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Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fort Gaines.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Fort Gaines: Guardian of Mobile Bay
Explore a well-preserved Civil War fort on Dauphin Island with panoramic views, original cannons, and living history demonstrations.
Historic Fort Gaines, located on the eastern tip of Dauphin Island, Alabama, has guarded the entrance to Mobile Bay for over 150 years. Known for its pivotal role in the Battle of Mobile Bay during the Civil War, this well-preserved 19th-century fort offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its original cannons, blacksmith shop, museum, and stunning panoramic views.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Fort Gaines
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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
Discover more about Fort Gaines
Fort Gaines stands as a testament to the rich history of Dauphin Island and the Gulf Coast. Construction began in 1821 as part of the U.S. Third System plan for coastal defense, but wasn't completed until 1862. The fort played a crucial role in the Battle of Mobile Bay, where Admiral David G. Farragut famously declared, "Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!".Visitors can explore the fort's well-preserved ramparts, offering panoramic views of Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. The site features original cannons, a blacksmith shop, kitchens, a museum with artifacts covering Dauphin Island's history, and tunnel systems. Living history tours, often including cannon and blacksmithing demonstrations, are available. The anchor from Admiral Farragut's flagship, the USS Hartford, is also on display.Despite its historical significance, Fort Gaines faces ongoing threats from shoreline erosion and storm damage, leading to its designation as one of America's Most Endangered Historic Sites.
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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. Limited free parking is available next to the fort. During peak season, paid parking ($10.35 from April 1 to September 30, 8 AM to 7 PM) is available at the East End Beach parking area, a short walk from the fort.
Public Transport
While limited public transportation options exist on Dauphin Island, the Mobile Bay Ferry connects Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island to Fort Morgan on the eastern side of Mobile Bay. The ferry ride takes approximately 40 minutes. From the Fort Morgan ferry landing, Fort Gaines is located at 112 Bienville Blvd. Ferry tickets cost $6 per pedestrian/driver, $7 per motorcycle, $15 for vehicles under 22 feet, and $20 for vehicles over 22 feet. Children under 3 and dogs ride for free.
A brief summary to Fort Gaines
Use Fort Gaines as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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