Fort Ward Park

Museum and Historic Park in Alexandria, Virginia

Written by

Updated 06/03/19

Photo © Fort Ward Museum and Historic Park

Fort Ward Park is the home of the Fort Ward Museum and a 41.4 acre historic park located on the west end of Old Town Alexandria. The land was used as a union fort from 1861-1865 to defend Washington, DC during the Civil War. Walk the grounds and you'll see cannons, underground bombproofs which sheltered 500 men, and reconstructed quarters of the high-ranking soldiers.

Fort Ward Museum, a replica of the building that existed on the grounds during that time, features Civil War exhibits, interpretive programs, tours, lectures and living history activities. Artifacts on display include uniforms, diaries and letters, weapons and military equipment, surgeons’ tools, musical instruments, and photographs. There is a film providing historical information and a gift shop selling books, postcards and other items.

Museum Hours: April-October: Tues.-Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. Noon to 5 p.m.
November-March: Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.; Sun. Noon to 5 p.m. Closed Mondays.

Fort Ward Historic Park includes two shelters, a playground, picnic areas, and a dog exercise area. Special events are held on the grounds including Civil War and Revolutionary War re-enactments and live musical concerts.

Park Hours: Open daily, 9 a.m. to sunset