11/15/2025
Updated Parking Guidance for Guests
Plan ahead for parking, as it can be quite challenging—especially on Friday and Saturday nights and throughout the month of December. During peak season, particularly the week after Christmas, it’s common to spend up to 45 minutes searching for a parking spot. We strongly recommend arriving at least one hour before your tour begins and utilize the City of St. Augustine shuttles and information in this post.
Important City Updates (Published October–November 2025, Effective Nov 15–Jan 11):
The City of St. Augustine has raised the daily rate at the Parking Garage (1 Cordova St.) to $40 per day. This garage is part of the city’s “Park Once" system and often fills by 3:00 PM on weekends and major event days.
The City has removed most public on-street parking during Nights of Lights. Parking violations carry a $100 fine, so please read all posted signage carefully.
The City is providing free shuttle services from various satellite locations to help reduce congestion downtown. Please, plan accordingly as there could be a long wait time for shuttles- for shuttles to drive to downtown- and if you have to walk to your meeting locations from where the shuttles drop off.
The City has released a Nights of Lights App, offering real-time parking availability, shuttle information, and public restroom locations—an excellent tool for planning ahead.
Additional Options:
If you choose to drive into downtown, arrive early, as private lots are expected to fill significantly earlier than usual this season. With the removal of most on-street parking and the increased garage pricing, more visitors will be relying on private lots.
Several public and private lots throughout downtown offer hourly and daily rates and remain the most reliable choice during peak periods.
Planning ahead will help ensure a smooth, stress-free start to your experience. Enjoy your time in beautiful St. Augustine and the magic of Nights of Lights!
Helpful Links:
Nights of Lights App (Apple):
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/nights-of-lights-st-augustine/id6752926285
Nights of Lights Official Shuttle & Parking Info (City of St. Augustine):
https://www.citystaug.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=644
City of St. Augustine Nights of Lights Information:
https://www.citystaug.com/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=651
City of St. Augustine Parking Finder:
https://www.citystaug.com/498/Parking
Historic Downtown Parking Facility (City Parking Garage):
https://www.citystaug.com/502/Historic-Downtown-Parking-Facility
City of St. Augustine Facebook (Social Media Updates):
hCity of St. Augustine - Government
