Ximenez-Fatio House turns old St. Augustine into a boarding house story
The Ximenez-Fatio House helps make early St. Augustine feel lived-in, from a coquina store and family home to a boarding house for visitors.
The Ximenez-Fatio House is a useful pause in St. Augustine because it feels more everyday than grand. Andres and Juana Ximenez bought the Aviles Street lot in 1797. They built a large coquina house with a store, billiards space, family rooms, warehouse space, and a detached kitchen area. It was business and home in one tight old-city footprint.
Later, Margaret Cook turned the building toward boarding house use. Dormers, porches, and the joined-together layout helped the place serve visitors before Florida tourism became all big hotels and beach roads. The house keeps that softer angle: where people slept, ate, shopped, and passed through town.
Before you go, check the tour format and weather notes. The house is at 20 Aviles Street, close to the Plaza area, so parking and walking time are part of the visit. It pairs well with a slow walk through the oldest blocks nearby.
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Last checked against these sources: July 4, 2026.
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