Fort Pickens

Located about ten miles west of the resort, Fort Pickens is a must-visit for US history buffs and adventurous tourists alike. This 19th-century fortress was constructed to protect Pensacola Bay—with an estimated 21.5 million bricks—and played an important role in the American Civil War, World War I, and World War II before being decommissioned in 1947.

Today, it’s a point of interest within the protected Gulf Islands National Seashore and invites tourists to explore the historical grounds, architecture, and visitor center. Guests can walk the surrounding private beaches, fish from the pier, and access miles of nearby trails. Pay a visit to Fort Pickens for an immersive journey back in time and tour an architectural marvel at your own pace.