Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Tours

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park featuring a beach and general coastal views
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park showing military items, heritage elements and interior views
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park featuring interior views and heritage elements
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park which includes general coastal views and a sandy beach
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park which includes general coastal views and a sandy beach


The displays of old weapons and interpretive panels in a fort at the heart of the southernmost state park in the continental U.S. provide information about the Civil War.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is a sublime natural setting that provides idyllic swimming and birdwatching conditions. At its core is the historic Fort Taylor and what is thought to be the world’s largest Civil War arms collection. Bring U.S. history to life by walking down the passageways of this well-preserved fortress.

As you explore the fort, check out the various cannons and gun ports that call to mind another time. Speak with docents and learn about the history here through interpretive panels. The exhibits provide an insight into the daily lives of the soldiers instructed to fight for the southeastern part of the U.S. in the Spanish-American War. On the third weekend of each month, a historic reenactment takes place around the fort.

For a change of scenery, head to the stretch of sand on the park’s southern side. Bring your snorkeling gear to view colorful fish in the calm and clear water. Back on the sand, find a spot to sunbathe or lay down a blanket for a picnic. From the beach you can also launch your own kayak or canoe, before drying off and resting on a hammock. Enjoy a meal with a stunning view of the water at the Cayo Hueso Café, which also has a shop.

Pay a per-vehicle fee or a smaller sum for cycling or walking into the park. The site opens daily from morning until around dusk, while the fort itself closes in the late afternoon.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park occupies the westernmost tip of Key West in the western part of the Florida Keys island chain. Drive west from Islamorada for 82 miles (132 kilometers) to arrive here in just under 2 hours. Leave your vehicle in the site’s parking lot, which is free to use with park admission.

While you’re in the area, visit neighboring landmarks such as the Oldest House Museum and Garden, the Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S. and the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.

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Reviews of Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

4.4
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
507
5 - Excellent 53%
4 - Good
356
4 - Good 37%
3 - Okay
85
3 - Okay 9%
2 - Disappointing
12
2 - Disappointing 1%
1 - Terrible
2
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Beautiful beaches. Incredible views!

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

Beach is need but Beach has all Rock sand, harsh to walk

5/5 - Excellent

Kpur

Great little gem with beautiful beach! We rented bikes and rode through the park and enjoyed the beach. So pretty! Vendor offers concession stand and umbrellas with chaise lounges for the beach at a reasonable price to keep you a little cooler! Alcoholic beverages can be purchased at the concession stand. There is an outdoor shower to rinse off before you leave. Spend a day here-you will love it!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Wear Speedos or water shoes that cover the feet. The rocks are a bear, but worth it.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Bring or rent snorkeling gear to see the fish around the rocks. You can grill or there is a concession shop. Very clean beautiful beach.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

The beach is rocky so it’s best to bring water shoes. Otherwise this was our favorite day of our trip. The weather was hot, but the beach offered a nice breeze. We got beach chairs and an umbrella, and many people were enjoying the snorkeling there.

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Best Lodging Options Near Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Southernmost Beach Resort and Guesthouses

Southernmost Beach Resort and Guesthouses

4 out of 5
1319 Duval Street, Key West, FL
Southernmost Beach Resort and Guesthouses
La Concha Key West, Autograph Collection

La Concha Key West, Autograph Collection

4 out of 5
430 Duval St, Key West, FL
La Concha Key West, Autograph Collection
Hyatt Centric Key West Resort and Spa

Hyatt Centric Key West Resort and Spa

4 out of 5
601 Front St, Key West, FL
Hyatt Centric Key West Resort and Spa
Pier House Resort & Spa

Pier House Resort & Spa

4 out of 5
1 Duval St, Key West, FL
Pier House Resort & Spa
Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton

Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton

4 out of 5
1500 Reynolds Street, Key West, FL
Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton
Opal Key Resort & Marina, Key West

Opal Key Resort & Marina, Key West

4 out of 5
245 Front Street, Key West, FL
Opal Key Resort & Marina, Key West
Lighthouse Hotel - Key West Historic Inns

Lighthouse Hotel - Key West Historic Inns

3.5 out of 5
902 Whitehead St, Key West, FL
Lighthouse Hotel - Key West Historic Inns
The Southernmost Inn - Adults Only

The Southernmost Inn - Adults Only

3 out of 5
525 United Street, Key West, FL
The Southernmost Inn - Adults Only
Margaritaville Beach House Key West

Margaritaville Beach House Key West

4 out of 5
2001 South Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West, FL
Margaritaville Beach House Key West
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

At Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, visitors can enjoy stunning sunsets, lively festivals, and boating adventures. The park offers excellent camping options in the Florida Keys, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With designated picnic areas and opportunities for outdoor adventures, it's an ideal spot for family outings and nature lovers looking to explore the beauty of Key West.

Shopping

For a convenient shopping experience, visit We Cycle Key West, located 0.5 miles from Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. The Kite House, just 0.9 miles away, offers unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, the Big Pine Key Flea Market is about 29 miles away, featuring a vibrant market atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience a round of golf at the Key West Golf Club, located 4 miles from Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, where you can enjoy the outdoor vibe and scenic views. For a refreshing dip, visit the MLK Community Pool & Community Center, just 0.6 miles away, perfect for families and relaxation.

Adventure

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park offers stunning beaches perfect for swimming and snorkeling, showcasing vibrant marine life. Explore the park’s historic fort, hike scenic trails, or enjoy a picnic under the shade of palm trees. Don’t miss the breathtaking sunsets along the shoreline for a memorable experience.

Nightlife

Enjoy the vibrant nightlife near Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. Visit the Waterfront Playhouse for a captivating show, stroll to the Red Barn Theater for a charming performance, or experience the unique flair of the Key West Burlesque Theater—all offering a blend of culture, romance, and entertainment.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Whether you're a culture enthusiast or a family traveler, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West offers a unique blend of historic charm and outdoor fun. Explore the iconic Fort Zachary Taylor, a historic fortress, and enjoy the surrounding state park's scenic beauty. With various local attractions and symbolic landmarks nearby, this destination promises a memorable experience for all visitors looking to immerse themselves in Key West's rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

  • Duval Street: Experience the vibrant heart of Key West along Duval Street, just 0.6 miles from Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. This lively street is famous for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and bars, offering a true taste of local culture and nightlife.
  • Southernmost Point: Located 0.7 miles away, the Southernmost Point Buoy is a must-visit landmark. This iconic marker symbolizes the southernmost point in the continental U.S. and is perfect for capturing memorable photos against the backdrop of the stunning ocean.
  • Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: Just 0.5 miles from the park, explore the historic house where the legendary author lived and wrote. The museum showcases Hemingway's life, featuring beautiful gardens and the famous six-toed cats that inhabit the property.

Best time to go to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

The best time to visit Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January71.1°F (21.7°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February72.1°F (22.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
March73.4°F (23.0°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April76.8°F (24.9°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May79.3°F (26.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
July84.0°F (28.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August84.4°F (29.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
September83.7°F (28.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
October80.8°F (27.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November76.6°F (24.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December73.9°F (23.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

To save money on your trip to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, consider visiting between August and October when hotel prices are lower. Booking about a month in advance or checking last-minute deals on Expedia can yield significant savings. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Fridays are the most expensive. Utilize Expedia's package deals for hotels, flights, and activities, and consider joining their One Key membership for exclusive discounts. Walking is a great way to explore the area without spending on transportation.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park are August to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Explore Expedia’s search tool to customize your travel preferences, such as budget, location, and hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotel choices that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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