Castillo De San Marcos National Monument

The Castillo de San Marcos, built 1672-1695, served primarily as an outpost of the Spanish Empire, guarding St. Augustine, the first permanent European settlement in the continental United States, and also protecting the sea route for treasure ships returning to Spain. Although the Castillo has served a number of nations throughout its history, it has never been taken by military force. During the 18th century, the Castillo went from Spanish control to British and back to the Spanish , who remained in power in Florida until the area was purchased by the United States in 1821. Called Fort Marion at this time, The Castillo was made a National Monument in 1924 and became part of the National Park system in 1933. The park consists of the original historic Castillo fortress itself with its attendant grounds, some 25 total acres.

One South Castillo Drive
St. Augustine, FL 32084
904-829-6506 - Headquarters
904-829-6506 ext 234 - Visitor Information

By Plane
Nearby Jacksonville and Daytona are served by international airports with easy access to I-95. Rental cars are available at the airports and in St. Augustine.

By Car
From I-95: Take the exit for St. Augustine Historic Sites and Downtown (Route 16). Follow Rt. 16 to US 1. Turn right on US 1 for two miles to Castillo Drive. Turn left on Castillo to the traffic light. Turn right at the light. The Castillo and parking are ahead on the left.
From A1A: The Castillo is located on A1A in downtown St. Augustine.

By Plane
There is no Public Transportation in St. Augustine, however, private companies operate tour trains, horse carriages, and bicycle and motor scooter rentals.

Summers can be very hot and bright with high humidity. Afternoon thundershowers are highly possible. We suggest you have some kind of sun protection, including sunscreen and UV protective sunglasses. Winters (December through March) can be cooler than one would think, and sudden cold snaps should be taken into consideration.

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.

• Educational Programs

Recommended Activities
Exhibits--
There is no visitor center in the park, but museum exhibits are maintained within the rooms of the Castillo.

Ranger Programs--
Ranger Programs are offered year round, and the schedule is posted daily in the courtyard and at the ticket booth.

Living History--
On Saturdays and Sundays from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, cannon firing demonstrations are presented on the gundeck (roof) by volunteers outfitted in the Spanish uniform of the 18th-century. Times are 11:00, 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 both Saturday and Sunday.

Other special Living History events are also held in the Castillo and on the grounds throughout the year.

Junior Ranger--
Children age 6-12 are invited to participate in the park's Jr. Ranger program. Ask for the activity book at the Entrance Booth.

NOTE: Most of the structure of the Castillo de San Marcos will be closed for repairs to the roof starting in winter 2001. Rangers will be presenting exciting new programs, including living history, on the grounds surrounding the Castillo during this period when the fort itself is not accessible.