A ferry boat cruises beneath a massive suspension bridge at sunset.

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Fort Sumter National Monument

Visit the exact location where the American Civil War began in 1861.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

Fort Sumter sits in the middle of Charleston Harbor. You can only reach the island by taking the official passenger ferry. The site includes the active island fort and a mainland visitor center.

Ferry tickets and harbor tours cost from $30. Expect the full excursion to take at least two hours.

A green and white ferry boat passes near a historic coastal fort.

Fort Sumter Island

1 hour (plus ferry time)Ferry access only

This historic sea fort is where the opening shots of the American Civil War were fired in 1861. Trips frequently sell out during peak season.

A green and white ferry boat travels across the water towards a bridge.

Liberty Square Visitor Education Center

45 minutesPre-ferry exhibits

This is the primary departure point for the Fort Sumter ferry. The center features excellent exhibits detailing the events leading up to the Civil War.