The Conch Connection

A brick fortress, a rocky beach, tropical fish, shady picnic tables and one seriously good sunset spot—all in the same park? That is Fort Zachary Taylor.

Tucked away near Old Town and the Truman Annex, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is the kind of place where a quick visit can easily turn into most of the day. One minute you are wandering through Civil War-era passageways. The next, you are pulling on a snorkel mask, watching birds along the shoreline or settling into the shade with something cold to drink.

It is also an easy adventure for travelers arriving from Fort Myers Beach aboard Key West Express. The park is about 1.8 miles from the ferry terminal, so you can get there by taxi, rideshare or bicycle—or make the roughly 35-minute walk part of the experience.

Take a quick look at the Key West Express Fort Zachary Taylor guide, check the latest details on the official Florida State Parks page, and get ready for a day that can be as active—or as wonderfully lazy—as you want.

Looking for a tropical getaway with a rich history? Look no further than Key West.

Planning the perfect family vacation means finding a destination that offers something for everyone. From exciting outdoor adventures and fascinating history to beautiful beaches and unforgettable sunsets, Key West checks every box.

Whether you're traveling with toddlers, teenagers, grandparents, or the whole extended family, the island offers experiences that bring generations together. Better yet, if you're traveling from Southwest Florida, the vacation begins the moment you board the Key West Express, where the journey is just as memorable as the destination.

Year round weather makes Key West an ideal vacation spot for outdoor adventure enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies alike. This special little island offers an abundance of opportunities for every indulgence and thrill seeker. Planning ahead allows you to get the most out of your Key West excursion. For your convenience, we have included a selection of details on a variety of heart pumping activities.