Living in Sanford, FL, means I’m always on the lookout for exciting and affordable nearby adventures. St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest city, is just an hour and a half away and makes for the perfect day trip without breaking the bank. With a little planning, I spent the entire day soaking up history, enjoying delicious eats, and exploring beautiful sights—all for under $100! Here’s how I did it.
Affordable Transportation
Gas prices fluctuate, but with my fuel-efficient car, I spent about $20 round-trip on gas. If you’re traveling with a friend, splitting the cost makes it even more budget-friendly. Parking downtown can be expensive, so I parked for free at the Historic Downtown Parking Facility and walked to most attractions.
Exploring Historic St. Augustine
One of the best things about St. Augustine is that so many of its attractions are free or low-cost. Walking along St. George Street, a historic pedestrian-only road lined with charming shops and street performers, was a great way to soak in the city’s atmosphere at no cost.
Next, I visited the Castillo de San Marcos, the famous 17th-century Spanish fort. Entry is $15, but since I arrived on a fee-free day, I paid nothing! The fort’s history and breathtaking waterfront views made it well worth the stop.
Tasty and Affordable Eats
For lunch, I grabbed a delicious Cuban sandwich at a local café for $12. Instead of splurging on an expensive sit-down meal, I opted for casual dining, which saved both time and money. Later in the day, I treated myself to an ice cream cone for $5, because what’s a day trip without dessert?
More Sights and Hidden Gems
I took a free self-guided tour of the historic Flagler College, admiring its stunning architecture. Then, I visited the St. Augustine Distillery, which offers free tastings and tours. The staff was friendly, and I learned a lot about Florida’s unique distilling process!
To end the day, I strolled along the waterfront, taking in views of the Bridge of Lions and Matanzas Bay. Before heading back to Sanford, I made one last stop at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum. Instead of paying the full admission, I opted to explore the surrounding park and take photos for free.
Final Budget Breakdown
- Gas: $20
- Parking: Free
- Castillo de San Marcos: Free (fee-free day)
- Lunch: $12
- Ice cream: $5
- Flagler College Tour: Free
- St. Augustine Distillery Tour: Free
- Miscellaneous & souvenirs: $20
Total: $57
Final Thoughts
St. Augustine is proof that you don’t need to spend a lot to have an amazing adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just love exploring charming cities, this day trip is a perfect and affordable getaway from Sanford. So next time you’re craving a little adventure, take a quick drive and experience all the magic St. Augustine has to offer—without spending more than $100!