Nike Missile Site HM-69
Explore a Cold War relic in the Florida Everglades. See a Nike missile and uncover secrets of a top-secret defense site.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Public access hours
Nike Missile Site HM-69
Best Time
Public access hours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a Cold War relic in the Florida Everglades. See a Nike missile and uncover secrets of a top-secret defense site.
"A very cool piece of history in the middle of the everglades, worth the drive. "
🚗 Drive & Park Smart
Keep right as you approach the base; parking is available. Remember the park entrance fee! :car:
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Even in drier months, the Everglades can be buggy. Pack strong repellent! :bug:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nike Hercules Missile
Hangar
See a massive Nike Hercules missile, a relic of the Cold War, standing ready in its original hangar.
Cold War History Exhibits
Visitor Center & Barns
Explore declassified artifacts and learn about the site's crucial role during the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Underground Bunker Exploration
Control Center
Discover the secrets of the underground command center, a glimpse into top-secret operations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Everglades
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive & Park Smart
Keep right as you approach the base; parking is available. Remember the park entrance fee! :car:
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Even in drier months, the Everglades can be buggy. Pack strong repellent! :bug:
🤝 Chat with Volunteers
The volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the site's history. :handshake:
📸 Capture the History
Great spot for unique photos, especially with the missile and historical structures.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive & Park Smart
Keep right as you approach the base; parking is available. Remember the park entrance fee! :car:
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Even in drier months, the Everglades can be buggy. Pack strong repellent! :bug:
🤝 Chat with Volunteers
The volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the site's history. :handshake:
📸 Capture the History
Great spot for unique photos, especially with the missile and historical structures.
🗺️ Check Park Hours
HM-69 hours can vary. Always confirm with Everglades National Park before your visit. :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Nike Missile Site HM-69 to be a cool and informative piece of Cold War history, especially appreciating the knowledgeable volunteers and the chance to see a real missile. While some find it a bit underwhelming initially, the exhibits and the unique setting in the Everglades make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in military history. The limited operating hours and remote location are noted drawbacks for some.
"This is really cool. It seems a little underwhelming as you pull in but when you get to the first barn you see a missile and behind it in the barn are other pieces and parts of the story. The volunteers were fun and very informative. It’s worth the drive over for sure. Very cool piece of history."
Jay Fulcher
"We visited on a Thursday afternoon in late Dec 2024. We were on a Everglades Institute Tour (tour guide Maria was the best) which was great because we were all given ear pieces to listen to our tour guide. My understanding at the time of our visit was that the missile site is only open Dec-Mar 10-2PM to the public.
It was cool because we got the entire site to ourselves. My oldest got to help open the giant hanger doors to reveal the missile. It was cool to look at everything and not have a huge crowd. Also getting to add the NPS Cancellation stamp for the site was icing on the cake.
There were also no mosquitos when we visited but we learned about how the soldiers who were station here hated them so much.
Don't think we were ever go out of our way to visit here again but it was certainly cool to see it the one time."
David L.
"The visit was very informative. You get a small look into a Top Secret location and it takes you right back into the Cold War era during the Cuba Missile Crisis. The Volunteer Harry was extremely informative and knowledgeable about the site. Checking out the site you can see and imagine how hostile the living conditions were for the Soldiers living there. The items that have been declassified and that are on display are completely awesome. Any military buff or person that lives in South Florida would completely understand and appreciate the sacrifice of the soldiers that lived at this Top Secret location."
Matt Ochmanski
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nike Missile Site HM-69 is located within Everglades National Park. You'll need to drive into the park and follow signs for the site. Be prepared for a scenic drive, and remember that an entrance fee for the park is required.
Yes, it's a significant drive from the main park entrance to reach HM-69. Plan for extra travel time to enjoy the journey and the site itself.
It's highly recommended to have a car as public transportation options to the site are very limited. Guided tours might offer transportation as part of their package.
The drive takes you through the unique landscape of the Everglades. Keep an eye out for wildlife and enjoy the remote atmosphere.
Yes, there is parking available at the Nike Missile Site. Visitors are advised to keep to the right as they approach the base.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You need an entrance pass for Everglades National Park to access HM-69. The site itself is often open for self-guided visits during specific hours, or you can book guided tours.
The site is typically open to the public for self-guided visits from December to March, between 10 AM and 2 PM. Outside these hours, guided tours are usually required.
The cost is the standard entrance fee for Everglades National Park. Guided tours may have an additional fee.
Public access is generally limited to the dry season (December-March). For visits outside this period, you'll likely need to arrange a guided tour.
Check the Everglades National Park website for any available passes or discounts that might apply to your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a Nike Hercules missile in its hangar, explore underground control rooms, and view exhibits detailing the site's Cold War history and the lives of soldiers stationed there.
During its public access months (Dec-Mar), it's often self-guided. Outside these times, or for a more in-depth experience, guided tours are available and highly recommended.
A quick drop-in visit can take 10-15 minutes, but to truly appreciate the history and exhibits, plan for 1-2 hours, especially if you engage with volunteers.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the visitor center or main buildings within the site.
Some areas may have limited accessibility due to the historic nature of the site. It's best to inquire about specific accessibility details when booking a tour or upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged! It's a fantastic location for capturing unique historical and atmospheric shots.
The hangar with the missile, the underground control rooms, and the exterior structures offer great photographic opportunities. The surrounding Everglades landscape also provides a dramatic backdrop.
Drone usage is subject to Everglades National Park regulations. Check the park's official website for current drone policies before flying.
While generally permitted, be respectful of any restricted areas or private tours. Avoid flash photography in sensitive exhibit areas if advised.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the missile and structures. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions inside the hangars or for star trails at night.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities are limited. Be prepared for walking and potentially uneven terrain. The volunteers are often happy to engage with younger visitors, so encourage your kids to ask questions. Consider a guided tour for a more structured and informative experience.
Military History Buffs
Don't miss: The detailed exhibits on the site's role during the Cuban Missile Crisis, the chance to speak with knowledgeable volunteers who often have personal connections or deep research into the base's history, and the opportunity to imagine the living conditions for the soldiers stationed there.
Nature and Adventure Seekers
Combine your visit: Extend your adventure by exploring other parts of Everglades National Park. Look for wildlife, enjoy hiking trails, or consider an airboat tour. The remote setting of the missile base adds to the sense of discovery and exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Cold War Relic in the Everglades
Visitors can explore the remnants of this once top-secret facility, including the imposing hangar that once housed a Nike Hercules missile, the underground control center, and various support buildings. The site offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and understand the daily lives of the soldiers stationed here, the technological advancements of the era, and the constant state of readiness that defined this period of history.
The preservation and interpretation of HM-69 are crucial for understanding American military history and the impact of the Cold War on civilian life and landscapes. The volunteers and park rangers play a vital role in bringing this history to life, sharing stories and insights that go beyond the static displays.
Experiencing HM-69: Tours and Self-Guided Visits
For a more in-depth understanding and access outside of these limited public hours, guided tours are highly recommended. These tours, often led by knowledgeable volunteers or park staff, provide invaluable context, historical anecdotes, and the chance to ask questions. Some tours might even offer unique experiences, like assisting with opening the hangar doors, as one visitor shared.
It's essential to check the official Everglades National Park website or contact the Everglades Institute for the most current information on operating hours, tour schedules, and booking procedures. Planning ahead ensures you can make the most of your visit to this fascinating Cold War relic.
Photography Opportunities at HM-69
Beyond the missile, the site's infrastructure—the control rooms, barracks, and exterior buildings—provides a gritty, authentic feel for historical and urban exploration photography. The stark, utilitarian architecture contrasts with the lush, untamed environment of the surrounding park, creating dramatic visual narratives.
For those interested in astrophotography, the remote location within Everglades National Park offers dark skies, making it an ideal spot for capturing star trails or even meteor showers, as one visitor noted.
Remember to check park regulations regarding drone usage if you plan on aerial photography. 
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