St. Augustine Kids Attractions: 8 Ways to Explore as a Family

St. Augustine has been named one of the amazing U.S. cities by Time magazine due to its history and architecture. However, families come for a different reason. They flock to the area to explore beaches and fun activities. In fact, there are tons of attractions to keep little ones active and entertained. Keep reading for the top St. Augustine kids attractions and plan a memorable adventure.

St. Augustine Kids Attractions: Family-friendly Things To Do

St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park

It’s easy to go wild at St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, which specializes in crocodiles. They claim to be the only place families can see every living species of crocodile, and many residents live in the land of crocodiles. Even better, there’s more to see here.

The park also has alligators, exotic birds, small primates, turtles and reptiles. Families roam over 25 exhibits, learn about animals, and try hands-on activities. Dig for fossils, watch feedings, take photos and see live shows. After the exhibits, schedule a ziplining adventure through the zoo.

St. Augustine Wild Reserve

A favorite among the top St. Augustine kids attractions, this spot doubles as a refuge and educational spot. St. Augustine Wild Reserve helps rescue exotic animals that no longer have homes or owners surrender. Guests should note the reserve is not fully open to the public, but offers two-hour tours by appointment on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. VIP tours are available on Friday by appointment.

On the tour, see exotic cats – such as lions, tigers, ligers and cougars – as well as bears, wolves and birds. To keep animals comfortable, photography is not allowed, but guests can purchase photos at an affordable price.

Visit Spacious Beaches

With a location on Florida’s east coast, it’s easy to soak up the sun. Top St. Augustine beaches welcome all ages to relax and play in the warm sunshine.

Not sure where to go? Crescent Beach has wide spaces and a relaxed vibe. St. Augustine Beach features a park, fishing pier and volleyball court, seaside restaurants, and plenty of space. Vilano Beach sits north of historic district and offers a prime spot for surfing. Other beaches include GTM Guana River South Beach, Mickler’s Landing, North Beach and South Ponte Vedra Beach.

St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum

Ahoy! It’s always an adventure at St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum. This interactive St. Augustine kids attraction celebrates 300 years of pirate culture and showcases over 800 authentic artifacts.

Exhibits include shipwreck island with a real treasure chest, famous pirates, a gun deck with cannon, and discovery drawers. In addition, families watch a 3D audio show of Blackbeard’s Final Battle.

Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

Located on the city’s original site where Juan Ponce de Leon first explored in 1513, this park features history and beauty. Families enjoy 15 acres packed full of exhibits, buildings and live demonstrations. See where European settlers lived in the 1500s. Watch blacksmiths turn metal into tools. Then learn how to navigate using the stars. And don’t forget the 30 peacocks that show off stunning colors.

This is just the start. Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park also has cannon firing, a Fountain of Youth, mission church and watchtower.

Black Raven Pirate Ship

If on-land adventures aren’t enough, book a pirate voyage with Black Raven. This ship joins Queen Anne’s Revenge on a treasure hunt with sword fights and cannon fire.

Suitable for all ages, Black Raven Pirate Ship offers a 1.5-hour tour on open waters complete with jokes and free face-painting. Kids even receive their own sword training.

Ripley’s Believe It Or Not

Start with dozens of mind-boggling exhibits and illusions. Examples include the world’s tallest man, historic oddities, a house carved from a tree, artwork and cultural artifacts.

While Ripley’s has museum locations throughout the world, the St. Augustine location also has train adventures and mini golf. Red Train Tours explore over 20 historic sites and restaurants. Or play a round of mini-golf on the bay. Additionally, Ripley’s Ghost Train ranks among the best St. Augustine ghost tours.

Potters Wax Museum

A favorite St. Augustine kids attraction for over 50 years, Potter’s Wax Museum was the first established wax museum in the U.S., and features over 150 figures. From actors and athletes to Roman Centurions, families love seeing famous figures and snapping photos.

A few exhibits include Michael Jordan, Britney Spears, Elvis, Leonardo da Vinci and Harry Potter. In addition, Potter’s Wax Museum has a section dedicated to horror with classic and modern favorites.

Free Fun for Families

As an added bonus, those who book a St. Augustine vacation rental benefit from free fun. The Xplorie free fun program gives guests daily free admission to some of these St. Augustine kids attractions, golf, train rides and more.

Want more things to do? Check out the top St. Augustine sites for history lovers.