Creating a Destination Wedding Weekend
When you ask guests to travel for your wedding, you're inviting them not just to a ceremony, but to an experience. Choosing 9 Aviles in historic St. Augustine provides the perfect foundation for a memorable destination wedding weekend—your venue is just the beginning of what makes the trip unforgettable.
St. Augustine's compact historic district, walkability, and abundance of activities make it ideal for destination weddings. Guests can explore independently, groups can enjoy planned activities together, and everyone will appreciate the authentic historical atmosphere that sets this destination apart.
Pre-Wedding Activities (Thursday/Friday)
Help early-arriving guests get acclimated and excited about your wedding weekend:
Welcome Reception
Host a casual welcome gathering at a local restaurant or rooftop bar. This gives guests a chance to meet each other and helps them feel oriented to the area. Consider venues within walking distance of 9 Aviles for convenience.
Historic Walking Tour
Book a private or semi-private walking tour of the historic district. Professional guides share fascinating stories about St. Augustine's 450+ year history, and guests get their bearings while learning about the area.
Group Dinner
Reserve a private dining room at one of St. Augustine's excellent restaurants. This creates a more formal welcome event and allows you to address everyone at once with weekend details.
Sunset Sail
For smaller groups, a sunset sailing cruise on Matanzas Bay provides a memorable pre-wedding experience. Several companies offer private charters perfect for wedding parties.
Must-Visit Historic Attractions
Provide guests with a curated list of St. Augustine's top attractions, all easily accessible from 9 Aviles:
- Castillo de San Marcos: America's oldest masonry fort (10-minute walk from 9 Aviles)
- St. George Street: Pedestrian-only historic street with shops, restaurants, and entertainment
- Flagler College: Stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture in the former Ponce de León Hotel
- St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum: Climb 219 steps for panoramic views
- Colonial Quarter: Living history museum with costumed interpreters
- Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park: Legendary site of Ponce de León's landing
- Fort Matanzas: Smaller Spanish fort accessible by free ferry
- St. Augustine Distillery: Free tours and tastings of locally-made spirits
Dining Recommendations by Area
Include a dining guide in your guest information highlighting restaurants near 9 Aviles and throughout the historic district:
Fine Dining
Upscale restaurants perfect for rehearsal dinners or special celebration meals
Casual Favorites
Relaxed spots for lunch, casual dinners, or groups with children
Waterfront Dining
Restaurants with bay or river views for scenic meals
Quick Bites & Cafes
Coffee shops, bakeries, and quick lunch options perfect for exploring
Pro Tip: For specific restaurant recommendations near 9 Aviles, check out our Marine Street Dining Guide.
Creating a Guest Welcome Packet
Help guests make the most of their St. Augustine visit with a comprehensive welcome packet including:
- ✓ Weekend schedule of events with times and locations
- ✓ Map of historic district highlighting 9 Aviles, hotels, and key attractions
- ✓ List of recommended restaurants with price ranges and cuisine types
- ✓ Top attractions with hours and admission costs
- ✓ Emergency contact numbers
- ✓ Transportation options (parking, ride-share, trolley)
- ✓ Weather considerations and what to pack
- ✓ Your favorite local spots and hidden gems
Consider creating both digital (via wedding website) and printed versions left at hotel front desks for guest convenience.
Post-Wedding Day Activities
Many destination wedding guests extend their stays. Suggest these post-wedding activities:
- Farewell Brunch: Host a casual brunch the morning after your wedding
- Beach Day: St. Augustine Beach is just 15 minutes away
- Winery Tours: Visit nearby San Sebastian Winery or take a day trip to local vineyards
- Golf: Several excellent courses in the area for golf enthusiasts
- Shopping: Browse unique boutiques and galleries in the historic district
- Spa Services: Help guests relax after the celebration
Accommodation Recommendations
Help guests find the perfect place to stay with recommendations across different price points and styles:
For detailed hotel recommendations, see our comprehensive accommodations guide.
Make Your Destination Wedding Unforgettable
With 9 Aviles as your venue and historic St. Augustine as your backdrop, you're already providing guests with an extraordinary experience. Add thoughtful planning for their non-wedding time, and you'll create memories that last long after your celebration ends.