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From Primedia Publications
The Fighting Over Fort Sumter
Trip Planner


By Car
From up North—New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore and most major East Coast communities—Interstate 95 South through Florence, South Carolina and across Lake Marion will take you to Interstate 26, just north of Charleston. Take 26 into the city. From Savannah, Georgia and points south, take Interstate 95 North to Route 17 near Seabrook, South Carolina. Take 17 into the city.

Airports
Charleston's airport sits in North Charleston, north-northwest of the city. It's served by American, Continental, Delta, United and U.S. Air. Driving from the terminal, take Aviation Avenue east to Interstate 26 South. Take 26 into the city.

Lodging
Several suitable hotels are located directly in Charleston's downtown and historic district. Most famous and historic is the Mills House Hotel at 115 Meeting Street, (843) 577-2400, in business at the time of the Fort Sumter crisis. The Vendue Inn at 19 Vendue Range (800) 845-7900, and the Planters Inn at 112 North Market Street, (843) 722-2345, are within walking distance of several historic sites. For those preferring an upscale, sophisticated chain hotel, the Omni Hotel at Charleston Place, 130 Market Street, (843) 722-4900, is conveniently located. The Greater Charleston Hotel & Motel Association , (803) 853-8000, can provide you with the names of many others.

Touring
Boat tours and water transportation to Fort Sumter can be arranged at the Patriots Point Docks, across the Cooper River Bridge from old Charleston. Call (843) 883-3123 for current schedules. Carriage tours of the Historic District are available through the Old South Carriage Company, (843) 723-9712. The city's Visitor Reception Center at 375 Meeting Street can make the names of many tour operators available.

Camping
Campsites are available at the James Island County Park, south of the city, west off Route 171 and Riverland Drive. Shuttles are available into the historic district. A KOA Kampground is located 15 miles west of the city at the juncture of Interstates 26 and 78.