Destin, Florida
Featured Activities Near Destin History and Fishing Museum
Destin History and Fishing Museum Visitors Guide
Destin is known far and wide as, “The World’s Luckiest Fishing Village,” but have you ever stopped to wonder how this once tiny fishing village ended up touting such an impressive title? Luckily, Destin’s history, which dates back nearly 200 years, has been preserved in a 5,500-square-foot time capsule known as the Destin History and Fishing Museum! The museum itself is set up like a timeline, and takes visitors through the area's fishing history and development.
This museum is so much more than a history lesson, however, as the displays are both intriguing and awe-inspiring. They are known for showcasing antique fishing gear, including a reel once used and owned by Ernest Hemingway, over 75 locally-caught fish mounts, the oldest seine fishing boat in the world, The Primrose, which was built in 1925, the original Destin Post Office building, vintage photos, artifacts, and so much more!
Read moreThings to do Near Destin History and Fishing Museum
Daytime Dolphin Watch & Sunset Cruises - Tour East Pass, Harbor, Crab Island
24 ft Destin Pontoon Boat Rental (Up to 12 passengers)
Crab Island Waverunner Rental
Destin Crab Island Parasailing
Destin Crab Island Jet Ski Rental
Semi-Private Group Fishing Charter
Crab Island 24ft Pontoon Boat Rental (12 Person Max)
The Hydrojet - The World's Largest Jet Ski!
Crab Island Catamaran Excursion from Destin Harbor
Destin Harbor Fireworks Cruise Aboard The Hannah Marie
Famous & Original Crab Island Tiki Boat
6 Passenger Private Day Time Sailing Cruise
Deep Sea Private Fishing Charter Aboard The Great Escape
Captained Crab Island Cruise + Paddleboard
Destin Articles & Travel Tips
Keeping You InformedFrequently Asked Questions
The Destin History and Fishing Museum is located in the heart of Destin, which means it’s close to tons of great lodging and dining options. The Emerald Grande is one of the most popular places to stay when in Destin, as its location at HarborWalk Village is ideal for travelers looking to experience it all in one place! Village Inn of Destin and Inn on Destin Harbor are two additional nearby popular hotels, offering options for groups of varying sizes, budgets, and interests.
You definitely won’t go hungry here! The Destin History and Fishing Museum is also nearby tons of tasty restaurants, showcasing the best of Destin seafood, drinks, and more. Some of the top restaurants include Dewey Destin’s Seafood, McGuire’s Irish Pub of Destin, Harbor Docks, and Boshamps, just to name a few! For more information about the best places to eat in Destin, check out this recent TripShock blog: https://www.tripshock.com/blog/5-destin-restaurants-to-feed-your-beach-vacation/.
The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00am until 4:00pm, and visitors are more than welcome to simply show up, purchase a ticket, and see the sights! Self-guided and guided tours are available, but if you would like a guided tour, or have a large group, it is recommended to purchase your tickets in advance.
The Destin History and Fishing Museum is perfect for children and adults, alike. Combining both education and fun, this is the perfect way to introduce the little ones to Destin, and learn about fishing and the local history in a fun and unique way. Kids will especially love the giant, locally-caught fish mounts, interactive displays, and the massive replica of a Megalodon Shark jaw!
This will simply depend on the person! With thousands of historic photographs, artifacts, and information to sort through, it could definitely take the thorough traveler a few hours to see it all. Generally, I would set aside at least an hour or two to get the most from your experience.