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.
Reenactor Bill Boston on his horse Dixie in front of the De Soto Monument.
Credit: Tim Ohr
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.
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Friday | 9:00AM - 4:30PM |
| Monday | 9:00AM - 4:30PM |
| Sunday | 9:00AM - 4:30PM |
| Tuesday | 9:00AM - 4:30PM |
| Saturday | 9:00AM - 4:30PM |
| Thursday | 9:00AM - 4:30PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00AM - 4:30PM |
De Soto National Memorial is open seven days a week with exceptions of Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Years Day. The park will also be closed during periods of severe weather like tropical storms and hurricanes.
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Friday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Monday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Sunday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Tuesday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Saturday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Thursday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Wednesday | 8:00AM - 5:00PM |
Regular Event
Children’s Program
Cultural/Craft Demonstration
Guided Tour
Living History
Performance
Jan 9, 2026 - Apr 18, 2026