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Top things to do in Charleston

Fort Sumter Tours

Fort Sumter National Monument is accessible only by boat from Liberty Square in Charleston or Patriot's Point in Mount Pleasant, with a National Park Service ranger programme on the island. Find ferry and guided tour combo tickets and departure point options here.
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Slide 1 of 9, Aerial view of Fort Sumter National Monument in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina.
Aerial view of Fort Sumter National Monument in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina.

Fort Sumter Park Ranger-Led Guided Tour with Round-Trip Ferry

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  • Cruise out to Fort Sumter with a round-trip ferry ride from either Liberty Square or Patriots Point, with about 30 minutes of scenic harbor views each way.

  • Your ticket includes admission to Fort Sumter, so once you arrive, you’re free to explore this pivotal Civil War site at your own pace.

  • Enjoy narrated views of Charleston Harbor during the ride, adding context and stories before you even step onto the island.

  • With transportation, entry, and expert context all bundled into one easy ticket, it’s a hassle-free way to experience one of Charleston’s most historic landmarks.

  • Pick your preferred departure point, Liberty Square downtown or from Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant, when selecting your ticket, so the cruise begins from the side of town that suits you.

More details

  • Cruise out to Fort Sumter with a round-trip ferry ride from either Liberty Square or Patriots Point, with about 30 minutes of scenic harbor views each way.

  • Your ticket includes admission to Fort Sumter, so once you arrive, you’re free to explore this pivotal Civil War site at your own pace.

  • Enjoy narrated views of Charleston Harbor during the ride, adding context and stories before you even step onto the island.

  • With transportation, entry, and expert context all bundled into one easy ticket, it’s a hassle-free way to experience one of Charleston’s most historic landmarks.

  • Pick your preferred departure point, Liberty Square downtown or from Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant, when selecting your ticket, so the cruise begins from the side of town that suits you.

from
$43

Pro tips to help you make a pick

Bring sun protection and water since shade is limited both on the boat’s open decks and at the fort, especially in summer.

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About Fort Sumter

Fort Sumter tours offer a seamless way to explore one of Charleston’s most iconic historic sites. Your ticket typically includes round-trip ferry transport, entry to the fort, and time to explore its exhibits and grounds. With convenient departures and a structured itinerary, it’s an easy and rewarding addition to your Charleston visit.

Did you know?

Fort Sumter sits on an artificial island built atop a sandbar in Charleston Harbor, emphasizing its strategic importance.

Why visit Fort Sumter?

Stand where history began

Visit the exact spot where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired, surrounded by original brickwork and evocative ruins.

Plan your visit

Liberty Square Ferry boarding area

Located on the waterfront side of Liberty Square, right next to the South Carolina Aquarium at 340 Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401. This entrance is ideal for visitors staying in downtown Charleston or arriving by public transit. The boarding area is step-free, but the gangway to the boat can be steep at low tide—wheelchair users can usually board with assistance. Lines form in the plaza before boarding, so early arrival is recommended.

Patriots Point Ferry boarding area

Found along the waterfront near the USS Yorktown within the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum complex at 40 Patriots Point Rd, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464. This entrance is best for those with a car or staying in Mount Pleasant. The area is level from the parking lot to the pier, but some walking over piers is required. Gangway accessibility is similar to Liberty Square—wheelchair users may need assistance, especially at low tide.

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