A true one-of-a-kind experience, visiting Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park not only provides a magnificent natural setting to bird-watch or swim but also to immerse yourself in history. On the southern edge of Key West, Fort Taylor predates the Civil War and is a National Historic Monument housing the largest cache of Civil War armament in the world. Beyond its historical importance, the park is the southernmost state park in the continental United States.
Walk the red-brick corridors of Fort Zachary Taylor, past cannon and gun ports, and history becomes more real than books and photos can depict. One better grasps how soldiers lived as they defended the nation’s southeastern coastline.
Swim and snorkel at Key West’s best beach! Discover and become a part of this beautiful underwater habitat. Snorkel off the beach and experience rich tropical marine life such as parrot fish, schools of yellowtail snapper, lobster, and various hard and soft corals. Bring a pole and catch dinner off the west rock jetty. Fishing is permitted on the west side of the park along the Key West Shipping Channel. Wooded nature trails are a warm and inviting place to bird watch and discover native plant life. Bike along the shaded paths along the shore, past the historic fort and beside the Key West Shipping Channel.