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
Florida Related Maps and Info
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 Name | Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park |
| Location | Key West, Monroe County, Florida, USA |
| Latitude & Longitude | 24.5551° N, 81.8016° W |
| Total Area | 87 acres (35 hectares) |
| Established | 1973 (as State Park; fort construction began 1845, completed 1866) |
| Managed By | Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Recreation and Parks |
| Region / Concept | Historic military fort, coastal defense, state park, beach and recreational area |
| Main Features | 19th-century fort, cannons, restored structures, beach, picnic areas, snorkeling sites, nature trails |
| Visitor Activities | Historical tours, snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, fishing, photography |
| Trails & Access | Boardwalks and short trails around the fort and coastal areas |
| Accessibility | Parking, restrooms, wheelchair accessible beach access; some fort areas have steps |
| Nearby Towns | Key West, Florida |
| Entry / Fees | State Park fee: $6 per vehicle (as of 2025) |
| Best Time to Visit | November–April for cooler, dry weather; mornings for fewer crowds |
| Annual Visitors | Approx. 250,000–300,000 |
| Nearby Airport | Key West International Airport (EYW) – 3 miles (5 km) |
| Transportation | Private vehicles, bicycles, walking, shuttle services within Key West; parking available |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time (ET) — UTC−5 Standard / UTC−4 Daylight Saving |
| Currency | United States Dollar (USD, $) |
| Official Website | https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/fort-zachary-taylor-historic-state-park |
| Famous For | Historic Civil War-era fort, snorkeling, beautiful beach, sunset views, coastal wildlife |
| UNESCO / National Status | Florida 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)
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