Unlike many of the seasoned tourist attractions in St. Augustine, Florida, Old Florida Museum, also known as Fort Menendez has literally been moved across the street in the past few years. I visited the original location in 2003 and was mildly impressed with the variety of activities for kids (though I was no longer a kid, I still had fun) and I wanted to see if the new “Fort Menendez” had aged well. I was a little concerned that I would feel forced to go along and try all the kid friendly activities (St. Augustine has a great abundance of historical activities, and though I enjoy trying many of them, I worried that Fort Menendez’s offerings would not keep me and my traveling buddy entertained) but I was pleasantly surprised.
After purchasing our tickets, we waited in a very busy gift shop until the heavy doors to the exhibit were opened for us. (Author’s note: As you probably already know, kids go crazy at the prospect of shopping, and the tighter the space, the crazier they seem to get. If you happen to find yourself sandwiched in between little ones holding up their wallets, be patient and hope for the best! Yet Fort Menendez’s gift shop is fairly large, so hopefully I just came at a busy time!) I must admit that I love St. Augustine so much that I would have tolerated even a mundane tour, but our guide, Esperanza, was the best! She said right off the bat that, being grown-ups, my friend and I probably wouldn’t have any interest in the kiddie activities (whew!). Then she made sure to show us diligently through every building. She even suggested photo ops! Kids are definitely not the only ones who will love the guides.
We started in the pioneer section of Old Florida Museum / Fort Menendez, where we got to try out fun, not-nearly-so-lame-as-I-would-afraid-they-would-be activities like sticking our heads through the stocks. (Who says kids have the monopoly on being silly?) A few thatched-roofed structures represented the Spanish colonial era in St. Augustine. I found the Timucua Indian section must intriguing, complete with a canoe, a small “pond,” and a few authentic buildings we were encouraged to explore. The Timucua, who settled the site of what would become St. Augustine centuries before Florida was a twinkle in the conquistadors’ eyes, had a fascinating culture. There is so much for kids to learn and explore, as well.
I loved the artwork that decorated the inside of the native huts, and there were all sorts of murals, benches, displays, and a chief’s throne. The second building was smaller and not so brightly decorated but still chock-full of information about St. Augustine and her native past. Best of all was that my friend and I had arrived just *after* the busloads of children had left, making for a relaxing afternoon of taking our time and being catered to on a “private tour” of sorts. The St. Augustine weather was, as usual, perfect. Even if you happen to visit Fort Menendez during a sudden rain-squall, however, rest assured there are many buildings, beautifully-constructed and totally authentic, to hide inside, so the experience will not be ruined.All in all I would recommend it. Children will definitely give it two thumbs up.
Sources
http://oldfloridamuseum.com
www.tripadvisor.com
personal experience
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