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Fort Matanzas National Monument is one of my favorite places to visit when I’m in Florida, especially when I’m near St. Augustine. It’s not just a cool old fort—it’s a window into the past where you can learn about the early days of America. Sitting along Florida’s beautiful coast, the fort offers a mix of history and outdoor adventure that makes it an awesome spot for families, history buffs, and nature lovers like me.
Let me share more about why this place is so special!
What Makes Fort Matanzas Special?
A Glimpse into History
The first thing to know about Fort Matanzas is that it was built way back in 1742. Its main job? To help protect the Spanish settlement in St. Augustine from attacks. The Spanish and British were fighting over Florida at the time, and the fort played a big role in defending the southern entrance to the city. If you visit, you’ll see how the fort’s position on the Matanzas River gave it a perfect view of any enemies trying to sneak up on St. Augustine.
It’s pretty cool to think about the soldiers who once stood watch there, defending the area from attacks. Learning about the battles and power struggles between Spain and Britain here really helps you understand how modern-day Florida came to be
How It’s Preserved Today
Today, Fort Matanzas is a National Monument, which means it’s been officially protected since 1924. The National Park Service takes great care of the site, making sure that future generations can enjoy and learn from it just like we can now. It’s awesome knowing that places like this are preserved so we can actually walk around and feel what life might have been like in colonial times.
Things to Do at Fort Matanzas
The Ferry Ride to the Fort
One of the most unique things about Fort Matanzas is that the only way to get to the fort is by a ferry ride. Yep, you read that right! You have to hop on a boat to cross the Matanzas River and reach the fort. I love this part of the trip because the ride is quick (only about 15 minutes) but super scenic. The views of the water and the surrounding marshland are gorgeous, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife like dolphins or birds. It’s such a peaceful way to start the adventure.
Explore the Fort with a Guide
Once you arrive, you can take a guided tour led by park rangers who really know their stuff. They explain what life was like for the soldiers who lived and worked at the fort, which makes the whole experience even more interesting. The rangers do a great job of telling the stories in a way that brings the history to life. I always find myself picturing the fort as it was hundreds of years ago, with soldiers looking out for enemy ships
Walk the Nature Trails
But Fort Matanzas isn’t just about history—it’s also surrounded by some pretty amazing nature. There are nature trails that go through the area around the fort, which is full of Florida’s natural beauty. If you like hiking, birdwatching, or even fishing, this is the place for you. The trails are pretty easy, so they’re great for all ages. I always feel like I’m stepping into a different world when I walk through these trails. The peacefulness of the river and the wilderness is such a nice break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Fun for Kids: Junior Ranger Program
If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check out the Junior Ranger Program. It’s a great way to get children excited about history and nature. They get to explore the fort and surrounding area while completing fun activities that help them learn more about what makes Fort Matanzas so special. My own kids loved earning their Junior Ranger badges—it’s such a fun way to keep them engaged and make the experience even more memorable.
Visitor Tips
Getting There and When to Visit
Fort Matanzas is just a short drive from St. Augustine, and it’s really easy to find thanks to all the clear signs. There’s plenty of parking, and the visitor center is a nice spot to start your adventure. The fort and ferry are open every day, but it’s a good idea to check the National Park Service website for any updates or closures, just in case
What to Bring
Florida can get really hot, so make sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. You’ll want to wear comfortable walking shoes because there’s a bit of walking to do, especially if you want to explore the nature trails. The fort itself is pretty accessible, so people of all ages and abilities can enjoy it.
More to See Around Fort Matanzas
Discover St. Augustine
While Fort Matanzas is amazing on its own, it’s even better when you combine it with a visit to St. Augustine. The city is full of historic sites, including the famous Castillo de San Marcos, which is another awesome fort to check out. St. Augustine’s old town is fun to explore, with its cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and great restaurants. You can easily spend a day or two soaking in the history and charm of this old city.
Local Food and Shopping
After a day of exploring, you’ll probably want to grab a bite to eat. St. Augustine is known for its fantastic local food. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood or Spanish-inspired dishes, the city’s restaurants have something for everyone. And don’t forget to check out the local shops, where you can find unique souvenirs to remember your trip.
Why You Should Visit Fort Matanzas
For me, Fort Matanzas National Monument is a special place where history and nature come together. It’s one of those spots that lets you step back in time and imagine what life was like hundreds of years ago, while also giving you the chance to enjoy Florida’s beautiful outdoors.
Visiting the fort reminds us that history isn’t just something we read about in books—it’s something we can experience in real life. And it’s amazing to think that places like Fort Matanzas have been preserved for us to explore.
I hope you get a chance to visit and see for yourself why I love this place so much. Don’t miss out on the chance to step back in time and discover one of Florida’s hidden treasures.
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