Fort Sumter & Fort Moultrie National Historical Park
Time Needed: full-day
Experience Type: historic landmark, military history
Accessible only by boat, Fort Sumter is where the first shots of the Civil War thundered across Charleston Harbor in 1861. Today, visitors can explore the fort’s historic ruins, engage with ranger-led programs, and take in sweeping harbor views that frame this site in American history.
MUST-DO CHECKLIST
- Take the Ferry Across Charleston Harbor – Begin your visit with a scenic, narrated 30-minute ferry ride from Liberty Square or Patriots Point for skyline views.
- Join the Flag Ceremony – On the first or last ferry, help rangers raise or lower a replica 33-star flag, a stirring daily tribute to history.
- Walk the Fort’s Ruins – Wander through brick remains and cannon placements, spotting shell scars and fingerprints left by enslaved craftsmen who built the fort.
- Explore the Museum Exhibits – Discover artifacts from the 1861 battle, including the original Union flag, and learn how the fort evolved through later bombardments.
- Visit Fort Moultrie – Across the harbor, explore coastal defenses from 1776–1947 through exhibits, films, and self-guided tours that complete the story of Charleston’s forts.
Plan Ahead: Make your Fort Sumter visit seamless with pre-booked admission and round-trip ferry transport. Enjoy harbor views of Rainbow Row and the Battery on the way, then explore the fort and museum at your own pace before returning to Charleston.
Photo Credit: Discover South Carolina