Castillo de San Marcos National Monument - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Monuments

About Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Established in 1924, this Spanish fort, first built by Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, is one of the oldest and largest masonry forts in the country. The unique design of the fortress includes both brick-covered walls and a sandy moat which was recently restored after being mostly filled in during the late 1800s. Visitors can explore inside of the stone structure, experience interpretive ranger talks, or simply marvel at its beauty.

Hotels near Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Hotels to stay near Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Activities Around

Attractions Near Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum

Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum

0.41km from Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

The Karpeles Manuscript Library Museums, located in Louisiana and several other states, are a collection of museums dedicated to preserving and showcasing historic documents and manuscripts. The museums were founded by David Karpeles, a businessman and philanthropist, with the goal of making rare and valuable manuscripts accessible to the public.

Miltary Museum of North Florida

Miltary Museum of North Florida

34.15km from Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Ship models, military vehicles, uniforms, weapons, equipment, and flags are on display at the Military Museum of North Florida. The museum was built in 2007 on Bunker Avenue.

Green Cove Springs Park

Green Cove Springs Park

36.76km from Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

On the western bank of the St. Johns River lies Green Cove Springs Park. While the St. Johns River's cool breeze sweeps through the Park, Spanish moss draping the majestic oaks comes to life as the cool breeze of the river blows.

Spring Park

Spring Park

36.92km from Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Spring Park is an enjoyable destination for both visitors and Clay County locals alike. A short drive east of Green Cove Springs, the park provides a variety of recreational activities from kayaking and fishing to hiking on 5 miles of nature trails. The beautiful lakefront setting creates a tranquil atmosphere, allowing guests to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature in all its glory. There are also plenty of picnicking spots around the lake, perfect for family gatherings.

Jacksonville Beach

Jacksonville Beach

43.71km from Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Jacksonville Beach is a wonderful destination for beachgoers. With its miles of white sand, gentle surf, and exciting amenities, Jacksonville Beach has something to offer every type of visitor. Among the popular activities you can find along the coast are parasailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Families can enjoy long days at the beach building sandcastles and playing games or take a break at one of the numerous restaurants located close to the shoreline.

Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier

Jacksonville Beach Fishing Pier

44.6km from Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

This Pier is one of the most iconic spots in the area. Stretching 750 feet over the Atlantic Ocean, it offers some of the best ocean fishing and sightseeing opportunities around. Anglers can find a wide variety of species here throughout the year such as tarpon, cobia, flounder, kingfish, Spanish mackerel and much more. This pier has a bait shop and tackle store so that you can remain fully equipped while fishing. In addition to this, you have access to stunning views.

Discover More Attractions in Clay County, Home of Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Clay County

Clay County

13 attractions

Clay County is situated in the northeastern part of Florida. It has a population of 218.245 as of 2020. Its county seat is Green Cove Springs.

Location of Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

Comments

For more information about Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, visit: https://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/american_latino_heritage/castillo_de_san_marcos_national_monument.html

To view all hotels near Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, visit: Hotels near Castillo de San Marcos National Monument