Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit historic Fort Sumter with the only operator in Charleston providing Admission to Fort Sumer National Monument and Round-Trip Ferry Transportation from Liberty Square or Patriots Point.
Cruise by top Charleston sites from your ferry such as Rainbow Row and Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. For those departing from Patriots Point, experience views of the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier from up-close.
Explore the grounds of Fort Sumter and stand where America’s deadliest war began at Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park. The first shots were fired here, igniting a conflict that saw more than 700,000 casualties. Experience the opening battle of the American Civil War and explore its origins with a National Park Ranger who will greet you upon arrival. Your approximate 1-hour visit to Fort Sumter allows ample time to explore well-preserved fort ruins and browse Museum Store souvenirs.
Then enjoy the beautiful views of the city as you ride the ferry back to Charleston.
Available options
Departing Liberty Square
Liberty Square: This Fort Sumter Tour departs from Liberty Square, 340 Concord St., downtown Charleston<br/>Starting point:<br/>Fort Sumter Visitor Center, 340 Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401, USA
Departing Patriots Point
Patriots Point: This Fort Sumter Tour departs from Patriots Point, 40 Patriots Point Road, Mt. Pleasant<br/>Starting point:<br/>40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, USA
What's included
Access to the Fort Sumter Museum, Bookstore, and Souvenir Shop
Experience the opening battle of the American Civil War with a National Park Ranger
Admission to historic Fort Sumter in Charleston, South Carolina
1-hour Self-Guided Tour to explore Fort Sumter and its well-preserved ruins
Round-Trip Ferry Transportation from Liberty Square or Patriots Point (30-minutes each way)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Visit historic Fort Sumter National Monument located in Charleston, SC with the only operator in the city offering Admission to Fort Sumter plus Round-Trip Ferry Service.
Experience a relaxing 30minute Narrated Harbor Cruise to historic Fort Sumter, where America’s deadliest war began. You will learn about the events which led to the outbreak of America’s most bloody war. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a National Park Service Ranger, who will provide further details about Fort Sumter and its pivotal role in the American Civil War. On the fort you will find a very informative museum (360 Video of Museum) with many historic artifacts and a souvenir shop. After your roughly one hour visit, you will enjoy a scenic cruise back to your departure point.
2
Stop 2
Ferries depart from the Fort Sumter Visitor's Center in downtown Charleston for those who select the Liberty Square departure option during checkout.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Enjoy scenic views of top Charleston sites during your cruise to Fort Sumter, including Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
For those departing from Patriots Point, experience views of the historic USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier from up-close.
5
Fort Moultrie is a series of forts along Sullivan's Island. Enjoy views of the fort as you cruise by or while on Fort Sumter.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
Enjoy scenic views of Charleston such as Battery homes during your cruise to Fort Sumter.
What's not included
Food & Beverages (available for purchase)
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
1,783 reviews
5★
1324
4★
298
3★
96
2★
18
1★
47
Tripadvisor
4.5
1,495 reviews
5★
1035
4★
316
3★
96
2★
20
1★
28
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Boarding begins 15 minutes prior to departure.
ACCEPTED PAYMENT METHODS at Fort Sumter Tours ticket windows, as well as on board each vessel: All major credit and debit cards ONLY beginning December 1st, 2025.
The ferries are equipped with an elevator/lift and handicapped accessible restrooms. The Liberty Square boarding ramp can accommodate electric & manual wheelchairs and scooters except in extreme tide situations. Although the restrooms on Fort Sumter are accessible only by climbing a flight of stairs, the ferry remains at the Fort so that restrooms on the boat are available during your visit.
There is currently no Elevator Service at Fort Sumter – the museum, restrooms, bookstore and top level of Fort Sumter are only accessible by climbing stairs.
Please note the Fort Sumter Tour is a boat excursion dependent on changing weather and tide conditions, Fort Sumter Tours cannot and does not guarantee accessibility. Ramps used to access the ferry can vary based on tides and adverse conditions.
Tours run rain or shine. Only the Captain has the final say as to whether he feels it needs to be canceled due to weather. That decision is made at the time of departure and throughout the duration of the tour.
Meeting point
Mt. Pleasant (must select option at checkout)
Patriots Point, 40 Patriots Point Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464
Important notes
Boarding begins 15 minutes prior to departure time.
Ferry Departure Locations (based on option selected at checkout):
1. Liberty Square (Downtown Charleston)
Liberty Square’s Fort Sumter Visitors Center, 340 Concord St. Charleston, SC 29401
2. Patriots Point (Mt. Pleasant)
Patriots Point, 40 Patriots Point Road, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464
ACCEPTED PAYMENT METHODS at Fort Sumter Tours ticket windows, as well as on board each vessel: All major credit and debit cards ONLY beginning December 1st, 2025.
NOTE: These tickets are valid ONLY for the individual whose name is displayed on the ticket. Names on the ticket must match a valid photo ID in order to be accepted. If you need to make any adjustments to your booking, please contact the online retailer where you purchased your ticket. All changes to a booking must be made at least 24 hours in advanced of the Travel Date.
About Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic coastal city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant food scene. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and picturesque waterfront, Charleston offers a unique blend of history, charm, and Southern hospitality.
Top Attractions
Historic Charleston City Market
One of the nation's oldest public markets, featuring local artisans, food vendors, and unique souvenirs. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and history.
Market
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for goods
Fort Sumter National Monument
The site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Visitors can take a ferry to the fort and learn about its historical significance.
Historical
Half-day
$24 for adults, $15 for children (includes ferry ride and park entrance)
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, nature trails, and a zoo. It's one of the oldest public gardens in America.
Nature
Half-day to full day
$24 for adults, $12 for children
Must-Try Local Dishes
Shrimp and Grits
A classic Lowcountry dish featuring creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a flavorful sauce
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free
She-Crab Soup
A rich, creamy soup made with blue crab meat, crab roe, and a touch of sherry
Appetizer
Contains shellfish
Popular Activities
Surfing at Folly Beach
Kayaking in the Charleston Harbor
Sunbathing and swimming at local beaches
Spa treatments and wellness retreats
Visiting historic sites and museums
Attending local festivals and events
Boating and sailing in the Charleston Harbor
Fishing and crabbing
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals and events.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET) - GMT-5 (EST) or GMT-4 (EDT during daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Charleston is generally a safe city for travelers, but as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas
Getting there
By air
- Charleston International Airport • 12 miles (19 km) from city center
By bus
Charleston Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates a network of buses. The system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Historic District
Mount Pleasant
Day trips
Folly Beach
8 miles (13 km) • Half-day to full day
A popular beach destination known for its laid-back atmosphere, surfing, and seafood restaurants. Folly Beach offers a great escape from the city with its wide sandy shores and ocean views.
Middleton Place
12 miles (19 km) • Half-day
A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, a museum, and a restored rice mill. Middleton Place offers a glimpse into the lives of plantation owners and enslaved people.
Festivals
Spoleto Festival USA • Late May to early June
Charleston Wine + Food Festival • Mid-February
Pro tips
- Visit the Historic District early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the cobblestone streets and architecture in a more relaxed atmosphere
- Take a food tour to sample the best of Charleston's culinary scene and learn about the city's rich food history
- Explore the local markets, such as the Charleston City Market, for unique souvenirs and to support local artisans
- Consider a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Folly Beach or Middleton Place, for a change of pace and to experience the natural beauty of the Lowcountry
- Attend a local festival or event, such as Spoleto Festival USA or the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, for a unique and memorable experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
