Fort Gaines, Upland South Travel Guide
Explore Fort Gaines on Dauphin Island: Witness history, stunning views, and living demonstrations at this well-preserved Civil War landmark.
Historic Fort Gaines, located on the eastern tip of Dauphin Island, Alabama, has guarded the entrance to Mobile Bay for over 150 years. This well-preserved 19th-century fort played a crucial role in the Battle of Mobile Bay during the Civil War, where Admiral Farragut famously declared, "Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!". Today, visitors can explore original cannons, a blacksmith shop, kitchens, a museum, and tunnel systems, stepping back in time to experience this significant landmark.
A brief summary to Fort Gaines
- 51 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, Alabama, 36528, US
- Click to display
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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
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 living history demonstrations, including cannon firings and blacksmithing, to enhance your visit.
- Bring your camera to capture the panoramic views of Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico from the fort's ramparts.
- Explore the museum to learn about the fort's history, the Battle of Mobile Bay, and Dauphin Island's past.
- Be aware that shoreline erosion threatens the site, making a visit sooner rather than later advisable.
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Getting There
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Driving
From anywhere on Dauphin Island, follow Bienville Boulevard (AL-193) east towards the end of the island. Fort Gaines is located at the very eastern tip of Dauphin Island, approximately 3 miles from the Dauphin Island Elementary School. Parking is available, managed by the town of Dauphin Island, and costs $10.35 from 8 AM to 7 PM between April 1st and September 30th. From October 1st to March 31st, parking costs $5.35 from 8 AM to 5 PM.
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Ferry
From Fort Morgan, take the Mobile Bay Ferry to Dauphin Island. The ferry docks near Fort Gaines at 112 Bienville Blvd. As of July 2025, the cost for a car and driver is $16, with an additional $4.50 per passenger. Walk-on passengers cost $5 per person. The ferry ride is approximately 40-45 minutes.
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