Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park

Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park is a significant historical site located in South Carolina. Situated on the coast, these forts played crucial roles during the American Civil War.

Fort Sumter, located on a small island in Charleston Harbor, is perhaps the more well-known of the two forts. It was here that the first shots of the Civil War were fired on April 12, 1861. The Confederate forces bombarded the fort for 34 hours before the Union surrendered. Today, visitors can explore the fort and learn about the events that led to the start of the war. The fort features cannons, an interactive museum, and guided tours that provide in-depth information about its history.

Fort Moultrie, located on Sullivan's Island, is another important fort within the park. It was originally constructed during the Revolutionary War and later modified in the 1800s. Fort Moultrie played a vital role in defending the Charleston Harbor during various conflicts, including the Civil War. Visitors can explore the fort and discover its unique history through interactive exhibits and guided tours.

Apart from the forts, Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park offers visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The park provides stunning views of the Charleston Harbor and the surrounding coastline. Exploring the beaches and taking scenic walks are popular activities for visitors.

In addition to the historical attractions within the park, there are several other noteworthy places to visit nearby. The city of Charleston, known for its charming historic district, is just a short distance away from the forts. Visitors can explore its cobblestone streets, grand antebellum houses, and iconic sites such as Rainbow Row and the Battery. The Old Slave Mart Museum and the Charleston Museum are also worth a visit for those interested in delving deeper into the region's history.

Overall, Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park provides a rich and engaging experience for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Visitors can delve into the impactful events of the Civil War while also enjoying the picturesque surroundings and nearby attractions in the vibrant city of Charleston.

Fort Sumter National Historical Park is located in the coastal region of South Carolina, specifically on an island at the entrance of Charleston Harbor. Situated about 3.5 miles offshore, it is accessible only by boat or ferry, adding an air of exclusivity and adventure to the park. The fort itself is situated on a man-made island, with panoramic views of the surrounding waters, marshes, and the bustling city of Charleston in the distance. In contrast, Fort Moultrie National Historical Park is located on Sullivan's Island, which is a bit closer to the mainland than Fort Sumter. This coastal barrier island is connected by a bridge, making it easily accessible to visitors. With its sandy shores, lush dunes, and salt marshes, Fort Moultrie stands as a stoic figure overseeing both the island's natural beauty and the historical significance of the area. The geographical location of both parks provides visitors with an engaging experience that is rich in history, scenic views, and the captivating charm of the South Carolina coast.

Address & Contact

340 Concord Street
Charleston, SC 29401
Driving Directions
Phone: (843) 883-3123
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park would be from April to October. During this time, the average maximum temperatures range from 73°F to 87°F, and the average minimum temperatures range from 60°F to 77°F. The precipitation levels are generally moderate, ranging from 2.4 inches to 6.3 inches per month. These months offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities, making them ideal for exploring the historical sites and enjoying the surrounding areas.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park are: Astronomy Stargazing Food Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Hands-On Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Boating Fishing Living History Reenactments Historic Weapons Demonstration Boat Tour Dining Citizen Science Saltwater Fishing

Topics

Learn about these topics at Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park: Animals Birds Night Sky Architecture and Building Archeology Native American Heritage Fish Tortoises and Turtles Colonization and Settlement Military US Army African American Heritage Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite Schools and Education Astronomy Scenic Views Wetlands American Revolution Forts Infantry and Militia Artillery Battlefields Monuments and Memorials Wars and Conflicts American Revolutionary War Civil War Marshes Swamps Indigenous and Native Warrior Social Movements Tribal Conflicts World War I Incarceration World War II Engineering Enslavement Medicine Hospital Civil Rights War of 1812 Spanish-American War Maritime Maritime - Military Plantations Piracy and Privateering US Navy US Coast Guard Colonial/European Contact Conflicts Reconstruction Coastal Defenses Lighthouses Immigration Jails and Prisons Abolition Movement Farming and Agriculture

Visitor Centers

Fort Sumter Visitor Center at Liberty Square

The primary departure point for Fort Sumter is the Fort Sumter Visitor Center at Liberty Square, located at 340 Concord Street, in downtown Charleston. Visitors can find parking in the South Carolina Aquarium garage (fees apply) at 24 Calhoun Street, just steps away from the entrance to Liberty Square. Boats also depart from Patriots Point, 40 Patriots Point Boulevard in Mount Pleasant. There is a fee associated with riding the ferry to Fort Sumter but none for entrance into the visitor center.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Fort Sumter Visitor Center at Liberty Square.

Campsites within or near Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park

Shem Creek Inn

With a stay at Shem Creek Inn in Mount Pleasant, you'll be a 3-minute walk from Shem Creek Park and within a 5-minute drive of Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park. Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. Planning an event in Mount Pleasant? This hotel features 910 square feet (85 square meters) of event facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1401 Shrimp Boat Ln, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina 29464-43
Web: Link

Harborside at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina

Located in Mount Pleasant, Harborside at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina is on the waterfront, within a 5-minute walk of Patriots Point and Patriots Point Links. Featured amenities include a business center, limo/town car service, and express check-in. Planning an event in Mount Pleasant? This resort features 10000 square feet (929 square meters) of event facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 20 Patriots Point Rd, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina 29464-43
Web: Link

The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina

With a stay at The Beach Club at Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina in Mount Pleasant, you'll be a 5-minute walk from Patriots Point and 9 minutes by foot from Patriots Point Links. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 28 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina 29483
Web: Link

The Cottages on Charleston Harbor

With a stay at The Cottages on Charleston Harbor in Mount Pleasant, you'll be next to a golf course, just a 5-minute walk from Patriots Point and 8 minutes by foot from Patriots Point Links. Featured amenities include a business center, luggage storage, and a water dispenser. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 16 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina 29464
Web: Link

Old Village 3br "coastal " W/ Porch & Yard 3 Bedroom Villa

With a stay at this vacation home in Mount Pleasant (Old Village), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Mount Pleasant Sports Complex and Shem Creek Park. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 664 Fox Pond Drive, #147562, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina 29464
Web: Link

Post House Inn

Located in Mount Pleasant (Old Village), Post House Inn is within a 5-minute drive of Shem Creek Park and Mount Pleasant Sports Complex. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 101 Pitt St, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina 29464
Web: Link

Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Harbor Mt. Pleasant

With a stay at Embassy Suites by Hilton Charleston Harbor Mt. Pleasant in Mount Pleasant (Old Village), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Shem Creek Park and Mount Pleasant Sports Complex. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 100 Ferry Wharf Road, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina 29464
Web: Link

60shemdr 4 Bedroom Home

When you stay at this vacation home in Mount Pleasant, you'll be next to a golf course, within a 5-minute drive of Shem Creek Park and Mount Pleasant Sports Complex. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 60 Shem Drive, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina 29464
Web: Link

1139bonn Exceptional Vacation In Mount Pleasant 4 Bedroom Home

With a stay at this vacation home in Mount Pleasant (Hickory Shadows), you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Shem Creek Park and Mount Pleasant Sports Complex. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1139 Bonnie Ln, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina 29464
Web: Link

Exceptional Vacation In Mount Pleasant 2 Bedroom Townhouse

Located in Mount Pleasant, this vacation home is a 4-minute drive from Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park and 5 minutes from Mount Pleasant Towne Centre. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1052 Hunters Trce, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina 29464
Web: Link