Fort Belmont - Jackson, Minnesota

Exploring Fort Belmont: A Comprehensive Guide

Main Services

• Plan Your Visit: Detailed information on opening hours, admission, and accessibility.
• Donate: Support Fort Belmont by contributing to its preservation and operation.
• Volunteer: Get involved and help maintain this historical site through various volunteering opportunities.
• Events: Stay updated on upcoming events, such as the annual Pioneer Days Rendezvous and Star Party.
• From The Archives: Delve into Fort Belmont's rich history through archival materials and stories.
• Facilities: Camping facilities with 15, 30, and 50-amp hookups, pet-friendly areas, hiking trails, and a picnic/patio area.
• Gift Shop & Historical Exhibits: Browse through the gift shop for souvenirs and explore the historical exhibits to learn more about the site's past.

Location and Access

Nestled at 217 Belmont St, Jackson, MN 56143, United States, Fort Belmont is situated in the heart of Jackson, Minnesota. Visitors can reach the fort via Highway 4 or Highway 71. Public transportation is limited, so driving is the most convenient option. Once you arrive, there is a wheelchair-accessible car park available for visitors.

Featured Characteristics

• Historical Significance: Fort Belmont was established in 1862 during the American Civil War, serving as a crucial military outpost to protect settlers from Native American attacks. Today, it stands as a testament to Minnesota's rich history.
• Architectural Design: The fort features a unique anastyle design, with walls constructed using limestone blocks quarried nearby. The walls enclose a parade ground, officer's quarters, and a guardhouse, providing visitors with an authentic military fort experience.
• Museum and Exhibits: Fort Belmont houses a museum that showcases the fort's history, the lives of soldiers who served there, and the impact of the fort on the local community. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays.
• Educational Programs: The fort offers educational programs for school groups, focusing on Minnesota history, the Civil War, and military life. These programs help bring history to life for students and provide a unique learning experience.
• Scenic Grounds: The fort's grounds feature beautiful landscapes, including a hiking trail that winds through the surrounding woods. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area while learning about its historical significance.

Practical Information

• Opening Hours: Fort Belmont is typically open from Memorial Day weekend through the end of September. Hours vary, so it's best to check their website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information.
• Admission: Admission is free, though donations are welcome and help support the fort's preservation and operation.
• Accessibility: The fort and its museum are wheelchair-accessible, with accessible parking, entrances, and restrooms. Service animals are also welcome.
• Camping: Camping is available with 15, 30, and 50-amp hookups. Rates vary, so check the website for the most current pricing. Pets are welcome in designated areas.
• Events: Fort Belmont hosts various events throughout the year, including the annual Pioneer Days Rendezvous and Star Party. Check the website for updates on upcoming events.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

With an average rating of 4.6/5 from 104 Google My Business reviews, Fort Belmont receives high praise for its historical significance, well-preserved grounds, and engaging exhibits. Visitors appreciate the fort's role in educating both adults and children about Minnesota's history. Some notable positive aspects include:

• Informative and Engaging Exhibits: Many visitors commend the fort's museum for its well-curated exhibits, which help bring history to life through interactive displays and artifacts.
• Beautiful Grounds and Hiking Trails: The fort's scenic grounds and hiking trails are often praised for providing a peaceful and enjoyable experience for visitors.
• Educational Opportunities: School groups and families alike appreciate the fort's educational programs and exhibits, which cater to various age groups and interests.
• Friendly and Knowledgeable Staff: Reviewers frequently mention the fort's staff and volunteers, who are often praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and helpfulness in answering questions and providing insights into the fort's history.

👍 Reviews of Fort Belmont

DLM-Distribution C.

5/5

We stopped at Fort Belmont, Minnesota, and were absolutely blown away. This is not a roadside attraction—it’s a remarkable historical site and museum that delivers an unforgettable experience. If you appreciate history, Fort Belmont is a must-visit.

After driving by many times over the years, we finally stopped—and realized just how wrong our assumptions had been. What we found was a rich, immersive glimpse into the past, unlike anything we’ve seen before.

It’s also a Harvest Hosts location, right off I-90, making it a perfect place to explore and stay overnight. The hosts are incredibly welcoming, the setting is peaceful, and the visit is both educational and enjoyable. Don’t rush through—take your time. You’ll leave amazed.

Karol S.

5/5

Good place to visit. Very interesting museum. You can learn about the difficult history of native Americans and settlers during the mid 18th hundreds. They have some buildings and tools from that era. House, church, mill, smith shop and reconstruction of the Belmont fort.

David M. /. D.

4/5

The museum has a lot of items that you don't usually see. Clear walking paths to each of the outside exhibits.

Katy G.

5/5

Amazing experience! Went there with my family and was greeted immediately by friendly faces. One of the guys working there took us on a outstanding tour and we were able to see things you normally just don't get to see at places like this. Along with that, they allow you to touch and use many of the different things they have on display which was really cool for the kids. The demonstrations he showed were so unique and this would definitely be a place I'd consider stopping again!

clayton S.

5/5

We stopped by for an overnight visit using harvest host and the couple who take care of this place were amazing. They gave us a tour after hours and were so nice this place was amazing to visit highly recommended

Ronnie Y.

5/5

A very neat example of an old town. Highly recommend stopping to see the sod home was neat.

Madeleine M.

5/5

Wonderful Harvest Hosts! Picturesque and Fascinating History.

We spent a night here in our RV with our little family and it couldn’t have been more wonderful! Ken and his wife were so welcoming and sweet, letting us wander the property after hours and taking us for a tour of the museum in the morning. The landscape was so picturesque! We were surrounded by rolling fields of corn, friendly cows on the south side, wildflowers galore, and charming little old buildings dotting the property. Our little boys had a lot of fun exploring with us, running around in the grass, and playing on the cute old fashioned rocking horses outside.

Thank you to the Cruzes for the lovely stay and showing us around the museum! We will definitely come again when we’re back in Minnesota and tell all of our friends!

Paul W.

4/5

Nice little museum and roadside attraction. Missed the buildings being open because we got there late in the day. We were able to spend the night because they are a Harvest Host location.