Aviles Street Photography Guide

About Aviles Street

Aviles Street holds the distinction of being the oldest street in continuous use in the United States. Archaeological excavations have unearthed 16th-century pottery shards beneath its surface, confirming that this narrow thoroughfare has served St. Augustine residents since the city's founding in 1565. When Spanish settlers laid out the original town, they followed traditional 16th-century civic design—a large municipal plaza surrounded by important buildings, with narrow streets radiating outward. Aviles Street was part of that original grid.

Originally known as Hospital Street, Aviles was home to the second Spanish Military Hospital (now a museum), an early church, cemetery, boarding homes, and schools. The street's intimate scale and European character reflect its Spanish colonial origins—a world apart from the wider, more modern American streets built in later centuries.

St. Augustine's First Artist District

In the 1930s, Aviles Street transformed into St. Augustine's first artist district. The shift began when the Hamblin Hardware warehouse at 11 Aviles Street was converted into studio and gallery spaces, attracting local artists and establishing a creative community that thrives to this day. The street remains the heart of St. Augustine's art scene, lined with galleries showcasing everything from traditional Florida landscapes to contemporary sculptures and glass art.

Notable galleries include D.R. Abbott Gallery at 11A Aviles (rare antiques and award-winning artists), Acacia Tree Gallery at 11C Aviles (13 local and regional artists), and Plum Contemporary Gallery at 10 Aviles (30+ artists working in painting, sculpture, and glass). Many galleries host special exhibitions throughout the year, and First Friday Art Walk brings the street to life on the first Friday of every month from 5-9pm.

Why Photographers Love Aviles Street

For portrait and engagement sessions, Aviles Street offers something rare in St. Augustine: historic charm without the heavy foot traffic of nearby St. George Street. The narrow street creates intimate compositions with historic stucco walls, colorful gallery storefronts, and architectural details at every turn. The close quarters provide natural framing, while tucked-away courtyards and side alleys offer private spots with bougainvillea, old brick, and dappled shade.

The street's east-west orientation and tall buildings create soft, even light throughout most of the day—a blessing for photographers dealing with Florida's harsh midday sun. Early mornings before the galleries open (around 9-10 AM) offer the quietest shooting conditions, while late afternoon brings warm golden tones on the stucco facades. Evening sessions during First Friday Art Walk capture a festive, romantic atmosphere as galleries light up and crowds gather.

As we photograph couples here, we always mention that they're standing on the oldest street in America—a meaningful detail that adds historical weight to their portraits and gives them a story to tell about their St. Augustine photos.