Other Sites of Special Interest to the History Buff

Fountain of Youth Park. This is a fun historical adventure for the St. Augustine visitor. This ancient site had been home to the Timucuan Indians for centuries before the Spaniards' arrival in 1565, and Indian burials on the site proved their dominance. The original colony of San Agustin, the oldest European settlement in America that survived the centuries, was founded down by the river on the Fountain of Youth grounds. There are many other things of historical import here. Exhibit areas and statuary mix with exotic birds and artifacts such as huge bronze pots and cannons. Spanish music filters softly over the grounds' graveled walkways. Be sure to go to the Springhouse to get a drink from the legendary Fountain of Youth! It may not be the best-tasting water you’ll ever have (actually, far from it!) but it is a good way to appreciate the symbolism of the site. A small lunch stand and a large gift shop are available on the premises.

Huguenot Cemetery. Paying tribute to the 16th century French settlers, the Protestant cemetery, originally constructed outside of St. Augustine's gates, was opened in the mid 1800s for yellow fever victims. The small cemetery is cloaked in shade and its ancient wooden and wrought-iron gates are sometimes open to visitors. Just off St. Augustine's bustling St. George Street, the Huguenot Cemetery is an oasis of calm reflection.

St. George Street is always flooded with tourists, and from personal experience I would suggest going early in the morning, as soon as the street opens. There will usually only be a few people out at this time, giving you ample times to explore the colonial restored homes and the beautifully manicured rows of palm trees. Most of the stores along the street open their doors around 10:00 A.M. The distinct architecture give this district its charm. The buildings of the Spanish Quarter are visible over the high walls, and sometimes you can peer in a window and see a colonial kitchen or garden.