The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument has officially closed to the public as a result of the ongoing federal government shutdown,
The action, which has suspended funding for several federal agencies, includes the National Park Service, which oversees the 17th-century Spanish fort.
The closure affects not only the historic site itself but also all visitor services, including guided tours, educational programs, and the park’s gift shop and visitor center.
Park rangers and interpretive staff have been furloughed, and access to the interior of the fort is prohibited until further notice.
This is not the first time the Castillo has closed due to a lapse in federal funding.
During the 2018–2019 government shutdown, the site was closed for more than a month, resulting in a significant loss of visitor revenue and deferred maintenance.
Travelers arriving during the shutdown are expressing disappointment at being unable to explore the nation’s oldest masonry fort.
Park officials say the site will reopen as soon as Congress restores funding and staff are authorized to return to work.
Visitors are encouraged to check the National Park Service website or local news sources for updates.
