Name a city in Florida and chances are you'll mention Miami; headline-grabbing tendency, beautiful people, magnificent beaches, and the glitz and glam of South Beach and its A-list events. But if you're looking for something other than a tan, a hangover, or devastating AMEX bills, St. Augustine, America's oldest city, is a treat that should not be missed.

With a history that dates back to Spanish explorers like Ponce de Leon, who stepped ashore in search of the Fountain of Youth in 1513, decades before England's adventurous colonists settled in Jamestown, the city offers visitors an opportunity to be dazzled by its understated elegance and eclectic assortment of things to see and do. It's a class act, and it's got beautiful beaches too.

Whether you have one day to do it all at this seaside gem, less than an hour's drive south from Jacksonville or north from Daytona Beach, or several weeks to discover this Atlantic treasure trove at your leisure, here are some things that can't be missed.

Start with a tour of the city in a horse-drawn carriage or a charming trolley. Then do further exploration on foot, as many of the city's best attractions are within walking distance of the Lightner Museum, the 19th century architectural beauty on King Street that is part of the City Hall complex and the former Alcazar Hotel.

Before you enter the museum, treat yourself to a few minutes of relaxation at the courtyard fish pond. Once inside, you will find the collection of 19th century artwork, especially Victoriana, to be among the best anywhere. The portraits, glass pieces, gilded accessories, finely carved furniture, and Tiffany lamps are exquisite.

Across the street is Flagler College. Once the Hotel Ponce de Leon, this lavish example of Spanish Renaissance architecture has tours revealing gorgeous murals, sculpture, fountains, chandeliers, Tiffany windows, and a beautifully-embellished rotunda.

For a truly sophisticated and satisfying lunch, the Cafe Alcazar, an intimate restaurant adjacent to a small antique mall and around the corner from the Lightner, occupies space that used to be one of the world's largest indoor swimming pools. Menu options are very international consisting of crepes, hummus, Greek salads, shrimp scampi, and curried chicken salad, to name a few. The real attraction of this local and visitor favorite is the live music performed by classical guitarist Richard Kuncicky most Wednesdays-Saturdays. The combination of fine food and sweet melodies makes for a memorable midday break from the ordinary.

Not far from the city center is the Castillo de San Marcos, which was built in the 17th century and has since withstood assaults by pirates, privateers, pounding storms, and assorted naval forces. The impressive fortress was made from coquina rock, a native limestone with imbedded, fossilized sea creatures, and is the oldest surviving European fortification in the continental United States. Its hilltop grounds, complete with a watchtower and cannons, provide a great view of stunning city structures, Matanzas Bay, and the boats that navigate local waterways. For a brief history of the fort and an intriguing glimpse into the past, take the guided tour.

No visit to St. Augustine would be complete without a stop at the lighthouse and maritime museum. The present structure, completed in 1874, is at the same location as the original, a 16th century Spanish tower that guided ships sailing to and from near and faraway ports. With a city that boasts breathtaking views, the vistas from the top of the lighthouse are the most spectacular.

In need of some relaxation, go to St. Augustine's natural wonder that has attracted sun worshippers for countless centuries; the beach. The stretch of sand near the St. Johns County Ocean Pier is wide enough to accommodate a visitor's every whim. It's an ideal spot for fishing, swimming, strolling or jogging along the shore, flying a kite, collecting shells, surfing, or just soaking in the fresh sea air as you enjoy a picnic dinner or lunch.

For more information about all that St. Augustine has to offer, visit the city's official website at www.ci.st-augustine.fl.us