Lightner Museum & more - St Augustine

After touring on the trolley our first visit to town, we were anxious to check off some sites on our list.  Dave was hungry so we stopped at Burger Basket for a quick bite for breakfast.  I just watched him eat as I was waiting for lunch.  They are known for their burgers as all the patties are made from scratch.  His breakfast sandwich was the same and home-made.  Very Good!  Highly recommend this place if you are going to shop on St George Street.

Even though we purchased a trolley pass, we did our share of walking.  No problem getting my steps in again today!  Lovely quaint homes & streets.

We made a quick stop at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine.  Originally established in 1565 and re-built in the 18th century, it is the oldest church in Florida.

The Lightner Museum was certainly the highlight of our day.  We were able save 50% by purchasing our tickets on Groupon for $5.00 each.  Words cannot describe the amazing things we saw.  Dave made the comment that there are so many items that we have never seen or heard of before.  We were blessed to be there at 2PM when they played the old-time musical instruments for all of us to enjoy.  I wish that I had taken pictures of this room but was too engaged in this beautiful unique music.  It actually sounded like we were at an old time carnival.  I was waiting for the ticket man to come by and sell us a ride on a carousel.

It was originally the Hotel Alcazar commissioned by Henry Flagler, to appeal to wealthy tourists who travel south for the winter.  The hotel had a steam room, massage parlor, sulfur baths, gymnasium, 3-story ballroom & the world's largest indoor swimming pool.  After years as an elegant winter resort for wealthy patrons, the hotel closed in 1932. After purchasing the building to house his extensive collection of Victorian Era pieces in 1947, Chicago publisher Otto Lightner turned it over to the city of St. Augustine.

Fun day!  We finished off the day with some fresh Latin cuisine at the Casa Maya.  It was a lot for us to do in a day.  By the time we get back to our RV, we were ready to crawl in bed.  LOL!  So glad...we are doing this though & ready to rest and head out earlier tomorrow. 

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