Tucked away from the historic charm and bustling streets of St. Augustine, Shanty Town Village is a quaint collection of local artisan shops spread across three cozy buildings. This rustic seven-acre property along US-1 once operated as a thriving oyster farm and bait shop during the 1940s and 1950s. Reimagined in 2021 as a marketplace for local artisans and antique vendors, the village still carries its laid-back coastal charm, making it the perfect place to wander, browse, and discover unique treasures.
As we explored the shops, we found an eclectic mix of items—from vintage antiques and handmade greeting cards to scrapbooking and junk-journaling supplies. There were also racks of charming clothing, handcrafted jewelry, and original artwork created by talented local makers.
It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, browse at your own pace, chat with artists, and leave with one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t find anywhere else.
Beyond the shops, Shanty Town Village also hosts a monthly market, along with creative workshops and craft classes, making it an even more vibrant destination to visit. During these events, local vendors and makers gather to share their handmade goods, art, and vintage finds.
While we were visiting, we happened to stumble upon one of the craft classes and were invited to join in. We had the chance to create our own pour-paint canvas, which made the experience even more memorable. The village regularly offers a variety of creative workshops, including book folding, canvas painting, and other hands-on craft classes.
If you’re interested in joining a class during your visit, you can find upcoming events and sign-up information on their Facebook page or in their store.
If you enjoy discovering unique shops, handmade goods, and creative experiences, Shanty Town Village is definitely worth a stop when visiting St. Augustine. Between the artisan vendors, craft classes, and monthly market, it’s the perfect place to wander, explore, and maybe leave with a one-of-a-kind treasure. ✈️🌎⚓️