and red veined sorrel. Looks like a delightful locally-grown creation – only at Catch 27!

Where to Sleep in St. Augustine

Remember this is one of the oldest cities in America sitting smack along the Atlantic shoreline. Decision time – historic boutique luxury or beachside surf and sand accommodations?

Historic Boutique Hotels

o The Collector Inn – 9 historic buildings within the historic district restored to offer 32 guest suites an experience to spellbind the historian, storytellers and explorers. It’s wrought-iron railings, fountains, period restorations and cobblestone courtyards deliver a romantic experience within the luxury of 1 of 11 Best Historic Inns in America. For availability, contact the Collector Inn and check out their outstanding TripAdvisor reviews rating. o Marker 8 Hotel – completely renovated and restored, this bayside hotel offers a refreshing nautical theme to it’s décor. Perched at the base of the Bridge of Lions and directly across the bay from the old city of St. Augustine, the evening sunset views and the night lights of the bridge and the old city are a romantic treat. For availability, contact the Marker 8 Hotel and check out their TripAdvisor reviews rating. o St. George Inn – located at the gates to the historic city, the historic St. George’s inn offers 25 rooms and suites with balcony views of the historic Castillo de San Marcos and easy access to the core activities and shopping of St. George St. For availability, contact the St. George’s Inn and check out their TripAdvisor reviewsrating. o Other Historic Inns - St. Augustine has a collection of 24 historic inns that provide luxury accommodations for the perfect romantic couples or relaxed girls getaways.

Beachfront Accommodations

o Beachfront accommodations run the gamut from plush luxury to simple and functional. For a broad spectrum of choices between St. Augustine and the prestigious Ponte Vedra, there’s an vacation rental assortment at Florida’s Historic Coastand through Visit St. Augustine. o Online searches:Condo’s, apartments and beachfront cottages on Airbnband VRBO o Standard Hotel options: Want the ease of moving into a hotel while still having beach access? Consider the range of beach hotel options from the Best Western to the Hampton Inn and Suites, Hilton Garden Inn to Ascend’s Castillo Real among many others.

Where to Play in St. Augustine

Florida’s Historic coast offers a wide array of options from family beachside or historic exploring to relaxing beachside walking, to couples/girlfriend getaway time spent together. A few days will not be enough to dig deep into this vibrant community.

St. Augustine Historic and local culture

St. George St, downtown St. Augustine – visit the St. George historic district for the great shops, restaurants, nightlife and central hub of the community. From the central park area at the foot of the Lions Bridge, walk left and right through the maze of shops, museums and restaurants. The grand Lightner Museum, the stately Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine to the fortress Castillo San

Marcos are just a few of the historic must-sees within this colonial quarter. For the kids, add a visit to the Black Raven Pirate Ship for a hearty bit of pirating. [Note: our recommendation is to park across the Bay and walk the 10 minutes over the beautiful Lions Bridge for the ease of parking gridlock on weekends and high season. You’ll enjoy the night views of the city from the bridge].

Ponce De Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park – what’s a visit to St. Augustine without a drink from the fabled Fountain of Youth? Where Ponce De Leon landed in 1513 sits the legendary Spring of Eternal Hope flowing for centuries (that kid inside of you wants a sip) mythologically rumored to hold the key to eternal youth – kinda crazy if you missed it, right? The Archaeological site also houses structures, exhibits and excavations to educate and entertain you. [Note: The trolley tour has a major departure stop just up the street with an Old Jail, Oldest Store Museum, Snack shop and Spice & Tea Exchange. This is a great parking and departure stop to avoid the downtown congestion along the hop-on, hop-off trolley tour route the mile or so into the city. Consider stops at Ripleys, the Castillo or sin corner …]

“Sin Corner” – doesn’t that sound delicious? Well, it is! All within a block just outside the main historic downtown St. Augustine, the St. Augustine Distillery(with samplings), the San Sebastien Winery(with samplings) and Whetstone Chocolates (with samplings) are all in close proximity for a delightful afternoon of tasting and sinning. Just note that smack in the middle also sits the St. Augustine Police Department … do you think that was planned?

Live Theater - The performing arts are an important part of St. Augustine’s culture. The community Limelight Theatre has a full calendar of theatrical performance throughout the year. The theatre is in a 10,000-sq. ft., 125-seat facility producing shows on two stages.

Nights of Lights - Imagine walking across the Bridge of Lions and panning your horizon to 3 million lights wrapping historic St. Augustine. A timeless Spanish tradition that spans back the era of this historic city, through the beauty, scope and breathless twinkling views, this Christmas tradition takes the age-old tradition and explodes the event with it’s modern Night of Lights wonder.

And so much more … best resource is through Florida’s Historic Coast – Things to Do.

And consider we haven’t even begun with the Historic Coast beaches – the best beach to walk for miles, the best beach-house-gazing walk, the active hotspot to be scene, and the inactive secluded beach gem to just be one with the sand and surf.

St. Augustine getaway opportunities? There’s so much that you can do as a couple’s getaway, a girlfriend’s weekend catching up, and some restaurants with re-creatable recipes with local ingredients you can take home and continue to enjoy. You’ll have to stay tuned for our upcoming posts.

Have you enjoyed St. Augustine as a getaway destination? Was it the Night of Lights, the history and culture or the beaches that drew you there? We’d love to hear your experiences. Drop a comment below or connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.

http://www.gogirlfriend.com/reviews/floridas-historic-st-augustine-31540

https://etypeservices.com/SWF/LocalUser/Beaches1//Magazine215166/Full/index.aspx?II=215166

Discover St. Augustine's Old-World Charm Lost Girl Jen shares her favorite spots in the nation's oldest city.

By: Jennifer Baggett Brennan At the same time that my fellow Lost Girls and I uprooted our NYC lives to take a yearlong trip around the world, my parents decided to retire to St. Augustine, FL. Although it was sad to lose my childhood home, after living out of a backpack for 365 days with my 2 best friends, I discovered that I could carve out my own sense of home almost anywhere. Even in the most unlikely of places, like our volunteer hut in Kenya or the camper van that we drove up Australia’s east coast. And after numerous trips to St Augustine (including a few, month-long sabbaticals to pen The Lost Girls book), the city truly feels like home -- so much so that my now-husband, Kevin, and I just got married there in June, which afforded us the unique opportunity to experience the town as tourists alongside our closest family and friends. As the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine is rich on history, culture and old-world charm. With top tourist attractions like Flagler College, Fort Matanzas and the Fountain of Youth, coupled with pristine beaches, world-class golf courses and innumerable art galleries, restaurants and shops, this is one city worth exploring.

To help inspire your trip, here are my top St. Augustine picks:

1. Where to Slumber Painted against a backdrop of horse-drawn carriages, bubbling fountains and soaring palm trees, this 1888 historic hotel is an iconic landmark that blends old-world style with modern-day luxury. Boasting a regal lobby adorned with Moroccan frescos, exotic tapestries and sparkling chandeliers, 138 well-appointed guestrooms and a stylish antique car collection, the Casa Monica is the kind of place where men will feel inspired to sip bourbon at the handsome lobby bar while ladies can play the elegant Old Hollywood starlet, lounging poolside atop plush black-and-white striped cushions. Start your morning with an espresso and homemade pastry under a canopy of clouds at the property’s sidewalk café, and then peruse the 2 adjoining art galleries, featuring renowned collections of paintings, sculptures and jewelry. When night falls, delight in one of acclaimed chef Harlan Walden’s internationally-inspired dishes -- like the Kessler signature calamari or Bahamian lobster tail with crab risotto -- at the opulent 95 Cordova restaurant. Then retire to the glamorous Cobalt Lounge to mix and mingle with a stylish crowd, while sipping top-shelf martinis and swaying to the silky beats of top local jazz bands. No matter how you choose to indulge, rest assured that you’ll be treated like royalty.

2. Where to Dine Located on the lively and historic St. George Street, the Columbia is one of my favorite places to take first-time visitors to St. Augustine. Part of a distinguished line of family- owned restaurants (the original location founded in 1905 by Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez Sr.), the Columbia effortlessly blends the vibe of a beloved neighborhood establishment with a chic international supper club, complete with Spanish-style fountains, sun-drenched patios fringed with palms, a 2,200-bottle wine room and handmade cigars for purchase. Renowned for its enticing fusion of Spanish and Cuban cuisines, this downtown hot spot lures guests with its award- winning Original “1905” Salad, paella a la Valenciana, authentic flan and overflowing pitchers of sangrias, including one specialty recipe infused with Torres brandy, Torres orange liqueur and sparkling Cristalino Spanish cava. Whether you’re popping in for tapas and a glass of private label wine, lingering over a café con leche after a languid 3-course meal, or celebrating with a large party in the property’s newly designed sky-lit courtyard, the Columbia is sure the charm you.

3. Where to Sip A venerable Irish pub situated along the downtown waterfront, Meehan’s is the ideal spot to relax with a frosty pint of Guinness and unwind after a long day of sightseeing. Whether you prefer to sidle up to the stylish wooden bar in the main room and indulge in a glass of Midleton, unwind on the second-story balcony while soaking in sparkling views of the Matanzas Bay, or kick back with friends in the large open-air café and tropical bar in the backyard, Meehan’s convivial staff will ensure that you feel just like family -- and that you never leave their “home” hungry or thirsty. “We now have the most Irish whiskeys of any bar outside of Ireland -- over 50 total,” hails owner John Meehan. In addition to a robust menu of libations, Meehan’s also boasts a diverse selection of traditional Irish pub fare like corned beef and cabbage, and shepherd’s pie along with regional seafood favorites and signature dishes like mahi-mahi and the Galway seafood medley. Top all this off with an eclectic lineup of live music 4 nights a week, and you very well may want to set up camp at Meehan’s for the duration of your St. Augustine stay --as my wedding guests can certainly attest!

4. What to Do and See No visit to St. Augustine would be complete without a grand spin around the city perched on a tufted cushion aboard one of the area’s ubiquitous horse-drawn carriages. My favorite operator is Avalon Carriage Service, which offers an array of personally guided tours of historic downtown St. Augustine and a variety of unique (and very trusty) steeds. Whether you opt to climb aboard a vis-à-vis style sleigh, antique carriage or even a horse-drawn hay wagon or trolley, Avalon’s friendly drivers will transport you down narrow cobblestone streets -- and back in time -- for a 2 1/2- mile narrated journey past such historic sites and landmarks as the Cathedral Basilica, Lightner Museum, Flagler College, Castillo de San Marcos, the Florida National Guard headquarters and Bridge of Lions. For those celebrating a special event or visiting with a group, Avalon can design custom packages to meet all your needs.

https://www.travelchannel.com/destinations/us/fl/articles/discover-st-augustines-old-world-charm