Fort Zachary Taylor

The Basics

Construction on Fort Taylor started in 1845. During the Civil War era, the fort was one of only three in Florida that remained under federal control. Fort Taylor is now a National Historic Landmark and contains the largest cache of Civil War-era seacoast cannons in the US. To learn about the fort’s history, take one of the daily tours or pick up a pamphlet for a self-guided exploration.

These days, Fort Zachary Taylor is best known for its outdoor activities: The beach, which is the southernmost in the US, offers a lovely expanse of sand (a rarity in the Keys) as well as swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Other activities include biking, fishing, hiking along nature trails, bird watching, and picnicking.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There are no lifeguards on duty at the beach.

• You may want to bring water shoes; the ocean bottom is rocky.

• There are two shower stations in the park, but the use of soap is prohibited.

• Chairs, umbrellas, and snorkeling equipment are available for rent.

• The park is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail and attracts birdwatchers during the spring and fall migrations.

• The park charges a vehicle fee, which is based on the number of passengers, and a different fee for anyone walking or biking into the park.

How to Get There

Located at the tip of Key West, at the end of Angela Street, Fort Zachary Taylor is about a 10-minute walk from Duval Street and is accessible by car, bike, or pedicab. If traveling by car, head down Southard Street, following the signs for the park entrance.

When to Get There

Fort Zachary Taylor is open all year round from morning until sundown; the fort itself closes at 5pm. In February, the park is transformed into a mid-1860s encampment, where costumed reenactors dress as Union and Confederate military personnel, craftsmen, and more to recreate military maneuvers and take part in period craft demonstrations.

Key West Lighthouse

A short walk from Fort Zachary Taylor, the Key West Lighthouse is one of the island's oldest structures. While visiting the fort, make sure to make a detour to climb the 88 steps to the top of the lighthouse for amazing views of the coast and Key West. The Lighthouse is also home to the Keeper's Quarters museum, which contains a variety of historical artifacts.

Ways to explore

Construction on Fort Taylor began in 1845, and during the Civil War, the fort was one of only three in Florida to remain under federal control. Fort Taylor is now a National Historic Landmark and contains the largest cache of Civil War–era seacoast cannons in the US. To learn about the fort’s history, take one of the daily tours or pick up a pamphlet for a self-guided exploration.

These days, Fort Zachary Taylor is best known for its beach and outdoor activities. Explore the park via boat tour—you can stop to snorkel or dive, explore the natural trails, and bird-watch.

Accessibility

Many parts of Fort Zachary Taylor are wheelchair accessible, including its facilities and some of its walking trails.

Age limits

None—this park is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.

What to pack

Swimsuit, water shoes, sunblock, snorkel equipment

What to wear

Walking shoes, loose clothing

Not allowed

Drones, collecting flora, hunting

Amenities

Beach chair, snorkel gear, and umbrella rentals; a restaurant; picnic tables; grills

Address 

Fort Zachary Taylor is set on the very edge of Key West. You can arrive by ferry, bus, or car. Key West also has a small international airport, EYW.

Driving

From anywhere in Key West, take US 1 South, which turns into Roosevelt Boulevard, then Truman Avenue. Turn right on Whitehead Street, left on Southard Street, and then weave along Butler Boulevard to reach the park.

Public transportation

Take the Key West Express ferry from the mainland to Key West. Greyhound buses also regularly run from Miami to Key West.

Best times to visit

Head over in the morning to make the most of the day. Explore the fort, lounge on the beach, and walk some of the trails.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are usually less busy than weekends, but it depends on the season.

Best months to visit

Visit during the warm, dry, and sunny months of December to April, or during the shoulder seasons of May or November for fewer crowds.

Special events

Visit Fort Zachary Taylor in January to also enjoy the Key West Food & Wine Festival.