Georges Island in Boston is the perfect summer day trip from the city. We visited this past Friday and while the weather was cloudy, we had a great time learning about the history of Fort Warren on the island.
We traveled to Georges Island with my parents since it was something we had all talked about doing together this summer. From start to finish, counting our journey to the island this trip took about 4 hours. We made it back to Boston in the early afternoon but you can extend your time on the island if you prefer it.
Getting to Georges Island
Ferries depart from Long Wharf in Boston every weekday during the summer months. The ferry costs $25 per person, round trip – with discounts for Seniors and children available. You can purchase your tickets online in advance here: Ferry Tickets, or at the Harbor Islands information booth in the city.
In the summer, the ferry leaves Long Wharf at 10am, 12pm & 2pm. There is a return ferry to Boston available 2 hours & 15 minutes after each arrival. For more information on the ferry schedule, check out the Harbor Island Ferry website: Ferry Schedule.
The Ferry Ride
The Harbor Island Ferry to Georges Island in Boston takes 45 minutes each way. You get excellent views of the city skyline as you depart & arrive. We also were able to watch countless planes take off and land at Logan Airport. There is a bar on the ferry that serves alcohol for those that are so inclined. The ferry has indoor & outdoor seating. If it’s open, we recommend the top deck since you get 360 views! The ride itself is very smooth and the only time we felt the ferry rock was when a boat would cruise by us causing some waves.
Georges Island Visitors Center
The ferry docks right in front of Georges Island visitors center. Inside are bathrooms and a small exhibit regarding the history of the island & Fort Warren. If you visit the main desk, they can make recommendations and answer any questions you have. They even offer a virtual scavenger hunt for kids so it’s a great trip to do as a family!
Fort Warren History
Fort Warren was used by the US Military from the Civil War until the end of WWII. It is named after Revolutionary War Hero Dr. Joseph Warren, who sent Paul Revere on his famous ride and was later killed at the Battle of Bunker Hill. It famously housed Confederate prisoners during the Civil War and was praised as being one of the most humane military prisons at the time. The fort was decommisioned in 1947 and put up for auction by the Federal Government. It was purchased by the State of Massachusetts and opened up to the public.
Guided Tours
Throughout the island, there are signs with text on it explaining what the different places are within the fort for people to read while they explore. You can also scan the QR code at the visitors center for a free audio guide on your phone that you can listen to at your own pace. The Park Rangers also offer guided tours throughout the day. We were lucky to catch one at 11:15, shortly after we arrived off the ferry. It lasted 45 minutes and we learned some unique tales about the Fort – including a ghost story of how it’s said to be haunted!
Tips for Visiting Georges Island in Boston
We recommend packing a lunch to visit Georges Island. They have plenty of outdoor picnic tables (some covered in a pavilion by the visitors center) and others along the outside of the fort along the water. Typically, they have a small concession stand offering an assortment of pre-made sandwiches but it wasn’t open due to COVID restrictions. They also have water fountains throughout the island so you can refill your water bottle if you bring one. We enjoyed a nice lunch at a picnic table outside, with views of the city of Boston in the distance!
Another tip for visiting Georges Island is to wear comfortable shoes, since you’ll be doing a lot of walking on un-even terrain around & inside the fort.
Finally, if you’re local to Massachusetts – we recommend checking with your library to see if they have any ferry passes or discount codes to plan your trip. Our library offered a buy 1, get one free code for us to use!
Georges Island Review
Visiting Georges Island in Boston is the perfect New England day trip for any family or history lover. It’s a good break from the bustling city and we found it interesting to learn about a piece of US history in our own backyard. The views of the city from the ferry ride make the 45 minute journey enjoyable and easy. All of the park rangers were friendly and knowledgeable.
Cheers, Amanda
