Manager's Message
The summer season is here and with it comes calmer winds and smoother seas, so this is a great time to visit and go for a swim to cool off. Snorkeling is at its best now as the visibility has improved so you can enjoy seeing our coral and all the various sea life that lives among it. Visitors to our treasured national historic landmark will note that there has been significant progress with the stabilization of the fort barracks. We are hopeful that we will be able to reopen that area for your enjoyment in the near future. So, please come and join us in welcoming the summer season here at beautiful Fort Taylor.
While you are visiting, be sure to stop in at the chickee hut on the beach for all of your beach chair, umbrella, or snorkel gear rental needs. Fort Zachary Taylor Visitor Services has a nice variety of goods and services to meet all of your seaside needs. There is also a café and gift shop with a beautiful deck overlooking the beach and ocean. Weddings and other special events are available for booking and are coordinated through Fort Zachary Taylor Visitor Services, please call them at (305) 295-0037 or visit their website.
If you are interested in the history of Fort Taylor, please visit Fort Taylor.org. You can also get information by contacting Park Services Specialist Harry Smid at (305) 292-6850.
- David Foster, Park Manager
Welcome to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1973, Florida's southernmost state park is popular for recreation, as well as U.S. military history. The fort was one of a series built in the mid-1800s to defend the nation's southeastern coastline. Completed in 1866, Fort Zachary Taylor played important roles in the Civil War and Spanish-American War. A beautiful beach at the southern end of the park provides opportunities for picnicking, swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. Visitors can also enjoy a short nature trail and bicycling within the park. A refreshment stand at the beach offers snacks, cold beverages, beach sundries, and souvenirs. Guided tours of the fort are available daily. Located in Key West at the end of Southard Street on Truman Annex.
Contact the Florida Park Service Information Center for general inquiries.
For Information about Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, please call 305-292-6713.
Hours of Operation
Florida state parks are open from 8 a.m. until sundown 365 days a year.
Driving Directions
Fort Zachary Taylor is located at the end of Southard Street on Truman Annex in Key West.
Park Fees
Admission Fees:
$6.00* per vehicle. Limit 2-8 people per vehicle.
$2.00* Pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers, passengers in vehicle with holder of Annual Individual Entrance Pass.
$4.00* Single-occupant vehicle or Motorcycle.
* Plus $.50 per person Monroe County Surcharge.
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
P.O. Box 6560
Key West, Florida 33041
Phone: 305-292-6713
Fax: Contact Park for Number
Citizen Support Organization
Friends of Fort Taylor, Inc.
P.O. Box 58
Key West, FL 33041
Visitor Service Provider
Fort Zachary Taylor Visitor Services
P.O. Box 1358
Key West, FL 33041
Phone:(305) 295-0037 / Fax: (305) 295-0033
Fort Zachary Taylor Visitor Services
