The Past Comes Alive at Fort Point's Civil War Living History Weekend

This Saturday and Sunday, the 171-year-old walls of Fort Point will again echo with the sounds of fifes and drums and tramp of boots as this San Francisco landmark celebrates Civil War Living History Weekend. Come watch and interact with dozens of re-enactors and volunteers portraying Union soldiers and civilians from the time of the War Between the States at the only Civil War-era brick fort west of the Mississippi.

Fort Point Living History Weekend takes place Saturday and Sunday, February 3 and 4, 2024 from 10 am to 5 pm. The event includes period demonstrations, music, and activities for all ages. Admission is free! A second Living History Weekend will take place this summer on August 3 and 4, 2024.

We've attended this event at Fort Point a few times, and it's always both fun and educational. It's exciting to march through the sally port into the fort right behind the fife-and-drum band, and entering the courtyard of this historic fort to see only people in period dress was a thrilling experience that was the next best thing to time traveling back to the 1860s. If you're at all interested in the Civil War or California's history, it's an event you and your family have to attend.

If You Go

Fort Point National Historic Site is open Friday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. The fort is located in San Francisco at 999 Marine Drive (at Long Avenue) right under the south end of the Golden Gate Bridge. Admission is free.

To get there, cross the Golden Gate Bridge and pass through the toll plaza in the far right lane. Take the exit immediately after the toll plaza and head up Merchant Road. Turn left at the stop sign onto Lincoln Avenue and follow it down the hill to Marine Drive.

Parking is available along the road and in a small lot at the fort. You can also park near the Warming Hut at Crissy Field and walk over to Fort Point. It can be really cold in this old brick fort, even if it's sunny out, so dress in layered clothing. Restroom facilities and drinking water can be found outside the fort. There's a small book and gift shop located inside the fort.

For more information, visit www.nps.gov/fopo or call (415) 556-1696.