30 Family Friendly Things to Do in Saint Augustine, Florida
Looking for some fun and exciting activities to add to your Saint Augustine Florida itinerary? In this article, travel enthusiast and former Florida resident Brianna Carter shares her favorite activities you can do with your family in Saint Augustine, Florida!
Last updated: April 11, 2024
14 min read
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Family vacations are not always fun to plan. Finding a unique locale that meets the needs of young ones, teens, and adults can seem like an impossibly daunting task. So many ways to pick wrong. But it’s hard to go wrong with St. Augustine, Florida.
With its crystal coastline and Spanish heritage, this beautiful city is one of the of the oldest in America. The beaches in and near St. Augustine are some of the top beaches in Florida, and the city’s illustrious past speaks to history and thrill-seekers alike. But it also caters to curious families with children, making it an ideal destination for any family adventure.
When I lived in Saint Augustine, I did many of the following on weekend trips and day trips. Any one of the following activities will make for a family-friendly outing. Enjoy some of my favorite family-friendly things to do in St. Augustine, whether you are visiting from out of state, or just looking for a weekend getaway!
Black Raven Pirate Ship
Peak Season
Spring Break and Summer (March to August)
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Adventure Seekers, Families With Children, History Enthusiasts, Pirate Aficionados
Sail through the river on the Black Raven Pirate Ship. Beware, Matey, your treasure is ripe for the picking. St. Augustine has a checkered past with pirates. Many situations were unforgiving. Experience the water’s most treacherous beings on The Black Raven; an enthralled escapade through a pirate’s life for the whole family.
The crew of pirates navigates the ship and is merely out to swipe riches. Battling to save their precious gold however they can. Swapping sword fights and booming canons, one pirate’s blunder could be another’s reward. Play along, but carefully. Your gems could be stolen next.
The pirate ship provides beverages and snacks for sale. In the store, hats and pirate memorabilia are available for the aspiring buccaneer. Tours occur daily. Visit the website to find a time for your family.
Castillo de San Marcos
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Winter and Spring (December to April)
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History Buffs, Architecture Enthusiasts, Cultural Explorers, Military History Scholars
Tour the Castillo de San Marcos. Absorb some ancient history at this iconic St. Augustine landmark. After wooden structures were destroyed by invasions and pirate looting, the fort was commissioned and made from the natural resource of coquina. Records show that Native
American groups were largely responsible for building the monument. With various issues like epidemics, financial struggles, and storms, the Castillo took 23 years to complete. Now, this glory among masonry tells the story of strength and survival, sharing the stories of St. Augustine’s rich and extensive history.
St. Augustine Aquarium
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Summer Months (June to August)
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Marine Life Enthusiasts, Families With Children, Educational Seekers
Meet the animals at the St. Augustine Aquarium. Operated by a local husband and wife team, the St. Augustine Aquarium is a hands-on experience. Kids can have a chance to touch a horseshoe crab or starfish and even feed a ray.
Knowledgeable guides are available to answer the many curiosities of young inquiring minds. If swimming with the fish is your favorite, jump into the tank and unleash your inner mermaid. For a better view, slide over the creatures on the aquarium’s zipline. It’s a sure way to swing into family fun.
Fiesta Falls Miniature Golf
Peak Season
Spring Break (March to April)
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Family Fun Enthusiasts, Outdoor Activity Lovers, Mini-Golf Aficionados
Score with Mini Golf. Fore! Anastasia Island hosts some great spots to swing into fun. Fiesta Falls Miniature Golf is an 18-hole course a mile south of the St. Augustine Pier. Navigate around the Spanish ship and steer clear of the waterfalls. You’ll enjoy the ocean view once you’ve reached the gazebo. After a victorious game, indulge in some soft-serve ice cream or another sweet treat. The course opens daily at 9.
Adventure Landing
Peak Season
Spring Break (March to April)
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Family Fun Seekers, Thrill-Seekers, Water Park Enthusiasts, Mini-Golf Players
On the north side of the island, mini golf is just one of numerous family shenanigans hosted by Adventure Landing. After completing the 18-hole curated course, try a different swing style in the batting cages. Unleash your inner speed demon on the go-cart track. Kiddie carts are available for kids three and over.
Finish your day in the arcade where you can dance to your beat or blast away bad guys. Pizza, hot dogs, and other snacks are available for purchase to refuel your energy. Entertainment the whole family can enjoy.
Ripley’s Bayfront Mini Golf
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Winter to Spring (December to April)
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Family Fun Seekers, Mini-Golf Enthusiasts, Outdoor Recreation Lovers
Ripley’s Bayfront Mini Golf greets you in the historic downtown square, just before the Bridge of Lions. Take in the unmatched scenic river views as you putt along the oldest mini golf course in Florida. And this course has some more history too; it was the first public entity to be desegregated during the Civil Rights Movement.
St. Augustine Surf School
Peak Season
Summer Months (June to August)
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Surfing Enthusiasts, Beach Lovers, Water Sports Aficionados, Fitness Enthusiasts
Take on the surf with surf, SUP, or skimboards. St. Augustine’s sands beckon surfers to try out their skills. Rent surfboards to conquer the tides from St. Augustine Surf School or try out some SUP (stand-up paddle boarding) and glide along the coastline.
In addition to SUP and surfboards, Surf Station also offers skimboard rentals. Get a running start, throw the board down, and coast over the shallow waters. If you’re new to surfing and want a challenge, these businesses also offer private surf lessons.
Alligator Farm
Peak Season
Spring and Summer Months (March to August)
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Wildlife Enthusiasts, Family Visitors, Reptile Lovers, Bird Watchers
Learn about reptiles and more at the Alligator Farm. Gators galore! As the foremost facility in the world, the Alligator Farm is home to the most species of crocodiles. The foundation of the Farm dates back 125 years, to its 1983 inception. Since 1029, the zoo has housed creatures in its current location, though loads of remolding and infrastructure updates have occurred. The zoo is home to various creatures, from reptiles and lemurs to snakes and the treacherous Komodo dragon.
Wildlife shows are scheduled daily. These informative talks introduce various species to guests and discuss their habitat, diet, and life in the wild. Some even allow for hands-on engagement. If someone in your family is a critter lover, the Alligator Farm offers private animal encounters for an additional cost.
Get up close to the Galapagos tortoise to feel its 100-year-old shell or watch the slow motions of a two-toed. Best yet, take part in the Maximo encounter and witness the largest saltie on the Farm devour his food. Feeling brave? Get a bird’s eye view of the entire zoo when you swing over the exhibits on a zipline path. It’s a thrill that’ll make you shrill.
The Alligator Farm is also dedicated to research and conservation efforts, as well as community education. Whether you are a fan of these prehistoric beasts or afraid to look them in the eye, the awe and excitement of the Alligator Farm is something to experience when you visit St. Augustine.
Florida Water Tours
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Spring to Early Fall (March to September)
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Marine Life Enthusiasts, Family Vacationers, Nature Lovers, Adventure Seekers
Spot wild dolphins on a boat tour. Eager onlookers peruse the waters full of hope to catch a glimpse of some of the most popular water creatures, Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins. Instead of struggling for the shorelines, hop on a boat tour for some up-close and personal access. Florida Water Tours is a popular excursion to learn about this mammal.
The 90-minute boat ride highlights the dolphin’s habitat while also explaining the history behind various buildings dotting the city’s horizon. You may even spot turtles, fish, or the ultra-elusive manatee on this ride.
St. Augustine Boat Tours
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Wildlife Observers, Family Explorers
Another option for a water adventure is St. Augustine Boat Tours. This outing departs from the Conch House and is about an hour long. On this trip, guides discuss landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos as well as the St. Augustine Lighthouse. You’ll hear all about the water’s wildlife from pelicans to fish, and more. Don’t be surprised if you spy a seagull swooping in for some supper.
Red Boat Tour
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (April to September)
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History Enthusiasts, Sightseeing Lovers, Nature Explorers, Family Visitors
Cruise the waters on a Red Boat Tour. Be poised to spot a dolphin as it swims through the water, maybe with a baby calf in tow. You’ll experience the brackish waters on this 90-minute boat adventure and spot other animals that make this diverse river their home.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Peak Season
Spring Break (March to April)
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Curiosity Seekers, History Buffs, Family Enthusiasts, Adventure Lovers
Visit Ripley’s Believe it or Not. Does your family enjoy wild, wacky, unfathomable things? Ripley’s Believe it or Not is one way to witness the inexplicable. Stand in amazement at animal anomalies, and incredible humans you never knew were possible. These quirky announcements began as a cartoon column created by Robert Ripley, who was fascinated by odd and rare occurrences.
As public intrigue amassed, Robert toured the world searching for weirdly wonderful things to share with his audience. To ensure accuracy, Ripley hired a full-time researcher to verify the facts and statements he wrote about in his column.
The St. Augustine location, housed in an old hotel, has 14 themed rooms all with unique experiences. Tours are held daily beginning at 10 a.m.
The Red Train Tours
Peak Season
Spring (March to May)
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History Enthusiasts, Sightseeing Lovers, Family Explorers, Outdoor Enthusiasts
Catch The Red Train Tours from Ripley’s mansion museum. These rides are packed with tales from the past and local insights from the train drivers. As they weave through the heart of St. Augustine, you’ll learn the history and heritage of the Oldest City in America. See where the Spaniards first came ashore.
Be mesmerized by the exquisite structure of Flagler College and learn about its history as the Ponce de Leon Hotel. Pass by the Old Senator then travel down Magnolia Avenue to see the most beautiful street. There’s much to see and admire on these train tours. It’s a great way to get familiar with fresh surroundings and make a plan for all you want to do.
St. Augustine Beach
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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Beach Lovers, Sunbathers, Surf Enthusiasts, Families Seeking Seaside Relaxation
Make a splash. St. Augustine has a beach for all occasions and aquatic enjoyment. One of the great advantages of 42 miles of coastline is the opportunity for epic beach days. Many shores allow for drive-on access, the epitome of convenience when it comes to family days on the water. This perk makes it easy to plan and pack for a beach excursion.
Bring your snack and beverages, buckets, and boogie boards, and pack in the fun. Which beach is right–or closest–to you? Find our full dive into St. Augustine’s best beaches here.
Colonial Quarter
Peak Season
Year-Round
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History Enthusiasts, Cultural Explorers, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Art Lovers
Experience the Colonial Quarter. Muskets, blacksmiths, old houses, oh my! Get a feel for the real life of colonial settlers at the Quarter. Kids can watch demonstrations from experienced professionals to get a better understanding and witness the grueling tasks of daily life. Four tours are available daily. Check out the concert lineup and plan your visit to take in a live show on the stage. Group ticket sales are also available.
Marineland
Peak Season
Spring Break (March to April)
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Marine Life Enthusiasts, Families With Children, Nature Lovers, Adventure Seekers
Discover the first oceanarium of Marineland. With the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop, this historic oceanarium is only thirty minutes from downtown St. Augustine. Marineland opened as Marien Studios in 1938. It was a way for Hollywood filmmakers to capture underwater footage and throughout the decades, it has played the role of set to various films.
Its evolution occurred in the late 1940s when it welcomed the first dolphin born into human care. The porpoise was called Spray. Thus, this water palace began its tenure as a home to aquatic life. Various species of turtles and terrapins are neighbors to a moray eel, sand tiger sharks, and stingrays.
For an unforgettable experience, opt to be a trainer or aquarist for the day. Each encounter includes different elements of working in the aquarium and with the animals. For the dolphin enthusiast, there’s an option to be a trainer for a day to get a closer look at these personable porpoises.
Urban Youth Park
Peak Season
Year-Round
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Skateboarding Enthusiasts, Urban Sports Lovers, Outdoor Enthusiasts
Climb the obstacles at the Urban Youth Park. North of downtown, this indoor space is home to multiple trampolines, mats, and monkey bars, all organized to climb through a challenging course. Learn to hurdle over multiple mats or flip on the springs. Arrange the equipment to meet your difficulty level. It’s a great way to partake in action-packed amusement. Check out the event schedule to learn more about open gyms.
Old Town Trolley Tours
Peak Season
Winter Months (December to February)
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History Enthusiasts, Sightseeing Aficionados, Cultural Explorers, Family Travelers
Ride around town on the Old Town Trolley Train Tour. See and learn about the Ancient City with this hop-on, hop-off trolley. Full of history, strange facts, and crazy stories, it’s informative as well as entertaining. Get acquainted with the Fountain of Youth and the Flagler Memorial Presbyterian Church.
Learn about St. George Street and the oldest house in St. Augustine. Be prepared to hop off when a stop intrigues you to tour the grounds of your favorite site. Then, hop back on to complete the trolley ride. Discover all the trolley stops and reserve your spot by visiting the website.
Old Town Jail
Peak Season
Year-Round
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History Enthusiasts, Ghost Tour Enthusiasts, Cultural Explorers
Learn about the local rebels at the Old Town Jail. Built outside the bustle of the city square, the Old Town Jail has been renovated to reflect its origins. Henry Flagler was adamant that the jail exterior blended into the region, looking similar to hotels. This was so the building wasn’t an unsavory sight for visitors.
During tours, actors portray former prisoners, sharing tales of former inmates and their misfortune. Be careful and mind your manners. You could be convicted of a crime and locked behind bars in a cell all your own.
Oldest Store Museum
Peak Season
Year-Round
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History Buffs, Cultural Explorers, Families With Children, Museum Enthusiasts
Wander through the Oldest Store Museum. What was popular? What was a novel commodity? Step back in time when you tour the Oldest Store to understand artifacts and necessities of the 19th and 20th centuries and learn about the innovations of the time.
The general store was opened to support the needs of Henry Flagler. It ensured goods were stocked for his many business ventures. Today, thousands of items lined on the shelves tell the story of St. Augustine’s dynamic history, paying tribute to humble beginnings.
No reservations are required for this self-guided wander. You’ll encounter some friendly help along the way to teach you about all the memorabilia. Store hours are from 9 am to 5:30 pm daily, with exceptions on holidays.
The Ghosts and Gravestones
Peak Season
October (Halloween Season)
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History Enthusiasts, Thrill-Seekers, Paranormal Aficionados, Cultural Explorers
Get Spooked! Ready for some unworldly tales and ghostly haunts? As the nation’s oldest city, there are plenty of spirits lurking about. The Ghosts and Gravestones tour has been voted one of the best in the country. Listen to the harrowing tales of the deceased as you weave through the city, dodging the ghosts of years past. With over 450 years of history, this is sure to be a frightful night.
Ghost Tours of St. Augustine
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Halloween Season (October)
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History Enthusiasts, Thrill-Seekers, Paranormal Lovers, Cultural Explorers
Seeking more screams? Ghost Tours of St. Augustine has escorted the original spooky experience for over 30 years. Warning: This is not your average haunted tour. On an evening walking excursion, guests follow the lantern from location to location learning of ghoulish mischief.
Dare to walk the narrow, dark pathways and discover the stories of the unseen souls still among us. Learn the secrets to their demise in the shadows of streets from locals who may have experienced their ghostly glory. Tours depart daily at 8 pm, rain or shine. Private and group tours can also be arranged.
Get frightened at the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum. Though seemingly tranquil, this historic place holds secrets of the past on the grounds and its shores. Your guide will leave you gripping the rails as you navigate the tower and hear the tales. Then, meander through the Keeper’s house for true stories that will haunt you.
Flagler Saints
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Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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History Enthusiasts, Cultural Explorers, Architecture Admirers
Watch the Flagler Saints in action. A perfect activity for the avid athlete. Games are in full effect and it’s the perfect family environment. Watch these student-athletes beat the odds and face tough opponents.
Tennis and basketball arenas are conveniently located in the downtown mix, an easy walk from most destinations. The sports fields for baseball, soccer, and lacrosse are just 10 minutes from the main square. Whatever sport you choose to cheer, you’re sure to become a Flagler fan for life.
Anastasia Park Beach
Peak Season
Late Spring to Early Fall (May to September)
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Beach Lovers, Sunbathers, Families Seeking a Day by the Shore, Nature Enthusiasts
Set up camp at Anastasia Park Beach. Come with a tent or RV in tow, this State Park has the rest. Boosting 136 campsites, many shaded with live oaks, there’s a space for the entire family. Here, the ocean is your neighbor. Pack a cooler for a short trek to the beach. Hike through the park’s nature trails or cruise over the sand on a bike ride.
Kayak through the estuaries or fish for something fun. When you’re ready to relax after a day of activities, sit under the stars to gaze upon the twinkling lights of the great unknown. The memory-making possibilities are endless.
The park also has restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities–so no need to overpack. Campsites are 28 dollars and fill up fast in the spring and fall. For details about rentals and amenities, visit the State Parks website.
St. Augustine Wild Reserve
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Year-Round
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Animal Lovers, Wildlife Enthusiasts, Families With Children, Educational Seekers
Watch the creatures at the St. Augustine Wild Reserve. The mission of the Wild Reserve is to educate the public about exotic animals in hopes to cultivate respect for nature’s creatures. All animals in the sanctuary were rescued from abused homes or disenchanted owners. Now they bring their magic to educate tourists about their natural habitats and specie needs.
Though many of their tales have unsavory starts, these brilliant mammals will live an extraordinary life at the reserve. See the leopards in stealth action. Visit beautiful Bengal tigers. Witness the majesty of the African Lion. Count the spots on an Asian leopard. Perhaps you’ll be lucky to hear the wolves howl and hyenas laugh.
These magnificent creatures are sure to stun and wow with their grand presence. Reservations are required in advance and VIP tours are also available. All proceeds benefit the animals and their livelihoods.
St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum
Peak Season
Year-Round
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History Enthusiasts, Maritime Lovers, Family Visitors, Educational Seekers
Be a keeper at the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum. Standing 165 feet tall with 219 steps, the St. Augustine lighthouse towers over the landscape capturing sweeping views of the downtown buildings and sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean and Tolomato River.
The maritime museum offers a glimpse into a time when keepers kept a steady eye on the sky and fueled this beacon. The grounds also provide educational activities, nature trails with butterfly gardens, and a Shipyard Play area to entice kids with adventure. (Children must be 44 inches or taller to climb the lighthouse.)
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a World War II-inspired bite from Tin Pickle, then walk around the keeper’s house to get a taste of daily life working at the lighthouse. On the grounds, Heritage Boatworks keeps the craft of ship woodworking alive. This program was formed in 2007 and has carved more than 19 handmade wooden watercraft.
The Lighthouse is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm and the grounds are self-guided with numerous daily demonstrations on-premise. The Keeper’s Tour is hosted Tuesday through Thursday at 10 am. Advanced reservations are required to book this informative outing.
Project Swing Playground
Peak Season
Spring and Fall
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Playground Enthusiasts, Families With Children, Outdoor Recreation Lovers
Project Swing Playground. If the history of the city is becoming overwhelming for your brain, or you’re getting the “I’m bored” routine, take the tykes to burn off some energy at Project Swing. They’ll get lost in this magical maze of manmade entrapments.
With swings, slides, towers, and tubes, this wooden play space is easy to get to as it’s right downtown. Picnic tables and a covered pavilion make an excellent space for a snack break or reprise. There’s a separate area for toddlers to climb, dig and get dirty. Packs some snacks and have the strollers ready for naptime, peace is on the horizon.
Ready, Set, Play!
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Spring Break (March to April)
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Families With Children, Playtime Enthusiasts, Recreational Seekers
Ready, Set, Play! In case a storm rolls in, or the humidity has taken its toll, climb and play at this kid-approved indoor jungle gym. It’s the perfect place for all kids from new crawlers to school-aged speedy sprinters.
Swirl around on the curly slide then reclimb through the obstacle course. Jump around in the ball pit before you scramble over to the fast slide. Pedal through the space in one of the toy cars or be mesmerized by gadgets and gizmos stuck to the walls. Pack some snacks to enjoy in the eating area or purchase some on-site.
Socks and a waiver are required to play. This space is best for children 49 inches and under. Play is limited to two-hour time blocks. Open play hours begin at 10 a.m. except on Sundays.
Whetstone Chocolates
Peak Season
Year-Round
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Chocolate Connoisseurs, Sweet Tooth Enthusiasts, Foodies Exploring Local Delights
Try sweet treats at Whetstone Chocolates. This was made with kids in mind. Henry and Ester Whetstone first founded an ice cream shop in 1966. The parlor soon became known as the best in town. Seeking to expand their business and create more decadent indulgences, the couple added fudge to the mix. Ultimately, the pair had perfected their dips and molds, and their truffle portfolio took off.
Today, the company remains a family affair at the hands of the Whetstone’s daughter Virginia. The business has expanded, but you can still grab a cone at Tedi’s Old Tyme Ice Cream and see the facility where the magic of making chocolate began.
Sarbez
Peak Season
Spring and Summer
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Music Lovers, Live Entertainment Enthusiasts, Craft Beer Aficionados
Indulge in old-school fun at Sarbez. It may seem a bit odd to put a restaurant on the list, but this place is so much more than a food joint. Get back to classic video games and challenge the entire family. These throwback antics will keep the kids enthralled for hours. Until 8 pm, it’s a family-friendly environment. Parents can sip on ciders, beer, and wine and kids can nosh on artisanal grilled cheeses or custom creations.
Challenge your bowling skills with skeeball, or face the clock with basketball free throws. Channel your inner speed demon via a racecar game. But our favorite? The epic Pac-Man wall. It’s nostalgia at its finest. Intimate seating is available inside as well as a patio. Perfect for some rainy day fun, or a way to wiggle out the pre-bed rambunctiousness.
