Your Guide To Fort Sumter in Charleston, South Carolina

Fort Sumter is part of Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park. It is located at the entrance to Charleston Harbor, and is most famous for being the place where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Its history, however, dates back to the post-War of 1812 era as part of a coastal defense program. In 1861, Confederate forces fired upon Fort Sumter. At the time it was a Union-held fort that was significantly under-supplied. After around 34 hours of battle, the fort was surrendered and Major Robert Anderson and his men evacuated. Nobody was killed during the bombardment.

The Visitor Experience

To get there you must take a ferry. The best departure location is Fort Sumter Visitor Center at Liberty Square. This is the official National Park Service visitor center, and is open every day from 9am to 4:30pm, closed during certain holidays. One of my favorite parts of the tour was the ferry ride. You get to see the scenic Charleston Harbor plus get facts about Fort Sumter and the Harbor from National Park Rangers onboard. Once there you will have an hour to explore. To me, this was not enough, especially with other people trying to do the same things. National Park Rangers will be on the island as well to answer any questions you might have. There is a small museum and gift shop at the top of the steps. The grounds of the fort are walkable, but I almost tripped because they are very uneven so watch your step. Once your hour is complete you will get back on the ferry for the half hour trip back to the visitor center.

Ticket Information

Tickets cost $43 for Adults, $39 for Senior/Military, and $26 for Children Ages 4-12. I think this is a fair price for what you get. I did it as a shore excursion through the cruise line so paid a little more, but also got a tour of Charleston as well. They can be purchased through Fort Sumter Tours online or at Fort Sumter, and should be purchased at least one day prior to your tour date. Fort Sumter Tours is an authorized National Park Service concessioner. Make sure to purchase through them and not outside parties. The ferry schedule does shift during the seasons.

Tips

If you are on the first or last tour you can watch the flag presentation and help raise and lower the flag. During the summer make sure to bring water as it can get very hot and humid. There are water filling stations at the visitors center and on the ferry. Also a hat, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes will come in handy.

Last Visit: June 2026

Resources (Links In Comments)

Purchase Tickets Online: https://www.fortsumtertours.com/

NPS Official Site: https://www.nps.gov/fosu/index.htm

NPS Visitors Information:https://www.nps.gov/fosu/planyourvisit/hours.htm