Fort Gaines, Cumberland Plateau Travel Guide

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Explore Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island: A historic landmark offering a glimpse into the Civil War and stunning views of Mobile Bay.

Historic Fort Gaines, located on Dauphin Island, Alabama, has guarded the entrance to Mobile Bay for over 150 years. This pre-Civil War fort played a crucial role in the Battle of Mobile Bay and offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its original cannons, blacksmith shop, and tunnel systems.

A brief summary to Fort Gaines

51 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, Alabama, 36528, US
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fort Gaines.

Check the event calendar for special reenactments and demonstrations that bring the fort's history to life.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the fort's grounds, including uneven surfaces and tunnel systems.
Bring sunscreen and a hat, as much of the fort is exposed to direct sunlight.
Consider visiting during the off-season for a less crowded experience.
Call ahead to schedule a group tour for a more personalized and in-depth experience.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Fort Morgan State Historic Site

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Explore Fort Gaines on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Fort Gaines, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From central Dauphin Island, head east on Bienville Boulevard. Fort Gaines is located at the eastern tip of the island. Parking is available near the fort entrance. During peak season (April 1 through Labor Day), parking fees are $10 per day from 8 AM to 7 PM. Off-season (post Labor Day through March 31) parking fees are $5 per day from 8 AM to 5 PM, using the ParkMobile system.
Public Transport

While public transportation directly to Fort Gaines is limited, the Mobile Bay Ferry offers a scenic route from Fort Morgan. From Mobile, drive east to Fort Morgan and take the ferry to Dauphin Island. From the Dauphin Island ferry landing, it's a short drive east on Bienville Boulevard to Fort Gaines. The ferry costs $16 for a car and driver, plus $4.50 for each additional passenger. Adults without cars are $5 each.
Walking

From accommodations or other attractions on the eastern end of Dauphin Island, Fort Gaines is easily accessible by walking along Bienville Boulevard. The fort is located at the very end of the island. There are no costs associated with walking to the fort.

Discover more about Fort Gaines

Fort Gaines, situated on the eastern tip of Dauphin Island, Alabama, is a well-preserved historic fort that has stood guard over Mobile Bay for more than 150 years. Established in 1821 and playing a significant role in the Battle of Mobile Bay during the American Civil War, the fort offers panoramic views of the bay and the Gulf of Mexico.Visitors can explore the fort's original cannons, blacksmith shop, kitchens, museum, and tunnel systems. Guided tours, often conducted by staff in period uniforms, bring history to life with cannon firing demonstrations and blacksmithing. One can almost hear the sounds of cannons firing, echoing the distant past, while looking out over the gulf.Exhibits include the massive anchor from the USS Hartford, Admiral David Farragut's flagship, where he famously commanded, "Damn the torpedoes – full speed ahead!" The museum details the island's history, including its French colonial presence in the 17th century and its time as the capital of the Louisiana Territory.Despite ongoing shoreline erosion, Fort Gaines remains one of the best-preserved Civil War-era masonry forts in the United States. It was listed as one of America's 11 Most Endangered Historic Places by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 2011.