Fort Jefferson

Fort Jefferson is a large historic coastal fortress located on Garden Key in the Dry Tortugas, Florida. Built in the 19th century, it was designed to defend strategic shipping routes and serve as a military prison. Constructed from massive blocks of coral reef, it is one of the largest brick structures in the Americas. Today, it’s part of the Dry Tortugas National Park, attracting visitors for its impressive architecture, rich history, and surrounding vivid coral reefs and marine life. The fort is accessible by boat or seaplane and offers insight into maritime defense and Civil War-era military architecture.