Fort Pulaski National Monument

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Fort Pulaski National Monument showcases one of the most well-preserved coastal fortifications in the United States. Built in the early 19th century to protect Savannah, the fort became famous during the Civil War when Union forces used rifled artillery to breach its walls, signaling a new era in military technology. Visitors can explore the impressive brick fort, walk along scenic trails, and witness historical reenactments. Fort Pulaski offers a glimpse into the evolution of warfare and coastal defense in American history.

Website:	Fort Pulaski National Monument
Map:	Park Map
Visitor Centers:	Fort Pulaski Visitor Center: This visitor center offers exhibits on the fort’s construction, its Civil War history, and the battle that proved the effectiveness of rifled artillery. A short film and informational displays prepare visitors for exploring the well-preserved fortress.
How to get There:	From the West (Savannah): Take U.S. Highway 80 East for approximately 15 miles. Cross the Lazaretto Creek Bridge, and the entrance to the monument will be on the left. The drive from Savannah offers beautiful views of coastal marshlands, and the fort itself sits on Cockspur Island, surrounded by tidal waterways. From the East (Tybee Island): Take U.S. Highway 80 West toward Savannah for about 5 miles. The entrance to Fort Pulaski will be on the right, just past the Cockspur Island turnoff. A short drive through the island’s scenic landscape leads to the visitor center and fort, where visitors can explore the well-preserved Civil War-era defenses.

Fort Pulaski National Monument, located near Savannah, Georgia, is a well-preserved 19th-century masonry fort known for its pivotal role during the Civil War. Built to defend the Port of Savannah, the fort was considered nearly indestructible until Union forces successfully used rifled artillery in 1862, demonstrating a major shift in military technology. The battle led to the Confederate surrender and showcased the vulnerability of traditional brick fortifications. Today, Fort Pulaski stands as a testament to military innovation and resilience, offering visitors a chance to explore its massive walls, scenic surroundings, and historical exhibits. With guided tours, hiking trails, and interpretive programs, the monument provides an immersive experience of Civil War history and coastal defense.

The centerpiece of the park is Fort Pulaski itself, where visitors can walk along the impressive ramparts, view original cannon placements, and witness the dramatic scars left by Union bombardments. The drawbridge and moat add to the fort’s imposing presence, providing insight into its defensive design. Inside, the fort features preserved barracks, historical artifacts, and educational displays detailing the fort’s construction and battle history. Outside the fort, visitors can explore the Lighthouse Overlook Trail, which offers views of the historic Cockspur Island Lighthouse, or take the McQueens Island Trail, a scenic path perfect for hiking and biking along the Savannah River.

Fort Pulaski National Monument remains an essential site for understanding the evolution of military defense and the Civil War’s impact on the South. Its well-preserved structure and engaging exhibits allow visitors to step back in time and witness the technological advancements that changed the nature of warfare. The site also provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, making it a destination that blends history, education, and scenic beauty. Whether exploring the fortress, learning about military strategy, or enjoying the coastal landscape, Fort Pulaski offers a meaningful and enriching experience for all visitors.

Points of Interest:

Bryce Amphitheater: The heart of Bryce Canyon National Park, the Bryce Amphitheater is a breathtaking expanse filled with towering hoodoos, offering stunning views at every turn. Visitors can marvel at the intricate formations from viewpoints such as Sunrise Point and Sunset Point, which provide ideal vantage points for capturing the vibrant colors during sunrise and sunset.

Navajo Loop Trail: One of the park’s most popular hiking trails, the Navajo Loop Trail takes adventurers on a journey through the heart of the hoodoo-filled landscape. Descending into the canyon, hikers are surrounded by towering rock formations, including the famous Wall Street section, before emerging into the open expanse of the amphitheater.

Inspiration Point: True to its name, Inspiration Point offers awe-inspiring vistas of the Bryce Amphitheater and beyond, showcasing the park’s geological wonders in all their glory. Visitors can reach this iconic viewpoint via a short, paved trail, making it accessible to all levels of hikers and providing a perfect spot for photography and contemplation.

Bryce Point: Another must-visit viewpoint, Bryce Point offers panoramic views of the entire amphitheater, providing a different perspective of the hoodoos and rock formations. From here, visitors can witness the play of light and shadow on the landscape, creating a dynamic and ever-changing tableau throughout the day.

Queens Garden Trail: Known for its unique rock formations resembling fantastical figures, Queens Garden Trail offers a leisurely hike through a fairy-tale landscape. As hikers wind their way among the hoodoos, they’ll encounter formations such as Thor’s Hammer and the Queen Victoria rock formation, adding to the enchantment of the experience.