Pack for your adventure
A short, practical list for families walking St. Augustine, plus books that bring the Mystery Files to life.
As an Amazon Associate, Since 1565 earns from qualifying purchases. Links open Amazon search results so you can compare options; we don't endorse specific sellers.
For young detectives
- Kids' magnifying glass — Spot the tiny shells in the Castillo's coquina walls.
- Pocket notebook & pencils — For clue notes, sketches and rubbings (paper only, never on monuments).
- Clipboard for kids — Makes sketching on the go easier for little hands.
- Kids' binoculars — For lighthouse stripes, dolphins in Matanzas Bay and rooftops on St. George Street.
- Kids' detective kit — A fun warm-up before your trip.
For the walk
- Comfortable walking sandals or sneakers — Brick streets and coquina are uneven.
- Wide-brim sun hats — Florida sun is strong, even in winter.
- Reef-safe sunscreen — Handy for beach days on Anastasia Island too.
- Insulated water bottles — Refill often; Florida heat is no joke.
- Portable phone charger — Your adventure runs on your phone.
- Compact travel umbrella — Afternoon storms roll in fast in summer.
Read before you go
- St. Augustine history books — Go deeper on the oldest city.
- Fort Mose books for kids and adults — The story behind Mystery File 003.
- Henry Flagler & the Florida railroad — Background for Mystery File 007 and the Gilded Age hunt.
- Castillo de San Marcos books — The fortress behind Mystery Files 001 and 002.
- Pirates & privateers for kids — Pairs with The Lost Treasure adventure.
- Florida history for kids — Great for homeschool units before a trip.
Ready to go?
Start with the free Three Keys hunt, then pick a full adventure. Check what's on and where to stay.
What should kids bring on a St. Augustine scavenger hunt?
A charged phone, water, sun protection, comfortable shoes for uneven brick streets, and optionally a small notebook and magnifying glass for spotting details like the shells in the Castillo's coquina walls.
What should I wear walking in St. Augustine?
Comfortable closed-toe shoes or supportive sandals, a hat and breathable clothing. The historic district has brick and uneven coquina surfaces, and summer afternoons often bring storms.
Now put those walking shoes to work
Self-guided phone scavenger hunts through the historic district. Start free with the Three Keys walk from the City Gates to the Castillo.