Step Back in Time at Antietam National Battlefield
Explore the historic Antietam National Battlefield, a key site of the Civil War, featuring trails, monuments, and a visitor center for an immersive journey into American history.
Antietam National Battlefield is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone looking to understand the profound impact of the American Civil War. Located in Sharpsburg, Maryland, this historic site was the scene of the bloodiest single-day battle in American history on September 17, 1862. As a designated National Park, it offers a well-preserved landscape that invites exploration and reflection. Visitors can walk along the same fields where soldiers fought bravely, providing a tangible connection to the past. The park features over 8 miles of trails that meander through the battlefield, allowing tourists to absorb the vastness of the area and appreciate its historical significance. The Visitor Center is an excellent starting point for your visit, offering informative exhibits, artifacts, and a short film that vividly recounts the battle and its aftermath. Rangers are available for guided tours, providing deep insights into the events that transpired and the strategies employed by both Union and Confederate forces. The park is also home to several monuments and markers that commemorate the valor of soldiers and the sacrifices made during the conflict. Additionally, the park hosts various events throughout the year, including living history demonstrations and commemorative ceremonies that bring history to life. Whether you're a seasoned historian or a casual visitor, Antietam National Battlefield serves as a poignant reminder of America's past and a space for reflection and learning.
Local tips
- Plan your visit during the autumn months to enjoy stunning fall foliage in the battlefield.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the extensive trails and be prepared for varying weather conditions.
- Consider taking a guided ranger tour for a more in-depth understanding of the battle's history.
A brief summary to Antietam National Battlefield
- 302 E Main St, Sharpsburg, Maryland, 21782, US
- +1301-432-5124
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, take Route 50 West from the Eastern Shore towards the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Cross the bridge and continue on Route 301 North. Merge onto I-70 West towards Hagerstown. After about 30 miles, take exit 32 for MD-65 South towards Sharpsburg. Follow MD-65 South for about 10 miles, and then turn left onto E Main St in Sharpsburg. The Antietam National Battlefield will be on your right at 302 E Main St, Sharpsburg, MD 21782.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation options are limited, but you can use a combination of bus and taxi services. Begin by taking a Greyhound or similar bus from the Eastern Shore to Hagerstown. From the Hagerstown bus station, you can call a local taxi service to take you to Antietam National Battlefield. Make sure to check the bus schedules in advance for availability and timings, as they may vary. The taxi ride from Hagerstown to the battlefield will cost approximately $30 to $50 depending on traffic.
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Rideshare
Using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft is a convenient option. If you are near a town center or popular location on the Eastern Shore, simply open the app and request a ride to Antietam National Battlefield using the address: 302 E Main St, Sharpsburg, MD 21782. The cost will vary based on your starting location, but expect to pay between $50 to $80 for longer distances.
Attractions Nearby to Antietam National Battlefield
- Antietam Battlefield Observation Tower
- Newcomer House
- Antietam National Cemetery
- Antietam National Battlefield Visitor Center
- America's National Parks Store at Antietam National Battlefield
- New York State Monument
- Mumma Farm and Cemetery
- Philadelphia Brigade Monument
- Burnside Bridge
- Antietam Creek Vineyards
- Clara Barton Monument
- C&O Canal Lock 40
- B&O Bridge
- C & O Canal Park
- Crystal Grottoes Caverns
Landmarks nearby to Antietam National Battlefield
- Monument to 5th Maryland Regiment - Antietam
- William Chapline House
- Sharpsburg Historic District
- Indiana State Monument
- Monuments of Scammon's Brigade/Kanawah Division -Antietam - 12th, 23rd, 30th Ohio
- Monument to 4th Pennsylvania Regiment - Antietam
- Mount Airy
- C&O Canal Lock 38
- Washington Monument
- C&O Canal Lock 42
- Cool Hollow House
- C&O canal midpoint marker
- Harper's Ferry Historic District Welcome Sign
- Lee Longsworth House
- Harpers Ferry National Historic District