VivaFlorida 500 celebrations continued across Florida in 2013 to mark the 500th anniversary of Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León’s arrival near what is now St. Augustine.
Wander the cobblestone streets, admire the waterfront and take in the historic architecture of the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited city while basing yourself at the picturesque, castle-like Casa Monica Hotel. A member of the National Trust Historic Hotels of America, this 1888 building blends Spanish Baroque and Moorish Revival influences. Its fountains, frescoes and guest rooms sit in the heart of the old city, just a block from the town square, the historic Cathedral Basilica and the Bridge of Lions.
While visiting, stop by the Visitor Information Center to see the Picasso exhibit, which was on display through May 11. The exhibit featured several works making their first appearance on U.S. soil, adding an artistic highlight to the area’s rich historical offerings.