It is funny: I went to the Crystal Coast in North Carolina for many summers growing up but we never visited Fort Macon. Only when I returned to vacation with my own family did I finally check it out. And I was glad I did.
Fort Macon State Park is found at the eastern end of the Bogue Banks (otherwise known as the barrier island that makes up the Crystal Coast). The park offers beach accesses to gorgeous beaches that wrap around the end of the island where the ocean meets Bogue Sound. There are also hiking trails to explore. But the crowning glory of the park is the fort itself, complete with a more recently built visitors center.
The summer of 2020 has changed the scoop of offerings and events at the fort, but the park, fort and visitors center are all open. Typically there are daily and weekly events, as well as a summer concert series. Our family has especially enjoyed the weekly cannon firing on Wednesday afternoons. We look forward to these events returning in the future.
For now, the fort offers a safer option for families to explore as much of it is outside and social distancing friendly. The fort was built in 1826 and used most recently during World War II. Its history is as intriguing as wandering through its various rooms and passageways. Just watch your step and your little ones. As a sign describes at the entrance, Fort Macon was built for war, not safety. There are steep drop offs in places, especially if you climb up to the top.
The rooms on the bottom of the fort have been turned into mini museums to describe how each room served when the fort was in use. Some of the rooms are air conditioned, a welcome respite during a visit on a hot summer day. Families will love exploring the interior sections and walkways, as well as climbing the stairs to the top to examine the cannons and view of the inlet. On a clear day, you can see Cape Lookout lighthouse from the top.
The visitors center offers a picnic area, restrooms, a small museum, gift shop and an introductory film for your family to view. As a bonus, a Coast Guard Station is also located at the end of the island next to the fort and you might catch a glimpse of a cutter anchored there. All in all, you could truly spend a day here. Admission is free.
For more information: https://www.ncparks.gov/fort-macon-state-park/home
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