Discover the Rich History of Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park
Explore the historical significance of Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie, where the Civil War began and American history comes alive in Charleston.
Immerse yourself in American history at Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park, where you can explore the pivotal sites of the Civil War and enjoy scenic views of Charleston Harbor.
A brief summary to Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park
- 340 Concord St, Charleston, South Carolina, 29401, US
- +1843-577-0242
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Check the ferry schedule in advance if you plan to visit Fort Sumter, as it can fill up quickly.
- Wear comfortable shoes; there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the forts and the surrounding areas.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to spend the day exploring both forts.
- Don't forget your camera; the views of the harbor and cityscape are stunning.
Getting There
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Ferry
To reach Fort Sumter, start your journey at the South Carolina Aquarium located at 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC 29401. From there, walk to the nearby Liberty Square, which is a short 5-minute walk (0.2 miles). At Liberty Square, you can purchase your ferry tickets to Fort Sumter. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes and provides a scenic view of the harbor. Once you arrive at Fort Sumter, you can explore the historical site.
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Public Transit
If you prefer public transit, take the CARTA (Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority) bus. Board the bus at the nearest stop to your location and ride to the Visitor Center at 40 East Bay Street. From the Visitor Center, it's about a 15-minute walk (0.6 miles) to Liberty Square where you can catch the ferry to Fort Sumter. Make sure to check the CARTA website for the latest schedules and routes.
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Bicycle
For those who enjoy biking, you can rent a bike from one of the local bike rental shops in downtown Charleston. Ride towards Liberty Square, which is approximately a 1-mile ride from the downtown area. Once you arrive at Liberty Square, secure your bike and purchase your ferry tickets to Fort Sumter. The ferry ride will take you directly to the fort.
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Walking
If you're up for a walk, you can stroll from downtown Charleston to Liberty Square. The walk is about 0.5 miles and takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Head towards the waterfront at the end of East Bay Street until you reach Liberty Square, where you can board the ferry to Fort Sumter.
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Combination of Transit and Ferry
For a combination of options, take the CARTA bus to the stop closest to Liberty Square, then walk the remaining distance to catch the ferry. This option allows you to experience local transit while still enjoying a scenic ferry ride to Fort Sumter.
Discover more about Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sullivan's Island Historic District
2.7 km
Explore Sullivan's Island Historic District, a charming coastal treasure rich in history and Southern hospitality, perfect for history lovers and casual travelers alike.
Pitt Street Bridge
2.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Pitt Street Bridge in Mount Pleasant, SC, a perfect blend of history and natural beauty, ideal for leisurely walks and stunning views.
Old Village Historic District
3.9 km
Discover the historic charm of Old Village Historic District in Mt. Pleasant, SC, where southern elegance meets vibrant local culture and stunning waterfront views.
E Battery St
5.4 km
Discover the historic allure of E Battery Street, where charming mansions meet stunning harbor views in Charleston, SC.
The Battery
5.4 km
Discover the historic charm of The Battery in Charleston, SC, where stunning antebellum architecture meets breathtaking waterfront views.
Historic Charleston Foundation
5.4 km
Explore Charleston's rich architectural heritage at the Historic Charleston Foundation, where history, culture, and preservation unite.
Confederate Defenders of Charleston
5.4 km
Explore the Confederate Defenders of Charleston, a powerful sculpture honoring the city's Civil War history amidst scenic surroundings.
Robert W. Roper House
5.4 km
Discover the Robert W. Roper House, a stunning historical landmark in Charleston, South Carolina, showcasing exquisite 19th-century architecture and rich local heritage.
William Washington House
5.5 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the William Washington House, a must-see landmark in Charleston's charming South of Broad neighborhood.
E Bay St
5.5 km
Discover the historic charm and vibrant culture of E Bay Street in Charleston, SC, a must-see for tourists seeking Southern elegance and rich history.
Echo Rock
5.5 km
Discover the tranquility of Echo Rock in Charleston, where lush landscapes meet stunning waterfront views in this serene urban park.
Charleston Sole Walking Tours
5.5 km
Explore Charleston's rich history and stunning architecture with Charleston Sole Walking Tours, offering unforgettable guided experiences in this charming Southern city.
Historic Charleston Tours
5.6 km
Discover the vibrant history and captivating stories of Charleston through immersive tours led by knowledgeable local guides.
The Williams Mansion
5.6 km
Explore the grandeur of The Williams Mansion in Charleston, where history and elegance intertwine to tell the story of a bygone era.
Waterfront Park
5.6 km
Discover the tranquility of Waterfront Park in Charleston, SC, where scenic views, lush green spaces, and historic charm come together for an unforgettable experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fort Sumter National Monument
0.0 km
Explore the iconic Fort Sumter National Monument, where history meets breathtaking views in Charleston Harbor.
Stella Maris Roman Catholic Church
1.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich history of Stella Maris Roman Catholic Church on Sullivan's Island, a peaceful retreat for tourists and worshippers alike.
Fort Johnson
2.1 km
Explore Fort Johnson, a historical landmark in Charleston, South Carolina, offering a glimpse into the past with stunning views and rich heritage.
Sullivan's Island Lighthouse
3.0 km
Experience the historic Sullivan's Island Lighthouse, a stunning coastal landmark steeped in maritime history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Station 21 - Public Beach Access, Sullivan's Island
3.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Station 21, a public beach access on Sullivan's Island, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying stunning sunsets.
Mount Pleasant Historic District
3.6 km
Discover the historic beauty and vibrant culture of Mount Pleasant Historic District, a must-visit destination in South Carolina.
Sullivan's Island Beach
3.8 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Sullivan's Island Beach, a must-visit coastal paradise near Charleston, SC.
Sullivan's Island
3.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich history of Sullivan's Island, a coastal paradise in South Carolina perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Ben Sawyer Bikeway
4.2 km
Experience the stunning landscapes of South Carolina along the scenic Ben Sawyer Bikeway, perfect for cycling, walking, and nature exploration.
Shem Creek Park
4.4 km
Explore Shem Creek Park, a serene waterfront haven in Mt. Pleasant, SC, offering scenic views, walking trails, and vibrant local culture.
Patriots Point Links
4.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of golf and history at Patriots Point Links in Mount Pleasant, SC, with stunning views and exceptional amenities.
Rebellion Roads E-Bike Tours, Rentals, & Repair Shop in Charleston, SC
4.8 km
Experience the Lowcountry like never before with electric bike rentals and guided tours at Rebellion Roads in Mount Pleasant, SC.
Morris Island
4.8 km
Discover the unspoiled beauty and rich wildlife of Morris Island, a tranquil escape in South Carolina's coastal paradise.
Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
5.1 km
Discover the legacy of the U.S. Navy at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum in Mount Pleasant, SC - a unique blend of history, education, and stunning waterfront views.
USS Yorktown Ghost Tour
5.1 km
Uncover the eerie secrets of the USS Yorktown on a ghost tour that intertwines history and hauntings in South Carolina.
Essential places to dine
Page's Okra Grill
4.3 km
Discover the flavors of Southern cuisine at Page's Okra Grill – where every meal is a celebration of American tradition and hospitality.
Brasserie La Banque
5.6 km
Experience the charm of French cuisine at Brasserie La Banque in Charleston - where elegance meets culinary artistry.
Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar
5.6 km
Experience fresh seafood with stunning waterfront views at Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar in Charleston - perfect for families and seafood lovers.
The Rooftop at the Vendue
5.6 km
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Revival
5.6 km
Discover Revival in Charleston - where fine dining meets authentic Southern flavors in an elegant setting.
The Establishment
5.7 km
Discover Charleston's culinary treasure at The Establishment: where fresh seafood meets innovative American cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
Bumpa's
5.7 km
Discover Bumpa's: where Southern comfort meets modern gastropub cuisine in Charleston's historic French Quarter.
Slightly North of Broad Restaurant
5.7 km
Discover Slightly North of Broad: A top-tier American restaurant in Charleston offering seasonal Southern cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Poogan's Smokehouse
5.7 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Poogan's Smokehouse in Charleston - where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Magnolias
5.7 km
Experience Southern sophistication at Magnolias – where classic American cuisine meets fine dining in the heart of Charleston.
High Cotton Charleston Restaurant
5.7 km
Experience Southern hospitality and exquisite seafood at High Cotton Charleston, where local flavors meet fine dining elegance.
Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar
5.8 km
Dive into Charleston's vibrant seafood scene at Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar, where fresh flavors and Southern hospitality await you.
Rudy Royale
5.8 km
Discover the essence of Southern cuisine at Rudy Royale in Charleston's historic French Quarter - where tradition meets modern flair.
The Peacock
5.8 km
Discover The Peacock in Charleston's French Quarter – where innovative Southern cuisine meets vibrant ambiance.
Church and Union Charleston
5.9 km
Experience the best of Southern-inspired American cuisine at Church and Union Charleston – where every meal is a celebration.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
A Maker's Post
3.4 km
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Out of Hand
3.8 km
Discover unique women's clothing, beautiful floral arrangements, and thoughtful gifts at Out of Hand in Mt Pleasant, SC.
The OOPS! Co.
4.5 km
Discover unique clothing and gifts at The OOPS! Co. in Mt. Pleasant, the perfect shopping destination for all ages and styles.
Lowcountry Whimsy
4.8 km
Explore unique gifts, metaphysical supplies, and serene meditation services at Lowcountry Whimsy in Mt. Pleasant, SC.
The Ship Store
5.1 km
Discover unique gifts celebrating the Lowcountry's maritime heritage and honoring veterans at The Ship Store in Mt. Pleasant, SC.
Boysterous Couture
5.6 km
Discover Charleston's premier clothing store, Boysterous Couture, where modern elegance meets timeless fashion in a chic shopping experience.
Indigo Home
5.6 km
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Mildred Newberry
5.6 km
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Maris DeHart
5.7 km
Discover unique women's fashion and accessories in the heart of Charleston's historic French Quarter at Maris DeHart.
Over The Moon
5.7 km
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Savannah's Candy Kitchen
5.9 km
Explore the delightful world of handmade sweets at Savannah's Candy Kitchen, a must-visit candy store in Charleston, SC.
julep
5.9 km
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Shirt Off My Back
5.9 km
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N’fes Handcrafted leater & Gift Market
5.9 km
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Kilwins
6.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Vauté
5.6 km
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The Griffon
5.6 km
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The Gin Joint
5.7 km
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Blind Tiger Pub
5.7 km
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The Palmetto Lobby Bar
5.7 km
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Mac's Place
5.8 km
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Pavilion Bar
5.8 km
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The Bar at The Spectator
5.9 km
Experience sophisticated cocktails and intimate ambiance at The Bar at The Spectator in Charleston's historic French Quarter.
Tommy Condon's Irish Pub & Restaurant
5.9 km
Discover the heart of Ireland in Charleston with delicious food, live music, and a pub atmosphere at Tommy Condon's Irish Pub & Restaurant.
Big John's Tavern
5.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine at Big John's Tavern, a beloved spot in Charleston's historic Ansonborough district.
Scotty Doesn't Know Speakeasy
5.9 km
Uncover the charm of Scotty Doesn't Know Speakeasy, a hidden gem in Charleston offering crafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere.
Henry's On The Market
6.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively nightlife at Henry's On The Market, a premier restaurant and bar in Charleston, South Carolina.
Bin 152
6.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of fine wines and gourmet cuisine at Bin 152, a must-visit wine bar and restaurant in Charleston.
Doar Bros.
6.2 km
Experience innovative cocktails and delightful small plates at Doar Bros. in Charleston, a culinary gem blending local flavors with vibrant nightlife.
Little Palm
6.3 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine and craft cocktails at Little Palm, Charleston's charming restaurant and bar.
