The 10-inch Rodman and Columbiad cannons at the fort had a range of three miles and it was an impressive deterrent to the Confederate navy, preventing them from attempting to take the island of Key West, according to fortzacharytaylor.com.
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is the kind of place visitors can linger for an entire day. They can tour the Civil War era fort (rumored to be haunted), spread a towel on the beach or meander the trails, and refresh and refuel at the park’s concession stand.
The fort itself was constructed in 1845, shortly after Florida became a state and it sits on 54 acres of some of Key West’s most picturesque and naturally preserved land areas in the Lower Keys.
“We definitely have the best beach in Key West. The snorkeling, sand and atmosphere is like no other place,” said Park Ranger Kip Blevin.
Food is available for purchase in a small café and park admission is $10 for vehicles and $2.50 per person by bike or on foot. The park closes at sunset.
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
West end of Southard Street; $10/$2.50
