If you’re visiting the historic city of St. Augustine, known for its Spanish colonial architecture and coastal charm, you might think you’ve seen it all. But this Side Streets and Secrets Tour offers a different perspective—one that takes you off the main paths and into the city’s lesser-known treasures. Led by knowledgeable guides, this 1.5-hour adventure costs $33 per person and promises a mix of history, mystery, and fun.
What we love most about this experience is how it balances well-known landmarks with obscure spots that most travelers miss—like the quirky Ronnoc’s Trading Post and the historic Spanish Military Hospital. The guides are enthusiastic and eager to share stories that breathe new life into familiar sights. Plus, the tour’s small group size (max 14 travelers) makes it intimate enough for questions and personalized insights.
One consideration is the tour’s focus on hidden secrets, which means some stops might feel more like surprises than fully fleshed-out visits. If you’re expecting a deep dive into each site, this might be more of an overview, but for those wanting a taste of the city’s lesser-seen sides, it’s perfect.
This tour suits curious travelers who enjoy discovering local stories, hidden corners, and unique artifacts. It’s especially appealing for history buffs, those interested in authentic, less commercialized experiences, and anyone who appreciates a good story told with enthusiasm.
Key Points
- Unique Off-the-Beaten-Path Stops: Visit lesser-known sites like Ronnoc’s Trading Post and the Spanish Military Hospital.
- Authentic Local Stories: Guides share insider secrets and untold tales that change your perspective on St. Augustine.
- Short but Rich Experience: At 1.5 hours, it’s a compact tour packed with interesting sights and stories.
- Affordable Price: For just $33, you get a curated experience that combines history, mystery, and local flavor.
- Small Group Atmosphere: Max 14 travelers, making the tour intimate and flexible for questions.
- Convenient Ending Location: Wraps up at the Governor’s House, within walking distance of shops and dining.
A Deep Dive into the Side Streets and Secrets Tour
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An Introduction to the Tour Experience
This tour begins at 2 Cuna Street, a central location in St. Augustine’s historic district, and moves through some of the city’s most intriguing side streets and hidden corners. For 1.5 hours, you join a small group led by guides eager to reveal the untold stories behind familiar sights and introduce you to obscure treasures.
The tour is priced at $33 per person, which, when you consider the number of stops packed into such a short period, offers good value. You get to see several important sites, each with its own story or secret, and enjoy the company of a small group, which allows for more interaction and personalized attention.
The Highlights of the Itinerary
Castillo de San Marcos
The tour kicks off at Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S., built in the 1600s. Although it’s a well-known landmark, the guide might share lesser-known facts—such as how the fort’s coquina stone actually absorbs cannon fire, making it uniquely resilient. We loved how our guide explained the fort’s role in defending the city from pirates and invaders, adding layers of context to what might seem like just an old fortress.
Saint Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine
Next, you’ll slip into the Saint Photios Shrine, tucked away but rich in culture. It’s a quiet oasis with Byzantine-style frescoes, perfect for appreciating a different cultural facet of St. Augustine. You’ll learn about the Greek community’s history here, which is often overlooked in general tours.
Ronnoc’s Trading Post
One of the tour’s real treats is Ronnoc’s Trading Post. Walking into this vintage shop feels like stepping back in time. It’s packed with eclectic antiques, curiosities, and local legends. The guide told us how this place feels like a treasure chest of vintage oddities, making it a fun stop for collectors or anyone curious about local stories. Travelers often comment on its quirky vibe, with one noting, “It’s like a capsule of history and whimsy all in one place.”
The Spanish Military Hospital Museum
Then, the tour takes a fascinating turn with a visit to the Spanish Military Hospital. Here, you might witness live surgical demonstrations or explore herbal remedies used in colonial medicine—an eye-opening look into healthcare from centuries past. The reconstructed hospital rooms give a tangible sense of what life was like for colonial patients and doctors, adding authenticity to the experience.
Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum
Finally, the tour concludes at the Governor’s House, once home to colonial governors. You’ll explore its historic architecture and peaceful courtyard, often described as a “hidden gem.” The guide shared stories about its past residents, offering a glimpse into colonial governance and social life.
Practical Details and Traveler Experience
The tour operates at 10:00 am, a good time to beat the heat and still have the rest of your day free for exploring. It’s suitable for most travelers since the tour is wheelchair accessible and service animals are allowed. With a maximum of 14 participants, the experience feels personal and engaging, rather than rushed or overcrowded.
The price of $33 is quite reasonable considering the stops and insider stories shared. Since it’s a shorter tour, it fits well into a busy day of sightseeing, or as a relaxing way to get a different perspective of the city.
Authentic Insights and Reviews
While there are no formal reviews yet, the description emphasizes the “unique adventure” on “the road less traveled.” Travelers can expect a lively, discovery-focused experience that feeds curiosity rather than just ticking off sights. The emphasis on uncovering secrets suggests a playful, storytelling approach that makes history come alive.
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Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect for those who enjoy uncovering hidden stories and exploring beyond the typical tourist spots. If you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of quirky shops like Ronnoc’s, or simply curious about local legends, this tour will satisfy your appetite for authentic, off-the-beaten-path insights. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small groups, personalized stories, and a mix of history, culture, and fun surprises.
The Sum Up
The St. Augustine Side Streets and Secrets Tour offers a refreshing, intimate look at the city’s lesser-known sights and stories. It’s a well-priced, engaging experience that combines historic landmarks with quirky, obscure spots that most visitors overlook. With knowledgeable guides, a small-group setting, and a variety of stops, it provides a layered understanding of St. Augustine’s rich past.
Whether you’re a history buff, a curious explorer, or someone who loves discovering hidden corners, this tour delivers a meaningful glimpse into the city’s secret stories and overlooked treasures. It’s a fantastic way to add depth and personality to your visit—without breaking the bank.
FAQs
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a perfect short activity that can fit into a busy sightseeing day.
What is the price and what does it include?
The tour costs $33 per person and includes guide-led exploration of multiple sites, some with admission tickets included, like the Saint Photios Shrine, Ronnoc’s Trading Post, the Spanish Military Hospital, and the Governor’s House.
Are there any physical requirements?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility considerations, as it is wheelchair accessible. Service animals are allowed.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 2 Cuna Street and ends at the Governor’s House Cultural Center and Museum on King Street, which is a short walk from the starting point and close to shops and restaurants.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s content and duration suggest it’s best suited for older children or teens interested in history and stories.
This Side Streets and Secrets Tour promises a lively, authentic peek into St. Augustine’s lesser-known stories and hidden gems, perfect for curious travelers eager to see the city through a different lens.