Florida’s Secret Keys
Are you looking for a fun and memorable day trip while on your vacation to Key West? Can you keep a secret?
One of the highest rated but underutilized places to see in all of Florida is Dry Tortuga National Park located about 70 miles west of Key West. What makes this park so magical is not just its isolation from the rest of the country but its unique and fascinating history.
Dry Tortuga National Park
The park is 100 square miles of mostly mighty Atlantic Ocean but there are plenty of small keys sprinkled throughout the site. Since Continuing Education Company’s medical education conferences in Duck Key are only held in the mornings, there is plenty of time after the conference to explore this beautiful park.
If you want to visit this magical place be sure that you plan ahead as you can only access the site by boat or plane and there is no cellular service available on the island. Don’t let the isolation scare you away from this amazing trip as there is plenty to do and explore while you’re there.
Yankee Freedom III
One of the most popular ways to get there is taking a trip on the ferry Yankee Freedom III which offers both highly rated service, plenty of amenities, and complimentary snorkeling equipment. The ride to the park takes a little over two hours but the journey is completely worth it.
Fort Jefferson
There is plenty to explore in the park besides the unique wilderness.One of the biggest draws to the park is the chance to explore the historical site of Fort Jefferson on Garden Key. The fort first began construction in 1846 and was added onto for the next 30 years. Although never fully finished or even interacting in combat the fort is still one of the largest in the world and served as one of the most important forts in the nation. Besides its beautiful coral reefs, Dry Tortuga is a strategic location for ships seeking shelter from storms and as a homebase for ships patrolling the coast.
Fort Jefferson first began operations as a homebase for ships blockading Confederate ships and supply lines. Later the fort served as a prison for Union deserters and a few of Lincoln assassination conspirators including Dr. Samuel Mudd who set John Wilkes Booth’s broken leg. Besides its importance in the Civil War, Fort Jefferson was an important location for Navy operations in both world wars. The unique history of the site as well as the chance to explore all the ornate stonework.
Besides the chance to visit the iconic fort, Dry Tortuga National Park has other activities to enjoy during your trip. You can take leisurely strolls along secluded beaches and bathe in the warm Florida sun walk along the numerous paths along the island and spot numerous different tropical birds who call the keys home, or snorkel in the gentle waters. If you chose to ride aboard the Yankee Freedom III than be sure to grab some complimentary snorkel gear if you’re up for a fun adventure in the water. There are plenty of small coral reefs located all around the keys and numerous different species of tropical fish and coral to spot as you swim along the surface. If you’re really lucky you might see a sea turtle or a dolphin. If you’re looking for an unforgettable trip on your vacation be sure you add Dry Tortuga to your Key West agenda.
Upcoming CME Conferences & Online Learning
Want to attend a live CME conference in a beautiful locale or complete an online course from the comforts of home?
At Continuing Education Company, we provide you with options to make your medical continuing education fun, engaging, and relevant. Check out our conference calendar to view the dates and locations of upcoming conferences as well as the online learning courses and live streaming that are currently available. And, for a limited period of time, take advantage of our Special Offer! Attend one of our LIVE conferences in person and you will receive a FREE online 15 credit CME course from CME365™.