Fort Sumter National Monument

This national monument, the site of major American battles, is located in Charleston Harbor. Ferries to the island depart from Liberty Square and tours of the fort last about two hours. The area is famous for being the location of the first shots of the Civil War. Union forces were occupying the island, but when South Carolina seceded and Union troops refused to leave, the South Carolina infantry opened fire on the Yankees. Today, there is not much left to see on the island, so only Civil War aficionados or those with a knowledgeable guide will get anything out of a visit.