St. George Street

St. Augustine’s Historic District takes in 144 blocks of historic homes and structures, the heart of which is an 11-block, pedestrian-only area, of which, St George Street is the main thoroughfare. St. George Street is lined by 18th-century Spanish Colonial houses that are now historic landmarks, and dotted with boutiques laden with arts and antiques. Within this area lies the Spanish Quarter, a living history museum featuring settlers clad in 1740s-style britches and bonnets busy blacksmithing, spinning and woodworking and soldiers who tell of life long ago.

Historically, the practice of giving every street its own name is relatively recent. For most of the colonial period, the thoroughfares of St. Augustine were known simply as "the street of the Hospital" or "the street that goes to the barracks." During the first Spanish Period (1565-1763), St. George Street was known as "the street of the governor" or "the street that goes to the land gate."

It was not until the British came in 1763 that it was named St. George in honor of King George III. By 1763 the neighborhood on northern St. George Street was occupied by employees of the Crown, and St. George Street was known as the "Royal Street"—"Calle Real", an eighteenth-century term. Its proximity to the Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine's main structure, made St. George Street an important area.

These days, a stroll down St. George Street is like a step back in time. There are hundreds of shops and landmarks and specialty gifts such as handmade candles, woven goods and wooden crafts, or resort and beach wear. Shop until you drop in more than 35 antique shops and 20 art galleries. From original creations by local artisans to valuable heirlooms, discover all sorts of treasures on St. George Street.