Explore the Timeless Beauty of Fort Independence and Castle Island State Park
Welcome to Fort Independence and Castle Island State Park, a stunning 22-acre destination at the entrance to Boston’s Inner Harbor. Here, a rich history of courage and valor, breathtaking views, and outdoor adventures come together to create an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re passionate about history, enjoy nature, seek a peaceful retreat, want to have a picnic on the lawn, or grab a hot dog at Sully’s, this is the ideal place for you.
Castle Island has served as a strategic military site since 1634, located at the entrance of Boston’s inner harbor. The main shipping channel runs close to the island’s northern end, while the shoals and flats that now accommodate Logan Airport have narrowed the channel, bringing all maritime traffic within range of historical cannons.
Above is an amazing video from Bastion A on the second tier of the Fort, taken on a Sunday afternoon in August. The video takes a tour from Deer Island, crossing the President Roads and moving South to Blue Hills.
On the way through the video, you can see Boston Harbor Lighthouse, Nix Mate, Long Island, Spectacle Island, Thompson Island, and Blue Hills. In the foreground at the end of the video is a view of the 15-inch Rodman Gun. This spectacular view gives you a very good idea why, in 1631, they selected this site to protect the Neck of Boston.