Plan your visit

Plan Your Visit

Get the logistical details you need for your trip. Learn about driving directions, parking capacity, and the best times to visit.

Fort Moultrie

1214 Middle Street, Sullivan's Island, SC 29482

GPS 32.7599, -79.8561

Open directions

Getting there

Getting to Sullivan's Island is easy by car.

How	Time	Cost	Notes
Car: Drive from downtown Charleston over the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge via US-17 N, take SC-703 E to Sullivan's Island, and follow signs to Middle Street.	20-25 minutes from downtown Charleston	Free parking	There is a large free parking lot with 75 spaces directly at the Visitor Center.

When to go

QuietModerateBusyPeak

The site is open year-round from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The best weather occurs from March through May and September through November. Summer brings high heat, humidity, and gnats.

What to bring

Sunscreen with a high SPF (sunshine can be intense on the unshaded fort grounds)
Insect repellent (for gnats, mosquitoes, and biting flies)
Reusable water bottle (touchless fill stations are available)
Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes (uneven historic surfaces)
Light, breathable clothing (summers are hot and humid)
Sun hat or cap for shade
Camera or smartphone for taking photos
Binoculars for wildlife and bird watching (especially over the harbor)

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The parking lot closes promptly at 5:00 PM.

Ensure your vehicle is moved before the gates lock.

How the day runs

Follow these practical timelines for your visit.

A comprehensive morning visit covering the museum and the historic fort structures.

9:00 AM
Arrive and Park
Park in the free 75-space lot at the Visitor Center.
9:15 AM
Orientation Film
Watch the 22-minute film to understand the fort's timeline.
9:40 AM
Museum Exhibits
View displays on coastal defenses and Sullivan's Island.
10:10 AM
Cross to the Fort
Walk over to the brick fort. View Cannon Row and Osceola's Grave.
10:30 AM
Underground Magazines
Explore the thick-walled brick powder rooms.
11:00 AM
Depart
Finish your visit and drive back to Charleston.

Practical Advice

Always wear sunscreen with a high SPF and bring insect repellent. The fort grounds lack shade, and gnats are common in the summer. Closed-toe walking shoes are essential for the uneven historic surfaces.

Remember that climbing, sitting, or standing on the historic walls and cannons is strictly prohibited. Keep a reusable water bottle handy to use the touchless fill stations.

Easiest way to do it

A passenger boat travels on the water toward a large suspension bridge.

Charleston Harbor Live Narrated History Day or Sunset Boat Cruise

1 h 30 min 4.4 (3,293)

All taxes, fees and handling charges
90-minute Charleston Harbor Sightseeing Cruise from Charleston, South Carolina
Select from Morning, Afternoon, or Sunset Departure Times
Enjoy panoramic views from aboard the unique 80-foot Carolina Belle

From$44per person

Viator$44 GetYourGuideCompare

Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.

Planning questions

How long does it take to tour Fort Moultrie?

It generally takes 1.5 to 2 hours. This allows time for the 22-minute orientation film and a walk through the brick fort.

Is there free parking at Fort Moultrie?

Yes, there is a dedicated free parking lot. It provides 75 standard spaces, 3 accessible spaces, and 2 RV/bus spaces outside the Visitor Center.

Is Fort Moultrie wheelchair accessible?

The Visitor Center is accessible, but the historic fort itself has uneven brick surfaces. It can be difficult to navigate with a wheelchair.