Day 3: Fort Mifflin

Commissioned in 1771; decommissioned in 1954. This is a fort brimming with history, just sitting there, begging to be visited.

After touring Eastern State Penitentiary, my hubby, dad and I headed south to visit Fort Mifflin. This National Historic Landmark is located on the bank of the Delaware River.

First off, let me tell you that I love forts. I love their history. I love their ability to withstand anything thrown at them. They’re majestic yet pragmatic, and built to last. Over the last few years, I’ve planned vacations with my dad in mind–places that are easy to navigate and centered around something that we all enjoy…American history. Forts definitely fall into that category.

Although no fort will ever be as awe-inspiring as Fort Jefferson, as impressive as Fort Point, or as simple, yet surprising as Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, Fort Mifflin definitely puts a smile on my face. It has a unique and fun shape..fort-mifflin

When we arrived, we were the only visitors at the fort. There’s a small fee ($8 for adults) and plenty of parking. Bring lunch, as there is a lovely picnic area located in the park. ft-mifflin-picnic-area

Our first stop was the Soldiers Barracks. We were able to walk through the building. However, a fire in 2014 left the Officer’s Quarters heavily damaged. It was boarded up and unable to be toured.ft-mifflin-soldiers-barracks-and-officers-qtrsft-mifflin-soldiers-barracks-interior

We were also unable to get into the Commandant’s Quarters. It was an impressively-sized building with some cool architectural featuresft-miller-commandants-qtrs

The buildings above ground aren’t what made the trip worthwhile–it was the underground bunkers. I totally geeked out while in them.

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Buried bunker with view of the river.

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Unlike many of the other forts we’ve visited, this fort had multiple entrances/exits.

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My hubby and I strike a pose.

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My dad checking out the back entrance.
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I love these doors.

If you’re into history and visiting Philadelphia, take some time to stop off at this not-so-distant fort.

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Enjoying the Outdoors and Traveling on a Budget