Aviles Street - View of Oscar Niemeyer's Congress Centre (Centro Niemeyer) in Avilés.
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Aviles Street

4.6
·491k reviews·St. Augustine, United States

Walk America's oldest street, a historic cobblestone path in St. Augustine lined with art galleries, shops, and museums.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

CrowdLow
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Aviles Street - View of Oscar Niemeyer's Congress Centre (Centro Niemeyer) in Avilés.

Aviles Street

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Walk America's oldest street, a historic cobblestone path in St. Augustine lined with art galleries, shops, and museums.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Aviles Street is the oldest street in America, a charming cobblestone stretch with centuries of history."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring! :athletic_shoe:

Check for Festivals

Aviles Street hosts lively festivals with music and art. Check local listings before your visit! :calendar:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Oldest Street in America

The Oldest Street in America

Aviles Street

Walk the historic cobblestones of the oldest street in the U.S., a journey through centuries of Spanish and American history.

Ximenez-Fatio House Museum

Ximenez-Fatio House Museum

20 Aviles Street

Step back in time at this meticulously preserved 18th-century house, offering a glimpse into colonial life.

Art Galleries and Boutiques

Art Galleries and Boutiques

Along Aviles Street

Discover unique art, crafts, and souvenirs in charming boutiques and vibrant galleries lining the historic street.

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Step Back in Time on Aviles Street

Explore the oldest street in the U.S., dating back to the 1570s! Wander its charming cobblestones, discover unique shops, and soak in centuries of history. Perfect for history buffs and art lovers.

Best Times to Visit Aviles Street

Avoid peak crowds by visiting on weekdays or during off-season months. Consider attending local festivals for a vibrant cultural experience, but be prepared for more people.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low
When
During festivals
Why
Vibrant culture & events
Crowd
High
When
Autumn
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer tourists
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

¿Conocíais #Bengala en Avilés? 🧺🧺 Hacen falta más sitios asi en la ciudad 👍😎😎😎 . #Meriendas #Humor #July #TikTokComida #Asturias #Avilés
@julyaviles
1.6K likes • 61.7K views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring! :athletic_shoe:

Check for Festivals

Aviles Street hosts lively festivals with music and art. Check local listings before your visit! :calendar:

We love our town 🤍 #StAugustine #SaintAugustine #XimenezFatioHouse #AvilesStreet
@ximenezfatiohousemuseum
1.3K likes • 18.8K views
🇪🇸 The Aviles Street Festival returns Sept. 5–6 with flamenco dancers, live music, sword duels, plein air art, boutique shopping, and mouthwatering bites. Dine at local favorites like Nonna’s Trattoria, Forgotten Tonic, Gaufres & Goods, and Peace Pie — then browse boutiques and galleries including The Plum Shop, Acacia Tree Gallery, Bouvier’s Leather & Maps, The BART Art & Wine Bar, and more. ...
christycapturessta
216 likes • 5K views

Explore Beyond the Main Street

Don't miss the smaller alleys and courtyards for hidden gems and photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

Visit the Ximenez-Fatio House

A must-see for history lovers, offering a deep dive into colonial life on Aviles Street. :housewithgarden:

Nothing beats our museum location on historic Aviles Street, the oldest street in the nation! #XimenezFatioHouseMuseum #XimenezFatioHouse #XFHouse #StAugustine #SaintAugustine #AvilesStreet #HistoricAviles #FloridaHistory
theximenezfatiohouse
15.8K likes • 1M views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring! :athletic_shoe:

Check for Festivals

Aviles Street hosts lively festivals with music and art. Check local listings before your visit! :calendar:

Explore Beyond the Main Street

Don't miss the smaller alleys and courtyards for hidden gems and photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

Visit the Ximenez-Fatio House

A must-see for history lovers, offering a deep dive into colonial life on Aviles Street. :housewithgarden:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Aviles Street's historic charm and its status as the oldest street in the U.S. The art galleries, boutiques, and the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum are frequently highlighted as must-see attractions. Some note that the cobblestone streets can be uneven, requiring comfortable footwear.

What People Like

Historic charm
Oldest street in US
Art galleries & boutiques

What People Dislike

Uneven cobblestones

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Aviles Street is located in the heart of historic St. Augustine, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, with several parking garages nearby. Many visitors also find it convenient to walk from other downtown attractions. :car: :walking:

Yes, there are parking garages within walking distance, such as the Historic Downtown Parking Facility. Street parking can be limited. :parking:

Absolutely! Aviles Street is centrally located and a pleasant walk from many other historic sites in St. Augustine. :walking_man:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, walking along Aviles Street itself is free and open to the public. Entry fees may apply for specific museums or attractions located on the street, like the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum. :ticket:

Aviles Street is a public thoroughfare and is generally accessible at all times. However, individual shops, galleries, and museums have their own operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon or early evening. :clock1:

The street itself is free to explore. Fees are only associated with specific attractions like museums or special events. :moneywithwings:

While the street is accessible, many of the shops and museums will be closed at night. It can still be a pleasant, quieter experience for a stroll. :moon:

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

You can explore art galleries, boutique shops, enjoy cafes and restaurants, and visit historic sites like the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll and soaking in history. :shoppingbags: :camerawith_flash:

Yes, Aviles Street is incredibly picturesque with its historic architecture, cobblestones, and vibrant galleries, making it a photographer's dream. :camerawithflash:

You'll find a variety of boutique shops selling art, souvenirs, clothing, and unique gifts. :gift:

Yes, the street is rich in history, and you'll find historical context and markers that tell the story of its past. The Ximenez-Fatio House Museum provides in-depth historical information. :scroll:

The cobblestone surface can be uneven, which may present challenges for strollers and wheelchairs. However, many visitors manage with care. :wheelchair:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Aviles Street offers a selection of charming cafes and restaurants, including Italian cuisine and unique eateries. :forkandknife:

Yes, you can find cozy cafes on Aviles Street offering freshly brewed coffee and pastries, perfect for a break. :coffee:

While many restaurants offer diverse cuisines, you can find local flavors and seafood options in the St. Augustine area, with some establishments on Aviles Street featuring regional dishes. :fish:

📸 📸 Photography

The entire street is a photo opportunity! Focus on the cobblestones, historic buildings, colorful galleries, and the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum. :camerawithflash:

Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the street's charm. :sunrise: :city_sunset:

Drone usage is typically restricted in historic districts and urban areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. :noentrysign:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Aviles Street offers a unique historical adventure for families. While the cobblestones can be a bit tricky for strollers, the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum provides an engaging way for kids to learn about colonial life. The street's colorful galleries and shops can also spark curiosity. Consider visiting during a festival for added entertainment like music and performances. TikTokInstagram

Pack comfortable shoes for everyone, as exploring the historic street is best done on foot. Keep an eye out for any street performers or special events that might capture the children's attention. The overall atmosphere is family-friendly, offering a blend of education and enjoyment. :family_child:

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, Aviles Street is a must-visit. The street is renowned for its vibrant art galleries that feature a wide array of local and regional artists. You can spend hours browsing through paintings, sculptures, and unique crafts, often finding pieces that reflect the rich history and culture of St. Augustine. Instagram+1

Keep an eye out for ArtWalk Fridays or other special events that transform the street into an open-air gallery. These events often include live music and opportunities to meet the artists, offering a deeper connection to the local art scene. The historic setting itself provides a beautiful backdrop for appreciating the art on display. :art:

🚶 History Buffs

Aviles Street is a pilgrimage site for history enthusiasts, proudly holding the title of the oldest street in the United States. Its origins date back to the 1570s, and its cobblestone paths and historic architecture offer a direct connection to America's colonial past. TikTokInstagram+1

The Ximenez-Fatio House Museum is an essential stop, providing an in-depth look at 18th-century life. Exploring the street allows you to walk through centuries of history, from Spanish rule to its development as a key part of St. Augustine's heritage. Don't miss the chance to learn about the various cultural influences that have shaped this remarkable thoroughfare. :scroll: :old_key:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Rich History of Aviles Street

Aviles Street holds the distinction of being the oldest street in the United States, with origins tracing back to the 1570s during the Spanish colonial era. Its very existence is documented on maps from the 1580s, making it a tangible link to America's earliest European settlements. The street's enduring charm lies in its well-preserved architecture, reflecting centuries of Spanish, British, and American influences. Wandering its cobblestone path is like taking a journey through time, with each building and corner whispering tales of its past inhabitants and events. TikTokInstagram+1

The Ximenez-Fatio House Museum, located at 20 Aviles Street, is a cornerstone of this historical narrative. This meticulously restored 18th-century house served as a boarding house for travelers in the 19th century and now offers visitors an immersive experience into colonial life. Its preservation efforts have ensured that the street's historical integrity is maintained, allowing visitors to truly step back in time. TikTokInstagram+1

Beyond the museums, the very fabric of Aviles Street tells a story. The cobblestone pavement itself is a testament to its age and the enduring nature of its construction. The street has witnessed significant historical periods, from its early days as a vital thoroughfare in Spanish Florida to its role in the development of St. Augustine as a tourist destination. Its continued vibrancy today, with art galleries and boutiques, shows a successful blend of historical preservation and modern appeal. Instagram+1

Art and Culture on Aviles Street

Aviles Street is a vibrant hub for art and culture, attracting artists and enthusiasts alike. The street is lined with numerous art galleries showcasing a diverse range of local and regional talent. Visitors can browse paintings, sculptures, pottery, and other unique artistic creations, making it a perfect destination for art lovers seeking to discover new pieces or find a special souvenir. Instagram+1

Beyond the galleries, Aviles Street often comes alive with festivals and events that celebrate Spanish culture and heritage. These events frequently feature flamenco dancers, live music, sword duels, and plein air art demonstrations, creating a lively and immersive atmosphere. Such occasions offer a fantastic opportunity to experience the dynamic cultural scene of St. Augustine and connect with the community. Instagram+1

The street's charm also extends to its boutique shopping experience. Alongside the art, visitors can explore unique shops offering handcrafted goods, artisanal products, and distinctive gifts. This blend of art, culture, and shopping makes Aviles Street a multifaceted destination where history and contemporary creativity converge. Instagram

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