Lightner Museum

75 King Street St. Augustine, FL 32084

Hours

Open daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Last entry one hour before closing, upper floors close at 4:30 p.m.

Closed Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day

Cost

Adult: $19
Senior/Student/Military: $16
Youth (12-17): $12
Children 11 and under: Free

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.

904.824.2874

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About

A trip to the Lightner Museum has to be on your St. Augustine bucket list!

This museum was founded by Chicago publisher, collector, and hobbyist Otto C. Lightner. Formerly, this building was the Alcazar Hotel. The famous Henry Flagler commissioned the The Alcazar Hotel in 1888.

Back then, the hotel was grand and wildly popular amongst tourists. In particular, this was due to its incredible amenities! The Alcazar housed the world's largest indoor swimming pool. Further amenities included Russian and Turkish steam rooms, tennis courts, and a gymnasium. Can you say luxury? Inside the museum today, you'll find the Cafe Alcazar in remembrance of the grand hotel.

Presently, the museum is dedicated to providing exhibitions, events, and educational games. The exhibits are ever-changing. This is to keep things interesting and provide expansive information to visitors! Also, to inspire locals to become members.

Some examples of exhibits include:

Illuminate: Lightner Museum's Stained Glass Recovered
America's Castles
Bouke de Vries: War and Pieces
Picturing a Nation: American Art from the Lightner Museum

The four main values of the museum are:

Inclusive: Everyone is welcome.
Inspiring: Lightner is a place to learn and find inspiration.
Engaging: They aim to make your visit surprising, lively, and memorable.
Stewards: They strive to strengthen and enrich the museum.

Outside, the lush courtyard will take your breath away. A beautiful, central fountain offers a peaceful environment. There are a few benches surrounding the fountain for you to enjoy. Inside, you will find a bright and elegant ambiance. Everywhere you turn there are incredible pieces of history to learn from.

Moreover, the museum is commonly rented as an event and wedding venue! Can you imagine how beautiful the photos are? Additionally, the museum hosts events of their own. To stay updated, check updates on their website.

Local Tips

Guests may enter any time between 9:00AM-4:00PM. There is no entrance after 4:00PM
Free for Flagler College, St. Johns River State College, and University of St. Augustine students with valid I.D.
Free for St. Johns County residents with I.D. on Sundays.
The Ballroom Gallery, Mezzanine exhbits, and the American Art Gallery close at 4:30PM

Location

75 King Street St. Augustine, FL 32084

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get to St. Augustine, FL?

St. Augustine is located minutes off of I-95 between Jacksonville Beaches and Palm Coast. If flying, the closest airport to St. Augustine is Jacksonville (JAX) about 30 minutes away.

When is the best time to visit St. Augustine?

The best times to visit are March–May and September–November. These shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds than summer, and access to the area’s top events, including Sing Out Loud Festival and Founder’s Day. Spring is ideal for beach lovers and garden tours, while fall is perfect for history buffs, culinary travelers, and ghost tour enthusiasts.

What's the best way to explore the historic district in St. Augustine?

The Old Town Trolley Tours are a favorite for first-time visitors, offering hop-on/hop-off convenience and guided narration through the city’s landmarks.

Where can I find authentic local seafood in St. Augustine?

Try local favorites like Aunt Kate’s, Cap’s on the Water, or Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille for fresh coastal fare with a St. Augustine twist.

What is St. Augustine known for?

St. Augustine, Florida is known as the nation’s oldest capital and oldest continuously occupied settlement of European and African-American origin in the United States. It was founded in 1565 by Don Pedro Menendez and Spanish settlers 50 years after Ponce de León claimed Florida for the Spanish crown. The majestic Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S., remains a central attraction for visitors to St. Augustine.

What are the biggest events in St. Augustine, FL?

St. Augustine provides a rich calendar of events at any time of the year. The city’s Nights of Lights (Nov – Jan) is listed by National Geographic as among the top 10 holiday light displays in the world. Come spring, The Players Championship takes place at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra just minutes from St. Augustine. The city is also home to several festivals showcasing historic reenactments, Spring bird watching, film, food, and pirates.

What's the best way to spend one day in St. Augustine, FL?

Any trip to St. Augustine should undoubtedly include a visit to the monumental Castillo de San Marcos on the western shore of Matanzas Bay. The national monument, built by the Spanish over 300 years ago, remains a steadfast reminder of the area’s colonial past.

In addition, one of the best ways to catch all the must-sees in St. Augustine in just one day is to hop on the Old Town Trolley. This will take you to iconic spots including the Old City Gates, the famed Fountain of Youth, and across the Bridge of Lions.

Closer to the coast, step into the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum where you can climb up into the historic 165-foot-tall lighthouse for a view of the area. Stop over for lunch at Salt Life Food Shack near St. Augustine beach for the laid-back vibe and eclectic seafood dishes.

Be sure to take time during the day to explore the shops, boutiques, and cafés along St. George Street in the historic center. This pedestrian-only street was historically the heart of the city and continues to be a thriving hub of activity lined with restaurants, shops, and history galore.

Wind down the evening by treating yourself to dinner at Columbia in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district. Named as one of Florida’s top restaurants since 1967, the Columbia is the largest Spanish restaurant in the world and family-owned and operated since 1905.

How is parking handled in downtown St. Augustine?

Downtown has metered street parking, garages, and park-and-ride options. During peak times (especially Nights of Lights), it’s best to arrive early or use public shuttles.