A woman in a 19th-century dress stands along an earthwork fortification

Destinations › … › United States › District of Columbia

Civil War Defenses of Washington

warningPark Closure1 warning calendar_monthMar–May, Sep–Octbest time schedule1 dayplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_numberFreeentry

Civil War Defenses of WashingtonYour own route Plan a trip here →

Park Closure Part of Fort Totten Park remains closed for public safety

Out of an abundance of caution, Fort Totten Park will remain closed east of Fort Totten Drive, south of Gallatin Street/Metropolitan Branch Trail and north of Brookland Ave NE/Farragut St. due to the investigation involving two WWI-era munitions found. Details open_in_new

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

The Civil War Defenses of Washington is a network of fortifications built to protect the capital during the American Civil War. Today, it serves as a historical site where visitors can learn about the military strategies and the lives of those who served during this tumultuous period.

Travelers come to explore the remnants of these fortifications, which include earthworks and several preserved forts. The site offers a glimpse into the past, allowing for reflection on the sacrifices made during the war and the impact it had on the nation.