Fort Gaines

Dauphin Island, AL

Historical
4 (5 reviews)

Where are we going?

Address: 51 Bienville Blvd, Dauphin Island, AL 36528, USA How do we get there? Number: 251 861 6992
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About this activity

Fort Gaines at Dauphin Islandis linked to the mainland by bridge, so it's really easy to access - and a must visit on any trip to Dauphin Island as it's history is so significant to the region.

What will surprise you at Fort Gaines, is how well-preserved it is, so you really get a true feeling of what the fort in it's heyday would have been like.

For over 150 years, the ramparts of Fort Gaines guarded the entrance to Mobile Bay. Today, it's a popular historic site to visit on the eastern tip of Dauphin Island, offering incredible panoramic views of the bay, as well as the Gulf of Mexico!

We know you love history, so here's some more! Fort Gaines is one of the key sites in the infmous Battle of Mobile Bay. Have you heard the order "Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!"? Well, that was shouted by Admiral Farragut during that battle!

As you make your way around the fort, you can see original cannons, as well as a blacksmith shop, even a museum and some really interesting tunnels to explore.

Fort Gaines is one of the key sites in the famous Battle of Mobile Bay where Admiral Farragut shouted his now-famous order, “Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!” The fort has original cannons, a blacksmith shop, kitchens, a museum, gift shop, and tunnels. 

There is plenty of history to not only learn about, but see with your own eyes! It's also great for kids to use those imaginations and really imagine what life would have been like all those years ago. What would the Fort have sounded like? Looked like with all those soldiers? 

So kids, get ready to have a very historical family day out in Dauphin Island, which also happens to be an incredibly beautiful part of Alabama, complete with white sandy beaches and lots of sun!

Ahead to Fort Gaines we go!

Activity location

How much does it cost?

Hilton

Adults

$9

Hilton

Children

$5 (Ages 5 to 12)

Hilton

Free Under

4 years

Hilton

Last Updates

2023

Fort Gaines FAQ’s

There are so many great picnic areas on the island, bring your own picnic and enjoy it before or after your Fort experience!

Don't miss a stop at the gift shop on your way out!

Group tours are welcome! If you want to schedule a group tour, just contact Melinda Oalmann at 251-861-6992. Book at least two weeks in advanced notice for booking and then tours can be done by their own soldier in period uniform which will bring history to life including cannon firing demonstration and blacksmithing!

Make sure you take plenty of water

Give them a call to check the accessibility - keep in mind it is a historic attraction

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