Known as The Ancient City, St. Augustine, Florida is the oldest city in the United States and has six free things to do help you have an affordable family vacation.

Located between Northeastern and Central East Florida, the city enjoys a mild climate year round. Its architecture and landmarks speak of the early Spanish Empire of the New World, and its offerings to visitors – many of them free – will appeal to history buffs. However the city also boasts an abundance of outdoor activities, including boating, water sports, and golf.

1. San Sebastian Winery – Tour the winery, see a film, and taste some wine. Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Easter, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

2. The Authentic Old Drug Store – Check out the old contents on a self-guided tour. There is no one minding the store – the owners simply leave the door open. A popular stop on St. Augustine’s various ghost tours. Open 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Closed Easter, Christmas, and Thanksgiving.

3. St. Photos Chapel – Tour the first Greek Orthodox Church in the United States and stop for a family photo in the grotto.

4. Pena Peck House – Former home of the Spanish Royal Treasurer, this landmark structure is open Monday-Saturday from 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Legend has it that pirates once traveled to St. Augustine to loot this home. Managed by the Woman’s Exchange, a community service organization. Closed Sundays, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Donations welcome.

5. Father Miguel O'Reilly Museum– Artifacts include Hurricane Madonna and a pair of slippers worn by a former Pope. Operated by the Sisters of St. Joseph, a Catholic order that came to St. Augustine after the Civil War to teach former slaves to read and write. Open Wednesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Donations welcome.

6. Fort Matanzas National Landmark - Located 12 miles south of St. Augustine at the southern end of Anastasia Island. Take a free boat ride to Rattlesnake Island where you might see dolphins and/or manatees. Thespians reenact the roles of Spanish soldiers on duty at the fort, and on the first Saturday of each month there is a weapons firing display featuring muskets and canons. Open daily 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.