Fort Gaines, Gulf Coast Travel Guide
Explore a historic Civil War fort on Dauphin Island with original cannons, tunnels, and stunning Gulf views. A must-see landmark!
Explore historic Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island, a well-preserved 19th-century fort that played a crucial role in the Battle of Mobile Bay. Discover original cannons, a blacksmith shop, and fascinating tunnel systems while enjoying panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico.
A brief summary to Fort Gaines
- 51 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, Alabama, 36528, US
- Click to display
- Click to display
- 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
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fort Gaines.
- Check the schedule for guided tours and demonstrations for an immersive historical experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the fort's grounds and tunnel systems.
- Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
- Visit during special event weekends for added historical reenactments and activities.
Do you manage this location?
Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more
Activate your presenceOther nearby places you may find interesting
The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.
Explore Fort Gaines on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Fort Gaines, mapped for you.
Getting There
-
Driving
From anywhere on Dauphin Island, follow Bienville Boulevard east towards the end of the island. Fort Gaines is located at the very end of Bienville Boulevard. Parking is available near the entrance. Parking fees apply during peak season (April 1 through Labor Day) from 8 AM to 7 PM, costing $10 per day. Off-season parking (post-Labor Day through March 31) costs $5 per day. You can pay for parking using the ParkMobile app.
-
Ferry
If coming from Fort Morgan, take the Mobile Bay Ferry to Dauphin Island. The ferry docks near Fort Gaines on Bienville Boulevard. The ferry ride is approximately 40-45 minutes. As of July 2025, the cost for a car and driver is $16, with an additional $4.50 per passenger. Adults without a car are $5 each. Check the ferry schedule in advance as it varies throughout the year.
-
Public Transport
There are no public transportation options available on Dauphin Island other than the Mobile Bay Ferry.
Discover more about Fort Gaines
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
Explore More of Gulf Coast
Looking beyond Fort Gaines? Discover Gulf Coast for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore Gulf Coast
Explore Battery Duportail at Fort Morgan: A historic coastal defense site offering a glimpse into military engineering and Mobile Bay's strategic importance.
Explore Alabama's underwater world at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab's Alabama Aquarium: Discover diverse ecosystems, marine life, and ongoing research in a captivating coastal setting.
