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Whether it’s coastal fortresses that defended our shores or castles that shaped the American West, you need to see these forts. These 13 memorable castles are an opportunity for curious visitors like you to see history up close. Why, you ask? Because they represent direct contact with the architecture that created our country.
1. Fort McHenry – Baltimore, Maryland
Smithsonian Channel – The Defense of Fort McHenry
Begin your journey with “The Star-Spangled Banner”. This star-shaped fort offers a real patriotic experience. Daily flag ceremonies, harbour views, and expert rangers bring the War of 1812 to life. To top it off, did you know that the massive Star-Spangled Banner replica extends in the same spot that inspired our national anthem?
2. Fort Pulaski – Savannah, Georgia
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This great example of military building shows how technology changed warfare. The fort’s broken walls remind us of the first successful attack with a rifled cannon. This changed military engineering forever. Visitors can experience the Civil War through daily cannon demonstrations and well-kept casemates.
3. Fort Point – San Francisco, California
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Beneath the Golden Gate Bridge is this Civil War-era fortress, with stunning views across San Francisco Bay. Its unique design epitomises the best of military engineering. Its location provides great opportunities to photograph the bridge above.
4. Fort Ross – Sonoma County, California
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This well-built Russian-American trading post offers a view of California’s mixed cultural past. Set atop windy cliffs above the redwood trees, it makes for a striking combination of history and natural beauty. It depicts the interaction between Russian settlers, Native Alaskans, and the local Kashia Pomo people.
5. Fort Jefferson – Dry Tortugas, Florida
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This large six-sided fortress showcases 19th-century engineering. It stands in clear Caribbean waters 70 miles west of Key West. You can snorkel around the fort’s walls and observe its special brick design. You’ll also soon find out why this faraway place was called the “Gibraltar of the Gulf Coast.”
6. Fort Delaware – Delaware City, Delaware
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This imposing fortress on Pea Patch Island served as a Civil War prison camp and coastal defense site. Only accessible by ferry, the isolated location adds to its mystique. Costumed interpreters and restored living quarters bring 19th-century military life alive.
7. Fort Vancouver – Vancouver, Washington
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This reconstructed fur-trading post gives a very interesting view. It is proof of how the Pacific Northwest developed early on. Living history programs present skills such as blacksmithing, carpentry, and other crafts of that time. Archaeological displays present the history of Native American, British, and American cultures.
8. Fort Morgan – Gulf Shores, Alabama
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This five-pointed star fort is one of the greatest examples of a coastal defense system. Its involvement in the Civil War Battle of Mobile Bay makes it an important piece of history. Yet, the pristine beaches and nature trails still make it a perfect spot for recreation.
9. Fort Ticonderoga – New York
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This star-shaped fort sits atop Lake Champlain and played a significant role in the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. It’s home to the largest collection of 18th-century artillery in North America, complete with thrilling daily musket demonstrations!
10. Fort Monroe – Hampton, Virginia
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Known as “Freedom’s Fortress” for being a safe haven for escaped slaves during the Civil War, this large stone fort is America’s largest of its kind. Its moat, ramparts, and the Casemate Museum depict military engineering. The fortress is known for its memorable stories about freedom.
11. Fort Snelling – St. Paul, Minnesota
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Located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, this 1820s fort provides a rich view into frontier life. It is symbolic of the history of Native Americans and military development. Living history programs bring the past to life while its great location affords stunning views of the Twin Cities.
12. Fort Sam Houston – San Antonio, Texas
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This active military base gives a glimpse of over 140 years of military history. The historic Quadrangle, with its deer and peacocks, is an oasis of peace amidst the hustle of the fort’s military use. Its medical museum shows how battlefield medicine has changed over time.
13. Fort Sumter – Charleston, South Carolina
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This historic sea fort—where the Civil War began—offers both historic significance and spectacular views of the harbour. Arriving at the fort by boat gives a view similar to what Confederate gunners would have seen in 1861. It creates a powerful connection to American history. From coastal forts to frontier posts, these historic places give us more than just a look at the past. They offer experiences that link us to important events in American history. Every fort has its own story of creativity, bravery, and resolve that helped build our nation. Booking a trip to visit these military symbols of America’s history would be well worth your while.
Sources:
13 Historic US Forts Worth A Visit
10 Historic Forts That Shaped American History
Fort Sumter Battle Facts and Summary
