Where is Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, Key West, Florida?

Written by | Updated On: December 08, 2025, 13:55 ET

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is located in Key West, Florida, USA.It lies between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, situated at the southern tip of Key West, and is famous for its historic fort, beautiful beach, and snorkeling spots.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Location Map, Key West, Florida

Top Attractions Inside Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

  • Historic Fort Zachary Taylor – 19th-century coastal fort with guided tours and Civil War history exhibits.
  • Beach Area – Sandy beach along the Gulf of Mexico perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
  • Snorkeling and Diving Spots – Clear waters with abundant marine life and nearby coral formations.
  • Picnic Areas – Shaded tables and grassy spaces for family gatherings and relaxation.
  • Nature Trails – Walking paths through coastal vegetation and scenic viewpoints.
  • Visitor Center – Exhibits and information on the fort, local history, and park activities.
  • Fishing Piers – Spots for recreational fishing along the shoreline.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Facts

Official NameFort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
LocationKey West, Monroe County, Florida, USA
Latitude & Longitude24.5551° N, 81.8016° W
Total Area~87 acres (35 hectares)
Established1973 (as State Park; fort construction began 1845, completed 1866)
Managed ByFlorida Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Recreation and Parks
Region / ConceptHistoric military fort, coastal defense, state park, beach and recreational area
Main Features19th-century fort, cannons, restored structures, beach, picnic areas, snorkeling sites, nature trails
Visitor ActivitiesHistorical tours, snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, fishing, photography
Trails & AccessBoardwalks and short trails around the fort and coastal areas
AccessibilityParking, restrooms, wheelchair accessible beach access; some fort areas have steps
Nearby TownsKey West, Florida
Entry / FeesState Park fee: ~$6 per vehicle (as of 2025)
Best Time to VisitNovember–April for cooler, dry weather; mornings for fewer crowds
Annual VisitorsApprox. 250,000–300,000
Nearby AirportKey West International Airport (EYW) – 3 miles (5 km)
TransportationPrivate vehicles, bicycles, walking, shuttle services within Key West; parking available
Time ZoneEastern Time (ET) — UTC−5 Standard / UTC−4 Daylight Saving
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Official Websitehttps://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/fort-zachary-taylor-historic-state-park
Famous ForHistoric Civil War-era fort, snorkeling, beautiful beach, sunset views, coastal wildlife
UNESCO / National StatusFlorida State Park; part of historic preservation efforts

Distances from Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park to Nearby Landmarks

  • Key West Lighthouse – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Southernmost Point – 3 km (1.8 mi)
  • Duval Street – 2.5 km (1.5 mi)
  • Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Fort East Martello Museum – 3 km (1.8 mi)
  • Smathers Beach – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Higgs Beach – 0.5 km (0.3 mi)
  • Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory – 3 km (1.8 mi)
  • Truman Little White House – 2.5 km (1.5 mi)
  • Mel Fisher Maritime Museum – 2.8 km (1.7 mi)
  • Mallory Square – 3 km (1.8 mi)
  • Key West Aquarium – 2.5 km (1.5 mi)
  • Hemingway Lookout – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Bahama Village – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • White Street Pier – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Key West Historic Seaport – 3 km (1.8 mi)
  • Fort Zachary Taylor Beach – 0 km (0 mi)
  • Southernmost Beach – 3 km (1.8 mi)
  • Truman Annex – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Key West Cemetery – 3 km (1.8 mi)