Background

Fort Morgan State Historic Site: Guardian of Mobile Bay

Explore a historic military fort on Alabama's Gulf Coast, offering a glimpse into the past and stunning views of Mobile Bay.

4.7

Explore Fort Morgan, a historic military site at the tip of the Fort Morgan Peninsula in Gulf Shores, Alabama. This well-preserved fort played a crucial role in multiple wars, including the Civil War, and offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its museum, batteries, and stunning views of Mobile Bay.

A brief summary to Fort Morgan State Historic Site

Local tips

  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the fort, museum, and grounds.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to save time.
  • Bring comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for birdwatching opportunities.
  • Check the website for information on guided tours and special events, such as the Battle of Mobile Bay reenactment.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    Fort Morgan is located approximately 22 miles west of Highway 59 in Gulf Shores. From Gulf Shores, take Highway 180 West. The fort is located at the end of the road. Parking is available near the museum. Parking is free.

  • Mobile Bay Ferry

    For a scenic alternative, take the Mobile Bay Ferry from Dauphin Island. The ferry docks just outside the admission gates of Fort Morgan. Check the Mobile Bay Ferry website for schedules and pricing. As of June 2025, a one-way trip for a standard vehicle is around $18.00, and the journey takes approximately 40 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Fort Morgan State Historic Site

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Fort Morgan State Historic Site

Fort Morgan State Historic Site, located at the western end of Highway 180 in Gulf Shores, Alabama, has stood as the guardian of Mobile Bay since 1834. This 479-acre site offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. The fort played a significant role in American military history, participating in four wars: the War of 1812 (as Fort Bowyer), the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, and World Wars I and II. It is most famous for its role in the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864, where Union Admiral David Farragut proclaimed, "Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!" before securing a Union victory. Constructed between 1819 and 1834, the fort itself is a Third System masonry fort, boasting over 40 million bricks. Visitors can explore the pentagon-shaped fort, climb its steep staircases, and wander through archways and casemates. The site also includes concrete artillery batteries constructed between 1895 and 1904 and historic military buildings dating from 1899 to 1910. The on-site museum details the American military history of Mobile Point from 1814 to 1945, featuring exhibits of weapons, uniforms, letters, photographs, and personal items of soldiers who served at the fort. Self-guided tour brochures are available to help visitors navigate the site. Beyond its historical significance, Fort Morgan is also a haven for nature lovers. It is an important stopover for neotropical migrating birds and has been designated a Globally Important Bird Area by the American Bird Conservancy. Visitors can also enjoy the beaches, picnic areas, and a boat launch. Fort Morgan is open daily, with the grounds accessible from 8 am to 5 pm and the museum from 9 am to 4 pm. Admission is charged, with discounts available for military personnel. The site is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.

Popular Experiences near Fort Morgan State Historic Site

Popular Hotels near Fort Morgan State Historic Site

Select Currency