St Augustine sightseeing trains (St. Augustine: coupons, price, train)

[goso]

Are the sightseeing trains in the historic area worth it & is there much difference between the two? Thanks,

g

[mawipafl]

I think the two are Ripley's Red Train and the Old Town Trolley. Both have similarities and slight differences. They both basically hit the same historic spots, but the train sneaks down one tiny sidestreet that's too small for the trolley (I don't recall the street name).

Definitely, either one (or both) is worth it. The main purpose is of course to see St. Augustine and listen to the on-board guide's commentary. You can stay on the train or trolley for the entire loop or get off at will and reboard later. A huge plus is the free parking. Free parking downtown is essentially impossible most of the time, but parking at the train and trolley main "depots" is free.

Old Town Trolley Tours

Ripley's Red Trains

We've done both and found each equally enjoyable and can recommend either one as a must-do. You can make your choice based on price or on other specials each offers and you can't go wrong.

[wb3690]

thanks for that answer! we were just down there saturday and my youngest wants to do it....I wasn't sure if it was worthwhile or not.

what about the rest of the overly tourist stuff? my kids want to check out ripley's museum. is that place worth it?

[mawipafl]

It's our style to do most of the touristy things when we visit a city, if not on the first trip, then perhaps on subsequent trips. That's not everyone's style, and certainly some touristy spots are just that - geared for tourists and their wallets. (I'm being general here and not speaking just about St. Augustine.)

As for Ripley's, we've not done the one in St. Augustine, but have been to the one in Myrtle Beach. Some in our party loved it and were enthralled and felt it was worth every penny while others weren't so thrilled -- again, it's all about personal preference (and I just don't get thrilled/enthralled with the odd and weird, but so many do.)

[wb3690]

Thanks! I think it might be something fun to do later.

we generally do all touristy things once......especially when you're new to an area it can be fun.

[Robyn55]

If you're going to take the Old Town Trolley - go to some museums - try to get a copy of the Entertainment Book (lots of 2 for 1 coupons). It's selling for $35 on line now - but you can usually get a copy from someone doing some charitable fundraising for $20. Robyn