St. Augustine: Walking Tour With Wine, Cocktails, And Food

Discover the historic charm of St. Augustine through a guided walking tour that immerses you in the city’s vibrant downtown. Stroll along the cobblestone streets of Aviles Street, the oldest in the United States, and explore the impressive Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century Spanish fortress. Indulge in a curated selection of the city’s signature dishes, locally sourced wines, and expertly crafted cocktails, showcasing the rich culinary heritage and lively hospitality of this coastal gem. As you learn about the city’s vibrant history, architecture, and local culture, you’ll uncover an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager to discover more.

Key Points

Explore the historic downtown district, including the oldest street in the U.S., the Old City Gates, and the Castillo de San Marcos.
Savor a selection of the city’s signature dishes, expertly paired with local wines and unique cocktails.
Discover the vibrant Aviles Street, with its charming historic buildings, art galleries, and lively atmosphere.
Appreciate the architectural and strategic significance of the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century Spanish fortress.
Immerse in the region’s rich culinary and winemaking heritage through a guided tasting experience.

Explore Historic Downtown

Participants begin their immersive journey through St. Augustine’s historic downtown district, strolling along Aviles Street – the oldest street in the United States, brimming with colonial-era charm and architectural wonders.

As they wander, they’ll encounter the striking Old City Gates, a remnant of the city’s fortified past. Nearby, the Castillo de San Marcos stands as a testament to Spain’s colonial influence, its coquina walls gleaming in the Florida sun.

In the lively Plaza de la Constitucion, participants learn about the city’s rich history while taking in the vibrant atmosphere.

This walking tour offers an engaging exploration of St. Augustine’s captivating past, immersing visitors in the historic heart of the nation’s oldest city.

Savor Local Cuisine

As the tour progresses, participants indulge in a tantalizing array of local culinary delights, sipping on a refreshing glass of wine and two expertly crafted cocktails that showcase the region’s flavors.

The guided walking experience offers a chance to savor the rich history and vibrant culture of St. Augustine through its food and drink.

Highlights include:

Tasting a selection of the city’s signature dishes, showcasing the diverse influences that have shaped the local cuisine
Sipping on a glass of expertly chosen wine, highlighting the region’s winemaking heritage
Enjoying two unique cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients, providing a flavorful twist on classic mixology
Discovering hidden gem eateries and learning about the stories behind the city’s most iconic culinary establishments
Experiencing the lively atmosphere and friendly hospitality that make St. Augustine a true foodie’s paradise.

Discover Aviles Street

Winding along the cobblestone streets, Aviles Street stands as the oldest in St. Augustine, a testament to the city’s rich Spanish heritage.

Visitors stroll past charming historic buildings, peeking into quaint art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants that showcase the vibrant character of this singular thoroughfare. The tour guide points out architectural details, sharing stories of the street’s colorful past.

Guests pause to admire the intricate wrought-iron balconies and whitewashed facades, imagining the sights and sounds of bygone eras.

As they amble along, the group takes in the lively atmosphere, with local musicians and street performers adding to the lively ambiance. Aviles Street offers a glimpse into St. Augustine’s enduring spirit and cultural tapestry.

Admire Castillo De San Marcos

The towering Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress, stands as a testament to St. Augustine’s Spanish colonial heritage, its coquina walls weathered by the passage of time.

Visitors marvel at the impressive structure, tracing its imposing bulwarks and exploring the network of courtyards, halls, and gun decks that housed the city’s former defenders.

From the summit, they gaze out over the shimmering Matanzas Bay, gaining a newfound appreciation for the strategic importance this landmark once held.

The tour highlights include:

Admiring the Castillo’s distinctive architecture and craftsmanship
Learning about its role in the city’s defense and military history
Discovering the underground cisterns and powder magazines
Exploring the panoramic views from the gun deck
Imagining the daily life of the soldiers who once occupied the fortress

Enjoy Wine and Cocktails

After exploring the impressive Castillo de San Marcos, the tour winds its way through the historic downtown district.

Participants can look forward to savoring a glass of locally sourced wine and two carefully crafted cocktails.

These beverages provide a delightful complement to the culinary tastings, offering a chance to sample the flavors that have helped shape St. Augustine’s vibrant food and drink scene.

The wine, selected from nearby vineyards, showcases the region’s terroir and winemaking traditions.

The cocktails, made with locally distilled spirits and fresh, seasonal ingredients, highlight the creativity and skill of the city’s bartenders.

This tasting experience allows visitors to fully enjoy the rich cultural and gastronomic heritage of St. Augustine.

Accessibility and Dietary Accommodations

Despite the historic nature of the walking tour, it remains wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors of all abilities to fully enjoy the charm and history of St. Augustine’s downtown.

While the tour accommodates vegetarian participants, it doesn’t cater to other dietary restrictions, so those with specific needs should inquire prior to booking.

The tour’s accessibility and dietary considerations include:

Wheelchair-friendly route through the historic district
Knowledgeable guide who can assist participants as needed
Adaptable pacing to ensure a comfortable experience
Vegetarian food tastings available upon request
Advance notice required for any special dietary requirements

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Booking the St. Augustine walking tour with wine, cocktails, and food is a straightforward process that allows visitors to reserve their spot with ease.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for those who need to adjust their plans.

To book, customers can simply reserve their spot now and pay later, ensuring they can secure their place without an immediate financial commitment. This convenient option makes it simple to plan ahead and ensures the tour doesn’t sell out before they’re ready to finalize their purchase.

With the ability to cancel with no penalty, guests can feel confident in their booking and focus on anticipating the exciting highlights of the tour.

Tour Duration and Group Size

The St. Augustine walking tour with wine, cocktails, and food is a 3.5-hour experience that takes visitors on an immersive journey through the historic downtown district, with a small group limited to just 8 participants.

This intimate setting allows for a personalized and engaging exploration of the city’s rich history and local flavors.

Some key features of the tour include:

A leisurely pace that invites participants to soak in the sights and sounds of the oldest city in the United States
Wheelchair accessibility, ensuring accessibility for all
Opportunities to savor a variety of local cuisine, including a glass of wine and two cocktails
A knowledgeable guide who brings the city’s past to life with captivating stories and insights
A focus on creating a comfortable, memorable experience for every participant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages?

No, participants cannot bring their own alcoholic beverages on this guided tour. The tour includes one glass of wine and two cocktails, which are provided as part of the experience. Outside alcohol is not permitted.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, as the guide wants participants to capture the historic sights and vibrant atmosphere. However, visitors should be mindful not to disrupt the group or block others’ views.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

Yes, there is a minimum age requirement for participants. The tour is only open to those 21 and older, as it includes the tasting of alcoholic beverages such as wine and cocktails.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour is designed for a small group experience, and having pets present could be disruptive. Participants must be 21 or older, and the focus is on experiencing the local food, drinks, and history.

Is Gratuity for the Guide Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price does not include gratuity for the guide. Participants are expected to tip the guide an additional amount, typically 15-20% of the tour price, to show appreciation for their expertise and service during the walking tour.