Fort Mose Historic State Park
Discover the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in the U.S. Explore history, nature, and resilience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience.
Fort Mose Historic State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the first legally sanctioned free African settlement in the U.S. Explore history, nature, and resilience.
"A must-see for understanding an important part of history generally ignored by mainstream accounts."
🎯 Museum Hours Check
Confirm museum opening days before visiting; it's closed early in the week. :calendar:
🚶♀️ Explore the Boardwalk
Enjoy a peaceful walk and spot local wildlife. Great for nature lovers! :bird:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Museum Exhibits
Interactive displays and artifacts bring to life the story of the free African settlement and its inhabitants.
Boardwalk Through the Marsh
A peaceful walk offering views of local wildlife and serene marshland scenery.
Reconstructed Fort
Explore the recently built fort, a testament to the resilience and history of its original inhabitants.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand Fort Mose's Significance
+1Check Museum Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Museum Hours Check
Confirm museum opening days before visiting; it's closed early in the week. :calendar:
🚶♀️ Explore the Boardwalk
Enjoy a peaceful walk and spot local wildlife. Great for nature lovers! :bird:
🗣️ Chat with Guides
Park rangers and volunteers are very knowledgeable and enhance the learning experience. +1 :speech_balloon:
🎶 Catch a Concert
The Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series offers a unique blend of history and music.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Museum Hours Check
Confirm museum opening days before visiting; it's closed early in the week. :calendar:
🚶♀️ Explore the Boardwalk
Enjoy a peaceful walk and spot local wildlife. Great for nature lovers! :bird:
🗣️ Chat with Guides
Park rangers and volunteers are very knowledgeable and enhance the learning experience. +1 :speech_balloon:
🎶 Catch a Concert
The Fort Mose Jazz & Blues Series offers a unique blend of history and music.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Fort Mose for its crucial historical significance, highlighting its role as the first legally sanctioned free African settlement. The interactive museum and knowledgeable guides are frequently commended for providing an engaging and informative experience. While the park is relatively small, its impact is profound, offering a vital perspective often missing from mainstream historical accounts. +1
"I went on a Thursday, as the museum isn't open during the first part of the week. For a small fort and a tucked away museum, this has one of the nicest and most interactive displays of all the forts in the area. There are videos to watch and colorful, illustrative displays with many artifacts to walk you through the history of the entire area and the fort. The boardwalk through the marsh was nice. This exhibit will only continue to grow, as they plan to build a scaled model re-creation of the fort soon. Not a bad time for two dollars."
Chris Baker
"Everyone who visits St Augustine should go to Fort Mose. You will learn about an important part of history that is generally ignored by mainstream historical accounts. The role of freed slaves in colonial st Augustine is fascinating and their story needs to be told and heard. Moreover, the museum at the fort is small but excellent—it has interactive exhibits that give you a taste of what people’s lives were like who lived at Fort Mose. The guide working there also explained a lot to us about the fort and was very knowledgeable about the area, answering all my questions and offering insight into this part of history. There’s also a small boardwalk to observe nature. Fort Mose is a must-see!"
Melanie Good
"My husband and I visited on June 12, 2025. What a great learning experience! We watched a fifteen minute video about the history then took a tour. The park ranger was the most helpful, thoughtful, and informative guide. The fort was recently built and there is a very long trail to freedom."
Pearlie Moody
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fort Mose Historic State Park is located in St. Augustine, Florida. It's easily accessible by car and is a short drive from the historic downtown area. Many visitors combine a trip to Fort Mose with other St. Augustine attractions.
The park offers accessible features, including a boardwalk that allows visitors to experience the natural surroundings. Some areas might have uneven terrain, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
There is typically ample parking available at the park, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Fort Mose is a popular day trip destination from cities like Jacksonville and Orlando, offering a significant historical experience within a manageable travel time.
Public transportation options directly to Fort Mose may be limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car or rideshare service for the most convenient access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Fort Mose Historic State Park is very affordable, often around $2 per person, making it an accessible historical site for everyone.
The park grounds are generally open daily, but the museum has specific operating hours, often closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. It's best to check the official park website for the most current hours.
For general park and museum entry, advance booking is usually not required. However, for special events like the Jazz & Blues Series, tickets should be purchased in advance.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, the low general admission fee makes it an economical visit. Check with the park for any potential group rates or special offers.
Admission typically includes access to the museum exhibits, the reconstructed fort, and the boardwalk nature trail. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the interactive museum, learn about the history of the free African settlement, walk the boardwalk through the marsh, and see the reconstructed fort. +1
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours at Fort Mose, allowing time to explore the museum, walk the boardwalk, and absorb the historical significance.
Yes, knowledgeable park rangers and volunteers often provide guided tours and are available to answer questions, offering deep insights into the history. +1
The marsh boardwalk is a great spot for birdwatching, with opportunities to see various bird species, including Rosette Spoonbills.
Yes, the interactive museum and the nature boardwalk make it an engaging and educational experience for children.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Fort Mose Historic State Park does not have an on-site restaurant. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own snacks or plan to dine in St. Augustine's historic district.
Yes, picnic areas are available, making it a pleasant spot to enjoy a meal amidst the historical and natural surroundings.
St. Augustine's historic district, a short drive away, offers a wide array of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining establishments.
Currently, there are no cafes or snack bars within the park itself. It's advisable to pack any refreshments you might need.
Bringing your own food and drinks is permitted, especially for picnics in the designated areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalk offers scenic views of the marsh, and the reconstructed fort provides a historical backdrop. The natural light is often beautiful for photography.
Photography rules inside the museum can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask a staff member before taking pictures of the exhibits.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Please check the park's specific regulations regarding drones.
Look out for unique wildlife, like the Rosette Spoonbills, and capture the serene beauty of the marsh landscape.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The boardwalk through the marsh provides a chance for kids to explore nature and spot wildlife, adding an element of adventure to the visit. +1It's a great opportunity to teach children about an important, often overlooked, part of American history in a setting that is both informative and enjoyable. The manageable size of the park also makes it suitable for a shorter outing, preventing overtiredness. Remember to check museum hours to ensure a full experience.
📚 History Enthusiasts
The museum's interactive exhibits and the knowledgeable guides provide rich context and detail about the lives of the free Africans who established this unique settlement. Understanding Fort Mose is key to a more complete picture of colonial Florida and the broader narrative of African American history. It's a place that sparks curiosity and encourages further learning about the resilience and agency of people seeking freedom.
🌿 Nature Lovers & Birdwatchers
Keep an eye out for various local bird species, including the distinctive Rosette Spoonbills. The peaceful environment provides a relaxing contrast to the historical exhibits, making it a well-rounded visit for those who appreciate the natural world. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Fort Mose: A Sanctuary of Freedom
+2The story of Fort Mose is deeply intertwined with figures like Francisco Menendez, a skilled military leader who helped organize the settlement's defense and was instrumental in facilitating the escape of others.
Today, the park preserves this vital history through its museum, reconstructed fort, and interpretive programs. Visitors can immerse themselves in the stories of these courageous individuals, understanding their struggles, their triumphs, and their enduring legacy. The park serves as a crucial educational site, ensuring that this significant chapter of Black history in America is remembered and honored.
Exploring the Natural Beauty of Fort Mose
The marsh is a vibrant habitat for a variety of wildlife, particularly birds. Birdwatchers often delight in spotting numerous species, including the striking Rosette Spoonbills, especially during certain times of the year.
The peaceful atmosphere of the boardwalk, combined with the chance to observe nature, makes for a refreshing complement to the historical exploration of the park. It’s a place where history and nature converge beautifully. +1While the primary focus is historical, the natural setting adds another layer to the Fort Mose experience. It’s a reminder of the diverse landscapes that have shaped Florida’s history and continue to be a source of natural beauty and ecological importance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit