PARK HIGHLIGHTS
THE SPRING HOUSE
Protected from the elements by a building constructed from native
building materials of coquina rock, and cypress, the famous
landmark cross and original spring are preserved and protected.
The landmark cross, discovered at the turn of the 19th Century,
is made of 27 coquina stones and is believed to have been placed
there by Ponce de Leon at his historic landing. The cross remains
today in the spot where it was originally discovered.
The spring, located adjacent to the landmark cross, sustained
the Timucuan Indians for thousands of years before Europeans
explorers arrived. As a preservation measure, the spring was
welled up in 1875 to keep it from collapsing in on itself.
Here, all visitors are invited to participate in the tradition
of drinking a cup of the unique water as millions have dome
in the past, while viewing the animated dioramas of the Indian
village of Seloy and the historic first landing.
THE SALT CELLAR
Displayed in the Spring House is an exact pewter reproduction
of a salt cellar which was discovered in 1904 by Dr. Louella
Day MacConnell. The original salt cellar was buried near the
cross and when opened was found to contain a parchment document
upon which was written a statement by a witness attesting
to the laying of the cross in 1513. The Salt Cellar is believed
to have been a gift to Ponce de Leon from Columbus in commemoration
of their 1493 voyage across the Atlantic together.
CARVELLE DOWN
The newest exhibit...2/3 scale model of a Spanish shipwrecked vessel.
THE DISCOVERY GLOBE
In an amazing 8 minute presentation visitors are immersed in
total darkness and with the aid of an immense two story globe
and black light, the journeys of the early explorers and other
items of historical importance are mapped out.
THE PLANETARIUM
Visitors embark on a fascinating 15 minute journey through storm
and stars to track the voyage of Ponce de Leon to the New
World and have the stars reset to appear as they appeared
to him on the night before he came ashore in 1513. Lobby exhibits
reference instruments used for celestial navigation and life
aboard a spanish galleon.
TIMUCUA INDIAN EXHIBIT
"First Encounters" details the collision of cultures
when the first Europeans met the native indians. Exhibits and
artifacts trace the relationship of the Spanish Conquistadors
and the Timucua as they adapt to each others customs and differences.
THE GROUNDS
In addition to the exhibits and archeological markers, visitors
can stroll through the grounds where native plants adorn the
paths and walkways. 21 identified name plants throughout the grounds. Statues of Ponce de Leon and the Timucuan
chief are on display as well as a monument marking the landing
site overlooking beautiful Matanzas Inlet. Various cannons
and anchors from a private collection decorate the grounds.
The 15 acre park site is a peaceful tribute to the natives and
explorers that once occupied these grounds. Benches and picnic
tables are located throughout the park for visitors to sit and
enjoy the beauty of nature or partake of a quiet lunch.
Bird and nature lovers will love this park with the abundance
of wildlife found here. In addition to the native wildlife,
visitors can feed the flock of peafowl (peacocks) who claim this
as their home. Bring your camera, there are many photo opportunities.
EVENTS
The Fountain of Youth plays host to many re-enactments in Saint
Augustine. Many times you may find Pirates or 16th century
explorers camping on the grounds.
Use of the facilities for weddings, reunions, and corporate functions
is quite popular and can be arranged by contacting the ticket
office or our e-mail at fountain@fountainofyouthflorida.com.
Archeological digs are intermittent, however no private digging is
permitted in order to preserve the authenticity of all finds at
the site.
AMENITIES
PARKING - Ample parking is provided, free of charge, to accommodate all types of vehicles including vans, buses and cars of all sizes.
PICNIC AREA / SNACK BAR - Two picnic areas are provided in a beautiful setting. The snack bar offers delicious lunches, cool drinks, and great snacks.
RESTROOMS - Bathroom facilities are located adjacent to our parking lot for your convenience.
GIFT SHOP - Our 2,000 sq. ft. gift shop is well stocked with over 20,000 items including St. Augustine souvenirs, historical and educational gifts, novelties, sportswear, jewelry, treasure coins, and of course, bottled water from the famous Fountain of Youth. We can accommodate groups of all sizes and offer flexible staffing to facilitate quicker checkout to keep you on schedule. We also offer a free Florida historical map suitable for the classroom to teachers that permit their children to shop with us. Ten percent of all sales go to support park operations and archeological research.
Adults (10 or more) (2 travel agents or 2 tour guides-free) |
$6.00 each |
Seniors (10 or more) (2 travel agents or 2 tour guides-free) |
$5.00 each |
Grade 1-6 and Chaperones |
$3.50 each |
Grade 7-12 and Chaperones |
$4.50 each |
(2) Teachers per 50 Students |
Free |
