On April 12th, 1861 the first shots were fired on Fort Sumter, which led to the outbreak of America’s bloodiest war. Fort Sumter is a fascinating place to visit and only accessible by taking a 30 minute boat ride through the Charleston Harbor. After arriving at the fort, guests will have the opportunity to learn about the major events that led to the outbreak of the American Civil War. Historians will provide detailed information about the fort and its pivotal role in the war between the states.
The park also has a museum and small gift shop. After exploring the fort, cruise back to port, enjoying panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Charleston's bustling harbor. The fort is quite large and requires a significant amount of walking and climbing stairs, so make sure you wear a comfortable pair of shoes. You should allow a minimum of one hour travel time and another hour to tour the fort. Buying tickets in advance either online or at the departure locations is highly recommended. The Fort Sumter ferry departs from the Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center in Liberty Square next to the South Carolina Aquarium and also from Patriots Point Maritime Museum.
Click Photos to Enlarge
Click Photos to Enlarge
Boat Schedule:
Date
Liberty Square - Downtown Charleston
Patriots Point - Mount Pleasant
Jan 2 - Feb 28
11:00am, 2:30pm
1:00pm
Mar 1 - Mar 14
9:30am, 12:00pm & 2:30pm
10:30am, 1:00pm
Mar 15-Aug 20 & Labor Day Weekend
9:30am, 12:00pm, 2:30pm & 4:00pm
10:30am, 1:00pm & 3:30pm**
Aug 21 - Nov 30
9:30am, 12:00pm & 2:30pm
10:30am, 1:00pm
Dec 1 - Dec 24
11:00am, 2:30pm
1:00pm
Dec 26 - Dec 31
9:30am, 12:00pm & 2:30pm
10:30am, 1:00pm
Thanksgiving, Dec 25 & Jan 1
Fort Closed
Fort Closed
**This boat trip makes a brief interim stop at Liberty Square before and after fort tour.
Tour boat schedule is subject to change and cancellation at anytime.
Ticket Price:
Adults | $24 |
Seniors/Military | $22 |
Children(4-11) | $16 |
Children under 3 | Free |
Fort Sumter
Charleston SC 29412
(843) 883-3123
Fort Sumter Website
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