Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine - He That Believeth And Is Baptised
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Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine

4.4
·9k reviews·St. Augustine, United States

Explore a world of bizarre artifacts, shrunken heads, and sideshow wonders in a historic castle.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace

CrowdLow
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Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine - He That Believeth And Is Baptised

Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a world of bizarre artifacts, shrunken heads, and sideshow wonders in a historic castle.

4.4
(9k reviews)

"A fun museum of weird things with something new to see every visit!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead

Save time and potentially money by purchasing your tickets online before you go.

⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds

Arrive before 2 PM on Saturdays to enjoy a less crowded experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Circus Sideshow Acts

Circus Sideshow Acts

Explore the bizarre and fascinating world of historical circus performers and their unique talents.

Shrunken Heads & Oddities

Shrunken Heads & Oddities

Marvel at genuine shrunken heads and a vast collection of peculiar artifacts from around the globe.

Mummified Mermaid

Mummified Mermaid

See the legendary mummified mermaid, a sideshow attraction from the 19th century.

Interactive Exhibits

Interactive Exhibits

Engage with unique displays, including a surprising floor that descends with a loud noise!

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds & Heat

St. Augustine's Ripley's Believe It or Not! can get busy, especially on weekends. Arrive early, ideally before 2 PM on a Saturday, to avoid feeling cramped. The museum offers a welcome air-conditioned escape from Florida's heat, making it a great midday activity.

Combo Tickets & Parking

Consider purchasing tickets in advance to save time. Parking can be a hassle; it's typically around $5 per hour and can be paid via QR code. If you plan to do both the museum and the Red Train Tour, budget for 3-4 hours of parking.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (Midday)
Why
Air-conditioned refuge from heat
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends (Early)
Why
Beat the weekend rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#ripleysbelieveitornot #staugustineflorida
@darkwolf_90
61.2K likes • 2.8M views

🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead

Save time and potentially money by purchasing your tickets online before you go. Reddit

⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds

Arrive before 2 PM on Saturdays to enjoy a less crowded experience. Reddit

#ripleysbelieveitornot #staugustine
@the_realdavis
3.5K likes • 13.2K views
Believe it … or Not! Ripley’s St. Augustine is your one-stop destination for family fun in the nation’s oldest city — St. Augustine, Florida. Tours are available daily. Learn more at www.ripleys.com/staugustine/ #explorestaugustine #ripleys #staugustine #florida #oddities #museum #ripleysbelieveitornot #saintaugustine #attraction
explorestaugustine
235 likes • 6.2K views

🅿️ Parking Strategy

Factor in parking costs ($5/hr) and duration, especially if combining with the train tour. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Plenty of unique spots for memorable photos, from oddities to interactive displays. TikTokInstagram

Is Ripley's Believe It or Not! the coolest offbeat attraction in Florida? We think so! Head to @RipleysBelieveItOrNot Museum in St. Augustine for shrunken heads, optical illusions, and the downright bizarre, all inside an actual historic castle. 💀 If you're ready for this haunted museum, visit the link in our bio!
floridashistoriccoast
81 likes • 4.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead

Save time and potentially money by purchasing your tickets online before you go. Reddit

⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds

Arrive before 2 PM on Saturdays to enjoy a less crowded experience. Reddit

🅿️ Parking Strategy

Factor in parking costs ($5/hr) and duration, especially if combining with the train tour. Reddit

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Plenty of unique spots for memorable photos, from oddities to interactive displays. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Allow 1-2 Hours

Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours exploring the museum's exhibits. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine for its unique and engaging collection of oddities, with many finding it a nostalgic and fun experience. The museum's air-conditioned interior and interactive exhibits are highlighted as positives, though some note it can get crowded on weekends. The accompanying Red Train Tour also receives high marks for its informative and entertaining guides.

"Such a nostalgic experience for me because I haven’t been to one of these since I was a kid in California.
It was a fun experience walking through and thank God there was a museum with AC! They have several similar things that I could remember from the other location like replicas, but there were also a lot of new things. There were several floors and it was a bit busier when I went so I was stuck behind a few families. My favorite part was the section about the circus sideshow acts! This one was a lot bigger and had more to see than the other one so I enjoyed taking my time through here. Some spots to stop at and take photos with along with some folks who stopped to share some fun facts with you. I think it’s good for families, friends or by yourself!"

Nina Cash

"Our family had such a wonderful time on the Ripley’s Believe It or Not Red Train Tour! Our driver, Cheyenne, was absolutely amazing. She was so friendly, welcoming, and incredibly knowledgeable about the area—we all learned so much during the ride. My three kids had a blast and were engaged the entire time, which says a lot! Cheyenne went above and beyond by even taking family photos for us, which we’ll treasure as memories of this trip. Thank you for making our experience fun, educational, and truly special. Highly recommend this tour, especially with Cheyenne as your driver!"

Orly Jada Ziva

"Enjoyed all the oddities and info that came along with each item. So much to look at. They have some activities you can try throughout the tour.
We saw and listened to various stories about different cultures from around the world. There is also a gift shop located upon exiting the tour.
We also enjoyed the red train tour. It was about an hour but Ed; our tour guide, made the tour informative, funny, enjoyable and educational.
Will certainly be back!"

Lucretia Allen

What People Like

Nostalgic and fun exhibits
Air-conditioned escape
Interactive surprises

What People Dislike

Weekend crowds
Parking costs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine is located in the heart of the historic district. Many visitors arrive via the Ripley's Red Train Tour, which offers convenient stops. If driving, be prepared for city parking, which is typically paid hourly and can be found near the museum. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there is paid parking available near the museum. It's usually around $5 per hour and can be paid using a QR code scanner on your phone. If you plan on visiting multiple attractions, consider the parking duration carefully. Reddit

Absolutely! Ripley's Believe It or Not! is centrally located in the historic downtown area, making it easily accessible on foot from many other popular sites like the Castillo de San Marcos and St. George Street. TikTok

Yes, the Ripley's Red Train Tour makes a stop at the museum, offering a convenient way to reach it and learn about the city's history along the way. Instagram

For families, the Ripley's Red Train Tour is highly recommended. It's engaging for kids and provides a great overview of the city, with convenient stops at attractions like the museum. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are typically around $24 per person for the museum. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts or combo deals. Reddit

While specific coupon codes can vary, it's worth searching online for 'coupons for Ripley's Believe It or Not St. Augustine' or checking sites like Groupon. Booking in advance online might also offer savings. Reddit

The museum generally operates daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Ripley's St. Augustine website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit. Reddit

Yes, you can purchase tickets at the door, but buying in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or weekends, to ensure entry and potentially avoid longer queues. Reddit

Yes, the museum is accessible. It features an elevator to navigate the multiple levels, making it easier for visitors with mobility challenges to explore all the exhibits. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum is filled with a vast collection of oddities, including shrunken heads, rare animal skeletons, sideshow memorabilia, optical illusions, and unique artifacts from around the world. TikTokInstagram+1

Most visitors spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring the museum. If you plan to combine it with the Red Train Tour, allocate more time. Reddit

While it's known for its oddities and the bizarre, some visitors describe it as a 'haunted museum' due to its spooky atmosphere and collection of unusual items. Instagram

Yes, the museum offers several interactive exhibits and activities, including a unique floor that descends with a loud noise, adding an element of surprise and fun. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the museum, and there are many unique exhibits perfect for capturing memorable shots. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant. However, there is a gift shop upon exiting where you might find small snacks or souvenirs. The surrounding historic district offers numerous dining options. Reddit

The historic downtown area surrounding Ripley's is packed with diverse eateries, from casual cafes and sandwich shops to seafood restaurants and pubs, catering to all tastes and budgets. TikTok

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum. It's best to consume them before entering or after your visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

You'll find fantastic photo opportunities with the shrunken heads, the mummified mermaid, unique taxidermy, optical illusions, and the various interactive displays. The building itself also offers a unique backdrop. Instagram

While general photography is usually permitted, it's always a good idea to check for specific signage regarding flash photography, as it can sometimes be restricted for certain exhibits. Reddit

The sideshow exhibits, like the mummified mermaid and displays of circus performers, are particularly popular for photos. The interactive exhibits also provide fun and unique shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine is a hit with families, offering a fun and engaging experience for children. The interactive exhibits and the sheer weirdness of the displays keep kids entertained and curious. The circus sideshow acts and oddities are often highlights for younger visitors. TikTokReddit

Consider combining your museum visit with the Ripley's Red Train Tour, which is also very kid-friendly and provides a great overview of the city. The museum's air-conditioned environment is a welcome relief from the Florida heat, making it a perfect midday activity. Remember to budget for parking if you're driving. InstagramReddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Ripley's Believe It or Not! has an admission fee (around $24), it offers a unique experience that many find worth the cost. Look for online discounts or coupons before your visit, as these can help reduce the overall expense. Reddit

To maximize value, consider purchasing a combo ticket if you're interested in other Ripley's attractions or the Red Train Tour. Parking fees can add up, so if you're staying nearby, walking or utilizing public transport might be more economical. The museum itself can be explored in about 1-2 hours, making it a manageable expense for a day trip. Reddit

👫 Couples & Friends

For couples and friends looking for a quirky and memorable outing, Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine offers plenty of conversation starters and unique photo opportunities. The bizarre exhibits and interactive elements provide a fun, lighthearted experience. TikTokInstagram

Pair your visit with a stroll through the historic streets of St. Augustine or enjoy a meal at one of the many charming restaurants nearby. The museum's unusual nature makes it a great topic of discussion and a departure from typical tourist attractions. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ripley's Red Train Tour Experience

The Ripley's Red Train Tour is a popular way to see St. Augustine, and it conveniently stops at the Believe It or Not! Museum. This hop-on, hop-off tour offers a narrated journey through the nation's oldest city, providing historical insights and highlighting key attractions. Many visitors praise the tour guides for their knowledge and humor, making it an engaging experience for all ages. InstagramReddit

Travelers often recommend this tour as a great introduction to St. Augustine, especially for first-time visitors or families. It allows you to cover a lot of ground without the stress of parking and navigating the historic streets. The flexibility to hop off at various points of interest, including Ripley's, makes it a practical choice for maximizing your visit. InstagramReddit

Key Takeaway: The Red Train Tour is an excellent companion to the museum visit, offering both transportation and education about St. Augustine's rich history and landmarks. Ensure you allocate enough time if you plan to utilize the hop-on, hop-off feature extensively. Instagram

Inside the Odditorium: What to Expect

Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium in St. Augustine is a treasure trove of the bizarre and unusual. The museum spans multiple floors, showcasing a diverse collection of artifacts that challenge the norm. From genuine shrunken heads and rare animal skeletons to sideshow memorabilia and optical illusions, there's something to pique everyone's curiosity. TikTokInstagram+1

Visitors often highlight the circus sideshow acts section as a favorite, featuring historical performers and their unique stories. The museum also boasts interactive elements, such as a floor that dramatically descends, adding an element of surprise and fun to the exploration. The sheer volume and variety of exhibits mean you can easily spend an hour or two discovering the world's strangest wonders. Reddit

Pro Tip: The museum offers a welcome air-conditioned respite from the Florida heat, making it an ideal activity for a midday break. Be prepared for a bit of a crowd, especially on weekends, but the experience is generally well-paced. Reddit

History and Oddities: A Unique Blend

Ripley's Believe It or Not! St. Augustine is housed within a historic castle, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the experience. This unique setting enhances the atmosphere of the museum, which is dedicated to showcasing the world's most unusual and unbelievable artifacts. Instagram

The collection goes beyond mere curiosities; it often delves into the history behind each item, offering insights into different cultures, historical events, and the people who collected or were part of these strange phenomena. From ancient practices like head shrinking to the captivating world of sideshow performers, the museum blends historical context with its signature oddities. Reddit

This combination of historical architecture and a collection of the bizarre makes Ripley's in St. Augustine a distinctive attraction, appealing to those interested in both history and the wonderfully weird. Instagram

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