Fort Adams

Fort Adams is a coastal fortification at the entrance of Newport Harbor, with granite masonry enclosing a parade ground of roughly six acres. The main structure rises across two tiers with casemates and gun emplacements facing the bay.

Construction of the present installation began in 1824 under the Third System of defense and replaced an earlier post dating to 1799. Work continued for over three decades, creating one of the largest coastal defenses of the young republic.

The name honors President John Adams, whose legacy connects to early American defense efforts. Today visitors use the open lawn areas for picnics and enjoy views across Narragansett Bay.

Guided tours show the casemates and inner courtyard and last around one hour. Sturdy footwear helps when walking the uneven stone pathways and stairs inside the fortification.

Underground listening tunnels beneath the ramparts allowed soldiers to detect enemy digging attempts. These passages form a network that remains accessible during special tours today.

Location: Rhode Island

Inception: 1798

Website: https://fortadams.org

GPS coordinates: 41.47500,-71.34111

Latest update: December 20, 2025 13:00