Experiencing St. Augustine with Kids in 2025: A Family-Friendly Guide to Florida’s Oldest City
St. Augustine, Florida, is a treasure trove of history, charm, and coastal beauty, making it an ideal destination for families with young children in 2025. As the nation’s oldest city, it blends 450 years of history with kid-friendly adventures, delicious dining, unique shopping, and pristine beaches. My family and I recently spent a week exploring this vibrant city, and I’m excited to share a guide to help you create unforgettable memories with your little ones while keeping safety and fun at the forefront.
Exploring St. Augustine’s Family-Friendly Attractions
Our adventure began in the heart of St. Augustine’s Historic District, where the cobblestone streets and colonial architecture instantly transported us back in time. For families, the key is finding attractions that captivate both kids and adults while being safe and manageable for little ones. The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument was our first stop. This 17th-century fortress, with its wide-open courtyards and cannon-firing demonstrations, was a hit with my five-year-old, who loved pretending to be a pirate defending the fort. The grassy areas around the fort are perfect for toddlers to run around safely, and the low walls are easy for parents to navigate with strollers. Admission is $15 for adults, but kids under 15 are free, making it budget-friendly. Just keep a close eye on little ones near the fort’s edges, as some areas overlook the water.
Next, we visited the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, a must for any family with young buccaneers. The interactive exhibits, like the treasure hunt and cannon-firing simulation, kept our kids engaged for hours. The museum is stroller-accessible, and the staff offers kid-friendly scavenger hunts that make exploring the pirate history fun and educational. Pro tip: book tickets online to save time, as it can get busy during peak hours.
For a dose of wildlife, the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park was a highlight. My kids were thrilled to see alligators, lemurs, and even a komodo dragon. The park’s elevated walkways are safe for small children, and the daily alligator feeding shows (check the schedule for times) are both exciting and educational. The splash pad and shaded picnic areas are perfect for breaks, ensuring the kids stay cool and comfortable. Admission is around $35 for adults and $20 for kids, but it’s worth every penny for a full day of fun.
If your family loves hands-on experiences, the Marineland Dolphin Adventure is a short drive from downtown. Here, kids can watch dolphins swim and even participate in touch-and-feed programs (ages 5 and up, with parental supervision). The facility is clean, safe, and designed with families in mind, with plenty of shaded areas and restrooms. It’s a bit pricier, but the memories of your kids giggling as dolphins splash them are priceless.
Dining with Little Foodies in St. Augustine
Finding family-friendly dining in St. Augustine is a breeze, with plenty of restaurants offering kid’s menus, high chairs, and relaxed vibes. Our go-to spot was The Floridian, located on Spanish Street in the Historic District. This farm-to-table restaurant serves Southern-inspired dishes with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options, which was a relief for our picky eater. The kids loved the mini sliders, and the outdoor patio was perfect for keeping them entertained while we enjoyed shrimp and grits. The staff was patient and even brought crayons to keep the kids busy.
For a beachside meal, The Beachcomber on A1A Beach Boulevard was a winner. Just steps from St. Augustine Beach, it offers a laid-back atmosphere with ocean views. The kids’ menu includes classics like chicken tenders and mac ‘n’ cheese, while parents can savor fresh seafood like the Baja fish sandwich. The outdoor seating is great for families, as kids can wiggle without disturbing other diners. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends, and bring a change of clothes if you plan to hit the beach afterward.
For a sweet treat, Cousteau’s Waffle and Ice Cream on Anastasia Boulevard is a must. Their fluffy waffles topped with ice cream were a hit with our kids, and the bright, colorful shop is stroller-friendly. It’s a great spot for a quick dessert break after exploring nearby Anastasia State Park. Just be mindful of sugary meltdowns—maybe limit the toppings for the littlest ones!
Shopping for Family Treasures
St. Augustine’s shopping scene is perfect for families looking to pick up unique souvenirs without overwhelming young kids. St. George Street, a pedestrian-only stretch in the Historic District, is lined with charming shops that are easy to navigate with a stroller. We stopped at The Key Lime Shop, where the kids were delighted by key lime candies and cookies. The shop’s small size means you can browse quickly, and the friendly staff often hands out samples, which kept our kids happy.
For beach gear and fun trinkets, Alvin’s Island on A1A Beach Boulevard is a one-stop shop. From sandcastle kits to colorful beach towels, it has everything you need for a day by the ocean. The store is spacious, making it easy to maneuver with kids, and the prices are reasonable. We grabbed a bucket and shovel set for under $10, which kept our toddler entertained for hours.
If you’re near Vilano Beach, check out the Vilano Beach Main Street Market. Held on select weekends, this farmers market offers local crafts, fresh produce, and kid-friendly snacks like homemade popsicles. It’s a great way to soak up the community vibe while letting the kids explore safely in an open-air setting. Always check the market’s schedule online, as dates vary.
Beach Days Done Right
St. Augustine’s beaches are a major draw for families, offering soft sand, gentle waves, and plenty of space for kids to play. St. Augustine Beach is our top pick for families due to its wide shores and family-friendly amenities. The St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park has a splash pad, playground, and picnic tables, all within a short walk from the beach. The hard-packed sand is ideal for stroller walks, and the lifeguard stations provide peace of mind. Parking can be tight during peak times, so arrive before 10 a.m. to secure a spot. Public restrooms and showers are clean and convenient, but bring sunscreen and hats, as shade is limited.
For a quieter experience, Anastasia State Park is a gem. The park’s 1,600 acres include four miles of pristine beach, nature trails, and a playground. The calm waters are perfect for young swimmers, and the park’s rental shop offers kayaks and paddleboards for older kids. The $8 per vehicle entry fee is a steal for a full day of fun. Pack a picnic and plenty of water, as the park’s snack bar is limited. Always check tide schedules, as high tides can reduce beach space, especially near the full moon.
If you’re staying near Vilano Beach, the Vilano Beach Pier offers stunning sunset views and a safe, sandy area for kids to play. The beach allows vehicle access (four-wheel drive recommended), but we preferred walking to avoid the crowds. The nearby restaurants, like Beaches at Vilano, make it easy to grab lunch without leaving the coastal vibe.
Safety Tips for a Stress-Free Trip
Safety is key when traveling with small kids. St. Augustine’s Historic District is pedestrian-friendly, but the narrow streets can be crowded, so hold hands or use a stroller harness. At the beach, always stay within arm’s reach of young children near the water, and check for rip current warnings. Most attractions are stroller-accessible, but cobblestone streets can be bumpy, so a sturdy stroller is best. For dining, call ahead to confirm high chair availability, especially at smaller restaurants. Finally, keep a small first-aid kit and extra snacks on hand—kids can be unpredictable!
Wrapping Up Your St. Augustine Adventure
St. Augustine in 2025 is a family paradise, blending history, adventure, and relaxation. From exploring pirate museums to building sandcastles on the beach, there’s something for every young explorer. The city’s welcoming vibe, combined with its safe, family-friendly attractions, dining, and shopping, makes it an ideal spot for creating lifelong memories. Plan your trip, pack your sunscreen, and get ready for a St. Augustine adventure your kids will talk about for years to come!
Our adventure began in the heart of St. Augustine’s Historic District, where the cobblestone streets and colonial architecture instantly transported us back in time. For families, the key is finding attractions that captivate both kids and adults while being safe and manageable for little ones. The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument was our first stop. This 17th-century fortress, with its wide-open courtyards and cannon-firing demonstrations, was a hit with my five-year-old, who loved pretending to be a pirate defending the fort. The grassy areas around the fort are perfect for toddlers to run around safely, and the low walls are easy for parents to navigate with strollers. Admission is $15 for adults, but kids under 15 are free, making it budget-friendly. Just keep a close eye on little ones near the fort’s edges, as some areas overlook the water.
Next, we visited the St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, a must for any family with young buccaneers. The interactive exhibits, like the treasure hunt and cannon-firing simulation, kept our kids engaged for hours. The museum is stroller-accessible, and the staff offers kid-friendly scavenger hunts that make exploring the pirate history fun and educational. Pro tip: book tickets online to save time, as it can get busy during peak hours.
For a dose of wildlife, the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park was a highlight. My kids were thrilled to see alligators, lemurs, and even a komodo dragon. The park’s elevated walkways are safe for small children, and the daily alligator feeding shows (check the schedule for times) are both exciting and educational. The splash pad and shaded picnic areas are perfect for breaks, ensuring the kids stay cool and comfortable. Admission is around $35 for adults and $20 for kids, but it’s worth every penny for a full day of fun.
If your family loves hands-on experiences, the Marineland Dolphin Adventure is a short drive from downtown. Here, kids can watch dolphins swim and even participate in touch-and-feed programs (ages 5 and up, with parental supervision). The facility is clean, safe, and designed with families in mind, with plenty of shaded areas and restrooms. It’s a bit pricier, but the memories of your kids giggling as dolphins splash them are priceless.
Dining with Little Foodies in St. Augustine
Finding family-friendly dining in St. Augustine is a breeze, with plenty of restaurants offering kid’s menus, high chairs, and relaxed vibes. Our go-to spot was The Floridian, located on Spanish Street in the Historic District. This farm-to-table restaurant serves Southern-inspired dishes with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options, which was a relief for our picky eater. The kids loved the mini sliders, and the outdoor patio was perfect for keeping them entertained while we enjoyed shrimp and grits. The staff was patient and even brought crayons to keep the kids busy.
For a beachside meal, The Beachcomber on A1A Beach Boulevard was a winner. Just steps from St. Augustine Beach, it offers a laid-back atmosphere with ocean views. The kids’ menu includes classics like chicken tenders and mac ‘n’ cheese, while parents can savor fresh seafood like the Baja fish sandwich. The outdoor seating is great for families, as kids can wiggle without disturbing other diners. Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends, and bring a change of clothes if you plan to hit the beach afterward.
For a sweet treat, Cousteau’s Waffle and Ice Cream on Anastasia Boulevard is a must. Their fluffy waffles topped with ice cream were a hit with our kids, and the bright, colorful shop is stroller-friendly. It’s a great spot for a quick dessert break after exploring nearby Anastasia State Park. Just be mindful of sugary meltdowns—maybe limit the toppings for the littlest ones!
Shopping for Family Treasures
St. Augustine’s shopping scene is perfect for families looking to pick up unique souvenirs without overwhelming young kids. St. George Street, a pedestrian-only stretch in the Historic District, is lined with charming shops that are easy to navigate with a stroller. We stopped at The Key Lime Shop, where the kids were delighted by key lime candies and cookies. The shop’s small size means you can browse quickly, and the friendly staff often hands out samples, which kept our kids happy.
For beach gear and fun trinkets, Alvin’s Island on A1A Beach Boulevard is a one-stop shop. From sandcastle kits to colorful beach towels, it has everything you need for a day by the ocean. The store is spacious, making it easy to maneuver with kids, and the prices are reasonable. We grabbed a bucket and shovel set for under $10, which kept our toddler entertained for hours.
If you’re near Vilano Beach, check out the Vilano Beach Main Street Market. Held on select weekends, this farmers market offers local crafts, fresh produce, and kid-friendly snacks like homemade popsicles. It’s a great way to soak up the community vibe while letting the kids explore safely in an open-air setting. Always check the market’s schedule online, as dates vary.
Beach Days Done Right
St. Augustine’s beaches are a major draw for families, offering soft sand, gentle waves, and plenty of space for kids to play. St. Augustine Beach is our top pick for families due to its wide shores and family-friendly amenities. The St. Johns County Ocean Pier Park has a splash pad, playground, and picnic tables, all within a short walk from the beach. The hard-packed sand is ideal for stroller walks, and the lifeguard stations provide peace of mind. Parking can be tight during peak times, so arrive before 10 a.m. to secure a spot. Public restrooms and showers are clean and convenient, but bring sunscreen and hats, as shade is limited.
For a quieter experience, Anastasia State Park is a gem. The park’s 1,600 acres include four miles of pristine beach, nature trails, and a playground. The calm waters are perfect for young swimmers, and the park’s rental shop offers kayaks and paddleboards for older kids. The $8 per vehicle entry fee is a steal for a full day of fun. Pack a picnic and plenty of water, as the park’s snack bar is limited. Always check tide schedules, as high tides can reduce beach space, especially near the full moon.
If you’re staying near Vilano Beach, the Vilano Beach Pier offers stunning sunset views and a safe, sandy area for kids to play. The beach allows vehicle access (four-wheel drive recommended), but we preferred walking to avoid the crowds. The nearby restaurants, like Beaches at Vilano, make it easy to grab lunch without leaving the coastal vibe.
Safety Tips for a Stress-Free Trip
Safety is key when traveling with small kids. St. Augustine’s Historic District is pedestrian-friendly, but the narrow streets can be crowded, so hold hands or use a stroller harness. At the beach, always stay within arm’s reach of young children near the water, and check for rip current warnings. Most attractions are stroller-accessible, but cobblestone streets can be bumpy, so a sturdy stroller is best. For dining, call ahead to confirm high chair availability, especially at smaller restaurants. Finally, keep a small first-aid kit and extra snacks on hand—kids can be unpredictable!
Wrapping Up Your St. Augustine Adventure
St. Augustine in 2025 is a family paradise, blending history, adventure, and relaxation. From exploring pirate museums to building sandcastles on the beach, there’s something for every young explorer. The city’s welcoming vibe, combined with its safe, family-friendly attractions, dining, and shopping, makes it an ideal spot for creating lifelong memories. Plan your trip, pack your sunscreen, and get ready for a St. Augustine adventure your kids will talk about for years to come!