Fort Macon State Park: A Visitor’s Guide from Morehead City

Local Guides · Downtown Morehead City

About 10 minutes from downtown Morehead City, at the eastern tip of Bogue Banks in Atlantic Beach, Fort Macon State Park combines a beautifully restored 19th-century fort with one of the area’s best beaches. Admission to the fort is free, making it an easy half-day trip.

A little history

The federal government built Fort Macon between 1826 and 1834 to guard Beaufort Inlet. During the Civil War, Union forces bombarded the fort from land and sea in April 1862, and the Confederate garrison surrendered. Today Fort Macon is one of the most visited parks in the North Carolina state park system.

Things to do

• Tour the fort. Explore the restored casemates, parade ground and ramparts, with views over Beaufort Inlet.
• Catch a demonstration. Ranger-led tours, cannon firings and living history programs run mostly from spring through early fall.
• Visit the Coastal Education Center for exhibits on marine life, the fort and local shipwrecks.
• Hit the beach. The park’s swimming beach typically has lifeguards from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with a bathhouse and concession stand.
• Walk the trails. The Elliott Coues Nature Trail winds through maritime forest and dunes.
• Fish and shell along the inlet and jetty.

Tips for your visit

• Go early in summer. Parking at the beach fills on hot weekends.
• Check the schedule. The fort and education center keep their own hours.
• Bring water and sunscreen. The fort’s ramparts are exposed and hot in summer.
• Pair it with lunch downtown. You’re only 10 minutes from Morehead City’s downtown restaurants.

Getting there from downtown

From downtown Morehead City, cross the bridge to Atlantic Beach and follow the road east to the end of the island. It’s about a 10-minute drive.

Plan more: our 48-hour downtown itinerary.

Hours, fees and access can change with the season and weather. Check with each attraction or operator before you go.