Other Designations

Are you curious about the fascinating history behind Fort Washington? Join us for an enlightening guided tour that delves into the who, what, where, when, and why of this historic fortification! Discover the strategic significance of Digges Point and uncover the reasons it was selected as the ideal site for building the fort. Whether you are a history buff or just looking to enjoy a scenic walk through the fort, this tour is perfect for all ages. Our knowledgeable guides will provide insights into the fort’s construction, its role in defense, and the stories of those who lived and served here. In the event of incliment weather (dangerous heat, thunderstorms, poor air quality, or freezing cold) this program will be moved inside the visitor center and abridge to 30 minutes. If you’re interested in participating but the scheduled times don’t work for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out! Call the Visitor Center at 771-208-1555 or email us prior to your arrival, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your request for a different tour time.

These walking tours meet inside the Point Park entrance gate and last approximately 45-minutes. They provide an overview of the Battles for Chattanooga, fought from November 23 - 25, 1863. *TOURS ARE SUBJECT TO STAFF AVAILABILITY

These 1-hour programs are unique to each ranger providing the program. Please check at information desk upon arrival to ask about the day's Ranger Choice Program. *TOURS ARE SUBJECT TO STAFF AVAILABILITY

Meet at the large orientation map in the Chickamauga Battlefield Visitor Center lobby. This tour lasts approximately 90-minutes. *TOURS ARE SUBJECT TO STAFF AVAILABILITY

Join a park ranger who will discuss the intense engagements between Federal ironclads and Confederate shore batteries. These actions transformed riverine warfare during the Civil War.

Got two left feet? Don't worry, Fort Washington Victorian Dance Society will show you the ropes.This is a practice session for visitors and volunteers alike, grab a partner an join in on the fun. Participate in period accurate dances to the 1860s, practice figures like the ladies' chain and dances like the Quadrille. Fort Washington Victorian Dance Society is welcoming to all skill levels. Prior experience is not required. Period dress or uniforms is not required but encouraged for long term volunteers. Dress code is sunday best or unobstructive clothing for movement with comfortable shoes.

At Fort Donelson, thousands of Union soldiers fought for the first time. Learn how these soldiers fought, why they fought, and see the equipment and tools they used. In the interest of safety, in the event of inclement weather, programs are subject to cancelation. Information as to program status will be available by contacting the Ranger office at 931-232-0576.

Come Celebrate National Junior Ranger Day with us at Fort Donelson National Battlefield! Join us on Sunday at the Fort Donelson Visitor Center for special hands on Junior Ranger activities. Families are invited to step back in time and explore what life was like for Civil War infantry soldiers and artillerists. • On the hour: Learn how infantry soldiers marched, drilled, and lived in camp. • On the half hour: Discover what it took to fire field artillery. Earn your Junior Ranger badge and become part of America’s story!

The Formerly Incarcerated Speaker Series is a program on Alcatraz Island that lifts up and highlights the voices of people who have spent time inside of jails and prisons. The National Park Service believes in parks as platforms for dialogue, and Alcatraz Island, being one of the only NPS sites that interprets mass incarceration, works directly with people who have been affected in order to give them a platform to showcase their stories. Speaker events are offered on various Saturdays from May-September 2026, from 1 - 2 PM. Facing 40 years to life in prison due to California's three strikes law, Rafaella’s addiction was too strong and shame too deep. After 6 overdoses, she was arrested and sentenced to 8 years 8 months. After completing her AA in Psychology and transferring to UC Berkely, she is now pursuing a double major in Psychology and Sociology and proposing her own research. Rafaella will share her story with the hopes of inspiring others’ to improve their lives. “I firmly believe that all of my hardship was worthwhile if I am able to make a difference in someone else's life.” If you are part of a justice-impacted group and are interested in attending one of the days, please email us about community tickets for these events. If you have any accessibility needs such as ASL translation, please contact goga_accessibility@nps.gov at least 5 days in advance.

Step back in time and watch Union soldiers fire a cannon! Learn about the process of loading and firing a Civil War era cannon with Fort Washington staff and volunteers. A Ranger will explain each step as its happening. Rangers and volunteers will be available after the demonstration to answer questions. Rangers will be available to interpret a section of the Officers' Quarters and barracks after the demonstration. There will be civil war uniforms worn by living historians, interpreting the story of Fort Washington in costume via the third-person. After the demonstration, when it is safe to do so, visitors can come and have a hands on experience with the cannon. --------- This demonstration will involve loud noises, similar to that of a firework. Rangers will give a warning to cover your ears, but this program may not be right for people or dogs that are frightened by loud noises.

Come put in some hard work to beautify Fort Washington Park's landscape by cleaning up the shoreline from 9:30am-11:30am! Meet the park ranger at the lighthouse parking area. Gloves, trash pickers, and bags will be provided. This event also occurs on the second Saturday of every month.

Alcatraz is entirely closed on this day.