De Soto National Memorial

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Reenactor Bill Boston on his horse Dixie in front of the De Soto Monument.

About De Soto National Memorial

In May 1539, Conquistador Hernando de Soto’s army of soldiers, hired mercenaries, craftsmen, and clergy made landfall in Tampa Bay. They were met with fierce resistance of indigenous people protecting their homelands. De Soto’s quest for glory and gold would be a four year, four thousand mile odyssey of intrigue, warfare, disease, and discovery that would form the history of the United States.

Quick Facts

State Florida
Designation National Memorial
State Code FL
Weather Summers avg. Temperature is 90 degrees Fahrenheit with a relative humidity of 80-90% Late afternoon showers and thunderstorms are common usually lasting only 10-20 minutes. Winters are mild and dry…

Operating Hours

De Soto National Memorial is open with a Visitor Contact Tent. The park's Visitor Center remains closed due to Hurricane damage. The park cannot offer the movie at this time. Trails are awaiting rehabilitation and access is limited for those who need mobility assistance. There are portable restroom facilities and handwashing stations on site for visitor use.

Wednesday 9:00AM - 4:30PM
Monday 9:00AM - 4:30PM
Thursday 9:00AM - 4:30PM
Sunday 9:00AM - 4:30PM
Tuesday 9:00AM - 4:30PM
Friday 9:00AM - 4:30PM
Saturday 9:00AM - 4:30PM

Activities

Fishing Saltwater Fishing Living History Reenactments Historic Weapons Demonstration Paddling Kayaking Shopping Bookstore and Park Store

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