4th of July in St Augustine

St. Augustine will be a busy place Wednesday, July 4, 2012- let SimplyStAugustine make your day easier!  We’ve compiled a list of where to watch the fireworks in St Augustine and also some ideas to keep the kids busy while you’re waiting.

Happy 4th of July from the nation’s oldest city!!  It’s a great time of year to be a local- but then again, I think it’s always a great time to be in St. Augustine!

First, you must know that roads close late evening but even before that it gets pretty congested.  So plan to spend the whole afternoon in town, snag your preferred viewing spot early and r-e-l-a-x.  Repeat after me: I will not honk.  I will not honk.  I will not honk. 

Parking is easy getting in to the parking garage (10 West Castillo Drive) but congested leaving.  Look on the way in for parking a few blocks out and hike in if you’re impatient.  {remember your promise- no honking!}  If it were me and I had some money to blow (ha!) I’d stay downtown for the night.

A few St. Augustine shops you should check out & places to grab snacks:

The Hyppo- New address, same gourmet popsicles.  ‘Nuff said.
French Fry Heaven St Augustine- I haven’t been yet but I’m intrigued!  Why not?!
Red Pineapple- A quirky shop on St George St that has decent prices on really cute jewelry!
Pizzalley’s- If you need a meal, this is my very favorite pizza in the world.  Specifically the veggie garbage can.  The slices at Pizza Time across the street are pretty good, too.  Both on St. George St.
Project SWING- If the kiddos need some playgroud time, the one across from the parking garage is fun!
Ripleys! Believe it or not- They’re hosting bounce houses {etc} to keep the kiddos busy afterwards… think Kid Afterparty!  This could very well save your sanity!

The city is so much fun- you’ll discover your own favorites.  Don’t forget to check out the list of great view of the St Augustine Fireworks!

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How to Make your 4th of July Special

It’s a 4th of July Roundup!

You can celebrate Independence Day in St Augustine by watching fireworks from several places!  {Here’s a link to great places to watch fireworks in St Augustine}

Whether you head to the green in front of the Castillo for an all-day picnic or celebrate with friends at home, here are some ideas to keep your littles happy while you wait for the sun to set:

• family fun shares some outdoor games.  If you’re hanging out at the fort all afternoon, try some of these 4th of July games.
• gracefullmom shares some ideas of how to make a 4th of July celebration special at home.
• On Yahoo, I came across some new ideas for backyard games for the 4th of July.
• I created a 4th of July Pinterest board with a few games and lots of recipes- we’ll use some of these this year.
• And Kaboose has some 4th of July Games to share as well.