Every tourist destination has its attractions. However, because every tourist is different, these attractions have greater or lesser value. In this series Gary gives his reasons for traveling to a particular place. Hopefully some of his thoughts will entice you to consider adding this particular place to your itinerary. The entire series is being categorized under the heading, “Spotlights.” You may find more information about these locations in the archives of this website, under headings such as, “Great Places,” “Things to Do in,” “Best of,” “Top 10” and “Places of a Lifetime.” In addition, there may be “Walking Tours” of these places available for purchase on the website for the low price of $1.49 each.

St Augustine is the oldest city in the United States. It was founded by Ponce de Leon in 1513. The charming Spanish-inspired town offers many activities for the traveler and is well worth an overnight stay. Include St Augustine in your Florida plans for at least the following reasons:

1. Castillo de San Marco is a vintage Spanish fort, significantly different from typical forts in the United States.

Castillo de San Marcos

2. The St Augustine Cathedral is imposing and typical of Spanish churches elsewhere.

St Augustine Cathedral

3. Flagler University bears the name of the man who put St Augustine on the tourist map, railroad tycoon Henry Flagler. Take a tour of the university to see evidence of when the main buildings were part of an exclusive resort for the very rich.

Flagler College Courtyard

4. The Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche is the oldest shrine dedicated to the Virgin Mary in the United States. It dates to 1598, although the present structure replaced the original.

Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche