Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    City Gates Photos

    Recommended Reviews - City Gates

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Crystal O.

    St Augustine is history in every step and the City Gates are another pass through history that so many walk through and miss the historic value of these enormous gates! These gates were constructed in 1808 by the city residents and are a gateway to the heart of the city. Made of coquina blocks- shell fragments essentially "glued" together into a porous type of limestone we now call coquina, which is Spanish for "tiny shell". I bet the residents of the city would never have guess their coquina gates, fort and various building would survive more than 300 years!

    City Gates
    Dominique D.

    City Gates located in Saint Augustine, FL between Saint George Street & Castillo de San Marcos. This is a MUST have photo op to do with family and friends. The city gates is the last remains of the border wall.

    Alycia M.

    A great place to start if you are wanting to do a walking history tour of the Historic District of St Augustine. There are historical markers surrounding the gates and it is right near so many attractions including the Fort!

    Goldie
    Rebecca N.

    I absolutely love St. Augustine, Florida. I don't come as often due to the sucky parking situation. The city is not as friendly about visitors who visit and need to park. Your only smart option is to park in the Welcome Center Parking Garage. It is free right now, which is unheard of! Our parking is complementary when we stay at St. George Inn. It's usually $12.99 for the entire day-for day trips. St. George Street is the most popular street in the city. Plenty of restrooms, souvenir shops, restaurants, etc.

    Dianna B.

    History lives and breathes here in St. Augustine. These are the city gates. They may not seem like much, but touch them and breathe in the life and death that has gone on here since the 1600's. There are stories of a little boy who appears at the gates when the city is in danger. I wonder if he appeared during the most recent hurricane.

    Amy S.

    These gates may not seem like all that much, but just stop for a minute and look at them. Place your hands on them and feel the coquina. Just imagine what it must have been like to be standing in the exact same spot 300 years ago. It just gives me goose bumps every time. I'm a huge, huge, huge history buff. I'm the person who stood and stared forever at a 2,000 year old tree. So, yes, I'm pretty impressed by these gates.

    Richard R.

    St. Augustine is the oldest continuously occupied city in the United States. When Juan Ponce De Leon landed here, the plant life was in full bloom. It is because of this he called the land La Florida, meaning "flowery land". He thought it was an island, not knowing it was attached to a much larger land mass that would eventually be called America. The city was settled in 1565 by the Spanish and had numerous attacks on it over the years. Finally in 1704 the city decided to fortify itself and build a wall of protection that included a fort, motes and redoubts. Redoubts provided strategic locations for firepower if someone were to attempt to make it through the motes and over the walls. As an added layer of protection a plant called Spanish Bayonet (also known as yucca) was installed at the top of the mote walls. It is a spike-like plant unpleasant to the touch. The city gates were added in 1808 and are located along the northern front called the Cubo line. They were made out of Coquina, a soft local limestone formed of broken shells and corals naturally cemented together. Once all these enhancements were added, St. Augustine was never conquered again. FINAL THOUGHTS A wonderful city created by the blending of many cultures. Come check it out and walk through the gates of a time long since past, yet still standing as a reminder of the rich history surrounding this city.

    Facing the heart of the downtown.  The City Gates take on some dramatic hues on a wet, rainy day, free of people.
    Naty K.

    The City Gates, which open onto the northern end of St. George Street, are an important site that welcomes all to the heart of town. The gates were built in 1808 and surrounded the ancient Spanish city of Saint Augustine. They were made out of coquina, a sedimentary rock incorporating shells and invertebrates. The gate columns still stand today and are very recognizable to all familiar with the town. Fed up after several assaults, including an assault by the British in 1702, the Spanish military and local residents were convinced to fortify the entire town. That the walls were effective is evident from the fact that St. Augustine was never again conquered after they were built. Due to deterioration over time of the timber, the walls were rebuilt and repaired over the more than 100 years that they protected the city. The last known time the walls were used in conflict was during the Second Seminole War (1835-1842), and the last time they were restored was in 1965. It's interesting to see these gates 200+ years after they were built. The stories those gates could tell if they could talk!

    See all

    6 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of John C.
    1657
    2641
    16065

    1 year ago

    Helpful 13
    Thanks 4
    Love this 8
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 15
    Thanks 6
    Love this 18
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 19
    Thanks 0
    Love this 19
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 13
    Thanks 0
    Love this 12
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Amy S.
    1188
    1971
    20732

    12 years ago

    Helpful 18
    Thanks 0
    Love this 16
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Richard R.
    4997
    1572
    25885

    11 years ago

    Helpful 115
    Thanks 0
    Love this 112
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Naty K.
    284
    1042
    10240

    12 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of L W.
    90
    146
    12

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Colleen B.
    1725
    1516
    10078

    10 years ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Andy J.
    215
    517
    7186

    11 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Aaron H.
    45
    210
    1041

    12 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of JoAnn T.
    11
    204
    233

    13 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    13 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kel F.
    7
    51
    9

    12 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    City Gates Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - City Gates

    Review Highlights - City Gates

    It was made in 1808 and is constructed of coquina -- a soft limestone of broken shells, used in road-making in the Caribbean and Florida.

    Mentioned in 7 reviews

    Read more highlights

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Landmarks & Historical Buildings 272 times last month within 5 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Aviles Street - Aviles Streer entrance

    Aviles Street

    (11 reviews)

    Aviles Street in St. Augustine is the oldest street in the United States. It dates back to the 16th…read morecentury, around the 1570's. It's also home to some of the city's oldest historical sites and continues to be a vibrant arts district. Galleries are open late during special days. We learned this information when we took an Old Town Trolley tour around St Augustine to learn more about this amazing city and its streets. Aviles Street was originally called Hospital Street because it was the location of the second Spanish Military Hospital Museum, which is open to tourists even now. There are local musicians who perform at the corner of Aviles Street and Artillery Lane. That would be fun to watch! Sidewalk cafes offer food and drinks while visitors enjoy the music. We want to return to this delightful street, which is more quiet than St George Street with less tourists. It is in the beart of historic St Augustine. Do not attempt to drive down this street because it gets very narrow and your vehicle will get scratched up. It is made up of cobblestones so wear comfortable shoes.

    Aviles Street is a stunning historic street situated in St. Augustine, Florida. It is considered…read moreone of the oldest streets in the United States and is home to colorful buildings, art galleries, and cafes. Visitors to Aviles Street can experience a unique glimpse into the Spanish Colonial past. The street is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, and visitors can immerse themselves in the charm of its rich history.

    Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park - The oak trees

    Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park

    (270 reviews)

    It is so beautiful and amazing history and fun experience for all ages and I learn so much history…read moreand culture it is remarkable and fun and incredible i love it so much and absolutely amazing perfect for schools and community thank you so much for everything i appreciate it so much devotion to determination and education! Hugs From Lauren

    Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth is one of the most popular landmarks in St. Augustine, Florida…read more You can start your visit by following the paved pathway while greeting the colorful peacocks, who make their homes around the grounds. The Founders Boardwalk near the rear of the park is a quaint waterfront trail leading to sweeping views of the St. Augustine inlet and Matanzas River. Next to the boardwalk is a 35-foot replica Spanish Watchtower which can be climbed on for 360-degree panoramas of the surrounding 15-acre Fountain of Youth park. When you return back towards the front entrance, you may notice a quarter dispenser for releasing food in order to feed the peacocks. This makes for a playful moment as the peacocks are gentle and will gladly eat from your hands. Now it's time to sample the magical waters from the Fountain of Youth... Entering inside the Fountain of Youth building gives tourists a visualization into Ponce de Leon's discoveries. Make sure to grab a cup, approach the spring waters and drink from de Leon's mystical fountain. It's nothing but tap water, lol, but if you believe in the extraordinary powers from the legendary tale, you can feel rejuvenated. Overall, the Fountain of Youth is a playful historical attraction making the oldest city in the United States, St. Augustine, Florida, a worthwhile visit. Lastly, outside the gates to the Fountain of Youth is Magnolia Avenue, a charming street leading to breathtaking canopies of ancient live oak trees draped in Spanish moss.

    Saint George Street

    Saint George Street

    (70 reviews)

    Had an amazing time walking down St. George Street in St. Augustine. It's one of those places that…read moreinstantly pulls you in with its charm and history. The whole street is packed with character, from the old style buildings and brick walkways to all the unique shops, restaurants, and little hidden spots along the way. We spent a good amount of time just exploring and browsing, and every corner had something interesting. There are plenty of places to grab a snack, a drink, or just sit and people watch, and everything feels very walkable and relaxed since it's pedestrian only. The atmosphere is what really makes it special. There's a constant mix of music, laughter, and energy, but it still feels laid back and fun instead of overwhelming. You really get a sense of old St. Augustine history blended with a lively modern vibe. Overall, St. George Street is a must visit if you're in the area. Great for walking, shopping, eating, or just soaking in the scenery. Easy five stars and a place we'd happily come back to again.

    This review has been sitting idle for a while but unknown why since this street is 90% why I love…read moreSt Augustine. Pure fun walking along the one mile long pedestrian only corridor with boutique shops, bars, restaurants and deep Florida history lining both sides. Recommend highly to stay at the boutique hotel St George Inn. The street is very busy during the day and most shops close early and at dark the area gets flooded with students from the Flagler College nearby. A few kiosks selling ghost tours through the haunted St Augustine area in a trolly or the walking tour through the old jail. Yes, we got sucked in on two different occassions and slightly boring but not pricey. Located at the North end of the street, take two hours out of your day to visit the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument but beware the excessive heat in summer time - really cool cannons though. Fun times always on St George Street in St Augustine.

    Oldest House Museum

    Oldest House Museum

    (37 reviews)

    I'm glad I took the tour of this house except I took a giant fright , when I saw this mannequin…read morethat had this weird drape on . The tour guide said there were ghost in this home so my heart was racing , I'm glad I did not feel one or see one . About this oldest home González-Álvarez House Historic house in Florida, United States The González-Álvarez House, also known as The Oldest House, is a historic house museum at 14 St. Francis Street in St. Augustine, Florida. With a construction history dating to about 1723, it is believed to be the oldest surviving house in St. Augustine. It is also an important example of St. Augustine's Spanish colonial architectural style, with later modifications by English owners. It was designated a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 1970. The house is now owned by the St. Augustine Historical Society and is open for public tours as part of the Oldest House Museum Complex. Evidence can be seen of the Spanish, British, and American occupations of St. Augustine. The González-Álvarez House is located in a residential area south of downtown St. Augustine, on the north side of St. Francis Street between Charlotte and Marine Streets. It is a two-story structure, its first floor built of coquina and its upper level framed in wood with a clapboarded exterior. It is covered by a hip roof finished with wooden shingles. The building is reflective of multiple periods of alteration and enlargement, during different periods of colonial administration. The land on which this house stands has been occupied since the 17th century, when a building is documented to have been standing here. The present house's earliest period of construction dates to about 1723, when the first floor was built, and it was documented as being occupied by Tomás González y Hernández, an artilleryman at the Castillo de San Marcos, and his family.The design of this house is one that was adopted by Spanish colonial settlers to deal with local living conditions and available building materials. It was built of readily available coquina limestone, with its main thick walls oriented east-west, and has an open covered loggia on the east side. The latter allows prevailing southeasterly winds to cool the structure, while the thick walls provide insulation from hot weather. The interior floors are made of tabby concrete. After the British took over Florida in 1763, the González family left for Cuba. In 1774 the house was purchased by Major Joseph Peavett, an Englishman, who added the wood-frame second story, and put glass windows into openings previously only enclosed by wooden shutters. It was further enlarged by the third owner, Geronimo Alvarez, who added a two-story wing built of coquina. The house was taken over by the St. Augustine Historical Society in 1918, which undertook its restoration to a late 19th-century appearance in 1959-60, reversing a number of intervening alterations. List of families who lived in the oldest house First Spanish period 1625-1763, family of Tomas González y Hernández & María Francisco de Guevara British period and second Spanish period 1775-1790, Joseph Peavett & Maria Evans Second Spanish period and into statehood 1790-1882, Family of Gerónimo Álvarez & Antonia Vens 1882-1918, William B. Duke family (1882-1884), Mary Carver and Dr. Charles P. Carver (1884-1898), James W. Henderson family (1898-1911), George T. Reddington and the South Beach Alligator Farm 1911-1918 1918-present, St. Augustine Historical Society

    This is the oldest house in St Augustine It has held up very well for about 400 years with a few…read morerenovations and additions in the early 1700s in Spanish architecture. I was amazed at how well it looks. The garden is beautiful in ornamental style. The Oldest House Museum is located in St. Augustine, Florida in St. Johns County, Florida. It is operated by the St. Augustine Historical Society and includes the González-Alvarez House, the Manucy Museum of local history and the Edwards Gallery. The museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tickets are $8 per person for the guided tour and lasts about 1/2 hour.

    Lightner Museum - Largest indoor swimming pool now the Alcazar Cafe

    Lightner Museum

    (197 reviews)

    Add the Lightner Museum as a stop when visiting St. Augustine! The museum is located in the heart…read moreof the city in what use to be the Alcazar Hotel, a Gilded Age Resort. The building architecture and the gardens are beautiful. There were many collections to peruse, which were housed on 3 levels. It took us about two hours to make our way through, but you could easily spend 3 if you take your time and read everything. The floors all have a front and rear. The best suggestion we were given is to start on the 3rd floor an make our way down. The staff on hand were friendly and readily available to answer any of your questions. You can make a reservation for lunch at the Cafe, which is located on the lower level of what was once a pool.

    Love coming here! The history of the museum is fascinating and the exhibits are amazing! If you…read morelove art this is a place you'll not want to miss! You might even want to continue to support them by becoming a member. TIP: You can become a member of the museum for as little as $50. per year. Membership supports everything they do at the museum, from exciting new exhibitions and engaging programs, to the preservation of their historic building and collections. According to their website, every membership to the Lightner Museum includes: * Unlimited free admission to the museum's permanent galleries and exhibitions for a full year * Invitations to Members-only previews of special exhibitions * Discounts on select events and programs There are many more perks and additional levels of membership. For additional information and to purchase memberships online, go to lightnermuseum.org Support your local arts.

    Llambias House

    Llambias House

    (2 reviews)

    Beautiful house listed on the National Historical Society. Must see. Came here for a wedding and it…read moremakes a great backdrop. Amazing courtyard and gazebo made the wedding perfect

    Finding a venue/reception site for your wedding can be a tough decision. But it's like finding the…read moreright person, when you know, you know. My wife and I searched and searched until we finally made an appointment with Angie at the Llambias House. Let me just say, WOW! We immediately knew this was it, it was exactly what we were looking for! Elegant, beautiful, chic, fairytale like, and much more! If you decide this is your place, too, make sure you work with Angie! She envisioned exactly what we wanted, helped out tremendously the day of our wedding, and up to the day of. She immediately responds back to any questions or concerns you may have, and is extremely personable. We ALWAYS felt welcomed (even when we asked a billion questions)! Our only set back was the miscommunication of the insurance policy for all vendors. Being new to the wedding world, we were unaware of this rule (and it was never talked about directly). The Llambias house provides a list of preferred vendors, but you can also choose other people which we did for some vendors. The set back was that it was not directly stated that ALL of your vendors must have wedding insurance. The people on the list of preferred vendors were insured, but we did not know that this was the reason. We didn't realize either that not many vendors have wedding insurance, so it was not something we asked about before hiring. It did cause a problem with our DJ, and we lost our deposit and had to find another DJ a month before the wedding, but everything happens for a reason, right?! YES! Our DJ was even better than the 1st, so it ended up working out in the end! The Llambias house was gorgeous the day of our wedding and made for phenomenal photos! Thank you Angie for all of your help!! Kate & Bran

    City Gates - landmarks - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...