Historic Fort D, Great Plains Travel Guide

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Explore a well-preserved Civil War fort in Cape Girardeau, MO, and step back in time at this historic landmark.

Fort D, built in 1861, is the only remaining Civil War fort of the four that once protected Cape Girardeau, Missouri. Visitors can explore the well-preserved earthen walls and a WPA-built blockhouse, immersing themselves in the fort's rich history.

A brief summary to Historic Fort D

920 Fort St, Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 63701, US
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Monday 7 am-9 pm
Tuesday 7 am-9 pm
Wednesday 7 am-9 pm
Thursday 7 am-9 pm
Friday 7 am-9 pm
Saturday 7 am-9 pm
Sunday 7 am-9 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit during one of the living history weekends (Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day) for an immersive experience with reenactors.
Wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds are uneven in some areas.
Check the official Fort D website or Facebook page for the latest event schedules and updates.

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Explore Historic Fort D on the Map

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

Getting There

Walking

From the intersection of Missouri Route 74 (also known as William Street) and Sprigg Street in Cape Girardeau, walk south on Sprigg Street for four blocks. Turn left onto Locust Street and walk two blocks east. Fort D will be on your right. This walk is approximately 0.3 miles and should take less than 10 minutes. Sidewalks are available.
Public Transport

The Cape Girardeau County Transit Authority (CGCTA) operates fixed-route buses within the city. Check the CGCTA website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules to identify the closest bus stop to Fort D. From the bus stop, follow the walking directions to the fort. A one-way bus fare is $2.00.
Taxi/Ride-share

Taxi and ride-sharing services are available in Cape Girardeau. A ride from downtown Cape Girardeau to Fort D is approximately 1.5 miles and should cost between $7 and $15, depending on the service and demand.

Discover more about Historic Fort D

Fort D stands as a testament to the strategic importance of Cape Girardeau during the Civil War. Constructed in 1861 under the direction of Lieutenant John Wesley Powell, later famed for his exploration of the Grand Canyon, it was one of four forts built to defend the city from Confederate attacks. Today, Fort D is the only one of these fortifications still intact, offering visitors a tangible connection to the past.The fort's design features earthen walls, a replica gunpowder house built in 1937, and historical signage that recounts its storied past. Originally, the fort was armed with five cannons, capable of firing heavy projectiles over a mile. Although Fort D never saw battle, its presence served as a deterrent to Confederate forces.Visitors can explore the grounds year-round, taking self-guided tours and learning about the lives of the soldiers who once manned the fort. Living history demonstrations are held on select weekends throughout the year, bringing the Civil War era to life. The site is located a few blocks south of the intersection of Route 74 and Sprigg Street.