The 8 Best City Tours in St Augustine
St. Augustine, Florida, stands out as the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the United States. Its cobblestone streets, historic forts, and haunted cemeteries attract travelers eager to step back into centuries past. Unlike many cities that simply offer a map and a guidebook, St. Augustine lets you experience its story through immersive, thoughtfully curated tours. Whether you’re into ghost stories, pirate lore, or historical secrets, the city’s tour options are tailored to different interests, making it easy to find a memorable way to explore.
For those of us who enjoy storytelling, authentic encounters, and a touch of the mysterious, city tours in St. Augustine are an excellent way to deepen your understanding of this unique place. Many tours highlight intricate details—like the dark corners of its illegal gambling past or the spiritual whispers from haunted cemeteries—that you won’t find in standard guidebooks. Planning your experience is simple, as most tours are easy to book and often fall within a reasonable price range. Now, let’s dive into the eight top options that will help you get the most out of your visit.
1. Walking Tour in North City Cemeteries of St. Augustine
This Walking Tour in North City Cemeteries takes you through some of the oldest burial sites in the city, revealing stories that date back to 1565. The tour lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours and covers sites like Tolomato Cemetery, Huguenot Cemetery, the Oldest Wooden School House, and even the Castillo de San Marcos. What sets this tour apart is its focus on both the history and legends of the city, shared by a guide who enjoys storytelling that’s both spooky and fascinating.
The tour is very active—expect to be on your feet, walking through historic neighborhoods and cemeteries. Visitors rave about Ephraim’s storytelling ability, with many citing the tour as a deeply informative experience that brings the city’s past alive. Highlights include the story of the legend of eternal love and the chance to explore the Old Wooden School House for a glimpse of Spanish colonial life. Costing only $25 per person, it offers excellent value for an intimate and detailed look at St. Augustine’s past. This tour is particularly suitable for history buffs and those interested in ghost lore, as well as anyone wanting a more physical and engaging way to see the city’s oldest sites. Bottom line: a lively introduction to the city’s haunted and historical sites, perfect for active explorers.
2. Wicked St. Augustine: Bootleggers, Brothels & Gambling in the Ancient City
For a look at the shadowy underbelly of St. Augustine, check out Wicked St. Augustine. Priced at $30, this 1.5-hour tour dives into the city’s less-than-honest past, focusing on prohibition-era speakeasies, illegal gambling halls, and brothels. It’s ideal for those who already know the basic history and want to explore the city’s darker side.
The tour highlights landmarks like Flagler College and the Lightner Museum, where stories of secret clubs and gambling rings come to life. Guides share tales of upscale private clubs and underworld activities that thrived with the political support of local authorities. The tour’s strength lies in its focused narrative on the city’s underground economy, making it perfect for history enthusiasts who enjoy tales of vice and intrigue. The reviews praise Ann’s storytelling, with many saying it offers “a new understanding” of St. Augustine’s history. It’s not a long tour, but for $30, it provides rich insights into the city’s less polished history. Best suited for curious travelers who want a different perspective on this old city, rather than a broad overview.
3. Ancient City Tarot Walk and Ghost Stroll in St. Augustine
The Ancient City Tarot Walk and Ghost Stroll offers a unique blend of ghost stories, tarot readings, and dark history. For around $27, you’ll walk through haunted sites like Huguenot Cemetery and Tolomato Cemetery while your guide interprets the city’s spooky past through divine tarot card readings.
This tour is notable for its mystical twist—using tarot cards to connect with the city’s spirits and legends. Your guide offers insights into ghost sightings and folklore, including stories about ghostly apparitions and legendary hauntings. The tour lasts just over an hour, making it a manageable option for an evening activity. Reviewers mention the tour’s engaging storytelling style, with one calling it “a fascinating mix of history, spirituality, and fun.” It’s ideal for those interested in paranormal tales and mystical experiences, especially if you want to add some intrigue to your haunted walks. The blend of dark history and tarot makes this a memorable experience for open-minded explorers seeking something different.
4. Old City Ghosts: Phantom Pirates & Poltergeists Tour
For a quick dive into the spookier tales of St. Augustine, try the Old City Ghosts: Phantom Pirates & Poltergeists Tour. Priced at $24 for just an hour, this tour takes you after dark through St. George Street, exploring stories of pirates, vengeful spirits, and unexplained phenomena.
Highlights include stops at the Casa de la Paz, known for its ghostly footsteps and shadowy figures, and the Casablanca Inn, famous for the apparition of a lantern-bearing ghost. The guide shares tales of pirate legends and phantoms lurking in historic buildings, creating an atmospheric experience. This tour suits those looking for a short, thrilling encounter with the supernatural. Visitors often praise the lively storytelling and the atmospheric setting of a city lit by lanterns at night. If you’re short on time but want a good ghost story, this one hits the mark. Its downside is that it’s only an hour, so you might miss out on more detailed tales for those seeking a deeper dive.
5. St. Augustine: Old City World of Pirates Experience
For an interactive, pirate-themed walk, the Old City World of Pirates Experience offers a lively 2-hour tour. This is less of a typical history walk and more of an entertaining adventure filled with stories about pirates, shipwrecks, and the city’s maritime past.
The tour involves visiting notable landmarks like the Black Raven Pirate Ship and hearing tales about pirate life in St. Augustine. Guides weave in historical facts with pirate lore, making it ideal for families or kids interested in swashbuckling stories. The tour’s longer duration and immersive storytelling make it a comprehensive option for those wanting to soak in the city’s pirate heritage. Reviewers mention their appreciation for the engaging narrative and how it makes history fun. At $24, it offers a good value for those seeking an interactive experience rather than a formal history lesson. This tour is perfect for families or anyone wanting a lively, themed exploration of the city’s maritime past.
6. St. Augustine Private Historic City Tour
Looking for a personalized experience? The St. Augustine Private Historic City Tour offers a tailored 1-hour journey in an eco-friendly electric Moke. At $38, it’s a slightly higher price but includes customized attention and flexible pacing.
Your guide takes you through the Castillo de San Marcos, Flagler College, and St. George Street, tailoring the narration to your interests. The private format means fewer distractions and more chances to ask questions. Visitors appreciate the personalized approach and the ability to explore at your own pace, especially if you prefer a more relaxed, intimate tour. The guide also shares stories of seiges and ghost sightings, adding a spooky touch. The downside is the brief duration, so it’s best suited for travelers who want a quick, flexible overview rather than an exhaustive exploration. For $38, it’s a good choice if you value private, tailor-made experiences.
7. Fun City Scavenger Hunt in St. Augustine by Zombie Scavengers
If you prefer a self-guided adventure, the Fun City Scavenger Hunt offers a lively way to explore. For $20 per group, it’s a zombie-themed challenge that takes about an hour and involves solving clues and completing challenges.
It’s ideal for groups looking for a fun, active way to see the city’s landmarks. The app-based format makes it easy to start and pause, and the challenges are designed to be entertaining rather than purely educational. Reviewers say it’s perfect for families or groups wanting a lighthearted, interactive experience. It’s not a traditional tour, but it adds a playful twist to sightseeing. Its main drawback is its reliance on a smartphone app and the fact that younger children might find the challenges a bit much. Still, for $20, it provides a unique, team-building activity that’s a break from more formal walking tours.
8. Scavenger Hunt: Key To The City Scavenger Hunt
Finally, the Key To The City Scavenger Hunt offers a two-hour adventure for just $10 per group. It encourages participants to solve clues, complete challenges, and discover hidden landmarks across the city.
It’s suitable for those who enjoy competitive, puzzle-based activities. The format promotes teamwork, making it a good choice for families, friends, or coworkers. However, with a lower rating and limited reviews, it may not be as polished as some other options. It’s best for budget-conscious travelers seeking a quick, fun way to learn about St. Augustine’s history and secrets. If you’re interested in combining exploration with a bit of friendly competition, this is a nice, affordable option.
How to Choose the Best Tour in St. Augustine
Choosing the right tour depends on what you’re after. If you love history and ghost stories, the Walking Tour in North City Cemeteries is a top pick for its depth and storytelling. Want to explore the city’s darker, criminal past? The Wicked St. Augustine offers a fascinating look at its seedy side. For a mystical experience, the Tarot Walk and Ghost Stroll merges paranormal tales with tarot readings.
If your main goal is spooky stories after dark, the Old City Ghosts provides a quick but atmospheric tour. For a Pirates of the Coast theme, the Old City Pirate Experience combines storytelling with interactive fun. Those seeking a personalized, private tour should consider the Private City Tour, perfect for small groups wanting tailored attention.
For active, fun exploration, the Zombie Scavenger Hunt and Key to the City Hunt add playfulness and teamwork to sightseeing.
Final Thoughts
St. Augustine offers a surprisingly diverse range of tours that cater to different interests and activity levels. Whether you’re drawn to its haunted cemeteries, pirate legends, or secret underground activities, there’s a tour that will enrich your visit. The Walking Tour in North City Cemeteries is perfect for history lovers who want a detailed, active experience, while the Wicked St. Augustine offers a glimpse into the city’s darker past for those curious about its secret stories. If you enjoy a mix of paranormal and mystical elements, the Tarot Walk delivers a memorable night.
Booking early is wise, especially for the more popular or private options, as these tours tend to fill up quickly during peak seasons. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, ghost hunter, or family seeking fun, these tours provide a well-rounded way to experience the depth and character of St. Augustine. Choose the one that best fits your interests, and enjoy uncovering the many layers of this intriguing city.