From Orlando: St Augustine Tour and Pirate & Treasure Museum - The Experience of Firing a Cannon

From Orlando: St Augustine Tour and Pirate & Treasure Museum

Imagine stepping back in time to the Golden Age of Piracy while exploring the oldest town in the United States. For $119, you can spend around 12 hours soaking in history, legends, and charming colonial streets without the hassle of planning transportation or tickets. Led by friendly guides, this tour offers not only a visit to the Pirate & Treasure Museum but also ample time to wander St. Augustine’s cobblestone streets, shop, and dine.

Two things we especially like are the hands-on experience at the museum, where you can fire a real cannon, and the easy, stress-free transportation that lets you relax and focus on the sights. However, keep in mind that this is a full-day trip, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with long hours and a lot of walking or exploring on your own. This tour suits history buffs, families, and anyone looking for an engaging, authentic taste of Florida’s oldest city.

Key Points

From Orlando: St Augustine Tour and Pirate & Treasure Museum - Key Points

  • Historic St. Augustine is filled with charming cobblestone streets and colonial architecture.
  • The Pirate & Treasure Museum offers interactive exhibits and authentic pirate artifacts.
  • You’ll get to fire a real cannon, adding a fun and memorable element.
  • The tour provides round-trip transportation, making logistics simple.
  • Free time allows for shopping, dining, and further exploration.
  • The experience is ideal for families, history lovers, and curious travelers.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Oldest Town in the U.S.

When we think about Florida, beaches and theme parks often come to mind. But St. Augustine, founded in 1565, is a treasure trove of history with a laid-back Southern charm. On this tour, you’ll get to walk the same streets explorers once did, lined with pastel-colored buildings, historic landmarks, and cozy cafes. The guided tour’s driver/guide is there to help you navigate and explain, ensuring you don’t miss the stories behind each alley or architectural detail.

While you’re free to explore at your own pace, the highlights are the visit to the Pirate & Treasure Museum and the chance to see, touch, and even fire a real cannon—a hit especially with kids or anyone who loves maritime adventures.

The Pirate & Treasure Museum: A Hands-On Dive into Piracy

From Orlando: St Augustine Tour and Pirate & Treasure Museum - The Pirate & Treasure Museum: A Hands-On Dive into Piracy

This museum, recognized as one of the best in the world by the New York Post, boasts one of the largest collections of authentic pirate artifacts and shipwreck treasures. It’s a delightful mix of history and entertainment, with interactive displays that make learning fun for all ages. Kids and adults alike can enjoy the hands-on exhibits and the chance to fire a cannon, which is a real highlight.

The museum’s collection is so extensive that it appeals to history buffs, with displays of authentic relics, and to those simply curious about pirates’ legends. Guest reviews point out how engaging and informative the experience is, with Grecia from Ecuador mentioning how the story is interesting and the landscapes are beautiful—though she was referencing the overall experience, which includes the museum and town.

The Experience of Firing a Cannon

From Orlando: St Augustine Tour and Pirate & Treasure Museum - The Experience of Firing a Cannon

One of the unique features of this tour is the opportunity to fire a real cannon. It’s an authentic touch that transport you from simply viewing artifacts to actively participating in history. For many, this is a once-in-a-lifetime moment that adds a dash of excitement and a sense of connection to the maritime past.

Free Time to Explore and Shop

After the museum visit, your guide will give you time to wander the streets of St. Augustine. You’ll find a variety of charming shops, cafes, and restaurants—perfect for a leisurely lunch or a quick snack. Some of the best moments come from simply soaking in the atmosphere, watching street performers, or browsing local crafts in the gift shops.

This free time is also valuable for those who want to revisit a favorite spot, take photos, or explore additional landmarks on their own—your guide’s assistance helps ensure you’re back on schedule.

More Great Tours Nearby

Transportation and Group Size

Travel logistics are made easy with round-trip transportation from Orlando. The pickups are available at several convenient locations, including hotels and popular spots like Icon Park and Disney resorts. The small group size of up to 14 participants means you’ll get personal attention from your guide, making the experience more intimate and flexible.

The driver/guide wears a Gray Line uniform, and they’re there to help with questions or recommendations, making the journey comfortable and relaxed.

Price and Value

At $119 per person, this tour offers good value for a full day of sightseeing, museum access, and unique pirate experiences. When you consider the cost of individual museum tickets, transportation, and the effort involved in planning a day trip, this package streamlines it all into one affordable package. Plus, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and book now/pay later, there’s flexibility built into the booking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families with kids, history enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a mix of education and fun. The hands-on elements, like firing a cannon, and the scenic, walkable streets of St. Augustine make it engaging for all ages. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer a guided, organized trip that takes care of logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights.

The Sum Up

From Orlando: St Augustine Tour and Pirate & Treasure Museum - The Sum Up

In all, this tour balances entertainment and education with ease and affordability. You’ll get a taste of Florida’s oldest city, complete with charming streets and historic sites, coupled with the excitement of pirate lore and interactive exhibits. The round-trip transportation, small group size, and flexible options make it a practical choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free day.

While it’s a long day, the variety of experiences—from wandering colonial streets to firing a cannon—keeps it lively. It’s perfect for those who want a rich slice of history, a dash of adventure, and a relaxed, guided experience that hits all the highlights.

If you’re eager for a family-friendly, engaging day exploring Florida’s past and pirate legends, this tour is a strong choice. It offers genuine experiences that make history come alive, all wrapped in a well-organized package that keeps logistics simple.

FAQs

From Orlando: St Augustine Tour and Pirate & Treasure Museum - FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Orlando is included, with pickups at several convenient locations.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 12 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

What is the group size?
The group is limited to 14 participants, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended for the walking and outdoor parts of the day.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring a snack or plan to dine while exploring St. Augustine.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the interactive museum and cannon firing are likely to appeal to kids, but consider their stamina for a long day.

Where do I meet the guide for pickup?
Guide pickup points include hotels like the Royal Pacific Resort, Avanti Palms, Icon Park, and others. You should contact the provider to confirm your pickup location and time.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in English, with a knowledgeable guide explaining the sights and stories.

This tour offers a well-rounded, engaging day that combines history, adventure, and leisure. Whether you’re a history buff, a family looking for fun, or someone eager to see the oldest parts of the country, it’s a trip that’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: