Fort Sumter is the island fort in Charleston Harbor where the opening battle of the Civil War took place in 1861. It is one of Charleston's most visited historic sites, and it sits on its own island, so the only way to reach it is by boat. This guide covers how a Fort Sumter tour works, where the ferry leaves from, how long it takes, what it costs, and a few tips to make the trip easy.
Can You Tour Fort Sumter?
Yes. Fort Sumter is part of the Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park, and it is open to visitors. Because it is on an island in the harbor, you reach it by ferry. Fort Sumter Tours operates the only ferry service authorized by the National Park Service to land at Fort Sumter, so the official ferry is how you get there.
Where Does the Fort Sumter Ferry Leave From?
There are two departure points. The downtown option is Liberty Square at 340 Concord Street, near the South Carolina Aquarium. The other is Patriots Point at 40 Patriots Point Road in Mount Pleasant. You pick your departure point when you book, and both take you to the same fort.
How Long Is the Fort Sumter Tour?
Plan on about two hours and 15 minutes for the whole experience. That includes the ferry ride across the harbor in each direction, plus about an hour at the fort to walk the grounds. It is an easy half-day outing rather than a quick stop, so leave enough time and arrive early to check in for your ferry.
What the Tour Includes
A Fort Sumter tour is part boat ride, part history lesson. The ferry ride across Charleston Harbor has good views of the city and the water. At the fort, you can attend an optional National Park Service ranger program, then explore the grounds, the fortifications, and the museum exhibits on your own. It is a relaxed, self-paced visit once you are on the island.
Tickets and Cost
There is no National Park Service entrance fee to the fort itself, but you do need a ferry ticket to get there, and that is what you pay for. As of 2026, ferry tickets are listed at $43 for adults, $39 for seniors and active military, and $26 for children ages 4 to 11, with children under 4 free. Prices can change, so check the current rates when you book.
Fort Sumter Tours is the only National Park Service authorized ferry provider and the official place to buy tickets. Booking ahead is a good idea if you want to secure a specific departure, since tour times and availability are limited.
A Bit of History
Fort Sumter was the site of the opening battle of the Civil War. On April 12, 1861, Confederate forces opened fire on the Union garrison at Fort Sumter. The first shot was fired from a Confederate mortar battery at Fort Johnson at about 4:30 a.m. Standing on the grounds today, the setting gives visitors a chance to experience that history alongside views of Charleston Harbor and the city skyline.
Tips for Visiting
Consider booking your ferry in advance, and choose the departure point that is easier for you, downtown at Liberty Square or across the harbor at Patriots Point. Arrive early to park and check in, since the ferry leaves on a set schedule and will not wait. Bring water, sun protection, and comfortable shoes, because much of the fort is outdoors. If you have extra time downtown, the Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center at Liberty Square is free to walk through before or after your trip.
Where to Stay for a Charleston Visit
Staying downtown makes it easy to reach the Liberty Square ferry and the rest of the peninsula. The Iris Charleston is a boutique apartment hotel at 84 Line Street, one block off King Street, with apartment-style suites and full kitchens, and a central base for exploring the city. See the Charleston apartment-style suites or the The Iris Charleston hotel guide, and our Charleston restaurant guide for places to eat nearby.
Fort Sumter Tour FAQs
Yes. It is open to visitors as part of the Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park, and you reach it by the official Fort Sumter Tours ferry, since the fort is on an island in Charleston Harbor.
About two hours and 15 minutes in total, which includes the ferry ride each way and roughly an hour at the fort.
From Liberty Square at 340 Concord Street in downtown Charleston, or from Patriots Point at 40 Patriots Point Road in Mount Pleasant.
There is no National Park Service entrance fee to the fort, but you need a ferry ticket to reach the island. As of 2026, adult tickets are listed at $43, with lower prices for seniors, military, and children. Check current rates when booking.
Booking ahead is a good idea if you want a specific departure time, since Fort Sumter Tours is the only authorized ferry and tour times and availability are limited. You can book online or, subject to availability, at the departure point.