Explore Savannah
Fort Pulaski National Monument
Type: Family Friendly, Historic Sites, Military, Parks
10Best Says
History buffs will enjoy visiting this 19th century fort, which was occupied by the Confederate Army during the Civil War. Construction began in 1827, when future Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee was... Read More
History buffs will enjoy visiting this 19th century fort, which was occupied by the Confederate Army during the Civil War. Construction began in 1827, when future Confederate Gen. Robert E. Lee was placed in charge of designing the first series of canals and earthworks on the island. Finished in 1847, it was eventually used as a Union prison, holding more than 500 Confederate prisoners (aka the "immortal 600") during the winter of 1864. Today, visitors can explore the pentagon-shaped fortress along with its galleries and drawbridges crossing the moat and view the shells from 1862 embedded in the walls. Exhibits of the fort's history are on display at the Visitor Center.
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Hours:
Due to COVID-19, please check with the attraction for the most recent updates to their opening hours. Admissions:
- Adult $5; Child (0-15) Free
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Michelle da Silva Richmond
St. Petersburg / Clearwater Local Expert
- Best Attractions & Activities: "If you plan your visit on a Saturday, you can catch one of three daily cannon firings at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. or 3 p.m."
- Recommended as Best Attractions & Activities Because: For history buffs, this fascinating fort offers a peek into Savannah's part in the Civil War.
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Amy Pine
Savannah Local Expert
- Sightseeing, Things to Do with Kids, Family-Friendly Museums, Parks, Historic Sites: "Plan to visit on a Saturday to see one of three daily cannon firings at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. or 3 p.m."
- Best for Sightseeing Because: Civil War-era Fort Pulaski National Monument, located on Cockspur Island at the mouth of the Savannah River, features moats, drawbridges, ramparts and tunnels.
- Best for Things to Do with Kids Because: Kids can learn Civil War history at Fort Pulaski National Monument, an intact 19th-century fort featuring moats, drawbridges, ramparts and mysterious tunnels.
- Best for Family-Friendly Museums Because: Guests at Fort Pulaski's visitors center and museum can learn about the fort's construction and history before touring the impressive structure.
- Best for Parks Because: Fort Pulaski National Monument is more than just a fascinating piece of history. The historic fort's grounds include beautiful walking trails and fantastic waterfront views.
- Best for Historic Sites Because: Fort Pulaski's moats, drawbridges and tunnels will make you feel like you've stepped back in time. The river view is spectacular.
