Renaissance St. Augustine

The Renaissance St. Augustine Historic Downtown Hotel, located at 6 West Castillo Drive, St. Augustine, Florida 32084, is a premier wedding venue in Florida, blending Victorian-inspired elegance with modern sophistication. Drawing from the historic Hotel San Marco of the Gilded Age, this 4-star hotel offers a romantic and picturesque setting in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, ideal for couples seeking a charming, historic backdrop for their special day. Its prime location, just steps from St. George Street and Castillo de San Marcos, provides stunning photo opportunities and easy access to local attractions for guests.

Wedding Venue Highlights:

• Event Spaces: The hotel features 4,800 sq. ft. of versatile event space, including the San Marco Ballroom, which accommodates up to 350 guests for grand receptions. Five smaller breakout rooms are perfect for intimate ceremonies, rehearsal dinners, or bridal brunches. Outdoor verandas with natural light and views of historic St. Augustine add a romantic touch for cocktail hours or ceremonies.
• Dedicated Event Support: A seasoned catering manager and event staff work closely with couples to customize every detail, from décor to menus. The team’s experience ensures seamless coordination, earning praise for professionalism and attentiveness in guest reviews.
• Ambiance and Aesthetics: The hotel’s blend of Gilded Age-inspired architecture and modern luxury creates a timeless, elegant atmosphere. Ornate chandeliers, high ceilings, and sophisticated interiors provide a stunning backdrop for ceremonies and receptions, while the historic district offers cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial charm for memorable wedding photos.
• On-Site Dining for Weddings: Castillo Craft Bar + Kitchen crafts tailored wedding menus featuring new American cuisine and craft cocktails. Couples can choose from plated dinners, buffets, or passed hors d’oeuvres, with guests frequently commending the food quality. A complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast at the restaurant is available for bridal parties or guests staying overnight. An on-site Starbucks provides coffee and pastries for morning-after gatherings.
• Accommodations for Guests: With 87 rooms and 2 suites, the hotel offers comfortable stays for wedding guests, featuring plush bedding, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, mini-fridges, and hair dryers. Deluxe rooms with balconies and suites with separate living areas (some with fireplaces) provide luxurious options for the couple or VIP guests. Accessible rooms with 32″ wide doorways ensure inclusivity.
• Additional Wedding-Friendly Amenities:
  • Year-round outdoor pool for relaxed pre- or post-wedding gatherings, though some note its smaller size.
  • Fitness center to help guests stay refreshed.
  • Free Wi-Fi (50+ Mbps) in rooms and public areas for easy coordination and sharing of wedding moments.
  • Electric vehicle charging stations for eco-conscious guests.
  • Concierge services to assist with local recommendations, such as nearby spas or attractions for guests.
• Services Enhancing the Wedding Experience: The 24-hour front desk, private check-in/check-out, daily housekeeping, dry cleaning, and laundry services ensure a stress-free stay for the wedding party and guests. Staff is frequently praised for friendliness and efficiency, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.

Guest Feedback Relevant to Weddings:

• Couples and guests appreciate the hotel’s cleanliness, modern yet historic decor, and unbeatable location, which enhances the wedding experience with easy access to St. Augustine’s romantic and cultural sites. The festive vibe during events like the Nights of Lights adds a magical touch to winter weddings.
• Some critiques include noise from nearby streets, which couples may want to consider for outdoor events, and occasional mentions of minor room issues like lighting or water pressure. The pool’s size may not suit large poolside events.

Practical Information for Wedding Planning:

• Nearby Attractions for Guests: The hotel’s proximity to St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, Colonial Quarter Museum, Flagler College, and St. Augustine Beach (5 miles away) offers entertainment for guests, making it ideal for destination weddings.
• Transportation: No shuttle service, but airport transfers can be arranged from Jacksonville International Airport (59-minute drive, 51.1 miles) or Northeast Florida Regional Airport (8-minute drive, 5 miles), simplifying travel logistics for out-of-town guests.
• Parking: Valet parking is available, with limited free spots outside. Couples may want to confirm parking arrangements for guests, as some have noted the cost as a surprise, though it’s occasionally waived.
• Pet Policy: Only service animals are allowed, ensuring a controlled environment for events.
• Check-in/Check-out: Check-in at 4:00 PM, check-out at 11:00 AM, allowing flexibility for wedding day preparations.

Why It Stands Out for Florida Weddings:

The Renaissance St. Augustine excels as a Florida wedding venue due to its historic charm, customizable event spaces, and dedicated staff, all set in one of the state’s most romantic cities. The combination of elegant indoor and outdoor spaces, high-quality catering, and proximity to iconic St. Augustine landmarks makes it a top choice for couples seeking a memorable, destination-style wedding. As part of Marriott Bonvoy, it also offers loyalty program benefits for couples or guests, adding value to the experience.