ST. AUGUSTINE, FL – July 18, 2017 – (HISPANICIZE WIRE) – When the sun goes down in St. Augustine the streets come alive! History rules in the nation’s oldest city, but St. Augustine’s nightlife is anything but ancient. Whether visiting Florida’s Historic Coast for the first time or as a regular, night revelers will find a variety of live music coming from restaurants and taverns as visitors amble through the starlit city. Groove to the sounds of smooth jazz, Spanish guitar, classic rock, folk and pop performed by talented local and professional musicians. Enjoy people watching while sipping a craft cocktail, glass of Spanish wine, delectable martini or a pint at the local venues nestled in the historic district’s quaint streets.
It is not an easy task to narrow down St. Augustine’s best nightlife activities, but the establishments below showcase the very best of Florida’s Historic District: from local favorites and chic lounges, to boisterous and cool taverns, to large and small bars. Explore St. Augustine in the evening and you’ll quickly realize its nightlife is alive and well!
What’s on tap? If you’re a beer aficionado, beer elitist, or burgeoning beer lover Ancient City Brewery is going to be the first stop of the evening. There are over 20 beers on tap among them are local favorites Ponce’s Pale Ale, exclusively brewed with unique Equinox hops that creates notes of citrus and pine and the Castillo Coconut Porter which is a pleasant mix of dark chocolate and black malts. Not to be missed either; the popular and often packed A1A Ale Works is in the heart of the historic district. It prides itself on a selection of ales, lagers and seasonal blends that range from golden to black, each with a distinctive flavor and numerous fans. Beyond beers and the excellent food, patrons here can get amazing views of the Matanzas Bay in the lively outdoor space. And, like many of St. Augustine’s bars and eateries, there is often festive live music on the weekends. ¡Salud!
Are classic cocktails with a twist more your speed? Try the eclectic Odd Birds Bar. Although a small place, Odd Birds offers a global drink menu, with bottles on the shelves representing traditional spirits from across the globe: cachaça from Brazil, aguardiente from Colombia, pisco from Chile and Peru, fernet from Argentina, singani from Bolivia, and agave from several countries, among others. Bar bites also provide a taste of the exotic: meat or vegetarian arepas from co-owner/bartender Cesar Diaz’s native Venezuela pair well with cocktail reactions. Diaz creates a cultural bridge and an opportunity for people to explore the world’s flavors without going to another country.
Still thirsty? Visit the converted ice plant, which dates back to the 1900s, now the home of The Ice Plant Bar. The Ice Plant reintroduces patrons to a time when having a cocktail and a bite was not only an experience, but a memorable event. While the building is historic, the cocktails are decidedly new. The overall contrast of classic and modern is worth toasting to, especially when spicy concoctions with datil pepper infusions are among its celebrated ingredients. The Ice Plant, which shares space with the St. Augustine Distillery, is truly an Old Florida experience.
Many visitors might not realize that the live music scene in St. Augustine is supported by a thriving artist and songwriter community. Local artists and up and coming bands benefit from the resources and opportunities to perform at venues such as The Colonial Quarter, the Ponte Vedra Concert Hall and the Backyard Stage at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre.
The St. Augustine Amphitheatre has developed a reputation among top name performers, attracting artists such as Paul Simon, John Legend, Carlos Santana and internationally renowned performers the Gypsy Kings. The Amphitheatre also hosts various music festivals throughout the year. And it uses its resources to provide opportunities for development and audiences for local artists.
Looking for something more low-key? Enjoy live music at The Cellar Upstairs Wine, Jazz & Blues Bar located on the rooftop of the San Sebastian Winery, a best-kept secret with locals. Open only on weekends and Voted “Best Live Music,” patrons experience a wide range of talented jazz and blues bands, rock and folk while enjoying the breathtaking views overlooking the St. Augustine skyline.
Saunter off the beaten path in the historic district to a place where you can pair a great cigar with superb music. Stogies, with its dark lighting, cigar smoke in the air, leather sofas and live music all set the mood for a cozy evening. Micro brews and a full wine and port selection are also available to enjoy with your favorite cigar from the humidor.
Find a great spot under a stately oak on St. George Street at The Colonial Quarter where bands perform on select dates throughout the year.
Nightly entertainment heats up May through September with free evening concerts all summer long at the St. Augustine Beach Pier and the Plaza in the historic district. And the Limelight Theatre’s ongoing Music in the Box live acoustic series brings the area’s best up-and-coming bands and musicians to the stage during summer months.
Located midway between Daytona Beach and Jacksonville, Florida’s Historic Coast includes historic St. Augustine, the outstanding golf and seaside elegance of Ponte Vedra and 42 miles of pristine Atlantic beaches. For more information on events, activities, holiday getaways, and accommodations and to plan your vacation in St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra & The Beaches, go to the Visitors and Convention Bureau website at http://www.FloridasHistoricCoast.com, become a fan of Viaja San Agustin’s Facebook or call 1.800.653.2489.