Fort Sumter National Historical Park
Fort Sumter
On April 12, 1861, Confederate forces fired on this fort, starting the American Civil War. The island can only be reached by ferry, and the visit takes about 1 hour.
Fort Sumter is located on a man-made island in the harbor of Charleston. On April 12, 1861, Confederate forces bombarded the Union garrison from shore batteries, marking the beginning of the Civil War. The fort is now administered by the National Park Service. Visitors can see the remaining brick fortifications, cannons and a small museum, and park rangers give regular talks. You can only get there on an official licensed ferry departing from Liberty Square in downtown Charleston or from Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant. The round trip takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes, including about 1 hour on the island. Tickets cost about 40 US dollars, and advance booking is recommended in peak season.
Opening hours
Follows ferry schedule (approx. 09:30–16:00)
Nearby sights
- Fort Moultrie
- Sullivan's Island Beach
- Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
- Waterfront Park & Pineapple Fountain
- Rainbow Row
- Morris Island Lighthouse
- Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon
- The Battery & White Point Garden