Dry Tortugas National Park in Florida is the only park on this list with as many human-made attractions as natural. This archipelago of tiny islands includes Fort Jefferson, an unfinished coastal fortress constructed of over sixteen million bricks, making it the largest masonry structure on this side of the globe. History buffs also flock to see the many shipwrecks - some dating from the 17th century. Not into diving? No problem: many of the wrecks are visible in the clear water from the coastline!
But the jewel in the Dry Tortugas crown is the surrounding coral reef, one of the most pristine in the Key West area. It’s a motherlode of natural beauty for boat tours and snorkelers, in addition to being vitally important to the local ecology.
Above the waves, the Dry Tortugas is a breeding ground and "rest stop" for 300 migratory bird species. While only eight birds nest here year-round, springtime provides a rare opportunity for birdwatchers to see pelicans, terns, songbirds, and raptors.
