The Charm of St. Augustine
Soak up culture and history with your pooch in enchanting St. Augustine
While St. Augustine may be known for its rich culture and history—founded in 1565 it is our nations oldest continuously occupied city— it is also an activity-filled haven for travelers looking to sightsee
and unwind with their pooch. From the charismatic bed and breakfasts catering to four-legged friends to the outdoor restaurants and attractions, St. Augustine offers a variety of Fido-friendly options to choose from.
 Choose to stay at the Inn on Charlotte, known for its top-notch food, or the Casablanca Inn, which boasts an outdoor martini bar and three Secret Garden Rooms with a yard that is perfect for doggie playtime. Other notable bed and breakfasts accepting pets with open arms include the laid-back Bayfront Marin House, quintessential Westcott House and friendly St. Francis Inn, which welcome pooches with a dog bone upon arrival. While all of these cozy and historical properties accept pets, some have pet fees and size limits so it is best to check before booking.
With all these inns located in the heart of St. Augustine’s historical district, you will be at leisure to clip on Fido’s leash and take a stroll through the 400-year-old “Old Town” and along the waterfront. Visit lively St. George Street – a pedestrian street lined with shops and restaurants and soak in the sun with your pup at the various parks surrounding Flagler College, located on the site of the historic Ponce de Leon Hotel, and the Lightner Museum.
For history buffs, you won’t want to miss the Castillo de San Marcos on the edge of the water or the famed Fountain of Youth, where even dogs can have a sip of the supposed magical water. Once you’ve tired of walking, hop on an Old Town Trolley Tour or horse-drawn carriage, two unique transports options that provide guides well schooled in St. Augustine’s history. After you are saturated with stories of the Spaniards and Timucua Indians, indulge in a little shopping at the
clothing and accessory boutiques on King Street and consignment shops speckled throughout Old Town. Even Fido can enjoy a little retail therapy at Paradise Poochie.
Located on Cordova Street, this dog emporium offers everything from spa products and toys to gourmet dog biscuits. After a full day of sightseeing and shopping, try a taste
of the local seafood at O.C. White’s where you and your pup can people watch on the quaint outdoor patio. Scarlett O’Hara’s Bar and Restaurant, housed in a 1879 building
overlooking Hypolita Street, also welcomes dogs on the outdoor wooden porch and offers live entertainment after sunset.
From the charming accommodations to the numerous attractions, St. Augustine is a wonderful spot for you and your furry friend to enjoy a bit of history coupled with some well-deserved rest and relaxation. Add in the great Florida weather and you have a destination you’ll want to
return to again and again.
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