Destin History & Fishing Museum

"The Destin History and Fishing Museum honors the rich legacy of Destin, Florida, famously known as the “luckiest fishing village in the world."

Recommended For

History Enthusiasts: Discover the evolution of Destin from a small fishing village to a renowned tourist spot with exhibits on the town’s founding families, local artifacts, and the history of fishing in the region.
Fishing Lovers: Explore the science behind why Destin is known for its prolific fishing and learn about the local catch through mounted fish and the Rodeo Fishbench exhibit.
Families: Enjoy a hands-on scavenger hunt, learn about local wildlife, and take in the interactive and educational exhibits for visitors of all ages.
Nature and Wildlife Lovers: View preserved specimens like the 12-foot American alligator and explore outdoor exhibits featuring historical boats used for fishing.

Highlights

Gone but Not Forgotten: A genealogical exhibit tracing the founding families of Destin, allowing visitors to engage in research on the town’s early history.
Rodeo Fishbench: Explore the scientific descriptions of fish species caught in the annual Destin Rodeo, a key part of the town’s history and legacy.
Historic Boats: View the preserved Primrose seine boat and Lil Jimmy mullet boat, showcasing the tools used in early 20th-century fishing.
Local History: Learn about the history of Fort Walton and the creation of Destin’s founding families through artifacts and exhibits.

Visitor Tips

Take a self-guided audio tour or join a docent-led tour to make the most of your visit and learn more about the history of Destin.
Make sure to explore the outdoor exhibits, including the historic Primrose boat and the “Footprints in the Sand” memorial walkway.
Visit during Florida Archeology Month in March to enjoy lectures and special events centered around regional archaeology.
Check out the "wanted" poster to see which fish species are on the museum’s high-priority wish list for donation from local fishermen.

Local Vibe

With its fascinating mix of history, fishing culture, and educational exhibits, the Destin History and Fishing Museum offers a unique experience for visitors looking to learn about one of Florida’s most iconic beach towns. Whether you're a fishing enthusiast, history lover, or family looking for an educational outing, this museum provides a captivating and informative look into Destin’s rich heritage.

Location