Author: 
In Destin, you can either dive into the waters or dive deep into history. Join us on a history crawl to Destin History & Fishing Museum and find out other places to visit and the best places to stay in the city.
Anchored in History
Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, picturesque white-sand beaches, and world-class fishing, Destin, Florida is more than just a sunshine-drenched paradise. With attractions like the Destin History & Fishing Museum, the Air Force Armament Museum, HarborWalk Village, and more, it is clear that Destin honors its historic ties.
While on the topic of the past, here’s an interesting tidbit: Destin is called the World’s Luckiest Fishing Village, a title earned during a historic fishing trip in the 1950s. Florida’s Governor Leroy Collins hooked a 29-pound king mackerel, and the moniker stuck, becoming official on October 15, 1956. Some historians also suggest that Destin is considered lucky due to it having the quickest access to the deepest waters in the panhandle!
Today, this evolution from modest origins to a premier vacation destination is beautifully chronicled in the Destin History & Fishing Museum. Even in places like the Destin Harbor Boardwalk or the Village of Baytowne Wharf, there is an air of stories that beg to be uncovered. With that said, let’s delve deeper into the past and take a tour of the top historical sites that Destin has to offer.
6 Historic Sites to Visit in Destin, Florida
In Destin, history isn’t simply confined to the pages of dusty books – it’s an immersive experience etched into the very fabric of the city. Let’s discover Destin’s evolution through these six significant sites.
1. HARBORWALK VILLAGE
34 Harbor Blvd | +1 850-424-0600
HarborWalk Village is a vibrant waterfront destination where Destin’s past and present beautifully intersect. With a delightful mix of boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment venues set against the backdrop of the sparkling harbor, this locale encapsulates the city’s nautical history.
Experience its charm through seasonal festivals, maritime-themed events, or just a serene walk along the marina, as you relive Destin’s deep-seated maritime legacy. Better yet, head over to the nearby Destin History & Fishing Museum for a more in-depth exploration of the city’s ties with the fishing industry.
2. FORT PICKENS
1400 Fort Pickens Rd, Pensacola Beach
Marking a significant chapter in the history of Destin, Florida, Fort Pickens is a gem worth exploring. This pentagonal military fort, named after American Revolutionary War hero Andrew Pickens, holds a unique distinction: it was one of the few Southern forts that remained in Union hands throughout the American Civil War. The fort was completed in 1834 and remained operational until 1947, witnessing numerous advancements in military technology over the years.
Today, as part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, Fort Pickens invites visitors to traverse its historic grounds. The fort’s sprawling labyrinth of tunnels and rooms offers an exciting exploration opportunity. Its brick-arched hallways, a testament to the architectural prowess of the past, have become a magnet for photographers. If you’re a history buff or an adventure seeker, Fort Pickens offers a unique experience that vividly brings the past to life.
3. DESTIN HISTORY & FISHING MUSEUM
108 Stahlman Ave | +1 850-837-6611
Dive into the city’s rich past at the Destin History & Fishing Museum. This quaint cultural hub unravels Destin’s history, from its native inhabitants and fishing industry roots to its official establishment as a city in 1984. Despite its size, the museum’s quaintness adds to its family-friendly ambiance, with scavenger hunts for kids and guided tours for adults.
The museum employs a variety of media, including artifacts, films, photographs, and interactive exhibits, to impart a deeper understanding of the area. Visitors can learn about the stark white sand that adorns Destin’s beaches and the diverse marine life thriving in the ocean. To find out more about the museum’s admission fees, opening times, and special events, you can visit Destin History & Fishing Museum’s official website.
4. THE VILLAGE OF BAYTOWNE WHARF
9300 Baytowne Wharf Blvd, Miramar Beach | +1 850-267-8000
Nestled on the shores of the Choctawhatchee Bay, The Village of Baytowne Wharf exudes an old-world charm. Meandering paths lead to colonial-style buildings, boutique shops, and waterfront dining options, recreating the historic ambiance of bygone Florida.
Here, history feels alive in the arching trees, clapboard houses, and the soft lapping of waves against the wharf. Should you decide to stay here, it is a perfect setting to relish the city’s past.
5. INDIAN TEMPLE MOUND MUSEUM
139 Miracle Strip Pkwy SE | +1 850-833-9595
A noteworthy addition to your historic tour is the Indian Temple Mound Museum, proudly standing as Florida’s first municipally owned and operated museum since 1962. It’s centrally located on Highway 98 in the heart of historic downtown Fort Walton Beach. This repository houses over a thousand artifacts of stone, bone, clay, and shell, presenting an intriguing narrative spanning 12,000 years of Native American occupation.
The museum boasts one of the Southeastern United States’ finest collections of prehistoric ceramics. Additionally, exhibits range from those shedding light on European explorers, local pirates, and early settlers, all contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the area’s diverse history. Visitors will love that the museum is accessible, with provisions for handicapped visitors and centralized admissions for all museums in the complex.
6. THE AIR FORCE ARMAMENT MUSEUM
100 Museum Dr, Eglin AFB | +1 850-651-1808
If the Destin History & Fishing Museum delves into the city’s maritime identity, then The Air Force Armament Museum dives into its military roots.
Housing a collection that spans from World War II to the present, the Air Force Armament Museum stands as the only museum worldwide dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of Air Force Armament artifacts and their delivery platforms. Home to over 29 different aircraft, the museum also boasts a collection of several hundred armament pieces. This vast array includes guns, bombs, bomblets, and missiles such as the Sparrow, Sidewinder, cluster bombs, Bunker Buster, and the MOAB.
The museum enhances the visitors’ experience by running a 32-minute film throughout the day that outlines the history of Eglin Air Force Base and its instrumental role in armament development. For a smoother visit, we recommend calling ahead or visiting their website for more information.
Where to Stay Near Destin’s Historical Sites
Planning your stay in Destin is a breeze with its variety of districts teeming with local amenities. Each of these neighborhoods is uniquely positioned close to the city’s historical sites, offering a convenient base for your explorations:
BAYTOWNE DISTRICT
Right at the doorstep of The Village of Baytowne Wharf, Baytowne District is an ideal place to enjoy the historical charm of the old city. Spend the day exploring the wharf or unwind at popular local eateries like Slick Lips Seafood & Oyster House, Marlin Grill, or Poppy’s Crazy Lobster.
FORT WALTON BEACH
Close to the Indian Temple Mound Museum, Fort Walton Beach offers a mix of history, leisure, and natural beauty. It’s known for its beachfront parks and eateries like Crackings, Brotula’s Seafood House, and Stewby’s Seafood Shanty.
HARBOR DISTRICT
Harbor District, adjacent to HarborWalk Village, is a vibrant area bursting with restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment facilities. It’s a lively hub with easy access to water sports and the famed HarborWalk Marina, a must-visit for boat enthusiasts. Plus, it’s just a short stroll away from the Destin History & Fishing Museum.
PENSACOLA BEACH
For those interested in Fort Pickens, staying at Pensacola Beach is a smart choice. Not only is it close to the fort, but it also boasts pristine beaches, fresh seafood restaurants, and the Pensacola Beach Pier. Its laid-back vibe makes it a great spot to unwind after a day of historical sightseeing.
Journey into Destin’s Past & Rest in Modern Comfort with Hotala
From unraveling the city’s fascinating narrative at the Destin History & Fishing Museum to exploring lively districts brimming with local amenities, Destin offers an enchanting blend of history and charm. Dive into the rich history of Destin, Florida by day and retreat into modern comfort by night with Hotala!
We list over 10 million accommodations across the globe to help you find a vacation rental that suits your style and needs. Plus, we regularly publish travel content to keep your wanderlust in full gear. Step back in time in Destin, then step into comfort with Hotala.
Need more travel ideas? Subscribe to The Hot List to get weekly updates on the Hottest destinations! Travel farther, experience more, and discover hot deals in hot destinations with Hotala.
