How long is the carriage tour?

The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes, providing a comprehensive overview of St. Augustine’s historic district.

Are children allowed on the tour?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly and welcomes riders of all ages.

Are pets allowed on the carriage?

Yes, the tours are pet-friendly, allowing well-behaved animals to accompany guests.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Please contact Old City Carriages directly to discuss accessibility accommodations.

What happens if it rains on the day of my tour?

Tours operate weather permitting and may be canceled due to rain or severe weather; you will be notified in advance.

Where does the tour start?

Tours begin at 23 Avenida Menendez, located between the Bridge of Lions and Castillo de San Marcos.

Classic Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour by Old City Carriages

St. Augustine, Florida, lays claim as the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the continental United States, and there’s hardly a better way to soak in its layered history than from a horse-drawn carriage. Old City Carriages offers a 50-minute Classic Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour that unfolds the city’s rich past with a rhythm that only steady hooves on cobblestone streets can provide. With departures from 23 Avenida Menendez, between the iconic Bridge of Lions and Castillo de San Marcos, this tour navigates through the heart of a city where ancient Spanish colonial architecture, moss-draped live oaks, and brick-paved lanes create a setting unlike any other.

The tour’s pace is leisurely but deliberate, allowing guests to catch stories that a car or bus ride would blur past: tales of pirates, conquistadors, and revolutionaries, recounted by guides who blend historical insight with warmth and humor. The horses—one of this experience’s defining features—give the city a timeless pulse. They clip-clop past the waterfront bayfront and old plazas, making each stop a portal back to centuries marked by resilience and revival.

Though St. Augustine’s charm extends year-round, the weather-permitting tours are an invitation to step out of the modern world and into one crafted from cobblestones and legends. Old City Carriages holds a special place in the local outdoor recreation scene, not for rugged trails or adrenaline, but for providing a distinct, slow-immersion approach to experiencing an outdoor cityscape shaped as much by nature as by human hands.

Accessible to all ages and accommodating both large and small groups, the tour offers a unique perspective that celebrates St. Augustine’s identity and underscores the importance of preserving this historic landscape. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply wanting a memorable journey through one of Florida’s most storied cities, this horse-drawn carriage tour delivers an unmatched blend of cultural and outdoor adventure.

About Old City Carriages

Old City Carriages is a horse-drawn carriage company located in St. Augustine, Florida, operating guided carriage rides through the historic district of the Nation’s Oldest City. The company offers four signature experiences: the Horse-Drawn Carriage Ghost Tour, Wedding Rides with customizable decor, the Classic Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour, and private Night of Lights rides during the holiday illumination season.

Each tour uses traditional carriages pulled by trained horses and is guided by professional drivers who share local history, legends, and entertaining commentary. The Classic Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour runs approximately 50 minutes and highlights St. Augustine’s colonial architecture, landmarks, and streetscapes. The Horse-Drawn Carriage Ghost Tour focuses on haunted history and local legends, combining atmospheric narration with the rhythmic cadence of hooves. Wedding Rides provide ceremonial transport with optional signs, flowers, and chocolates for customizable touches. Night of Lights carriage rides offer a private, illuminated experience through the city’s famous holiday display.

Old City Carriages emphasizes safety, experienced handling of horses, and vehicles maintained to meet passenger comfort. Tours operate within the historic district and are suitable for couples, families, wedding parties, and visitors seeking a unique perspective on St. Augustine. Reservations are recommended during peak seasons and for special events. As a locally based attraction in St. Augustine, Old City Carriages complements the city’s historic tourism offerings by providing a traditional, horse-drawn way to explore the area. Public safety protocols and animal welfare practices are followed during operations to protect guests and horses. Advance booking secures specific time slots and availability.