Journey Through Time Historical Expedition

When you think of St. Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., you imagine centuries of stories waiting to be uncovered. The Journey Through Time Historical Expedition offers a well-rounded way to explore the city’s historic streets, from its colonial origins to pirate legends, all for around $250 per person. Over two days, with stops at iconic sites, interactive museums, and spooky ghost tours, you get a taste of what makes this city so captivating. The experience is guided by knowledgeable hosts, with plenty of free time to wander on your own, making it ideal for travelers who want structure but also room for spontaneous discoveries.

We especially love how this tour breaks the city into manageable chunks—half-day visits to key landmarks mean you’re not rushing through everything in one exhausting day. Plus, the inclusion of fun attractions like Potter’s Wax Museum and the Oldest Wooden School House means you’ll see a variety of facets of St. Augustine’s history. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that some might find the itinerary a bit packed, with a lot of attractions in quick succession, so comfortable footwear is definitely a must.

This tour suits history enthusiasts, families, or anyone interested in a comprehensive yet relaxed way to understand St. Augustine’s layered story. If you appreciate guided storytelling, interactive exhibits, and an authentic local vibe, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Balanced Schedule: Combines guided visits with free time for exploring independently.
• Diverse Attractions: Includes historic sites, museums, and ghost stories for a well-rounded experience.
• Local Guides: knowledgeable storytellers who enhance the experience with engaging histories.
• Value for Price: At $250, access to multiple sites with tickets included offers good value.
• Comfort & Accessibility: Expect around 2.5 miles of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for all ages, especially those interested in history and legends.

Starting Point and Overall Structure

This two-day experience begins at Ancient City Tours on St. George Street, right in the heart of downtown St. Augustine. The tour is designed to balance structured visits with some flexibility, giving you time to explore on your own during the day. The group size is capped at 15 travelers, which means your guide can give personalized attention and stories, avoiding the feeling of being just another face in a crowd.

The cost of $250 includes entrance tickets to all the major sites, which some travelers find a good deal considering the number of attractions covered. However, remember that gratuities for guides are encouraged but not included, so tipping is a nice gesture for excellent storytelling and service.

Day 1: Stepping into the Past

Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

Your journey kicks off at Fountain of Youth, a site that claims to be the birthplace of St. Augustine in 1565. This spot is more than just a touristy fountain—it’s a living history of early European settlement and Native American presence, notably the Timucua Indian Village. You’ll see demonstrations, such as cannon firings, and can even taste the legendary water. The free onsite parking is a bonus, making logistics easier.

The park offers engaging insights into how the city’s founders viewed their new world, blending archaeology with entertainment. We love the way this site sets the tone—history rooted in legend but backed by archaeological evidence.

Pirate & Treasure Museum

Next up is Pat Croce’s Pirate & Treasure Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of authentic pirate artifacts. The exhibits are both fun and educational, with interactive elements like the Book of Pirates and Blackbeard’s last battle sound experience. You can even peer into a real pirate treasure chest or see one of only three 17th-century Jolly Rogers.

This museum is especially loved for its dynamic storytelling, making pirates less of a caricature and more of a real-life adventure. One reviewer notes, “The museum was a fun, interactive experience,” perfect for families or anyone with a sense of humor.

Colonial Quarter

After pirates, it’s time to explore Colonial Quarter, a living history site that takes you back over 300 years. You can watch blacksmithing, participate in colonial trades, and learn about daily life in early Florida. It’s an opportunity to see how colonists lived, worked, and fought.

The site’s immersive approach helps you understand the challenges and resilience of early settlers. We appreciate how this stop makes history tangible, not just a series of dates and names.

Ancient City Tours Walking Tour

The day wraps up with an audio-guided walking tour through St. Augustine’s historic streets. Covering roughly 2.5 miles, it’s a great way to see the exterior of landmarks, hear stories from your guide, and get a sense of the city’s layout.

The walk is leisurely but involves some cobblestone streets, so comfortable shoes are a must. A reviewer mentions, “The tour was a good mix of guided storytelling and self-guided exploration,” highlighting its flexibility.

Day 2: Ghosts, Wrecks, and Curiosities

St. Augustine Shipwreck Museum

Starting your second day, the Shipwreck Museum offers a fascinating look at maritime disasters that have shaped the coast. Despite its small size, the exhibits are packed with artifacts, and the Titanic steps set a dramatic scene. You’ll learn about various shipwrecks, from Spanish galleons to modern tragedies.

The dig-for-treasure activity back outside adds a hands-on element that kids and adults alike enjoy. A reviewer calls it “fun-packed and informative,” making it ideal for a family-friendly morning.

A Ghostly Encounter

Next, the ghost tour takes you through cemeteries, city gates, and the grounds of the Old Fort. Guides like Brenda and Brian are praised for their storytelling skills and deep knowledge of St. Augustine’s darker side. It’s not a jump-scare horror show but rather a narrated walk through the city’s mysterious legends.

The tour lasts about 90 minutes, walking less than a mile, which keeps it accessible. Many find it adds a spooky flavor to the city’s history, with some reviewers noting, “The ghost stories were especially creepy and memorable.”

Ripley’s Believe It or Not

The day concludes with Ripley’s Believe It or Not, a fun, interactive collection of oddities and curiosities. From bizarre art to strange artifacts, it’s a lighthearted way to end the tour. It’s especially suited for those curious about the strange and unusual, which adds a playful contrast to the previous historical stops.

This two-day package offers a comprehensive look at St. Augustine, with tickets, guided stories, and entrance fees included. The price might seem high at first glance, but when you consider the number of sites and experiences, plus the informative guides, it’s a solid deal. It eliminates the hassle of buying individual tickets and planning each part separately.

The guided storytelling is often highlighted as a major strength. Understandably, many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm—making history come alive rather than just reading plaques. Plus, the combination of museums, outdoor sites, and ghost stories means you’re engaging multiple senses and interests.

However, the walking component is significant—2.5 miles on Day 1 and less than 2 miles on Day 2—so good footwear is essential. Also, the tour is best suited for those who enjoy history, legends, and interactive activities. It might be too much for travelers seeking a very relaxed or purely self-guided experience.

If you’re a history enthusiast, this tour offers an engaging, well-structured way to absorb St. Augustine’s past. Families will appreciate the variety—educational yet fun, with activities like treasure digging and ghost stories. The pace and range of attractions make it ideal for those who want a deep dive without feeling overwhelmed.

Those looking for a blend of guided storytelling and free exploration will find this approach perfect. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, leisurely visit with less walking, or if you’re on a very tight schedule, you might want to pick and choose parts of the itinerary.

The Journey Through Time Historical Expedition is a well-rounded, engaging way to experience St. Augustine. It combines history, legend, and interactive fun, making it suitable for first-time visitors wanting a thorough overview. The guides’ stories add a lively touch, turning the city’s landmarks into stories you’ll remember.

For families or curious travelers who want a bit of everything—museums, outdoor sites, ghost tales—this tour offers good value. Its structure makes it easier to explore the city’s highlights without feeling lost or rushed.

On the other hand, if you prefer your travel slow and unstructured, or if you have mobility concerns, you might want to customize your visit with fewer stops or spread it out over more days. Still, for those eager to get a comprehensive introduction to St. Augustine’s past, this tour hits most marks.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, many aspects of the tour, especially activities like treasure digging and the pirate museum, are family-friendly. The ghost tour is also designed to be spooky but not frightening, making it suitable for most ages.

How much walking is involved?
On Day 1, there is about 2.5 miles of walking during the outdoor and guided tours. Day 2 involves less than a mile on foot during the ghost walk. Comfortable footwear is recommended for both days.

Are meals or snacks included?
The tour price does not include meals or snacks. You’ll have time to explore on your own between stops, so you might want to bring water or a snack.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but given the walking involved, it’s best for those with moderate mobility. It’s advisable to contact the provider for specific concerns.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
The tour runs from June 2024 through April 2026, and the hours are open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Spring and fall might offer more comfortable weather, making outdoor parts more enjoyable.

Whether you’re a history buff, a curious explorer, or a family looking for an engaging way to discover St. Augustine, the Journey Through Time Historical Expedition promises an immersive, fun, and educational experience. It’s a chance to walk through centuries of stories, legends, and legends, all wrapped into one memorable adventure.