6 Florida Forts You Can Explore To Travel Back In Time
When first thinking of Florida, images of theme parks and stunning beaches probably come to mind. But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find that Florida’s history is just as much fun as it’s present attractions. History buffs and urban explorers alike will have a blast at these Florida forts to explore that will take you back in time.
It’s easy to imagine how life in The Sunshine State was hundreds of years ago when wandering the dusty remains of ancient forts.
Whether you love learning about history or just really enjoy exploring old places, these forts offer the perfect chance to unlock your inner Indiana Jones.
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Make a day trip out of exploring the living ghosts of Florida’s past and get amazing views while you travel. Best of all, most of these spots are cheap to visit, so you can get your history lessons and explorations in without breaking the bank.
Step back into Florida’s storied past and explore these amazing forts!
Fort Pickens
Price: $15
Address: 1400 Fort Pickens Rd., Pensacola Beach, FL
This historic fort gives you incredible Gulf Coast views while you explore its ancient walls, making you feel like a pirate on the prowl of treasure.
Fort Jefferson of Dry Tortugas
Price: $180 ferry tour
Address: Ferry Terminal 100 Grinnell St., Key West, FL
You can hop on a ferry and explore this secluded island fort, as well as the third-largest reef system in the world, and several incredible sunken treasures.
Castillo de San Marcos
Price: $15
Address: 1 S Castillo Dr., St. Augustine, FL
Visit the fort of the country’s oldest city, with hundreds of years’ worth of battles, treaties, and stories to learn about and explore.
Fort Dade on Egmont Key
Price: $25 ferry
Address: Ferry terminal 170 Johns Pass Boardwalk, Madeira Beach, FL
Put a spin on your normal beach day and take a ferry to Egmont Key, where you can explore the ancient ruins of Fort Dade for a truly special beach experience.
Fort Clinch State Park
Price: $6
Address: 2601 Atlantic Ave., Fernandina Beach, FL
History and nature collide for a stunning setting at this fort, giving you the chance to explore the living history of Florida as well as it’s natural beauty.
Turnbull Ruins of Old Fort Park
Price: Free
Address: 115 Julia St., New Smyrna Beach, FL
It’s unknown whether these crumbling ruins were the face of a fort preexisting St. Augustine, or the foundation for a massive mansion. One thing’s for sure is when you visit the Turnbull Ruins, you can have the most epic game of hide and seek amongst its winding walls.
Happy time traveling!
Before you get going, check our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.