Palace Saloon
About
Step back in time at Florida's oldest continuously operating bar, which welcomes families during daytime lunch hours in its fascinating 1903 building. Kids will be intrigued by the historic atmosphere, vintage details, and stories of the Old West-style saloon while enjoying classic American fare like burgers and sandwiches in downtown Fernandina Beach.
Highlights
- ✓Dining in Florida's oldest bar, established in 1903
- ✓Authentic Wild West saloon atmosphere with original architectural details
- ✓Classic American comfort food including burgers and sandwiches
- ✓Historic downtown Fernandina Beach location perfect for walking tours
- ✓Fascinating building history and stories from over a century of operation
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit strictly during lunch hours (typically 11am-5pm) when the venue operates as family-friendly; evening hours transform into an adult-oriented bar and music venue
- 2.Ask staff about the building's history and famous visitors,the stories make great conversation starters with history-loving kids
- 3.Park in the public lots along Centre Street; downtown Fernandina Beach is very walkable, so combine your visit with exploring nearby shops
- 4.Sit at a booth rather than the bar area for a more comfortable family dining experience
- 5.Take photos of the vintage decor and original architectural features to create a mini history lesson for kids
Best Time to Visit
Weekday lunch (11am-2pm) offers the quietest, most family-appropriate experience before evening crowds arrive. Avoid Friday and Saturday evenings entirely, as the venue transitions to an adults-only nightlife atmosphere.
What to Know
This is primarily a bar that offers family-friendly lunch service only,evening hours are strictly for adults 21+. Parking is available in nearby public lots, and moderate prices ($$) make it an affordable historic dining experience.
Seasonal Notes
Year-round lunch service available. No special seasonal family programming. Best visited as part of exploring historic downtown Fernandina Beach during pleasant weather months (fall through spring) when you can enjoy walking the area before or after your meal.
More Activities Near Fernandina Beach
Amelia Island Trail
The Amelia Island Trail offers six miles of smooth, paved pathway perfect for families looking to explore Fernandina Beach on wheels or foot. This flat, easy-to-navigate trail winds through charming historic neighborhoods and beautiful natural areas, making it ideal for bike rides, stroller walks, scootering, and rollerblading adventures with kids of all abilities.
Fort Clinch State Park
Fort Clinch State Park offers an incredible blend of history and nature that keeps kids engaged for hours. The well-preserved 1847 fort features costumed rangers who bring Civil War history to life, while the park's pristine beaches, fishing pier, and scenic trails provide endless outdoor adventures. With camping facilities and diverse ecosystems to explore, this is a destination where families can easily spend a full day or even a weekend.
Main Beach Park
Main Beach Park is Fernandina Beach's premier family destination, offering a beautiful stretch of pristine Atlantic Ocean shoreline paired with excellent amenities. With a dedicated playground, picnic pavilions, volleyball courts, and lifeguards on duty during summer, it's the perfect blend of natural beach beauty and family-friendly infrastructure that keeps kids entertained for hours.
Peters Point Beachfront Park
Peters Point Beachfront Park offers families a more tranquil alternative to Fernandina's busier beaches, with excellent amenities including a boardwalk that makes beach access easy even with strollers and wagons. The observation deck provides breathtaking ocean views, while the uncrowded shoreline is perfect for little ones to hunt for shells, build sandcastles, and wade in the gentle waves without the overwhelming crowds.