Vintage Boutiques, Bars & Old-World Charm: Don’t Miss Uptown St. Augustine
San Marco Avenue, originally known as Shell Road, was a primary entryway into old St. Augustine, taking you to the city gates at the north end of St. George Street and the iconic Castillo de San Marcos. Today, San Marco Avenue is the quaint thoroughfare through the lively and eclectic neighborhood called Uptown. Home to its own historical landmarks, local shops and cafes and residential streets filled with character, Uptown is a relaxing haven just a few blocks north of the heavily touristed downtown. It’s a charming and walkable part of town that’s easy to miss – but promise us you won’t.
With its own old-world, off-beat charm, San Marco Ave offers a nostalgic piece of Florida from the late 19th, early 20th century. Beautiful historic brick storefronts and picturesque Victorian houses line the street, and are home to unique local shops filled with antique wares, home decor, jewels and rare and unique goods. Coastal Traders, an Indonesian import home store, is known for beautiful linens and hand-carved teak furniture. Find handmade local jewelry, art and other one-of-a-kind pieces. Cool and Collected is a vintage, antique shop with clothing and decor that takes you into a very fun and funky past. With cool art deco barware, knick-knacks and furniture, it’s no surprise that each item is hand-collected with care. Snake Bird Vintage is a hip and bright vintage shop located in an old garage space inside Spinter Abbott’s. With rad vintage clothing, a few housewares and on-trend accessories, it’s a special spot to find some whimsy.
Snakebird Vintage
Coastal Traders
While you shop and stroll, stop by any of the cute and delectable bars and cafes along the way. Spinster Abbott’s is a bodega and secret taproom bringing retro vibes to Uptown. A neighborhood staple, their bodega offers residents and visitors household basics and grab-and-go snacks and locally-sourced food and drinks. Venture through the grocery (or Snake Bird Vintage) to find their cozy, family-friendly taproom, with Florida craft beer and Prosecco on draft, and local Hawaiian food via Hot Box food truck. Juniper Market is a warm and casual cafe serving always-seasonal eats like sandwiches, quiches and breakfast burritos. They’re famous for their Vietnamese iced coffee, Magic Coffee with specialty spices, and Happy Trails cookies. The outdoor courtyard at Sunday sits along upper San Marco, with inside seating in a beautiful historic home. Quaint, quiet, cute and cozy – it feels like a Sunday. Serving breakfast and lunch, they’re known for their egg specialties, creative toasts, salads and special treats. Head just a tiny bit further north and you’ll stumble across Boat Drinks, one of the best craft cocktail bars in town. Known for creating drinks reminiscent of its name, Boat Drinks’ cocktails and vibes are island and nautical-inspired, serving up chips ‘n dips, fish bites and burgers, and classic rum cocktails like piña coladas and daiquiris.
Boat Drinks
Juniper Market
Uptown is also home to significant cultural landmarks, all within a pleasant walking distance. Mission Nombre de Dios, or the Great Cross (a 208-foot stainless steel cross erected in 1965), sits just north of the main drag. A most peaceful sanctuary, it was established in 1587 by Franciscan missionaries, and is recognized as the oldest mission in the continental United States. Roam the contemplative gardens and shady paths along the Matanzas River from dawn to dusk. Magnolia Avenue, just a couple blocks north of the cross, might be the most magical four blocks in all of St. Augustine. Hidden under a canopy archway of enormous, 100-year-old live oak trees, draped in Spanish moss, it has been dubbed one of the most photographed and one of the most beautiful streets in the U.S. Meander down the street and you’ll find another historical landmark, The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, a 15-acre park that marks the founding of the city in 1565, by the landing of Pedro Menéndez de Avilés. It is also known as an ancient village called Seloy, the home to the Timucua Native Americans. Legend has it that the healing waters here grant you eternal youth.
Fountain of Youth
Uptown has always been a favorite neighborhood of ours, and lately, as more entrepreneurs begin to gravitate toward this vibrant area, it’s become an even more special place to come to grab gifts, wares, a cold drink and delicious eats. We hope you’ll find this beautiful neighborhood has much to offer – so don’t miss it!
Oh and it’s so very close to Florida Water Tours! While you’re here, jump on one of our specialty ecotour experiences. Take in the gorgeous natural scenery and rich history as you gaze over glassy waters with a bright blue sky overhead – where you’re likely to see dolphins gliding alongside the boat on the Dolphin & Wildlife Adventure. Or, try our Sunset River Jazz Cruise for luxurious relaxation, where smooth jazz sets a serene scene as golden hour sets in. The Moonlit Mysteries Tour starts as night falls, where our excellent tour guides tell the ghostly tales of the oldest city. With more unique tours, and private charters available, celebrate the seven seas with Florida Water Tours. We’re located at 107 Yacht Club Dr., St. Augustine, FL 32084. We offer free parking and restrooms are on board. Our vessels are just a short walk from our boutique, located at Dock A-23, A-24 and A-25. Email us at [email protected] to book or inquire about your next sail.