Fort Fisher State Historic Site in Kure Beach, North Carolina marks the location of the Civil War's largest amphibious battle and represents the most strategically important earthwork fortification in the Confederacy. Constructed in 1861 to keep Wilmington's port open to blockade runners supplying Confederate armies, Fort Fisher's massive defenses fell after a devastating U.S. amphibious assault on January 15, 1865, helping seal the Confederacy's fate. Located at 1610 Fort Fisher Boulevard South, the site features preserved earthworks, a restored palisade fence, impressive seacoast artillery, and a visitor center with exhibits. Admission is free, and visitors can explore trails and overlooks commanding views of the Cape Fear River and Atlantic coast, with guided tours of the earthworks available.
