Known as Florida’s “First Coast,” the northeast corner of the state is renowned for its historical distinctions—site of Ponce de Leon’s 1513 landing, home of America’s “oldest city,” birthplace of tourism in the Sunshine State...the list goes on. So it’s not surprising that some of Florida’s vintage lures are here as well, and still going strong despite the mileage.
Following are a few examples of attractions that have stood the test of time.
The St. Augustine Alligator Farm
It began over 100 hundred years ago as a small exhibit of Florida reptiles that was put on display for wealthy Gilded Age travelers wintering in St. Augustine. Changing hands several times and surviving storms and other setbacks, today the Alligator Farm has added “Zoological Park” to its name and become a center for research and conservation, in addition to still being a place where people can see gigantic alligators snap their fearsome jaws in daily shows. Crocodiles, birds, lemurs, pythons and other creatures are also residents of this specialized zoo, while private events are hosted in a Florida Cracker-style building.
The Fountain of Youth
It’s said Ponce de Leon was searching for the Fountain of Youth when he landed in Northeast Florida, but in the modern era anyway, this modest spring has been drawing travelers for over 140 years. Housed in a coquina stone building and arising from an underground aquifer, the water contains over 30 minerals and people are welcome to sip it before heading off to explore a 15-acre site that includes lush gardens and historical displays, including a reconstructed Timucuan village. A new events pavilion can host up to 300 reception-style.
Marineland
Touted as the world’s first oceanarium, Marineland Dolphin Adventure turned 75 in 2013, and in addition to its popular dolphin encounter programs and shows is displaying archived memorabilia and footage dating back to its founding as Marine Studios in 1938. The vintage attraction is also available for parties and other events.
