Oldest House Museum
Explore Florida's oldest Spanish colonial residence, a historic gem offering a glimpse into 18th-century life with donation-based entry.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free entry, less crowded
Oldest House Museum
Best Time
Free entry, less crowded
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Florida's oldest Spanish colonial residence, a historic gem offering a glimpse into 18th-century life with donation-based entry.
"Really is a cool feeling to be in the oldest house in USA… Nice gift shop… Free entry."
💰 Donation-Based Entry
Entry is donation-based, with $10 suggested. A small price for a big piece of history!
🕰️ Check Hours Before Visiting
Hours are typically 10 AM-5 PM daily, but always confirm online.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gonzalez-Alvarez House
Main structure
Step back in time in Florida's oldest surviving Spanish colonial residence, built around 1723.
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Spanish & British Colonial Architecture
Exterior and interior details
Admire the blend of architectural styles from both Spanish and British colonial periods.
Historic Furnishings
Throughout the house
Experience the rustic charm of furnishings that reflect life in the early 18th century.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Donation Suggested
A Glimpse into Early Florida Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Donation-Based Entry
Entry is donation-based, with $10 suggested. A small price for a big piece of history! +1
🕰️ Check Hours Before Visiting
Hours are typically 10 AM-5 PM daily, but always confirm online.
🛍️ Charming Gift Shop
Browse unique souvenirs and local crafts in the onsite gift shop. +1
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The museum complex includes other historic buildings and beautiful grounds to wander.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Donation-Based Entry
Entry is donation-based, with $10 suggested. A small price for a big piece of history! +1
🕰️ Check Hours Before Visiting
Hours are typically 10 AM-5 PM daily, but always confirm online.
🛍️ Charming Gift Shop
Browse unique souvenirs and local crafts in the onsite gift shop. +1
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The museum complex includes other historic buildings and beautiful grounds to wander.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Oldest House Museum for its historical significance and donation-based entry, offering a glimpse into early Florida life. While some find it a bit dusty or mention a peculiar exhibit, most agree it's a charming and worthwhile stop for history buffs and budget travelers alike. The onsite gift shop is also a pleasant addition.
"This is the oldest house in the US. The place is cute with a gift shop inside and remains of the old home. It also has a headless body in there with some explanation, so beware if someone in your group is not comfortable with this. Overall a nice place to stop by."
Anand
"Really is a cool feeling to be in the oldest house in USA… you can check this place out for free. Nice gift shop…."
Wayne Burkholder
"Cool place to stop & look around. Free entry. There is a gift shop"
Irene Estlund
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Oldest House Museum is located in the heart of St. Augustine, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors also find it convenient to walk to from other downtown attractions.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available in the vicinity of the Oldest House Museum. Be prepared for paid parking, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Absolutely! The Oldest House Museum is centrally located, making it a pleasant walk from many other historic sites and shops in downtown St. Augustine.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Oldest House Museum operates on a donation basis. While there's no set admission fee, visitors are encouraged to make a donation, with $10 per person being a common suggestion. +2
No, advance booking is generally not required for the Oldest House Museum due to its donation-based entry. You can typically walk in during operating hours.
The Oldest House Museum is usually open from 10 AM to 5 PM, seven days a week. However, it's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for any seasonal changes or special closures.
While technically free to enter, donations are strongly encouraged to support the preservation of this historic site. +2
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the Gonzalez-Alvarez House, admire its Spanish and British colonial architecture, and see rustic furnishings from the 1700s. The complex also includes other historic buildings and a gift shop. +1
The museum offers a glimpse into history that can be educational for children. However, some exhibits might be sensitive for very young ones, and the rustic nature might not hold their attention for long.
A visit to the Oldest House Museum typically takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on how much time you spend exploring the house and grounds, and browsing the gift shop.
Information on guided tours is not widely available, but exploring the house at your own pace is common. The staff can often provide insights into the history.
This refers to a historical exhibit within the museum that some visitors find unsettling. It's part of the historical narrative presented.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Yes, there is a charming gift shop located within the Oldest House Museum complex, offering souvenirs and local crafts. +1
St. Augustine is filled with dining options! You'll find numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries within walking distance of the Oldest House Museum, offering a variety of cuisines.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage upon arrival or ask a staff member. Generally, interior photography might be restricted to preserve the artifacts.
The exterior of the historic house, the charming gardens, and architectural details offer great photo opportunities. The surrounding historic streets also provide a picturesque backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that some exhibits might be a bit mature for very young children, and the overall atmosphere is quiet and reflective. The gift shop can be a fun stop for kids to pick out a small souvenir.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a walk around the historic district, which is also free, to maximize your budget-friendly exploration. The gift shop offers affordable souvenirs if you wish to take a memento home.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through St. Augustine's Past
+1 Visiting this museum offers a tangible connection to the early days of European settlement in North America, providing a glimpse into the lives of those who inhabited the region centuries ago. The museum complex isn't just about the main house; it encompasses other historic buildings and exhibits that further enrich the visitor experience. These elements collectively paint a vivid picture of St. Augustine's layered history. The stewardship by the St. Augustine Historical Society ensures that these structures are preserved for future generations to learn from and appreciate.
Many visitors find the experience of standing within such an old structure to be quite profound. The rustic furnishings and the very walls of the house seem to whisper stories of the past. While the historical accuracy of some claims might be debated by historians, the charming atmosphere and the opportunity to step back in time make it a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in American history.
Navigating the Oldest House Museum Experience
The museum typically opens its doors from 10 AM to 5 PM seven days a week. However, it's always wise to verify these hours online or through their social media channels before your visit, as they can sometimes change due to seasons or special events.
For those who enjoy a bit of souvenir shopping, the Oldest House Museum features a gift shop offering a selection of mementos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit