Fort Monroe National Monument
National Monument ยท Virginia
NPS Photo
Moated, six-sided, historical bastion fort in Hampton, Virginia
Fort Monroe is a former military installation in Hampton, Virginia, at Old Point Comfort, the southern tip of the Virginia Peninsula, United States. It is currently managed by partnership between the Fort Monroe Authority for the Commonwealth of Virginia, the National Park Service, and the city of Hampton as the Fort Monroe National Monument. Along with Fort Wool, Fort Monroe originally guarded the navigation channel between the Chesapeake Bay and Hampton Roadsโthe natural roadstead at the confluence of the Elizabeth, the Nansemond and the James rivers.
About Fort Monroe National Monument
Fort Monroe's story spans from prehistory to the 2000s. Kecoughtan Indians occupied Old Point Comfort before the arrival of English colonists. The first enslaved Africans arrived in 1619. Those escaping slavery sought their freedom at the fort during the Civil War. The fort remained bastion of national defense until 2011, when it became a national park.
Park Photos
Activities
Operating Hours
Fort Monroe
Fort Monroe National Monument is open year-round for outdoor activities like walking and exploring the historic grounds. Residents occupy many of the buildings. Respect their privacy by not peering into windows or opening gates.
| mon | tue | wed | thu | fri | sat | sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:00AM - 11:59PM | 5:00AM - 11:59PM | 5:00AM - 11:59PM | 5:00AM - 11:59PM | 5:00AM - 11:59PM | 5:00AM - 11:59PM | 5:00AM - 11:59PM |
Beaches
The beaches at Fort Monroe are open to the public all year from sunrise to sunset. Only the first two coves at Outlook Beach have Life guards. Please use caution when entering the water. September 16 - May 14: Dogs allowed on the beach with 6 foot leash May 15 - September 15: Dogs not allowed on the beach
| mon | tue | wed | thu | fri | sat | sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset | Sunrise to Sunset |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter Fort Monroe National Monument?
Fort Monroe National Monument is free to enter.
What are the best activities at Fort Monroe National Monument?
Popular activities at Fort Monroe National Monument include: Biking, Road Biking, Guided Tours, Self-Guided Tours - Walking, Hands-On, Citizen Science, Volunteer Vacation, Hiking.
What is the weather like at Fort Monroe National Monument?
Spring: Temperatures range from 40 F to 70 F with rain being common. Summer: Temperatures range from 75 F to 100 F with rain and sun equally common. On very sunny days, be prepared with plenty of water. Fall: Temperatures usually range from 40 F to 65 F. Hurricanes are more likely to threaten the are at this time of year. If planning a visit during this time, please be mindful of the storm activity. Winter: Temperatures range from 40 F to 50 F on average with snow being uncommon.
How do I get to Fort Monroe National Monument?
Take exit 268 from Interstate 64 (I-64) in Hampton, Virginia toward Fort Monroe. Turn left from the exit ramp onto South Mallory Street. Turn right at the second light onto East Mellen Street. Cross the bridge and turn left at the light onto Ingalls Road. The Fort Monroe Visitor & Education Center is on the left after about two-thirds of a mile. Park on Ingalls Road or in the lot behind the building.
Entrance Fees
Free Admission
Weather
Spring: Temperatures range from 40 F to 70 F with rain being common. Summer: Temperatures range from 75 F to 100 F with rain and sun equally common. On very sunny days, be prepared with plenty of water. Fall: Temperatures usually range from 40 F to 65 F. Hurricanes are more likely to threaten the are at this time of year. If planning a visit during this time, please be mindful of the storm activity. Winter: Temperatures range from 40 F to 50 F on average with snow being uncommon.
Directions
Take exit 268 from Interstate 64 (I-64) in Hampton, Virginia toward Fort Monroe. Turn left from the exit ramp onto South Mallory Street. Turn right at the second light onto East Mellen Street. Cross the bridge and turn left at the light onto Ingalls Road. The Fort Monroe Visitor & Education Center is on the left after about two-thirds of a mile. Park on Ingalls Road or in the lot behind the building.
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Official Resources
NPS Official WebsiteMore Parks in Virginia
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