Fort Sumter National Monument

Forts & citadels

Fort Sumter National Monument

Charleston, United States

Fort Sumter National Monument is where the first shots of the Civil War were fired on April 12, 1861. Accessible only by boat, this sea fort offers a compelling glimpse into American history alongside striking views of Charleston Harbor.

Good to know

Tickets
Book ahead
Best months
Mar–May, Sep–Nov
Getting there
Best as a day trip

Unlock insider tips & fun facts

Sign up free to see the tips and facts we have collected for this place

Join free →
Fort Sumter National Monument photo 2
VoyaBear

Free AI travel planner

Add Fort Sumter National Monument to your itinerary

VoyaBear builds a full personalised trip plan for Charleston around your travel personality. Free, instant, and made for you.

Generate my itinerary — free