Fort Sumter National Park in Charleston, SC
There is plenty of architecture, southern cuisine, and water views to check out in Charleston, South Carolina but no trip would be complete without reliving a major turning point in our country’s history.
Fort Sumter National Monument is the only structure on the man-made island, which was created in the early 1800s as a defense for the city of Charleston. In April of 1861, the Confederate army bombed the still incomplete Fort, signaling the start of the Civil War.
Operated by the National Parks Service and Fort Sumter Tours, access to the island is by tour boats docked at both Liberty Square or Patriot’s Point. I would leave from the Liberty Square Visitor Center so you can spend some time checking out displays which chronicle the history of the fort and check out a small gift shop. Make sure you stamp your National Parks Passport! Note: There are restrooms located at both locations and I would recommend using them before boarding the boat to the island. The Visitor’s Center at Liberty Square is located on the second floor, but there is an elevator.
The 40-minute narrated boat ride to the fort explains many details about the start of the Civil War. Once you’re on the island, you can explore the fort on your own. There are park rangers stationed at various points to give short lectures and to answer any questions. There are also placards that give detailed information about structures and objects. I would plan on spending 45-60 minutes at the fort. When you go, be sure to look out for:
