Fort Zachary Taylor Key West
Key West Historic Site on Truman Annex
Fort Zachary Taylor Key West, also referred to as Fort Taylor, dates back to pre-Civil War times.
Located at the western tip of Key West, Fort Taylor is part of the 87 mile Florida State Park. Visiting the fortress/compound makes for a relaxing 1-2 hour walk through the park, part of the Truman Annex.
The fort is primitive and has been left to the elements, though there are signs of preservation efforts ongoing. There’s no gift shop or fancy recreations or amenities, just true Florida history existing in nature. It’s worth the visit.
Fort Taylor Parking is easy and free
There is a fee to enter Truman Annex from the main part of Key West as Fort Zachary Taylor is a Florida State Park. There are plenty of things to do on Truman Annex.
Once you’ve entered the state park, there’s plenty of easy parking. The parking spots are located in the middle of the fort and the beach. Once parked, the fort is to your right and the beach is to your left. You can’t get lost.
From your same parking spot (or bike rack), walk to the Fort area, and also to the beach, restrooms, snack bar/cafe.
Key West Fort Taylor State Park is "honor system" box, please donate!
At the entrance to the fort, there’s a small black box asking for a donation as your entrance fee. Donations are used for the upkeep and preservation of the structures in this historic site.
PLEASE DONATE and HELP THEM. They do good work.
Fort Zachary Taylor is completely self-guided
There is some signage throughout Fort Taylor, though not much. We recommend doing a quick internet search ahead of your visit to brush up on some fun facts and history of this fort and it’s history.
History tidbit: the Union, in the Civil War, used this site to fight for the North… even though Florida (and Key West) is as south as you can get!
Yes, this part of the South was against slavery and fought in the Civil War to free the slaves. This Fort is an important part of U.S. history.
Historical glimpse into military barrack life
Visitors are free to walk around the fort and grounds. Original mess tables, bed frames and cannon balls give a good glimpse into history. From the top level, the views are fantastic.
It’ll take about an hour to leisurely stroll the grounds and fort. Make sure to stop at the blacksmith exhibit next to the fort to see some of the tools used back then.
Want to see what’s happening there right now?
Check out their Fort Zachary Taylor Beach Live Webcam!
After Visiting the Fort... Walk Over to the Beach!
You’re already parked to walk through Fort Zachary Taylor. So head over to the beach! There’s a cafe where you can buy a key lime pie on a stick (or lunch). There’s plenty of crystal blue water and sandy beach, picnic tables and showers and restrooms.
Bring snorkeling gear, the water is clear and there are lots of small tropical fish all around, especially closest to the rock pilings.
For more info, visit the Florida State official website: Fort Zachary Taylor Florida State Park Key West
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