Fort Monroe National Monument

Fort Monroe National Monument is located in Hampton, Virginia, on a strategic point of land where the James River meets the Chesapeake Bay. The historical background of this site is incredibly rich and significant. Initially completed in 1834, Fort Monroe is the largest stone fort ever built in the United States and was primarily constructed to safeguard the Hampton Roads harbor.

The fort played a crucial role during the Civil War as a Union stronghold, remaining under Union control throughout the entire conflict. It became a haven for escaped slaves seeking freedom, earning the nickname "Freedom's Fortress." The famous Contraband Decision, made by General Benjamin Butler in 1861, gave slaves who reached the fort protection and classified them as contraband property of war, a turning point in the fight for freedom.

Visitors to Fort Monroe National Monument can explore its historic grounds, including the stone fortress, the moat, and the Parade Ground. The Casemate Museum, located within the fort, offers a wealth of exhibits and artifacts that provide insight into the fort's role during the Civil War and its significance in the struggle for freedom. Moreover, visitors can take guided tours to learn more about the site's history and the events that took place there.

Aside from the fort itself, the national monument also boasts beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and take leisurely walks along the beach or through the expansive park-like areas. The nearby beaches are popular spots for swimming, fishing, and picnicking, making the monument a great destination for both history enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts.

In addition to Fort Monroe National Monument, there are several other attractions nearby for visitors to enjoy. Within a short drive, one can visit the Hampton History Museum, where the local history, including Fort Monroe's impact, is further explored. The Virginia Air and Space Center, featuring interactive exhibits on aviation and space exploration, is also located nearby. For those interested in maritime history, the Mariners' Museum and Park in Newport News offers a fascinating collection of ship models, exhibits, and a beautiful park to explore.

Fort Monroe National Monument provides visitors with an opportunity to delve into the complex history of the United States, particularly in relation to the Civil War and the fight for freedom. With its historical significance, natural beauty, and nearby attractions, it offers a well-rounded experience for visitors of all interests.

Fort Monroe National Monument is situated on the southeastern coastline of Virginia, within the city of Hampton. This historical landmark is encompassed by a peninsula, jutting out into the beautiful Chesapeake Bay. Located near the mouth of the James River, Fort Monroe offers breathtaking views of both the expansive bay and the vast ocean. It boasts a strategic position on this prominent inlet, making it a vital location for military purposes throughout history. Surrounded by lush greenery and sandy beaches, this iconic fort stands as a testament to Virginia's rich heritage and provides visitors with a picturesque setting for exploration and reflection.

Address & Contact

30 Ingalls Road
Fort Monroe, VA 23651-1001
Driving Directions
Phone: 757-722-FORT (3678)
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Fort Monroe National Monument would be during the months of April and May. These months have average maximum temperatures of 70°F and 78°F respectively, making it pleasant for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation during this time is 3.1 inches and 3.7 inches respectively, which is not excessively high.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Fort Monroe National Monument are: Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Hands-On Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Biking Road Biking Hiking Living History Reenactments Historic Weapons Demonstration First Person Interpretation Volunteer Vacation Citizen Science

Topics

Learn about these topics at Fort Monroe National Monument: Presidents Animals Birds Night Sky Architecture and Building Archeology Colonization and Settlement Explorers and Expeditions Military US Army Women's History Astronomy Artillery Monuments and Memorials Wars and Conflicts Civil War World War II Medicine Hospital Maritime Maritime - Military US Navy US Marines Colonial/European Contact Conflicts Coastal Defenses Lighthouses

Visitor Centers

Fort Monroe Visitor & Education Center

Start your visit at Fort Monroe Visitor & Education Center. Get oriented, see exhibits, and pick up visitor guides. Find national park passport cancellation stamps. Kids can ask for Junior Ranger Activity Books, and dog owners for BARK Ranger programs. The building has public restrooms and a water filling station. Admission is free. Park in the rear.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Fort Monroe Visitor & Education Center.

Campsites within or near Fort Monroe National Monument

The Colonies RV Travel Park & Country Store

The Colonies RV & Travel Park is at historic and scenic Fort Monroe National Monument. The Colonies offers RV and tent camping sites. The country store sells gifts, beach necessities, and RV supplies. The campground has picnic tables and pavilion rentals. Colonies rents pits and charcoal grills for use in the campground. The clubhouse has television and a full kitchen. The bath house has restrooms and showers. There is a 24-hour laundry.
Fees (US$): NULL
Total Campsites: 35
Toilets: Flush Toilets - year round
Showers: Hot - Year Round
Potable Water: Yes - year round

Hotels within or near Fort Monroe National Monument

Econo Lodge Naval Station Norfolk

With a stay at Econo Lodge Naval Station Norfolk in Norfolk (Fleet), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Naval Station Norfolk Pass & ID Office and Naval Station Norfolk Tour & Information Center. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 8051 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, Virginia 23505
Web: Link

Hampton Inn Norfolk Naval Base

With a stay at Hampton Inn Norfolk Naval Base in Norfolk (Fleet), you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Naval Station Norfolk Pass & ID Office and Naval Station Norfolk Tour & Information Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 8501 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk, Virginia 23505
Web: Link

Super 8 by Wyndham Newport News/Jefferson Ave.

When you stay at Super 8 by Wyndham Newport News/Jefferson Ave. in Newport News, you'll be near the airport, within a 15-minute walk of Virginia War Museum and Huntington Beach. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, multilingual staff, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 6105 Jefferson Ave, Newport News, Virginia 23605
Web: Link

Studio 6 Hampton, VA - Langley AFB Area

Located in Hampton (Coliseum Central), Studio 6 Hampton, VA - Langley AFB Area is within a 5-minute drive of Boo Williams Sportplex and Peninsula Town Center. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, and a safe deposit box at the front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1616 Hardy Cash Drive, Hampton, Virginia 23666
Web: Link

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Hampton, VA

A stay at Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Hampton, VA places you in the heart of Hampton, within a 5-minute drive of Boo Williams Sportplex and Peninsula Town Center. Featured amenities include a business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1551 Hardy Cash Dr, Hampton, Virginia 23666
Web: Link

Hampton Inn Hampton-Newport News

A stay at Hampton Inn Hampton-Newport News places you in the heart of Hampton, within a 5-minute drive of Boo Williams Sportplex and Sentara CarePlex Hospital. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-in. Planning an event in Hampton? This hotel has facilities measuring 1150 square feet (107 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 3101 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, Virginia 23666
Web: Link

Motel 6 Norfolk, VA - Oceanview

With a stay at Motel 6 Norfolk, VA - Oceanview in Norfolk (Willoughby Spit), you'll be a 3-minute walk from Sarah Constant Shrine Beach and 13 minutes by foot from Ocean View Beach. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, and an elevator. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 9601 4th View Street, Norfolk, Virginia 23503
Web: Link

Express Inn Newport News

A stay at Express Inn Newport News places you in the heart of Newport News, within a 5-minute drive of Virginia War Museum and Huntington Beach. The front desk is staffed during limited hours.
Address: 6129 Jefferson Avenue, Newport News, Virginia 23605
Web: Link

Huntington House

Located in Newport News, Huntington House is within a 5-minute drive of Newport News City Hall and Virginia War Museum. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 5200 Huntington Avenue, Hampton, Virginia 23607
Web: Link

HomeTowne Studios by Red Roof Newport News

When you stay at HomeTowne Studios by Red Roof Newport News in Newport News, you'll be near the airport, within a 5-minute drive of Virginia War Museum and Huntington Beach. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, laundry facilities, and an elevator. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 6069 Jefferson Ave, Newport News, Virginia 23605
Web: Link