St. Augustine, Florida, isn’t just America’s oldest city—it’s also a lively hub for a variety of tours and experiences that cater to history lovers, adventure seekers, and those just looking to enjoy some fun. What makes St. Augustine stand out is its rich blend of historic sites, eerie legends, and lively entertainment, all easily accessible with guided tours and local experiences. We particularly like the Waterfront and Downtown Golf Cart Tour because it combines the city’s biggest landmarks with a relaxed pace, and the Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise for a peaceful yet lively way to unwind at the end of the day. Plus, the Haunted Pub Crawl offers an authentic taste of the city’s spooky side—perfect for those who enjoy a little ghostly thrill.
If you’re planning a trip, these tours are perfect for making your visit memorable. Whether you want to learn about pirates, explore haunted streets, or sip spirits in style, there’s something here for everyone.
1. St. Augustine: Waterfront and Downtown Golf Cart Tour
At number 1, the St. Augustine: Waterfront and Downtown Golf Cart Tour offers an engaging way to see the city’s historic sights without walking miles. For just $32 per person, this 1-hour electric golf cart ride takes you through the ancient streets with a certified guide who can bring history alive with stories and insights. The open-cabin design makes it easy to take in the scenery and snap complimentary photos.
What makes this tour stand out? It’s the combination of comfort and educational value—riding the narrow streets alongside a guide who points out landmarks like the Old Jail and Hotel Ponce de Leon, along with Spanish and British colonial architecture. It’s a perfect introduction for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to get a real feel for the city. Reviewers love the ease and the friendly guide, with a 4.7/5 rating based on 79 reviews, praising it as both fun and informative.
Bottom line: This tour offers an efficient, relaxed way to see key attractions with personal commentary. Ideal if you prefer exploring in comfort and want plenty of photo opportunities.
2. St. Augustine: Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise
Number 2 on our list, the Black Raven Tropical Sunset Cruise is a 2-hour escape on the Matanzas River. For $32 per person, you’ll enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of a pirate ship while taking in some of the most beautiful sunset views in the area. The vibe is Caribbean-inspired, with music, drinks from a fully stocked bar, and a chance to see dolphins feeding during the cruise.
This experience is especially good for couples or groups wanting a relaxing evening with a bit of adventure. The boat’s pirate theme adds a fun twist, and the views of the historic city from the water are spectacular. Rated 4.5/5 based on 138 reviews, many travelers comment on the friendly crew and the peaceful mood as the sun dips below the horizon. It’s a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Bottom line: Perfect for a romantic or laid-back evening, this cruise combines scenic beauty with a casual, beachy vibe that’s hard to beat.
3. St. Augustine: Torture Museum, Ghost Hunt, & Tiny Art Tickets
At number 3, the Torture Museum, Ghost Hunt, & Tiny Art Tickets offers a spine-chilling mix of medieval history and supernatural fun for $25 per person. This audio-guided tour takes you through exhibits on gruesome moments from human history, combining academic research with visceral displays. The Ghost Hunting Experience using an AR app adds an interactive element that appeals to thrill-seekers.
This tour’s uniqueness lies in its combination of medieval torture devices, ghost hunting, and a tiny art gallery, making it a well-rounded creepy experience. The reviews highlight its detailed presentation and the scary rooms that really test your courage. Many mention the staff’s friendly and helpful attitude, with a 4.5/5 rating from 52 reviews.
Bottom line: If you’re into history with a dark twist or love supernatural adventures, this tour offers an engaging and memorable experience without breaking the bank.
4. St. Augustine Distillery: A Bourbon & Chocolate Pairing
Number 4, the St. Augustine Distillery: A Bourbon & Chocolate Pairing blends flavors in a 30-minute tasting for $28 per person. This tour focuses on the art of pairing spirits with food, where guides introduce you to the nuances of flavor profiles through a curated tasting experience. It’s ideal for those interested in spirits, food pairing, or just a refined tasting session.
What makes this tour special? It’s the combination of education and sensory exploration. Visitors learn how to match their favorite spirits with different dishes and discover the tasting wheel to identify flavor profiles. The staff’s passion and knowledge shine through, earning it a 4.7/5 rating from 26 reviews.
Bottom line: Best suited for food and drink enthusiasts who want to deepen their understanding of spirits and enjoy a quick but engaging tasting experience.
5. St. Augustine: The Black Raven Rum Runners Pirate Show (21+)
Number 5 is the adult-only pirate show on the Black Raven Rum Runners, a lively 1.5-hour performance on a real pirate ship. For $32, expect a raunchy, humorous mix of songs, jokes, and skits with a pirate crew that makes no bones about being for adults only.
What sets this apart is the interactive, energetic atmosphere and the fully licensed bar on board. It’s like a fun, swashbuckling comedy show with plenty of laughs and a bit of spice. Rated 4.2/5 from 113 reviews, many find it a hilarious and memorable experience—perfect for those who enjoy lively entertainment and a bit of bawdy humor.
Bottom line: If you’re after an unconventional, fun night out with a pirate twist, this adult show fits the bill.
6. St. Augustine: Haunted Pub Crawl
Number 6, the Haunted Pub Crawl, is a 2-hour adventure through the city’s most haunted bars for $35 per person. With chilling ghost stories and visits to eerie pubs, this tour is perfect for those who like their drinks served with a side of spooky tales.
Rated 4.1/5 based on 37 reviews, travelers love the storytelling and the chance to explore St. Augustine’s haunted side. It’s a fun, social way to experience the city’s nightlife while uncovering its ghostly legends.
Bottom line: Ideal for groups that enjoy storytelling, spirits, and a little ghostly mystery on a relaxed walking tour.
7. St. Augustine Oldest Store Museum Experience
Number 7 is the Old Store Museum Experience, a charming step back to 1900 where you can see the latest inventions and consumer miracles of the era. For just $16, this day-long experience offers fascinating demonstrations of early 20th-century innovations like worm syrup and goat-powered washing machines.
This museum is especially good for families and history buffs curious about everyday life in the early 1900s. The interactive demonstrations and authentic setting make it a fun way to learn about the consumer boom of that era. Rated 4.8/5 from 5 reviews, visitors appreciate the unique, hands-on approach.
Bottom line: Perfect for a family outing or history lover interested in early 20th-century innovations and everyday life.
8. St. Augustine: Old City Phantoms, Pirates, and Poltergeists
Number 8, Old City Phantoms, Pirates, and Poltergeists is a 1-hour walking tour of the city’s darkest legends. Explore haunted hotspots like Casa de la Paz and The Casablanca Inn, with a guide who shares spooky tales of war, pirates, and vengeful spirits.
Rated 4.3/5 by 10 reviewers, this tour is appreciated for its storytelling and atmospheric stops. It’s a great pick for those wanting a quick but chilling taste of St. Augustine’s ghostly past.
Bottom line: A solid choice for history and ghost story fans who want a short, spooky stroll through the city’s haunted streets.
9. St. Augustine: Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour with a Guide
This Haunted Pub Crawl is a guided 2.5-hour tour through historic pubs, where stories of ghosts and spirits unfold behind every drink. For $30 per person, you’ll visit several pubs with a knowledgeable guide who shares the city’s haunted drinkery secrets.
Rated 4.1/5, this tour is praised for its mix of fun, storytelling, and the chance to raise a glass in eerie surroundings. It’s perfect for those who enjoy exploring local nightlife with a spooky twist.
Bottom line: A lively way to combine pub-hopping with ghost stories—great for groups wanting a mix of fun and fright.
10. St. Augustine: Family-Friendly Guided Ghost Tour
Finally, the Family-Friendly Guided Ghost Tour offers a 1.5-hour walk through the Colonial Quarter, visiting haunted landmarks like Castillo de San Marcos and Huguenot Cemetery. For $25 per person, this tour balances spooky stories with historical facts suitable for all ages.
Rated 4.2/5, families appreciate its engaging storytelling and the opportunity to see some of the city’s most iconic sites while exploring its supernatural tales.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for families or anyone interested in a slightly spooky but educational experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing the perfect experience depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. For a quick intro, the Golf Cart Tour offers comfort and depth in 1 hour. If you love a peaceful evening, the Sunset Cruise provides stunning views and a relaxed vibe. For those fascinated by ghost stories and spooky history, the Haunted Pub Crawl or Old City Phantoms Tour are excellent options. Want to learn about spirits and food? The Distillery tasting is hard to beat. And if your family wants a fun, educational day, the Old Store Museum is perfect.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, and consider combining experiences—for example, pairing the Ghost Tour with a pub crawl for a full spooky night.
St. Augustine offers a wide range of tours and experiences that bring its history, legends, and lively spirit to life. Whether you choose a scenic water cruise, a haunted walk, or a pirate show, you’re sure to find something memorable. For history, fun, or fright, these tours give you a true taste of the city’s unique character. Pick what suits your style, and don’t forget to book in advance—you’ll thank yourself when you arrive ready for adventure.