5 (3048)
Charleston
Fort Sumter: Ferry & Self-Guided Tour from Charleston
135
Overview
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. This tour lets people explore a very important place in American history. It's a chance to see where the Civil War started.
The ferry cruises by places like Rainbow Row and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. If leaving from Patriots Point, people can see the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier up close. At Fort Sumter, a National Park Ranger will share stories about the fort. Visitors can walk around the well-kept ruins and visit the museum shop. The visit to Fort Sumter is about one hour, giving plenty of time to explore.
This experience includes access to the Fort Sumter Museum and a round-trip ferry ride. It does not include food and drinks, which are available to buy. It is a great way to explore a key part of Charleston's history. With over 2,500 5-star reviews, this tour promises an excellent experience. It's perfect for history buffs and anyone wanting to learn more about the Civil War. 
Highlights
Ferry to History: Enjoy a scenic ferry ride to Fort Sumter, seeing Charleston's sights along the way.
Walk Where History Happened: Explore Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.
Meet a Park Ranger: Learn about the fort from a National Park Ranger.
See the Ruins: Walk among the well-preserved ruins of Fort Sumter.
Visit the Museum: Check out the Fort Sumter Museum, bookstore, and souvenir shop.
Roundtrip Ferry: Enjoy round-trip ferry transportation to and from Fort Sumter from Liberty Square or Patriots Point.
Sentiment Analysis
Most customers really enjoyed the tour, especially the ferry ride and the historical information. A few wished for more time at the fort and less crowding on the ferry.
Visitors loved the views from the ferry.
Many enjoyed learning about the history from the park rangers.
The ferry ride was smooth and relaxing.
People appreciated the chance to walk around Fort Sumter.
Some found the time at Fort Sumter too short.
A few mentioned the ferry can be crowded.
The Journey
Fort Sumter National Monument
Journey to Fort Sumter, the symbolic starting point of the American Civil War. Aboard a narrated harbor cruise, learn about the escalating tensions that ignited the conflict while enjoying scenic views of Charleston's harbor. Upon arrival, National Park Service Rangers will guide you through the fort, where you can explore a museum filled with historic artifacts and gain deeper insight into its pivotal role. Reflect on this defining moment in American history as you experience the echoes of the past within the fort's walls.
Fort Sumter Visitor's Center
Begin your Fort Sumter adventure at the Visitor's Center in downtown Charleston's Liberty Square. The departure point to Fort Sumter offers exhibits to educate and prepare you for your journey back in time.
Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
Marvel at the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, a stunning architectural marvel that graces Charleston's skyline. This modern suspension bridge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the harbor and city, making it a picturesque highlight of your cruise to Fort Sumter. Capture the beauty of this iconic landmark as you sail beneath its towering structure, connecting the past and present of Charleston.
USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier (Patriots Point)
Encounter the majestic USS Yorktown, a celebrated aircraft carrier that served with distinction in World War II and the Vietnam War, docked at Patriots Point. Departing from Patriots Point, you'll have an up-close view of this floating city and a potent symbol of American naval power, as you cruise to Fort Sumter. Absorb the historical significance of this iconic vessel as it stands as a testament to American courage and ingenuity.
Fort Moultrie
Glance upon Fort Moultrie, a sentinel of Sullivan's Island with a history spanning centuries, as you cruise along Charleston's historic harbor. This series of forts has played a crucial role in defending the city from colonial times to World War II. Enjoy glimpses of this iconic landmark from afar during your harbor cruise to Fort Sumter, or appreciate the views from Fort Sumter itself.
Charleston Battery
Enjoy the charm of Charleston's historic waterfront as you cruise past the iconic Battery homes. These elegant mansions, with their distinctive architecture and picturesque settings, offer a glimpse into the city's rich past. Admire the grandeur of these historic residences and their gardens, as you sail along the harbor towards Fort Sumter.
Know Before You Go
This experience includes admission to Fort Sumter, a self-guided tour of the fort for one hour, and round-trip ferry transportation from either Liberty Square or Patriots Point, each way taking approximately 30 minutes. Access is provided to the Fort Sumter Museum, bookstore, and souvenir shop. It does not include food and beverages, which are available for purchase, or gratuities. Be prepared to learn about the opening battle of the American Civil War with a National Park Ranger on site.
Hot Tip
Bring a hat and sunscreen because it can get hot on the ferry and at the fort! Also, arrive early to get a good spot on the ferry for the best views.
5
120
Charleston
Unveiling Charleston's Charm: A Historic Walking Tour
Charleston Gardens & Architecture Tour: Explore Charleston's history through its architecture, from colonial times to the Civil War. Visit iconic sites like Dock Theatre and St. Michael's Church. Discover hidden gems and graveyards with a local guide on cobblestone streets. Entrance to historic sites included.
From
$ 29
Book Now
5
120
Savannah
Savannah's Architectural Secrets: 2-Hour Walking Tour
The 2 Hours Savannah Architectural Tour is a walking adventure that shows off the beauty and history of Savannah. This tour lets guests learn about the architects who helped make Savannah one of the prettiest cities. With a small group of ten or fewer, everyone gets a chance to ask questions and learn a lot about the city's buildings. Guests will walk through the historic district, looking at homes and buildings built from 1817 to 1923. They will hear stories about William Jay, Charles Klusky, and John Norris and visit places like the Harper Fowlkes House and the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. The tour guides tell how these architects shaped Savannah's look. The tour gives a map that guests can take home, so they can keep exploring on their own. Plus, Noble Jones Tours uses special tech so everyone can hear the guide clearly, even from far away. This tour includes a take-home map and listen-to-talk technology. House museums are not included, as this is an outdoor walking tour.
From
$ 50
Book Now
4
0
Savannah
Uncover Savannah's Secrets: A Self-Guided Audio Adventure
Savannah's Historical District Audio Tour invites you to explore the city's rich history and charm. Discover the stories behind iconic landmarks, from the Gordon family home to Forrest Gump's bench. Uncover haunted tales and pivotal battles, all at your own pace, whether on-site or virtually.Perfect for history buffs and casual tourists.
From
$ 12
Book Now
5
0
Charleston
Charleston Ghost Tour: Spooky Smartphone Adventure
Charleston's Haunted Ghost Tour offers a chilling smartphone-guided walking experience through Charleston's most haunted locations. This tour is perfect for ghost enthusiasts of all ages who want to explore the city's spooky side at their own pace. Instead of a tour guide, you use your smart phone, so the experience is all yours. Discover eerie tales at the Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, where restless spirits linger. Hear the tragic story of Nettie Dickenson at her grave and feel the sorrow of the Weeping Woman near the cemetery entrance. Brave the Pirates Courtyard and imagine the ghosts of hung pirates. Visit Poogan's Porch, known for its ghostly pooch, and learn about the spooky past of Haint Blue. Walk by the Old Charleston City Jail (Outside Gate), once home to the infamous Lavinia Fisher, and discover the site where the Woman in Black haunts. This self-guided audio tour brings Charleston's haunted history to life. The tour uses the WalknTours app. Just go to the Old Exchange, open the tour, enter your experience code from Viator, and press play. After the Charleston tour, you can listen from home to remember the spooky stories. The app even has a built-in EMF reader to detect ghosts!
From
$ 10
Book Now