Fort Monroe National Monument

Things To Do Near Fort Monroe National Monument

Fort Monroe National Monument is a unique spot — there are private residences within the historic stone walls. After you check out the interior of the fort, head to the exterior to walk around the moat to get a different perspective. The entire area is rich in history, so make sure to head out to the Old Point Comfort area by the water to get a sense of the evolution of Fort Monroe's structures and purpose.

Hiking Trails

• Moat Walk

  Discover some of the best views of Fort Monroe on the Moat Walk. This trail runs along the western edge of the moat, giving you a clear view of the old stone walls. As you hike, you'll see the Old Point Comfort Lighthouse, the Casemate Museum, and more. The path is paved and flat, so it's accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Start at the southwestern corner of the fort, just across the moat from the Casemate Museum, and walk up to the intersection of Patch Road and Murray Road.

  Location

  32 Ingalls Rd, Fort Monroe, VA 23651

  Length

  0.6-mile round trip

  Intensity

  Easy

• Waterfront Trail

  Walk along the seaside on the Waterfront Trail, which takes you past Old Point Comfort and all the way down to Fort Monroe Beach. The route is flat and paved with a fence along the water side; it's a great place to walk with kids. Leave plenty of time to take the side paths that cross the large, grassy Continental Park.

  Location

  Fenwick Road and McNair Drive, Fort Monroe, VA 23651

  Length

  1.4 miles round trip

  Intensity

  Easy

Sightseeing

• Old Point Comfort Lighthouse

  The historic Old Point Comfort Lighthouse has been showing sailors the way to safety since the 1800s. It was an important player in the War of 1812 and the Civil War; it escaped destruction because it remained under the control of the Union army for the duration of the conflict. The lighthouse isn't open for tours, but you can get a beautiful view of the grounds from the Waterfront Trail, Fenwick Road, and Engineer Lane.

  Location

  69 Fenwick Rd, Fort Monroe, VA 23651

• First Africans in Virginia Marker

  See where the first ship of enslaved Africans landed at the First Africans in Virginia Marker. This landing point was the destination for the White Lion, which carried Africans who were taken from a Spanish ship by English privateers. They traded the 20 enslaved people for food. To commemorate this landing, the National Park Service installed a sign that explains the history and marks the spot.

  Location

  51 Fenwick Rd, Fort Monroe, VA 23651

• Quarters No. 1

  When Fort Monroe had an active military presence, Quarters No. 1 housed the commanding officer. In fact, the home has been on the site since before the fort walls; it was built in 1819. Throughout the years, it welcomed esteemed visitors, including the Marquis de Lafayette, George B. McClellan, Abraham Lincoln, and Ulysses S. Grant.

  Location

  East Gate, Fort Monroe, VA 23651

Museums

• Casemate Museum

  Go inside the walls of Fort Monroe at the Casemate Museum. Here, you'll learn about the history of fortifications along the eastern coast of the United States. Find out where the military guns once stood, and check out the areas that housed prisoners such as Jefferson Davis and Chief Black Hawk. The museum also details the history of the original Native American residents and the first colonists who tried to make a home in the area.

  Location

  20 Bernard Rd, Hampton, VA 23651

• Hampton University Museum

  The Hampton University Museum features art and artifacts that originated with African, Native American, Oceanic, and Asian peoples and cultures. The museum started as the first African American collection in the world. The modern museum is a large and expansive space that includes Henry O. Tanner's "The Banjo Lesson." Admission is free, and members of the public are always welcome.

  Location

  14 Frissell Ave, Hampton, VA 23669

• Hampton History Museum

  Go deeper into the local history at the Hampton History Museum. This city-run spot is home to a wide range of interesting artifacts, including period clothing, military memorabilia, and historical photos. The exhibits are designed to transport you to the past, so it's an engaging spot for kids and adults.

  Location

  120 Old Hampton Ln, Hampton, VA 23669

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• The Twisted Rose

  Allow plenty of time for a visit to The Twisted Rose — this cute antique shop has a fascinating, eclectic collection that can keep you busy for hours. From vintage toys for kids to antique jewelry, there's something new around every corner.

  Location

  15 S Hope St, Hampton, VA 23663

• Virginia Store

  If you're in search of a local souvenir, the Virginia Store is the place to go. Inside, you can find all of the products that Virginia is known for, including food, art, wine, and Christmas ornaments.

  Location

  555 Settlers Landing Rd # L, Hampton, VA 23669

• Robert F Snow and Son Bicycles and Supplies

  Fort Monroe is a great place for biking; pick up the supplies you need at the Robert F Snow and Son Bicycles and Supplies.

  Location

  135 E Mellen St, Hampton, VA 23663

• Firehouse Coffee 1881

  Pick up a coffee to enjoy as you walk around Fort Monroe at Firehouse Coffee 1881. If you're hungry, the cafe also offers a light menu of sandwiches, salads, and bagels.

  Location

  1 Ruckman Rd, Hampton, VA 23651

• The Deadrise

  Located a few minutes walk from Fort Monroe National Monument, The Deadrise is the perfect place for lunch or dinner. Enjoy your seafood meal on the covered deck overlooking the water.

  Location

  100 McNair Dr, Hampton, VA 23651

• Oozlefinch Beers & Blending

  Relax with a cold, locally made craft beer at Oozlefinch Beers & Blending. Grab a seat outdoors, and enjoy the sunshine with a snack from one of the brewery's occasional food truck offerings.

  Location

  81 Patch Rd, Fort Monroe, VA 23651

How To Get To Fort Monroe National Monument

Fort Monroe National Monument sits on a small spit of land near Hampton, Virginia. To get to the fort, take I-64 south from Newport News or north from Norfolk. Get off on Woodland Road, and follow W County Street and East Mellen Street.

Address

41 Bernard Road, Building #17, Fort Monroe, VA 23651-1001

Fee: Entry fee $0

With its rich history, Fort Monroe National Monument is a must-see spot for American history buffs. Whether you're reflecting on the landing site of the first enslaved Africans in Virginia or checking out the fort from the moat, the sea breezes and the sounds of the waves create a peaceful atmosphere. Enjoy the waterfront location to the fullest in an RV; it's a great way to camp nearby and to enjoy Fort Monroe at a relaxed pace.