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Plan a Road Trip > Explore America > National Parks > Castillo de San Marcos National Monument |
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1 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Phone: 904-829-6506
Fax: 904-823-9388
Open All Year
Overview. In 1672, the Spanish began building Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine to protect their Atlantic shipping routes from the British, who were contesting Spanish claims in eastern North America. Finished in 1695, the Castillo was never taken by force, but it did change hands by way of treaties. It was Spanish, then British, then Spanish again, until the United States acquired Florida in 1821. Today the Castillo and grounds occupy about 25 acres of downtown St. Augustine's waterfront.
What to see and do. There is no visitor center to greet you at the Castillo, which is open from 8:45 AM until 4:45 PM daily except for Christmas, but inside the fortress walls you will find historical exhibits and tour information. A self-guided tour takes you through the Castillo's 29 rooms. Ranger programs are offered throughout the day. The first floor and grounds are handicapped-accessible, but the upper level is not. As you walk through the passageways and rooms, be sure of your footing on the old, uneven floors. Walking shoes are a good idea. On weekends throughout the summer, from Memorial Day to Labor Day Weekend, living history programs enliven the stone walls by depicting Spanish colonial life in the early 18th century. From the top of the 32-foot walls, you get a splendid view of the barrier island and the Atlantic Ocean.
Kids will enjoy Junior Ranger programs and special school programs, which can be arranged in advance by calling the school reservation number, 904-829-3099. Call ahead for details on the park's special events, held throughout the year. Pets are not permitted.
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