Reenactor Bill Boston on his horse Dixie in front of the De Soto Monument.
De Soto National Memorial
National Memorial · FL
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.
Park report
Hours Exceptions
NoteThanksgiving Day Park Closed; Christmas Day Park Closed; New Years Day Park Closed
Current Alerts
How this is rated
Good: no active alerts or closuresNo active alerts
Entrance Fee
How this is rated
Good: free entryFree — no entrance fee
Activities Available
How this is rated
Good: many activities available9 activities
Park Name
InfoDe Soto National Memorial
Designation
InfoNational Memorial
State(s)
InfoFL
Phone
Info9417920458
deso_interpretive_staff@nps.gov
Operating Hours
InfoDe 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.
Campgrounds
InfoNo campgrounds listed
Themes & Topics
InfoExplorers and Expeditions, Hispanic American Heritage, Maritime + 16 more
Weather Info
InfoSummers 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 wi
Getting There
InfoDriving Directions: From I-75 Take exit 220 SR 64/Manatee Ave, Gulf Beaches exit. Travel west on SR 64 for approximately 12 miles to 75th St. W. Turn right onto 75th St. W. travel north approximately
Location
Info27.5227° N, -82.6434° W
Data from official federal recreation records. Updated periodically. Park conditions change — always verify with the park before visiting. Verify on official park website