Georges Island

The graceful granite archways of historic Fort Warren will greet you as you arrive for your visit to Georges Island. This Civil War-era fort is the main attraction of Georges Island and it is sure to bring out your inner history enthusiast. The construction of Fort Warren, built to protect Boston, began in 1833 and took nearly two decades to complete. Nearly obsolete upon completion, the island was used as a training facility for Union soldiers during the Civil War. During your next trip to Georges Island, enjoy a picnic, explore with a ranger-guided tour, or stop by the visitor center to delve into history — and be sure to ask about the legend of the Lady in Black!

Ferry Schedule Accessibility Information

Accessibility Information

While the Boston Harbor Islands Partnership strives to create a public space that is welcoming and accessible to all, most islands do not currently meet ADA accessibility standards. The park is working to rectify this. Please contact us for any further information to help you plan a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

Georges Island features wide paved pathways around the exterior of Fort Warren and throughout island picnic areas. Inside the fort, a mix of paved and stone pathways provide access to much of the structure. The interior of this historic fort includes some narrow passageways, doorway thresholds and steep stone staircases.
Visitor Center, exhibits, and multi-stall restrooms are at ground level with no steps, as are single-stall Clivus (composting toilet) units in island picnic areas.
All piers, docks and gangways are ADA compliant, though gangways may be steep at low tide. Park ferries are generally accessible; contact Boston Harbor Cruises at 617-227-4321 for detailed vessel information.

Coordinates

42°19'11.7"N 70°55'43.1"W
Size

53 ACRES
Location

7 MILES FROM BOSTON
4.6 MILES FROM HINGHAM

Park Amenities

Visitor Center
Restrooms
Drinking Water
Paved Footpaths
Snack Cart with Outdoor Seating
Play Area
Moorings
Event Tent

Recreation & Activities

Picnicking
Walking
Fort Exploration
Short Educational Film
Visitor Center Exhibits
Ranger-Guided Programs
Self-Guided Materials

Know Before You Go

No swimming allowed.
The fort contains many steep drop-offs, most of which are protected with safety rails and fencing, and some dark corridors.
Children should be supervised when visiting the fort.
Remember to carry out all trash.

Fort Warren

Travel back in time and explore the rich military history of the resilient Fort Warren.

Completed just after the start of the American Civil War, Fort Warren now serves as the main attraction of Georges Island. This massive structure, composed of stone and granite, was constructed between 1833-1860 and was initially built as part of a broader network of coastal defense. It once served as a training facility for Union soldiers and functioned as a prison for Confederate officers and government officials during the Civil War. The fort held a number high ranking civilians, including Confederate Vice President Alexander Stephens and Confederate Postmaster General John Reagan.

Fort Warren continued to operate as a staple of harbor defense through World War II and was decommissioned in 1947. Visitors to Georges Island can explore the fort’s bakery, parade ground, and Dark Tunnel.

Resources

Document Title	Description	Download
Pick Your Path: The Lady in Black	Choose your own adventure as you explore Georges Island with the Lady in Black!	Download
Pick Your Path: Escape the Fort	Choose your own adventure as you try to escape Fort Warren!	Download
Georges Island Junior Ranger Booklet	Explore the island, complete activities and earn an official Junior Ranger badge!	Download