The Lightner Museum, located in downtown St. Augustine, is a unique destination that houses a collection of antiques, primarily from the American Gilded Age. These pieces are displayed within the historic Hotel Alcazar building, adding to the overall charm and appeal of the museum.
The building that houses the Lightner Museum is an attraction in its own right. The structure centers around an open courtyard, complete with palm trees and a stone arch bridge that spans a koi pond. This serene setting provides a beautiful backdrop for the museum's antique collection.
The first floor of the Lightner Museum is home to the Victorian Science and Industry Room. This room showcases a variety of items, including shells, rocks, minerals, and Native American artifacts, all displayed in beautiful Gilded Age cases. Visitors can also see stuffed birds, a small Egyptian mummy, a model steam engine, and elaborate examples of Victorian glassblowing. One of the standout pieces is a golden elephant bearing the world on its back, along with a shrunken head.
Art & Design History & Anthropology Archaeology Historic house Industrial heritage
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Monday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Tuesday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Wednesday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Thursday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Friday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Saturday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
Sunday | 9:00 – 17:00 |
King Street 75, St. Augustine
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Lightner Museum has 1 rating.
The Lightner Museum in St. Augustine, Florida, offers visitors an impressive collection of 19th-century art and artifacts housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, a beautiful Spanish Renaissance-style building. The museum's diverse exhibits span three floors and include fine and decorative arts, natural history specimens, and curiosities from the Gilded Age.
Visitors often praise the museum's eclectic collection, which features everything from intricate glasswork and Victorian-era furniture to musical instruments and a stunning collection of Tiffany stained glass. The building's architecture and history add to the overall experience, with many guests appreciating the preserved features of the former luxury hotel.
The museum's layout and presentation receive mixed reviews. While some find the arrangement charming and enjoy the sense of discovery as they explore, others feel that the exhibits could benefit from better organization and more detailed information about the items on display.
The antique mechanical music demonstration is frequently highlighted as a standout feature, with many visitors finding it both entertaining and educational. The courtyard and koi pond also receive positive mentions for providing a peaceful spot to relax during the visit.
Some visitors note that the museum can feel a bit overwhelming due to the sheer volume of items on display, and a few mention that certain areas could use better lighting or updating. Despite these minor criticisms, most guests find the Lightner Museum to be a worthwhile and engaging attraction that offers a unique glimpse into 19th-century American life and design.
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