Attractions

Stops at Fort Sumter National Monument, where the Civil War began. Cruise to the island Fort while you enjoy breathtaking views of Charleston and her Harbor. Depart from the Visitor Education Facility at Liberty Square downtown and from Patriots Point in Mt. Pleasant.

The Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm, closed New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. The first decisive patriot victory over the British Navy on June 28, 1776 at a palmetto log fort on the shores of Charleston Harbor galvanized the patriot’s cause for independence. The National Park Service interprets 171 years of American seacoast defenses from 1776 to 1947. The Visitor Center houses exhibits on Fort Moultrie’s history and a 20-minute orientation film. Adults $3; Seniors (62+) $1; Children (16 and under) free; Families $5.

Open daily except New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Hours vary according to the season. Concessionaire ferries depart from Liberty Square in Charleston and from Patriots Point in Mt. Pleasant. America’s most tragic conflict ignited at Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861, when a chain reaction of social, economic and political events exploded into civil war. A powerful symbol to both the South and the North, Fort Sumter remains a memorial to all who fought to hold it. The fort may be visited by private boat or by ferry boat. Correspondences should be sent to park headquarters at 1214 Middle St., Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482.