One Of South Carolina's Top Tourist Attractions Offers Unique Glimpses Into American History

As one of the original 13 colonies in the United States, South Carolina has experienced the evolution of the U.S. and many of its trials and tribulations. However, this history might sometimes be an afterthought because of the state's exciting coastal attractions like Myrtle Beach, a popular southeastern beach spot and a budget-friendly golf destination. However, if you're looking for more than relaxation and want to incorporate South Carolina's beautiful Atlantic coast and American history, head further south to Charleston.

A striking bay cuts into the South Carolina coast around Charleston, and the island within the bay is home to the Fort Sumter National Monument. It may look small, but Fort Sumter plays a significant part in the long and storied history of the United States. From a modern tourism perspective, visitors have sung their praises by giving tours of this site high rave reviews on Viator. Not only can you learn about Fort Sumter's importance to American history on Viator's Fort Sumter National Monument Tour, but you get to do so with an expansive, deep blue backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. What could be better? Even the ferry ride to the island gives you beautiful views of the harbor, showing you why Fort Sumter is not something you can skip on your trip to Charleston.

By the 1800s, Charleston was a major city in the southern United States, both in size and politics. Fort Sumter came to the forefront of U.S. history when the first shots of the American Civil War occurred here in April of 1861, just a few months after South Carolina became the first state to secede from the Union. The Confederate Army held onto Fort Sumter until 1865 when Union soldiers were finally victorious after a nearly two-year-long siege — the longest in U.S. history.

Start your trip to this important historical site at the free Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center in Charleston, where you can grab a souvenir and check out exhibits to get to know the fort more closely. You can then hop on the ferry to the island itself from here or at the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum in Mount Pleasant just across the bay. Once on the island, you'll be able to learn from experienced guides and spend an hour walking around the fort. In this hour, be sure to take in the ocean views and picture what life was like here at the brink of war. When it comes to Civil War history, places don't come much more significant than Fort Sumter.