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America Turns 250—But St. Augustine Has Been Making History Since 1565

Skull illustration with fireworks and text: 'Ghost Augustine 2001-2026. 25 Years.'

As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, millions of people are looking back at the stories that shaped our nation. Historic landmarks, museums, and battlefields are all drawing attention as Americans reflect on the past.

But here in St. Augustine, history goes back even further.

Founded in 1565, St. Augustine was already more than 200 years old when the Declaration of Independence was signed. Pirates, soldiers, settlers, merchants, and explorers all walked these streets long before America became a nation. With so many centuries of history packed into one city, it’s no surprise that St. Augustine has earned a reputation as one of the most haunted places in the country.

This summer, as America celebrates 250 years of history, why not experience the past in a way you won’t find in any textbook?

Explore the Spirits of History on the Original Haunted Pub Tour

History doesn’t have to be serious to be memorable.

Our Original Haunted Pub Tour has been introducing guests to St. Augustine’s haunted watering holes since 2002. Along the way, you’ll hear true stories of the city’s colorful past, meet fellow adventurers, and visit some of the oldest and most intriguing pubs in the nation’s oldest city. The tour combines haunted history, local legends, and plenty of opportunities to raise a glass with both old friends and new ones. Established in 2002, it’s the original haunted pub crawl in St. Augustine and remains one of our most popular experiences.

After all, what better way to celebrate centuries of history than sharing stories in buildings that have witnessed generations of it?

Go Beyond the Stories with Para4ce Investigations

Want to do more than hear about the paranormal?

Our Para4ce Investigations experience puts you in the middle of the action. Guests investigate the haunted Dixie House alongside experienced investigators while using professional paranormal equipment to search for evidence firsthand. The experience is designed to be immersive, hands-on, and interactive, giving you the chance to draw your own conclusions about what may still linger within one of St. Augustine’s most talked-about haunted locations.

Many visitors come to St. Augustine because of its history. Para4ce Investigations gives you the opportunity to experience that history from a completely different perspective.

Discover Hidden Haunted Locations on the Everdark Express

If you’re looking to venture beyond the historic downtown district, the Everdark Express is the perfect adventure.

This two-hour experience takes guests to several haunted locations throughout St. Augustine, including places many visitors never see. You’ll hear true stories, visit unusual locations, and even participate in brief paranormal investigation sessions while learning about the area’s haunted history. Stops may include a haunted building, a forgotten cemetery, and other locations connected to some of the city’s most fascinating legends.

It’s the ideal tour for guests who want a mix of storytelling, exploration, and hands-on paranormal experiences.

Celebrate 250 Years of American History in America’s Oldest City

As the nation reflects on 250 years of history, there’s no better place to explore the past than St. Augustine. Here, history isn’t confined to museums or monuments—it’s woven into the streets, buildings, and stories that surround us every day.

Whether you’re enjoying haunted tales and cocktails on the Original Haunted Pub Tour, searching for evidence during a Para4ce Investigation, or exploring hidden corners of the city aboard the Everdark Express, you’ll experience a side of history that’s anything but ordinary.

The past may be closer than you think.

Come discover why generations of visitors have found that some of St. Augustine’s stories refuse to stay buried.

 

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