Oldest House Museum (González-Alvarez House)
Explore Florida's oldest documented colonial house and discover history through unique museums and a charming garden.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more guide interaction
Oldest House Museum (González-Alvarez House)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more guide interaction
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Florida's oldest documented colonial house and discover history through unique museums and a charming garden.
"We LOVED this place! It's beautiful and so interesting, and wasn't crowded when everything else was."
🎯 Engage with Guides
Our tour guide was awesome and knew so much more than just the house! Highly recommend.
🎟️ Affordable Admission
Super cheap admission! You pay so little for such enriching, entertaining experiences.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
González-Alvarez House
Oldest House Museum Complex
Step into Florida's oldest documented First Spanish Period Colonial house, furnished to reflect its past.
Surf Museum
Tovar House, Oldest House Museum Complex
Discover the rich history of surfing culture in a unique exhibit within the Tovar House.
Political Cartoon Museum
Oldest House Museum Complex
Explore a fascinating collection of political cartoons, offering a different perspective on history.
Courtyard Garden
Oldest House Museum Complex
Enjoy a tranquil escape in the beautiful courtyard, a peaceful oasis amidst the historic buildings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for a Deeper Dive
Tickets & What's Included
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Engage with Guides
Our tour guide was awesome and knew so much more than just the house! Highly recommend.
🎟️ Affordable Admission
Super cheap admission! You pay so little for such enriching, entertaining experiences.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly (with supervision)
Kids stayed enthralled, but there's a no-touch policy, so watch them closely.
🏛️ Explore All Exhibits
Don't miss the surf museum and political cartoon museum – lots to see!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Engage with Guides
Our tour guide was awesome and knew so much more than just the house! Highly recommend.
🎟️ Affordable Admission
Super cheap admission! You pay so little for such enriching, entertaining experiences.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly (with supervision)
Kids stayed enthralled, but there's a no-touch policy, so watch them closely.
🏛️ Explore All Exhibits
Don't miss the surf museum and political cartoon museum – lots to see!
📸 Capture the Charm
The complex is beautiful and attractive, with exhibits displayed attractively.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Oldest House Museum Complex for its affordability, engaging guided tours, and the wealth of historical information presented across its various exhibits, including the González-Alvarez House, surf museum, and political cartoon museum. While the no-touch policy requires supervision for children, the overall experience is described as enriching and highly recommended for all ages.
"Linda,who was our tour guide, was awesome. i felt like I was getting a professional tour from a professor she knew much more than just the history of the house. I could spend hours just listening to her talk about the history of St. augastine, so informative.I highly recommend
There is also a surf museum and political cartoon museum also lots too see"
Mark
"Went with my large family and they got us all in at 1 great price and gave us a guided tour."
Brooke Carrasco
"We LOVED this place! There is a no touch policy on the displays (totally understandable) so kids have to be watched closely, but TOTALLY worth it. This place is beautiful and it's so interesting. My 4 year old stayed enthralled through about 95% of it and that's rare for him. My 8 year old loved all of it and wanted to move in. It's beautiful and wasn't crowded when everything else was. The tour guide was very informative and was very nice! We'll be back and definitely recommend! ALSO, super cheap admission!!!"
Amanda Meyer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Oldest House Museum Complex is located in St. Augustine, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, and there are often parking options nearby, though they can be limited during peak season. Many visitors also arrive via Ripley's Red Trains, which stop at various historic sites in the city.
Parking in historic St. Augustine can be challenging. There are public parking garages and street parking available, but they can fill up quickly. Consider using a parking garage and walking or taking a trolley to the museum.
Yes, the Oldest House Museum Complex is centrally located within the historic district, making it walkable from many other attractions like the Castillo de San Marcos and Aviles Street. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Oldest House Museum Complex is noted as being very affordable and a great value for the experience. It's described as 'super cheap admission' by visitors.
Your ticket typically includes access to the González-Alvarez House, the Tovar House (which houses a surf museum), the Political Cartoon Museum, and the beautiful courtyard garden.
While not explicitly stated as mandatory, booking in advance is often recommended for popular attractions, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure entry and potentially save time.
Yes, guided tours are a highlight of the Oldest House Museum experience. Visitors frequently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides who offer in-depth historical insights.
Yes, there is a 'no touch' policy on the displays within the museum, which is understandable given the historical nature of the artifacts. Visitors are advised to supervise children closely.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The González-Alvarez House is the centerpiece of the complex and is recognized as Florida's oldest documented First Spanish Period Colonial house. It's furnished to reflect its historical periods.
The complex features several distinct museums, including the historic González-Alvarez House, a surf museum located in the Tovar House, and a political cartoon museum.
Yes, children can be enthralled by the history, but parents should be aware of the no-touch policy and supervise them closely. The variety of exhibits, including the surf museum, can appeal to younger visitors.
The atmosphere is described as historic, charming, and enriching. The complex includes a beautiful courtyard garden that offers a peaceful escape.
A visit can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest level and how much time you spend exploring each exhibit and the courtyard. The guided tours also add to the duration.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary, but generally, visitors are allowed to take photos for personal use in many areas, especially in the courtyard. However, flash photography might be restricted, and photography inside the historic house interiors may be limited to preserve the artifacts. It's best to check on-site signage or ask staff.
The charming courtyard garden offers beautiful backdrops with lush greenery and historic architecture. The exterior of the González-Alvarez House itself is also very photogenic, showcasing its Spanish colonial style.
While personal photography is usually permitted, commercial photography or extensive filming for social media might require special permission. Always be respectful of other visitors and the historical integrity of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🤓 History Buffs
The guided tours are invaluable, with guides often possessing extensive knowledge that goes beyond the standard historical narrative. Exploring the Surf Museum and Political Cartoon Museum also adds layers to your understanding of regional and national history. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Four Centuries
Beyond the main house, the complex expands to include several other fascinating exhibits. The Tovar House hosts a unique Surf Museum, celebrating the region's connection to this popular sport. Another distinct offering is the Political Cartoon Museum, which presents historical events and social commentary through the lens of satirical art. This variety ensures that there's something to pique the interest of every visitor, making the complex more than just a single historic home, but a multifaceted historical experience.
Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides who lead tours through the complex. These guides often share extensive historical context that goes beyond the walls of the house, delving into the broader history of St. Augustine. The affordable admission price is frequently highlighted as exceptional value for the depth of information and the engaging experience provided. The complex also features an attractive courtyard garden, offering a serene space to reflect on the history encountered.
Navigating the Oldest House Museum Complex
Guided tours are a significant part of the experience and are highly recommended. The guides are lauded for their expertise and engaging storytelling, transforming a simple visit into an immersive historical journey. They can provide context that brings the artifacts and architecture to life. While exploring, take a moment to appreciate the beautiful courtyard garden, a tranquil spot that offers a pleasant contrast to the historical narratives within the buildings.
When it comes to practicalities, the admission price is consistently mentioned as being very reasonable, offering excellent value. While the complex is generally family-friendly, it's important to note the no-touch policy for exhibits, requiring a watchful eye on younger children. The overall atmosphere is one of historical discovery and quiet contemplation, making it a perfect addition to any St. Augustine itinerary.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit