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2026 Conference experiences
Monday, October 26, 2026 |
| Built by the Spanish between 1672 and 1695, Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. Constructed from coquina stone, the fortress successfully defended St. Augustine for centuries. Today it stands as a National Monument where visitors can explore historic rooms, walk the gun deck, and learn about Spanish, British, and American military history while enjoying scenic views of Matanzas Bay. |
| Located in a restored 1907 ice plant, the St. Augustine Distillery produces small-batch spirits using locally sourced Florida ingredients. Visitors can explore the historic building, learn about the craft distilling process, and sample award-winning bourbon, rum, gin, and vodka. The distillery offers engaging guided tours and tastings that showcase both the history of the building and the artistry behind handcrafted spirits. |
| Flagler College is housed in the former Ponce de Leon Hotel, an architectural masterpiece built in 1888 by Henry Flagler. The Spanish Renaissance-style building features stunning courtyards, hand-painted ceilings, and original Tiffany stained glass windows. Today the historic landmark serves as a nationally recognized liberal arts college while offering visitors guided tours that highlight its remarkable Gilded Age history and architecture. |
| The iconic St. Augustine Lighthouse has guided ships along Florida’s coast since 1874. Visitors can climb 219 steps to the top for breathtaking views of the city and Atlantic Ocean. The museum campus features maritime exhibits, historic keeper’s houses, archaeological discoveries, and scenic grounds to explore. The site tells the story of lighthouse keepers, shipwrecks, and the region’s rich maritime heritage. |
Tuesday, October 27, 2026 |
| Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is renowned for its beautiful formal gardens set along the Matanzas River. The park’s unique coquina rock shoreline also creates a striking Atlantic Ocean landscape. Visitors can stroll through oak-shaded gardens, walk scenic trails, and explore coastal habitats. The park offers excellent opportunities for photography, birdwatching, fishing, and picnicking while highlighting Florida’s diverse coastal ecosystems. |
| Fort Mose Historic State Park preserves the site of the first legally sanctioned free Black settlement in what is now the United States. Established by the Spanish in 1738, the community provided refuge for formerly enslaved people. Today the park interprets this powerful history through exhibits, living history programs, and scenic boardwalks through the salt marsh, honoring the resilience and legacy of its residents. |
Wednesday, October 28, 2026 |
| Anastasia State Park protects more than 1,600 acres of beaches, tidal marshes, and maritime hammocks along Florida’s northeast coast. The park offers four miles of pristine Atlantic shoreline ideal for swimming, kayaking, birdwatching, and beachcombing. Visitors can hike or bike scenic trails, enjoy camping, or learn about coastal wildlife and conservation. Anastasia showcases the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of Florida’s barrier island ecosystems. |
| The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is a premier outdoor music and cultural venue set among the oaks of Anastasia Island. Originally built in the 1960s and later renovated, the amphitheater now hosts nationally touring artists, festivals, and community events. The venue blends modern performance facilities with natural surroundings and has become a vibrant hub for arts, entertainment, and community gatherings in northeast Florida. |
| Founded in 1893, the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park is one of Florida’s oldest attractions and a leader in reptile conservation. The park is home to every living species of crocodilian, along with birds, mammals, and exotic reptiles. Visitors can enjoy wildlife exhibits, boardwalks through rookery habitats, and educational programs that highlight conservation and the remarkable diversity of reptile species. |
