Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
Step back in time at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, exploring 16th-century Spanish settlement and indigenous life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, exploring 16th-century Spanish settlement and indigenous life.
"A fantastic place to visit! It was definitely a highlight of my vacation!"
👟 Comfy Shoes are Key
You'll be walking a lot, so wear comfortable shoes. The grounds can get a bit messy with water features.
🦟 Bring Mosquito Repellent
Especially during warmer months, mosquitoes can be prevalent. Pack repellent to enjoy your visit comfortably.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Fountain of Youth
Spring House
Take a sip from the legendary spring said to restore youth. It's a must-do for the historical significance and fun!
Native Timucua Village
Reconstructed Village
Step back in time to see a 16th-century Native American village and learn about their way of life.
Blacksmith & Cannon Demonstrations
Demonstration Areas
Witness historical reenactments, including blacksmithing and cannon firings, bringing history to life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Prepare for the Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfy Shoes are Key
You'll be walking a lot, so wear comfortable shoes. The grounds can get a bit messy with water features.
🦟 Bring Mosquito Repellent
Especially during warmer months, mosquitoes can be prevalent. Pack repellent to enjoy your visit comfortably.
💧 Taste the Legend
Don't miss drinking from the Fountain of Youth! It has a mild sulfur taste, but it's part of the experience. 
⏳ Allow 3 Hours
To see everything, plan for about 3 hours. You can do a self-guided tour with the provided map.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfy Shoes are Key
You'll be walking a lot, so wear comfortable shoes. The grounds can get a bit messy with water features.
🦟 Bring Mosquito Repellent
Especially during warmer months, mosquitoes can be prevalent. Pack repellent to enjoy your visit comfortably.
💧 Taste the Legend
Don't miss drinking from the Fountain of Youth! It has a mild sulfur taste, but it's part of the experience.
⏳ Allow 3 Hours
To see everything, plan for about 3 hours. You can do a self-guided tour with the provided map.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Climb the water tower for beautiful views and great photo opportunities of the park and surrounding areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park for its engaging historical demonstrations and the unique experience of drinking from the legendary fountain. The knowledgeable staff and beautiful grounds are also frequently highlighted as positives. Some guests note that the park shows its age and the water from the fountain has a distinct taste, but overall, it's considered a worthwhile and educational visit.
"This is the second time I've visit and it still amazes me. 😁 I'm hoping 🤞that drinking the water will keep me young! There are several things to explore. If you have a good stomach, it could be an experience drinking 🍸 the water. It has a mild sulfur taste to it. I would recommend this place. Happy exploring!
If this was helpful to you, please send me a 🙏👍 or ❤️... Have fun!!!"
Explore with Lilycar
"It was hot and muggy August 28 , 2025.
The price of entry for Adults is $26 pp, Dogs are allowed entry ( they have water bowls throughout the grounds for your pet) bring comfy walking shoes, the place has some water filled areas and it can get a little messy. Lots to explore bring plenty of mosquito repellent. They have food and ice cream for sale ( not included with park entry tickets). Educational fun for the family or horticulturalist. Fun place to learn about history."
Venus Ramos
"What a fantastic place to visit! It was definitely a highlight of my vacation! The people working there are amazing! Friendly..professional..extremely knowledgeable. The young woman telling about the fountain was amazing. I could have listened to her all day. The blacksmith demonstration was great. I learned quite a bit there and then the cannon demonstration along with the rifle demonstration was very interesting. I recommend this to everyone. I will definitely be coming back to tour again."
Roger Schumacher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is easily accessible by car and offers free parking. Many visitors also arrive via the Old Town Trolley Tours, which makes a stop at the park.
While direct public bus routes might be limited, the Old Town Trolley Tour is a popular and convenient way to reach the park from other St. Augustine attractions.
Many visitors find the Old Town Trolley Tour to be an excellent way to see multiple sights, including the Fountain of Youth, without the hassle of parking.
Yes, driving is a common way to get there, and there is a large, free parking lot available for visitors.
The park has paved paths and open areas, making it generally stroller-friendly for families.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but reviews suggest around $23-$26 per adult. It's recommended to check their official website for the most current pricing. Purchasing tickets in advance might offer a slight discount.
Yes, you can purchase tickets at the entrance. Some visitors also opt for guided tours which may be purchased separately or included with entry.
While not always advertised, purchasing tickets in advance or looking for package deals with other St. Augustine attractions might offer savings.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Yes, dogs are allowed entry into the park and there are water bowls provided throughout the grounds for them.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore a reconstructed Timucua village, witness blacksmith and cannon demonstrations, visit the spring house, and learn about early Spanish exploration.
While it's a historical experience, the water has a mild sulfur taste and visitors report not looking younger. It's safe to taste as part of the park's offerings.
Yes, the park features engaging demonstrations, including blacksmithing and cannon firings, which are highly recommended by visitors.
The park is believed to be the site where Juan Ponce de León first landed in Florida in 1513, making it a significant location in early American history.
Absolutely! It's an educational and fun experience for all ages, with interactive demonstrations and historical exhibits that kids often enjoy.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food and ice cream options for sale within the park, including a Southern BBQ restaurant. Food is not included with park entry tickets.
The park features a Southern BBQ restaurant, with visitors specifically recommending their delicious BBQ sandwiches.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to check the park's policy on outside food and beverages. However, there are onsite options available.
The park offers a beautiful setting, and while specific picnic areas aren't always highlighted, enjoying a meal from the onsite restaurant is a popular choice.
Prices for food are separate from admission. Visitors have mentioned enjoying the food, but it's always a good idea to budget accordingly for onsite dining.
📸 📸 Photography
The water tower offers panoramic views, the reconstructed village provides historical backdrops, and the peacocks add a unique element to your shots.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photos and videos of the blacksmith and cannon demonstrations. Just be mindful of the loud noises!
Photography is generally allowed throughout the park, including at the spring house where you can capture the iconic moment of drinking from the fountain.
While most areas are open for photography, it's always good practice to be respectful of other visitors and any specific signage within the park.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the park's lush vegetation and historical structures. Late afternoon also offers softer light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your kids to take a sip from the Fountain of Youth – it's a fun, memorable moment, even if they don't see immediate results! Climbing the water tower also provides a sense of adventure and offers great views for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save on food costs, you could consider packing your own picnic lunch to enjoy on the grounds, though the onsite BBQ restaurant is a popular choice for those who want to indulge.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to photograph the blacksmith and cannon demonstrations – these action shots can be incredibly dynamic. The park's lush vegetation, Spanish moss-draped trees, and the resident peacocks also offer beautiful subjects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of the Fountain of Youth
This park is more than just a legend; it's a significant archaeological site. It's believed to be the location of the first Spanish landing in what is now the United States in 1513. The park showcases this history through a reconstructed Timucua Native American village, offering a glimpse into the lives of the indigenous people who inhabited the area long before European arrival.
Visitors often describe the water from the fountain as having a mild sulfur taste, and while it may not literally turn back the clock, drinking from it is a quintessential part of the experience. It’s a fun way to connect with the historical narratives and the enduring myth that draws so many to this unique St. Augustine attraction.
+1Exploring the Park's Historical Demonstrations
Equally impressive is the cannon demonstration. Witnessing these historical firearms being fired is not only exciting but also provides a tangible sense of the military and defensive strategies of the era. Be prepared for the loud noise – it’s a memorable part of the experience!
These demonstrations are more than just entertainment; they are educational opportunities that offer a deeper understanding of the daily lives, technologies, and challenges faced by the early settlers and indigenous populations. The knowledgeable staff and reenactors make these presentations highly informative and enjoyable for all ages.
Navigating the Park and Its Amenities
Given Florida's climate, especially during warmer months, mosquito repellent is highly recommended. The park also has water features and can get a bit damp in places, so be mindful of that.
For those looking to refuel, the park offers onsite dining options, including a Southern BBQ restaurant known for its delicious sandwiches. While food and ice cream are available for purchase, they are not included in the general admission ticket price.
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