Discover the Historic Fort Pickens: A Coastal Gem
Explore the historic Fort Pickens, a coastal fortress and natural haven, where history and beauty come together on Pensacola Beach.
Nestled on the stunning shores of Pensacola Beach, Fort Pickens is a historic military fortress that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past. This remarkable site combines breathtaking natural beauty with rich history, making it an unmissable destination for tourists exploring the Florida Panhandle.
A brief summary to Fort Pickens
- 1400 Fort Pickens Rd, Pensacola Beach, Florida, 32561, US
- +1850-934-2622
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and spotting wildlife along the beach and dunes.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is plenty of walking involved on the grounds.
- Don't forget your camera; the sunset views from the fort are spectacular.
- Check the National Park Service website for any special events or guided tours during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to Fort Pickens from anywhere in the Nature Coast region, start by getting onto US-98 W. Follow US-98 W for approximately 50 miles until you reach the junction with FL-87 S. Take this exit to merge onto FL-87 S towards Pensacola. Continue on FL-87 S for about 22 miles, then take the exit onto US-90 W. Stay on US-90 W for about 10 miles until you see signs for Pensacola Beach. Follow signs to Fort Pickens Road (turn left), and continue straight for approximately 7 miles until you reach the entrance of Fort Pickens at 1400 Fort Pickens Rd, Pensacola Beach, FL 32561. Note that there is an entry fee for vehicles, which is typically around $25 for a 7-day pass.
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Public Transportation
If using public transportation, your best option is to take a Greyhound or a local bus service to Pensacola. Once in Pensacola, you will need to use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, or local taxi services to reach Fort Pickens. The distance from downtown Pensacola to Fort Pickens is about 16 miles, and it may cost around $25-$35 for a rideshare or taxi. Make sure to check the local bus schedules as they may vary, and they might not directly service Fort Pickens.
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Bicycle
For the more adventurous, cycling is an option if you're already in Pensacola Beach. You can ride along the scenic roads. Start at Pensacola Beach and follow Fort Pickens Rd for about 7 miles. This route offers beautiful views but be prepared for some traffic. Make sure to wear a helmet and have a map or GPS app for navigation. If you don’t have a bike, consider renting one at a local shop.
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Walking
If you are staying in close proximity to Fort Pickens, and you're up for a long walk, you can walk from nearby areas such as the Pensacola Beach area. The walk will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your starting point. Follow Fort Pickens Rd directly to the Fort. Ensure that you have water and sun protection, as there are limited shaded areas along the road.
Discover more about Fort Pickens
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