Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site

White arched entrance gate reading Fort Ward with open doors, surrounded by trees and greenery on a sunny day. A crest with “1865” is above the arch. Gravel path leads through the gate into the park.

A yellow two-story house with a covered porch and balcony sits among large green trees under a partly cloudy blue sky on a sunny day. There is a small shed nearby and benches in the grassy yard.

Historic cannons are lined up behind a white wooden fence on a grassy embankment under a blue sky with scattered clouds, surrounded by trees and a gravel path.

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Fort Ward is the best preserved of the extensive network of Union forts and batteries known as the Civil War Defenses of Washington. The museum, patterned after a Union headquarters building, houses a fine Civil War collection and exhibits. The Fort’s Northwest Bastion has been completely restored. Museum open Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. noon-5 p.m.; park open daily 9 a.m.-sunset.

Groups, including school tours and seniors groups, may request guided tours of the fort and Museum by advance reservation. School tours usually last 1 ½ hours, and up to 60 students at one time can be accommodated.

Groups may also sign up for the “Meet and Greet” program, a 10-minute introduction/orientation by Museum staff, followed by a self-guided walking tour. Available Tuesday through Sunday for groups of a minimum of 12 persons. Suitable for adults and/or children. Works well for home school groups with a variety of student ages, scouts, family groups, clubs. Must be booked in advance. No charge. Call 703.746.4848 for information on student and group tours.