Fort Pickens Historic Military Fort is a historical opportunity to learn in nature for all ages!

Fort Pickens, a historic military fort built in 1834 on Santa Rosa Island in Pensacola Beach, is a must-stop for your crew! It is a part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. Make your way all the way to the end of the island where you will have the opportunity to explore several different fort structures. The main fort is just the beginning and features cannons and access to a glimpse of life as a soldier. See the different rooms, locks, layouts, and canons of a preserved war fort. If you wander around you will run into several smaller structures each with its own style and room for curiosity. You will be amazed by the preserved details and dimensions of each structure. If someone appreciates history they will love this self-guided activity with an opportunity to travel back in time. Stop by the gift shop at the main fort for a souvenir or the museum center nearby for extra historical facts. 

It's worth noting that this activity requires extra focus on safety with young children because they are truly old-world structures without updated safety precautions. Restrooms are located nearby within the park. We love this unique opportunity to be in nature and explore history. The soft sand beach and fishing pier at the very end of the point just past the forts are worth a trip of their own but are a nice way to cool off if visiting on a hot day. Make a full-day adventure out of the National Park by pairing your visit to the forts with a picnic under the pavilions, walk on the sandy hiking paths, or relaxing by the water!

Several signs at this fort require everyone to wear a mask regardless of vaccination status.