Lightner Museum, St. Augustine (must see)

The Lightner Museum showcases collectibles and antiques. The museum was founded in 1948 by Otto C. Lightner, a Chicago publisher interested in collecting. Originally called the "Lightner Museum of Hobbies," it mainly displayed his collection of decorative art and objects acquired from estate sales at Gilded Age mansions.

The museum is housed in the Hotel Alcazar, a former luxury resort hotel that opened in the late 1880s. Built by oil tycoon Henry Flagler, this grand hotel features gorgeous Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture. The hotel closed in the early 1930s after the stock market crash led to an economic depression. In the 1940s, Lightner purchased the building to convert into his museum.

There are currently three floors of intriguing exhibits to see in the Lightner Museum. The large and varied collection includes many pieces from America's Gilded Age of the late 19th century. Musical instruments, cut-glass crystal, antique furniture, Tiffany lamps, stained glass, oil paintings, sculptures, sea shells, and other curiosities are on display.

The museum also offers temporary exhibitions, special programs, and events. Café Alcazar serves lunch in an elegant setting that was once host to the Hotel Alcazar's huge indoor swimming pool. The Lightner Museum Store offers specialty items and gifts inspired by the museum collections. Don't miss taking a stroll around the beautiful courtyard garden.