Natural Attraction

HM-69 Missile Assembly Building

Natural Attraction
A rectangular building with brown entry doors. A large mural of a missile is painted on the side

A concrete and steel Nike missile launch platform rises from the Everglades lowlands, its Cold War-era equipment preserved from the 1960s. This battery rotated into "hot status" with three others in south Florida—meaning missiles sat fueled and armed, ready to launch at a moment's notice. Soldiers faced relentless maintenance duties, constantly testing every system to keep weapons combat-ready. Original artwork created by servicemen on-site reflects both pride and the unique psychological burden of standing guard over nuclear weapons during the Cold War.

More details

Attraction Type
Preserved Cold War Military Site
How To Get There
Located within Everglades National Park. From the main park entrance, follow park signs to the Nike Missile Site. GPS: 25.3687°N, 80.6854°W. Accessible via paved park roads.

Location

Joe River Chickee

Mangrove cove at Joe River's mouth. Dolphins at night; tall trees shelter and concentrate mosquitoes.

Mahogany Hammock

Largest mahogany tree in America. Tropical boardwalk, wheelchair accessible.

Mormon Key

Sandy beach at river mouth with Gulf views and excellent fishing. Tides drive the landscape—camp high, secure vessels.

North Nest Key

High-traffic island campsite with thin beach, vault toilet, dock. Powerboat only. Mandatory dive flag for snorkeling.

Mrazek Pond

Winter magnet for Roseate Spoonbills and Wood Storks. Most of the year: dabbling ducks and herons.

Old Ingraham Highway

Historic 10-mile gravel trail with Taylor Slough vistas and tree islands. Seasonal flooding; dry season recommended.

Sources

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Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.