Lightner Museum in St. Augustine, FL

75 King StreetSt. Augustine, FL 32084
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Starting at
$19.00
Total Price: $19.38 (USD)
INSTANT CONFIRMATION
NO SERVICE FEES

Overview

Located in the historic Hotel Alcazar, just steps from Flagler College in downtown St. Augustine, the Lightner Museum offers an immersive experience of architecture, art history, and design. Guests of all ages will enjoy the museum’s four and a half floors of beautiful, curious, and intriguing collections that are on display.

Good To Know

  • Located in the heart of historic downtown St. Augustine, FL, about 20 minutes from I-95 and one hour from Jacksonville and Daytona Beach.
  • Free admission for children ages 11 and under.
  • Plan on spending about 1-2 hours to explore all the exhibits.
  • City-owned metered parking is available behind and across the museum.
  • Be prepared to check large bags at the front desk.
  • No food or drinks allowed. The only beverage permitted is water.
  • ADA-accessible museum with ramped entrance and elevator access, except for the historic pool.
  • Wheelchairs are available for use on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Description

The Lightner Museum is dedicated to enriching the lives of visitors through their extraordinary collection, historic building, and dynamic exhibitions and programs. Founded in 1948 by Chicago publisher, collector, and professional hobbyist Otto C. Lightner, the museum offers an immersive experience of art, architecture, history, and design.

The museum occupies the former Alcazar Hotel, a Gilded Age resort hotel commissioned by railroad magnate Henry Flagler. Completed in 1888, the magnificent Spanish Renaissance Revival building was designed by the prominent architecture firm of Carrère and Hastings.

At the heart of the museum’s offerings are its compelling collections. From lamps by Louis Comfort Tiffany and exquisite shells and geological specimens from around the world to porcelain produced at Sèvres and Victorian mechanical musical instruments, the Lightner Museum’s collections are rich, eclectic, and always engaging.

Steeped in history, the Lightner Museum is not simply about the past. Just as Otto Lightner connected with people across America who wanted to enrich their lives through collecting, the Lightner Museum today offers new perspectives through its exhibitions, events, and educational programs.

Lightner Museum Reviews

terri weston Tripster User Profile Image
terri weston
Tampa, FL
5 Reviews
Verified Traveler
"Step back in time"
June 2016
Starting the tour and the teens were able to do a scavenger hunt which was a surprise to us all. Watching/listening to the music demonstration was awesome. Getting into the "fun bldg" of the alcazar and seeing the way these men enjoyed themselves for the season was really neat. Standing inside the largwst indoor swimming pool was an experience. And from the grandballroom the view was fabulous. The volunteer fuides with a ton of information really help to make the experience better
Read More
Tip: Worlds largest indoor coed swimming pool. Huge desk with hidden drawers and cabinets gifted from napoleon.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Lightner Museum

How long does it take to go through the Lightner Museum St. Augustine?

This is a self-guided tour, so you can enjoy the museum at your own pace. However, you can plan to spend about 1-2 hours, as it is spread through four and a half floors.

Is there parking at Lightner Museum at St. Augustine, Florida?

The museum does not operate a parking lot. However, public metered parking lots are located directly behind the museum and across from the museum at Granada and Cedar Streets.

Are food and drink permitted inside the Lightner Museum in Florida?

Food and drink are not allowed inside the museum. Food and drink from Café Alcazar cannot be brought into the Museum but can be held at the admissions desk.

Are backpacks allowed in the museum?

No, luggage and larger backpacks must be checked at the admission desk. If you must have your backpack, you must wear it on your front or side, or carry it.

Does the museum have a gift shop?

Yes, the gift shop is accessible to the public and located on the museum's first floor.

Is the St. Augustine Lightner Museum wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the museum is wheelchair accessible. Ramp access is via Granada and Cordova streets. The museum also has a limited number of wheelchairs for visitors on a first come, first serve basis. The museum has an elevator that accesses each floor except the historic pool, which is accessed via Granada Street.

Are pets allowed in the museum?

Pets are not allowed inside the Museum. The Lightner Museum complies with all ADA requirements and accepts service animals in the museum as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Lightner Museum does not allow Emotional Support Animals (ESA) or Comfort Animals, as they are not service animals as defined under the ADA.

Can I take pictures inside the museum?

Photography, without flash, and video are permitted for personal use; however, photography may be prohibited in special exhibitions. Tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited for all indoor use.