Discover the rich history of Florida through these must-see landmarks.
From the oldest European settlement to a Civil Rights epicenter, each site offers a unique glimpse into the past.
1. Castillo de San Marcos
In St. Augustine, Castillo de San Marcos stands as a testament to European colonial efforts in the Americas.
Built by the Spanish in the 17th century, its coquina stone walls have witnessed centuries of history. Explore the ramparts and imagine life during the colonial period.
2. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home in Key West, where the famed writer penned some of his best-known works.
Wander through his rooms, adorned with his personal artifacts. The gardens, home to many polydactyl cats, offer a peaceful retreat that inspired Hemingway’s creativity.
3. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Vizcaya Museum in Miami offers a lavish glimpse into the Gilded Age. This estate, with its European-inspired gardens and ornate architecture, reflects the wealth of industrialist James Deering.
Enjoy strolling through beautifully manicured landscapes, invoking the elegance of a bygone era.
4. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Fort Zachary Taylor in Key West provides insights into Civil War and Spanish-American War history. The fort’s strategic coastal position made it vital for Union forces.
Today, it merges historical exploration with leisure, offering beach access alongside its military history.
5. The Ringling
The Ringling in Sarasota showcases the grandeur of the circus era and art collection. Once home to John Ringling, this estate features a museum, art galleries, and gardens.
The circus museum captures the spectacle and history of ‘The Greatest Show on Earth.’
6. De Soto National Memorial
This memorial in Bradenton commemorates Hernando de Soto’s 1539 expedition. Historical reenactments bring the challenging era of exploration to life.
Visitors can walk trails along the Manatee River, imagining the encounters between Spanish explorers and Native Americans.
7. Henry B. Plant Museum
Step into the opulence of the Gilded Age at the Henry B. Plant Museum. Originally a luxury hotel in Tampa, it now highlights Victorian-era artifacts and architecture.
Visitors can enjoy the uniquely designed gardens and learn about the railroad magnate’s influence on Florida.
8. Fort Matanzas National Monument
Fort Matanzas, near St. Augustine, offers a glimpse into Spanish colonial military strategy.
This small watchtower guarded the southern river approach to St. Augustine. Accessible only by ferry, it provides scenic views and a sense of isolation faced by early soldiers.
9. Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse
At Ponce Inlet, this towering lighthouse stands as a navigation aid since the 19th century. Climbing its 203 steps rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the coast.
As one of the tallest lighthouses in the U.S., it embodies maritime history and coastal beauty.
10. St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum
Explore the St. Augustine Lighthouse, a beacon of maritime history. Ascend the spiral staircase for panoramic views, and delve into the museum’s exhibits.
This site combines the beauty of coastal landscapes with the intrigue of shipwrecks and seafaring tales.