Before you get too excited after hundreds of people have drunk from the fountain no one has discovered they could live forever.
Located in St. Augustin Florida the attraction was created alongside Hospital creek a part of the intercostal waterway. The Historical attraction was created to fit historical references and make for a fun spot but educational to the public.
Ponce de Leon entered the Timucua territory estimated in 1513 where he named the land La Florida as the discovery was during the Festival of Flowers. Through history and time, the fountain of youth was discovered as just a myth but the historical significance of the exact location of the fountain was still up for debate.
It was Dr. Luella Day McConnell who was adamant through historical records that she had purchased the property that was once declared the Fountain of youth.
After her death, further discoveries were found to prove that the settlers did associate a significance with the property and declared it of historical significance. Years followed and as today it stands as a historical reminder of Florida’s history.
The park offers historical reenactments, performances, and much more. They offer guided tours if you are looking for further information with historical professionals. Or take a chance to join an excavation team and help discover some artifacts left years ago.
They have wild animals that roam the park from exotic birds to powerful peacock’s.
You can sit around a campfire and speak with native American’s and see how they use to live when surrounded by only nature.
Of course, with all the travels you must not skip the Spring House which holds the renowned fountain of youth. The original spring was surrounded by a 60-year-old coquina building which holds the liquid so many have visited before. With a signed record book dating back 1868, you can join history.
Its stated in Timucua tradition to drink from the water will bring you eternal hope.
The exhibits are always changing which keeps it interesting. In the colder months, they hold evening festivals and outdoor events where stories are told by campfires. So no matter what time of the year its possible you might see something different.
While visiting be sure to dine at the Smoked Southern BBQ restaurant, its be giving good reviews and the authentic southern food is cooked with the freshest local foods.
With it being a park you a free to walk the ground and enjoy the outdoors.
The park is still just that, a park. So feel free to bring your own belongings and food for a picnic. There is plenty of places to sit and rest if you just want to enjoy the outdoors.
For general admission, adults start at $18.00 and children under 5 enter for free. If you happen to be a St. John county resident can enter for $9.00.
It's a park that remains as a reminder of the historical events that has occurred over Florida. It’s interesting to see the past displayed. Take a moment to enjoy and learn something new the park offers many attractions that I feel will motivate you to come back again.
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