Dry Tortugas National Park

About

Dry Tortugas National Park sits 70 miles west of Key West, accessible only by boat or seaplane, making it one of America's most secluded national treasures. The park's centerpiece is Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century fortress that seems to rise from the turquoise waters like something from a dream. This six-sided fort, built to protect American shipping lanes, covers nearly 16 acres and took 30 years to construct, though it was never completed.

The journey to reach Dry Tortugas is part of the adventure. Most visitors take the Yankee Freedom ferry, a comfortable 2.5-hour voyage from Key West that includes breakfast and lunch. The trip offers spectacular views of the Florida Keys and chances to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and seabirds. Once you arrive at Garden Key, you'll find pristine beaches, incredible snorkeling opportunities, and the imposing Fort Jefferson waiting to be explored.

The crystal-clear waters surrounding the fort teem with marine life. Snorkeling here reveals colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and occasionally sea turtles and nurse sharks. The park protects 100 square miles of ocean, making it a vital sanctuary for marine ecosystems. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting frigatebirds, masked boobies, and brown noddies that nest on nearby islands.

Inside Fort Jefferson, you can wander through the fort's corridors, climb to ramparts for panoramic ocean views, and learn about its fascinating history as a Civil War prison. The fort once held Dr. Samuel Mudd, who treated John Wilkes Booth's broken leg after Lincoln's assassination.

Plan for a full day - most ferry trips include about 4.5 hours at the park. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and snorkel gear if you have it (rental available onboard). The park has limited shade, so sun protection is essential. Fresh water and restrooms are available, but no food service exists on the island.

Accessibility

Dry Tortugas National Park offers several accessible features for visitors with mobility challenges. The Yankee Freedom ferry includes wheelchair-accessible ramps and restrooms, making the journey from Key West comfortable for all passengers. Visitors requiring accessibility assistance should call (800) 634-0939 in advance to arrange dock lifts at the Key West departure point.

At Garden Key, the visitor center and bookstore are fully wheelchair accessible, providing educational exhibits and park information. Fort Jefferson's first tier remains accessible via brick walkways and grass surfaces, allowing wheelchair users to explore the fort's main level and exterior trail. However, the fort's second and third floors are not wheelchair accessible due to the historic structure's stairs.

The dock at Fort Jefferson features a ramp system that allows wheelchairs and power chairs to safely disembark from the ferry. Accessible restrooms are available on the island. While the fort's main level and surrounding areas offer good accessibility, visitors should be aware that the sandy beaches may present challenges for wheelchair navigation.

Service animals are permitted throughout the park. Staff can provide assistance with accessibility questions and help coordinate any special accommodations needed during your visit. For the most current accessibility information and to arrange specific accommodations, contact the park directly before your trip. The remote island location means limited infrastructure, so advance planning ensures the best possible experience for visitors with accessibility needs.

More accessible places in Florida

• Adventure Island (Tampa)
• The Dalí Museum (St. Petersburg)
• Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden (Coral Gables)
• Marie Selby Botanical Gardens (Sarasota)
• ZooTampa at Lowry Park (Tampa)
• Big Cypress National Preserve (Ochopee)

Photo credits

• Dry Tortugas National Park - main view of accessible destination: National Park Service, Public domain (U.S. National Park Service)
• Dry Tortugas National Park - view 2 of accessible destination: National Park Service, Public domain (U.S. National Park Service)
• Dry Tortugas National Park - view 3 of accessible destination: National Park Service, Public domain (U.S. National Park Service)