St. Augustine’s Wine, Cocktail and Food Experience

If you’re planning a trip to St. Augustine and want to enjoy more than just sightseeing, the St. Augustine’s Wine, Cocktail and Food Experience might be just what you need. This guided tour combines the city’s historic charm with its vibrant culinary scene, giving you a chance to taste local wines, cocktails, and bites while soaking up the stories behind the sights. It’s a perfect way to experience the city from the inside out—especially if you appreciate a good story with your snacks.

What we love about this tour is how it balances history with flavor. First, the guide’s local knowledge really shines, turning a simple walk into an engaging storybook of the city’s past and present. Second, the included food and drinks are top-notch, offering authentic bites from some of St. Augustine’s most beloved spots. One thing to consider is the group size—since it’s limited to just eight travelers, it feels intimate and personalized, but you’ll want to book ahead as it’s popular, often booked a month in advance. This tour suits those who love history, good food, and a relaxed pace—perfect for couples, solo travelers, or small groups who want to savor the city while learning its secrets.

Key Points

• Combines historic sightseeing with tasting local food and drinks
• Guided by a knowledgeable, personable guide
• All food and alcohol samples included in the price
• Small group size enhances personal experience
• Offers a mix of walking, history, and culinary delights
• Ideal for those who enjoy authentic, local experiences

A Closer Look at the St. Augustine Food, Wine, and Cocktail Tour

This tour lasts approximately three and a half hours, which is just enough time to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the historic district while sampling some of the best local flavors. For $154 per person, it’s a fair price considering the quality and variety of experiences packed into this time frame. The small group size—capped at eight—means you get a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and interact with your guide.

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour begins at 57 Treasury Street, right in the heart of the historic district, and ends at 6 Aviles Street. This walkable route covers a lot of ground, from ancient forts to charming plazas, all while making stops at notable eateries and landmarks. The itinerary is thoughtfully curated to balance sightseeing with tastings, ensuring you get a taste of both history and flavor.

The Highlights and Stops

Castillo de San Marcos – Your tour begins with a quick stop at this 17th-century fortress, the oldest masonry fort in the continental US. While you won’t go inside, catching a view of this impressive structure sets the tone for a trip rooted in history. It’s a striking reminder of St. Augustine’s past as a strategic Spanish outpost, and the photos here will make your social media pop.

Huguenot Cemetery – This little-known spot offers insight into the city’s diverse past. As the Protestant burial ground outside the city gates, it reflects the religious and cultural shifts that took place. It’s a quick stop, but one that adds a layer of depth to your understanding of the city’s history.

St. George Street – The bustling heart of downtown, lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Enter through the Old City Gates, built in 1808, and imagine how this street has been the main artery of St. Augustine for over two centuries.

St. Photios Greek Orthodox National Shrine – A unique cultural stop dedicated to the Greek community that arrived in 1768. It’s a peaceful, beautifully maintained site that shows the city’s diverse roots beyond Spanish and British influence.

Plaza de la Constitución – The central square is the city’s original planning hub, laid out in accordance with Spain’s Laws of the Indies. Expect a lively atmosphere, with views of the Government House, the Cathedral Basilica, and the iconic Bridge of Lions overlooking Matanzas Bay.

Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine – As the oldest congregation in the contiguous United States, this church’s interior and exterior are worth a look. While you might not tour the inside, the building’s architecture and history are impressive.

Government House – A historic building with centuries of governmental and administrative use, from Spanish governors to American officials. Its commanding presence offers a tangible link to the city’s multilayered past.

The Food and Drink Experience

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the culinary sampling. No hidden fees or upcharges—your food and beverage tastes are included, making this a great value. The guide carefully selects stops to showcase local cuisine, from tapas-style bites to refreshing cocktails.

You might find yourself sipping a refreshing cocktail or sampling wine while hearing stories about the city’s past. Guests frequently mention the quality of the food and drinks, describing every bite as “fantastic” and “perfect.” Several reviews mention that they bought bottles of wine afterward, hinting at the enjoyable experience beyond just the tour.

The included lunch is typically a well-curated selection that complements the beverages, allowing travelers to indulge without rushing or worrying about additional costs. The tour also offers vegetarian options, accommodating some dietary preferences.

Guides and Atmosphere

Guides are often praised for their friendliness, humor, and storytelling skills. Rinda R. describes her guide as “excellent,” highlighting the blend of fun and historical insights. Others mention guides like Russ, Garry, and Alex as being very knowledgeable and personable, making the tour feel more like visiting friends who know their city inside out.

What Makes It Stand Out

This experience combines authentic local flavors with insightful storytelling. The small group size makes it easy to mingle and ask questions, which many travelers appreciate. Plus, the mix of historic sights with food and drinks creates a relaxed, enjoyable pace — perfect for those who want to savor their visit rather than rushing from attraction to attraction.

Considering the Price

At $154, this tour represents good value for those interested in a combined experience of history, food, and drink. With all samples included, you won’t need to worry about leftover tabs or hidden fees. The price also reflects the personalized service, small group intimacy, and quality of the culinary offerings. For anyone who loves authentic experiences with a bit of education and a lot of tasty bites, it’s a worthwhile splurge.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This walking tour is ideal for travelers who want to taste the city’s flavors while soaking in its stories. If you value guided insights from someone who knows the ins and outs of St. Augustine, and you enjoy pairing your sightseeing with delicious bites and sips, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a small group setting, ensuring a more relaxed and intimate experience.

For history buffs who love exploring on foot but also want a chance to indulge in local cuisine, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect if you’re in town for a few days and want to make the most of your afternoons without feeling rushed. Food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and small-group adventurers will find plenty to enjoy here.

Just remember to book well in advance—this tour is popular, often booked a month ahead. With its combination of culture, cuisine, and camaraderie, it offers a balanced taste of what makes St. Augustine special.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians? Yes, vegetarian options are available; please advise at the time of booking. Other dietary needs like vegan or gluten-free are not accommodated.

How long does the tour last? The experience takes approximately three and a half hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the stops without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price? All food and alcohol samples are included, along with bottled water and lunch.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues? The tour involves walking through the historic district, so mobility considerations should be taken into account.

Are children allowed? The tour is designed for travelers age 21 and older due to the alcohol component, but check with the provider if you have younger guests.

How many people will be on the tour? The group size is limited to a maximum of eight, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What time does the tour start? The meeting point is at 57 Treasury Street; confirm your specific start time when booking.

Is gratuity included? No, gratuities are not included, but tipping your guide for excellent service is appreciated.

What if I need to cancel? You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund.

Where does the tour end? The tour concludes at 6 Aviles Street, nearby the starting point for easy exploration afterward.

Enjoy your trip to St. Augustine, and consider this tour as a delightful way to combine history, local flavors, and a relaxed stroll through one of America’s oldest cities.