LVL 1 — First Steps
Fort Sumter National Monument, Charleston Harbor, SC

Fort Sumter Visit Guide

0.5 miles on fort grounds
3-4 hours including ferry
The place where the Civil War began. Fort Sumter sits in the middle of Charleston Harbor and is accessible only by ferry. The ferry ride itself is one of the best ways to see Charleston from the water.

Fort Sumter National Monument sits on a man-made island in the middle of Charleston Harbor, accessible only by ferry from Liberty Square in downtown Charleston or from Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant. The fort is where Confederate forces fired the first shots of the Civil War on April 12, 1861.

The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes each way and offers excellent views of Charleston’s historic waterfront, the Cooper River Bridge, and the harbor. On the island, National Park Service rangers lead talks about the fort’s history and the opening of the Civil War.

Tips from the field

  • Book ferry tickets in advance, especially in spring and summer. They sell out.
  • The ferry from Liberty Square in downtown Charleston is the most convenient departure point.
  • Combine with a visit to Fort Moultrie on Sullivan's Island, which is included in the same NPS site.
  • The ferry ride offers some of the best views of Charleston's skyline available.

At a Glance

Where: Fort Sumter National Monument, Charleston Harbor, SC
Surface: Paved paths on fort grounds
Parking: Paid parking at Liberty Square or Patriots Point
Shade: Minimal shade on fort grounds. Bring a hat.
Restrooms: Flush restrooms at ferry terminals and on fort grounds

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Stroller-Friendly
  • Service Animal Friendly

Nearby

  • Charleston Waterfront Park
  • Fort Moultrie
  • Patriots Point Naval Museum