If you’re looking to experience the charm of St. Augustine without the hustle and bustle of large tour groups, the St. Augustine History and Cheesecake Golf Cart Tour might just be your ideal choice. This private, 90-minute adventure offers a personalized glimpse into one of the United States’ most historic cities, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos, learn fascinating stories, and indulge in sweet treats.
What we love about this experience is its intimate vibe, the chance to get up close to iconic landmarks, and the delightful cheesecake tasting at the end. Plus, the knowledgeable guides make the journey engaging and informative. The only thing to consider is that this tour requires a minimum of four participants and isn’t recommended for very young children or travelers with serious medical conditions. This makes it best suited for adults, small groups, or families with older kids who appreciate history, scenery, and good food.
Good To Know
- Personalized Experience: The private golf cart allows for a more flexible and relaxed sightseeing pace.
- Comprehensive Route: The tour covers major landmarks, historic sites, and scenic neighborhoods.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable drivers share engaging stories, giving depth to each stop.
- Sweet Finish: Cheesecake and wine pairings at the end add a delicious touch to the day.
- Ideal for Small Groups: With a maximum of 9 travelers, expect a friendly, intimate atmosphere.
- Flexible and Convenient: Starts at 4:00 pm, perfect for combining with other activities or sightseeing.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
The St. Augustine History and Cheesecake Golf Cart Tour is an excellent way to see the city without the fatigue of walking or the impersonality of large buses. It’s especially attractive for travelers wanting a deeper, more personalized connection with the city’s history and scenery.
This tour’s small group size (max 9 travelers) ensures you get a more tailored experience, with plenty of time for questions. The private nature of the golf cart means you can enjoy a relaxed, intimate atmosphere—perfect for couples, small families, or friends.
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A Deep Dive into the Itinerary
Starting Point at Plaza de la Constitución
The tour kicks off in the lively heart of St. Augustine, the Plaza de la Constitución. Here, your guide will give a brief overview of what’s to come, setting the tone for an engaging exploration. Being in the center of the city, this spot is a perfect introduction to the historic district, and it’s where the tour officially begins.
St. George Street and Spanish Colonial Architecture
Next, you’ll cruise down St. George Street, the city’s most famous pedestrian thoroughfare. Expect to see Spanish colonial architecture and historic storefronts, which make the street a visual feast. The guide shared in reviews that you’ll appreciate the breeze and the chance to see details that larger tours might miss, making this part of the journey both relaxing and enlightening.
Flagler College and Villa Zorayda Museum
Driving past Flagler College, you’ll admire the grandeur of what was once the luxurious hotel of its era, built during the Gilded Age. The guide explains details about the architecture and history, giving you a sense of the city’s opulence during the Flagler period.
The Villa Zorayda Museum offers a peek into the architecture of a former winter home. It’s an eye-catching structure that impresses visitors with its Moorish Revival style. Though the tour doesn’t include stops for inside visits, the exterior views and historical commentary provide plenty to marvel at.
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Lightner Museum and Lincolnville
The Lightner Museum, housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, exposes visitors to the elegance of the Gilded Age, once a hub for wealthy travelers. The guide shares stories about the building’s past, making the experience richer.
Entering the Lincolnville area, you’ll gain insights into a neighborhood vital during the civil rights movement. The guide shares stories about figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and highlights the significance of streets named after him. The reviews note that learning about the civil rights history here adds depth to the tour.
San Sebastian Winery and Castillo de San Marcos
You’ll pass by the San Sebastian Winery, a highlight for wine lovers, as the driver points out its location and history. Although tasting isn’t included during the drive, the winery’s presence hints at the city’s vibrant local wine scene.
The Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the U.S., provides a commanding view and a tangible link to the city’s colonial past. While you won’t go inside, getting up close and hearing about its history makes for a memorable photo opportunity.
Other Historic and Cultural Sites
Your tour includes passing by the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche, the site of early American thanksgiving celebrations, and the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, famous from Ponce de León legends. These spots offer a sense of the city’s historic importance beyond just architecture.
The Sweet Ending at Bar Harbor Cheesecake Company
After the sightseeing, your group will head to the Bar Harbor Cheesecake Company for a tasting experience. You’ll sample three different cheesecake flavors, carefully paired with wine, as noted in reviews. Guests rave about the quality of the desserts and the wine pairing, recognizing it as a perfect finale to the tour.
The 30-minute visit here is an excellent way to indulge without feeling rushed, rounding out an already packed itinerary with something truly delicious.
What the Experience Feels Like
Guests have shared that guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging. One reviewer appreciated that the driver shared stories about the city’s architecture and history, adding context that makes the sights more meaningful. The ability to get out briefly, take photos, and ask questions makes this tour feel personalized and relaxed.
The cheesecake tasting garners high praise, with comments noting the “delicious flavors” and “perfect wine pairing.” It’s a sweet reward after a day of exploring, and a chance to savor local flavors.
Transport and Group Size
The golf cart provides a comfortable, open-air ride, perfect for enjoying the pleasant Florida weather and scenic views. With a maximum of 9 travelers, the tour avoids the herd mentality of larger buses, allowing for more interaction and flexibility.
Starting at 4:00 pm, the timing makes it suitable for combining with daylight sightseeing or dinner plans. The mobile ticket system adds convenience, letting you start the tour on time without fuss.
Price and Value Analysis
At $69 per person, this tour offers good value for a personalized experience that covers numerous key sights and neighborhoods in St. Augustine. When considering the inclusion of a guided narrative, private transportation, and the cheesecake tasting with wine, it’s a worthwhile investment for those seeking an authentic and intimate exploration.
Compared to larger trolley tours, this private golf cart allows for a more flexible, relaxed, and insightful visit. The reviews confirm the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, which add to the overall value.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, couples looking for a romantic activity, small groups of friends, or families with older children. It’s especially suitable during times when smaller, private tours are preferred, such as during COVID-19 precautions.
Travelers who appreciate a mix of cultural, architectural, and culinary discoveries will find this tour hits all the right notes. Just remember, it’s not ideal for children under a certain age or travelers with serious medical conditions, as it requires some mobility and comfort.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for young children, especially due to the walking involved and the nature of the stops. The tour is geared more towards adults and older kids.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, ending back at the starting point.
What is included in the price?
The tour includes a private guide and golf cart, three flavors of cheesecake, and three wine samples. Tasting is part of the experience.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 38 Cathedral Place in St. Augustine.
Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 9 travelers ensures a more personalized experience.
Final Thoughts
The St. Augustine History and Cheesecake Golf Cart Tour offers a charming, personalized way to explore one of America’s oldest cities. It combines historical sights, scenic neighborhoods, and a sweet tasting experience that’s both fun and flavorful. The knowledgeable guides, intimate group size, and relaxed pace make it stand out from larger, more generic options.
If you’re looking for a manageable, engaging, and delicious way to learn about St. Augustine’s past and present, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for those who want a balance of sightseeing, storytelling, and culinary treats—all wrapped up in a friendly, private atmosphere.
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