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Discover CharlestonDiscover Charleston

Historic Forts: A Journey Into the Past

Fort Sumter
If you love history, why not go where the war began? The first engagement of the Civil War took place at Fort Sumter on April 12 and 13, 1861. After 34 hours of fighting, the Union surrendered the fort to the Confederates. From 1863 to 1865, the Confederates withstood a 22-month siege by Union forces. During that time, most of the fort was reduced to brick rubble. Fort Sumter became a national monument in 1948.

The fort, located just 3.3 miles southeast of the City of Charleston, sits on a man-made island of 2.4 acres near the inlet of Charleston Harbor. Visitors arrive via tour boats operated by Fort Sumter Tours.

The Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center at Liberty Square is located in downtown Charleston at the foot of Calhoun Street on the Cooper River. Historic artifacts, museum exhibits and interpretive programs set the stage for your visit to the fort.

SpiritLine Cruises offers you a fun, interesting and educational day on the water and an ideal way to visit Fort Sumter National Park. Depart from Liberty Square in the heart of downtown Charleston, or from the Mt. Pleasant, Patriots Point Maritime Museum. A narrative onboard will recount America's Civil War events at Fort Sumter. You'll be able to visit the exhibits and museum at the fort and relax and enjoy the scenic cruise across Charleston's harbor.


Fort Moultrie
Fort Moultrie's history covers 171 years of seacoast defense, including the first decisive victory in the American Revolution and firing onto Fort Sumter during the first battle of the Civil War. The third Fort Moultrie, built in 1809, stands today. By touring the fort, visitors can see how coastal defenses have evolved. Fort Moultrie is located at 1214 Middle Street on Sullivan's Island.

Check out our guide to tours, attractions and what to do in Charleston.


Saffire is located in the elegant Charleston Marriott Hotel on the Ashley River, Lockwood Boulevard. Enjoy the bold flavors of Saffire’s seasonally inspired menu which reflects a belief in “the cuisine of today,”. Always healthy, always evolving. Eclectic, imaginative and unrestricted by ethnic boundaries.... Superb selection of wine. Free parking. Warm and welcoming. Tel: (843) 723-3000.
Charleston's favorite Irish Pub. Tommy Condon’s Irish Pub and Seafood Restaurant has made its name by becoming one of Charleston's favorite local spots. Try popular Lowcountry specialties such as shrimp and grits and fish and chips. A family-oriented establishment where children are welcome as they are. Serving food and fun into the wee hours of the night. Live Irish music Wednesday through Sunday nights.
Charleston's premier walking tours with exclusive access to some locations. Behind the scenes of the Holy City's graveyards, back alleyways, and dungeon. As seen on Travel Channel's America's Most Haunted Places. Ghost Dungeon, Dark Side Charleston, Ghost Graveyard Walking Tours. Haunted Jail Tour, Charleston Strolls Walk With History and more.
Tours/Attractions Guide

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