St. Augustine, Florida, is a city that practically breathes history. Sitting on the Atlantic coast, it’s the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in the U.S., with a legacy stretching back over 450 years. Its streets are packed with Spanish colonial architecture, historic forts, and stories of pirates, explorers, and empire shifts. For travelers eager to uncover this rich past, the city offers a variety of guided tours that bring its stories to life. Whether you’re interested in walking through historic districts, tasting locally distilled bourbon, or exploring craft breweries, St. Augustine’s tours offer authentic insights and memorable experiences.
What sets these tours apart is their focus on specific aspects of history, from architecture to spirits, often led by passionate guides with a wealth of local knowledge. Planning your trip becomes easier when you know what each experience offers, helping you pick the perfect tour based on your interests, time, and budget. Below, we cover the three best historical tours in St. Augustine, providing details on what makes each unique and why they’re worth your time.
1. St. Augustine: Guided History Walking Tour
At number one on our list is the St. Augustine: Guided History Walking Tour. For around $33 per person, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours strolling through the Historic District, exploring the streets where history was made. This tour is perfect if you want an overview of the city’s evolution under three different empires over 450 years. Your guide will point out iconic sights like the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest stone fortress in the U.S., and share stories behind the city’s Spanish, British, and American periods.
What makes this tour stand out is the mix of interesting storytelling and practical recommendations. Guests frequently mention how knowledgeable and personable guides like Alex and Amy are—offering tips on the best local spots to eat and drink. The small-group setting ensures an intimate experience, and you’ll enjoy the views of the harbor along the way. The highlight is learning how the city’s architecture and culture reflect centuries of change.
This tour is ideal for history lovers who want a comprehensive, easy way to see the core of St. Augustine. It suits travelers with limited time but a desire to grasp the city’s layered past. The reviews are excellent, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5, driven by guides’ enthusiasm and depth of knowledge.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a lively, guided introduction to St. Augustine’s most famous sights and stories, this walking tour delivers a friendly, well-informed experience.
2. Saint Augustine: Bourbon History and Tasting Experience
For those interested in spirits, the Bourbon History and Tasting Experience is a top pick. Priced at $37 per person and lasting about an hour, this tour offers an intimate glimpse into bourbon’s history at the Saint Augustine Distillery. Guided by a knowledgeable host, you’ll explore each step of the distillation process, learning about the craft behind this locally produced spirit.
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of education and tasting. You’ll sample a selection of premium bourbons, gaining a deeper appreciation for the spirit’s nuances. The tour also emphasizes bourbon’s historical significance, tying it to Texas and American culture. Reviews highlight Melody’s personable approach and the thoroughness of the explanation, whether you’re a bourbon novice or a seasoned drinker.
This tour appeals to those who enjoy spirits and want a behind-the-scenes look at a modern distillery rooted in history. It’s perfect for small groups seeking a relaxed, educational experience with a bit of tasting fun. The high rating (5/5) reflects how much visitors appreciate the mix of storytelling and sampling, making it a great value.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy learning about spirits and want to taste some well-crafted bourbon in a friendly setting, this tour offers a memorable experience and insight into Florida’s distilling scene.
3. St. Augustine: Craft Beer & History Walking Tour
For beer enthusiasts, the Craft Beer & History Walking Tour is a lively way to combine history and local brews. Costing $119 per person and lasting around 3 hours, this tour is designed for those who want a longer, more immersive outing. It features up to 12 beer tastings across several historic breweries, all within the context of St. Augustine’s storied streets.
Led by knowledgeable guides like Alex and Russ, this small-group tour explores the city’s craft beer scene and shares stories about its historical development. The tour includes a delicious food pairing at the second stop, adding to the flavor of both the drinks and the stories. Guests appreciate the friendly atmosphere, the variety of beers, and the chance to learn some local history while sampling.
While it’s priced higher, the tour offers a well-rounded experience for beer lovers who value quality tastings and engaging storytelling. Reviewers praise the guide’s engaging style and the fun, educational nature of the tour. It’s best suited for active travelers with an interest in craft beer and historical streets who don’t mind a longer outing.
Bottom Line: If you’re passionate about craft beer and want to enjoy a social, informative experience in a historic setting, this tour combines the best of both worlds.
How to Choose
When deciding among these tours, consider your interests, budget, and available time. The Guided History Walking Tour suits travelers who want a quick, well-rounded introduction to the city’s past. If spirits fascinate you, the Bourbon Tasting Experience offers an insider’s look at bourbon’s history along with tastings. For those who prefer a more relaxed, social outing centered around local brews, the Craft Beer & History Tour provides a longer, more immersive experience.
Consider booking early, especially for the craft beer tour, which is popular and limited to small groups. Think about your physical comfort—walking tours involve some strolling, but the bourbon experience is more seated and behind-the-scenes. And remember, some tours include food pairings or tastings, adding extra value.
Final Thoughts
St. Augustine’s diverse array of historical tours ensures there’s something for every curiosity. Whether you want a quick overview of the city’s three-century transformation, an in-depth bourbon tasting, or a beer-themed stroll through historic streets, these options cover all bases. The walking tour provides a great starting point for history newcomers, while the bourbon and craft beer experiences appeal to those interested in local spirits and brewing traditions.
For travelers eager to dive into the past and enjoy some local flavors, booking early can help secure spots on these popular tours. Each offers a unique lens into St. Augustine’s story — choose the one that best matches your interests and schedule, and you’ll leave with a richer appreciation of this charming city’s layers of history.