Castillo de San Marcos National Monument in Florida, USA - map and visitor information

Research checked: 2026-11-05. Check linked official notices before travel.

Castillo de San Marcos National Monument in downtown St. Augustine, Florida, preserves a Spanish fort built of coquina. Visit the lower rooms for exhibits or climb the stairs to the gun deck when it is open. Fort admission is separate from city parking.

A shell-stone fort with two levels

Start in the courtyard and explore the exhibits in the casemates, the rooms built into the fort. From the upper gun deck, look across the city. The upper level is reached only by stairs.

Know before you go

Fees, hours, and seasonal access

Thunderstorms and upper deck access

The gun deck closes during thunderstorms because of lightning. The lower rooms remain open during inclement weather, but an upper-level weather closure does not qualify for a refund. You can also use the NPS virtual tour.

Keep pets on the grounds

Leashed pets can accompany you outside the fort. Keep them out of the fort itself and pick up after them. The restriction does not apply to service animals. Wear a shirt and suitable footwear inside the fort. Water is allowed inside, but food and other drinks are prohibited. Launch, land or operate a drone from or on NPS lands or waters within the monument only with written approval from the superintendent.

Walk-in visits and school groups

Ordinary visits do not require reservations. School groups need to arrange their visit with the park. Review the official fees and passes before entering.

Find the fort on A1A

The fort is on A1A in downtown St. Augustine. The city operates the lot in front and a separate garage off West Castillo Drive. If your vehicle and trailer together exceed 21 feet, use the oversized parking option in the NPS directions.

Nearby parks

• Anastasia State Park. Head south of the historic district to Anastasia Park Road for the beach and tidal marsh setting.
• Fort Matanzas National Monument. Continue south on A1A to the separate park entrance.

Explore at your own pace

Use the NPS app or a brochure for the casemate exhibits. Musket or cannon demonstrations take place on select days. Check the park activity page before planning around one.

Accessible lower level and restrooms

The lower fort level, restrooms and parking area are wheelchair accessible. The upper deck has no elevator. The NPS virtual tour includes views of areas you cannot reach, and the fort does not have a visitor center.

About the Castillo

Why the Spanish used coquina

Spanish construction began in 1672. The builders used coquina, a limestone made of cemented shells, for the thick walls. The bastion design shaped the fort’s defense against attacks by land and water.

Contact the National Park Service

Call 904-829-6506 or see the official operating hours before a holiday or storm-season visit.