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Vicksburg National Battlefield: A Turning Point in the Civil War

Explore the site of a pivotal Civil War battle, where the fate of the Mississippi River, and the nation, hung in the balance.

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Vicksburg National Battlefield commemorates the pivotal 1863 siege and battle that gave the Union control of the Mississippi River, dividing the Confederacy. The park features preserved trenches, monuments, the USS Cairo gunboat, and a national cemetery, offering a poignant glimpse into a crucial chapter of American history.

A brief summary to Vicksburg National Battlefield

  • I20 Frontage Rd, Vicksburg, Mississippi, 39183, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Start your visit at the Visitor Center to view the park film and explore exhibits for a better understanding of the battlefield.
  • Consider hiring a Licensed Battlefield Guide for an in-depth tour and expert knowledge of the Vicksburg Campaign.
  • Walk or bike the 16-mile tour road to fully experience the battlefield landscape and monuments.
  • Check the park's website for alerts and closures before your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially during summer.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Vicksburg National Battlefield is located off I-20. From I-20, take exit 4B and follow Clay Street (US-80) west for approximately 0.25 miles to the park entrance. Parking is available at the Visitor Center, USS Cairo, and along the tour road. Note that the park does not accept cash; plan to use a credit or debit card for entrance fees. Entrance fees are $20 per vehicle, $15 per motorcycle, or $10 per person. An annual park pass is available for $35.

  • Public Transport

    The closest airport to Vicksburg National Military Park is Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN), approximately 50 miles east of the park. From the airport, you can rent a car and drive to the park via I-20 West. Alternatively, Amtrak provides daily train service to Vicksburg. From the Vicksburg train station, you can take a taxi or ride-sharing service to the battlefield, which is a short drive away. Taxi/ride-share costs from the Vicksburg Amtrak station typically range from $10-$20.

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Discover more about Vicksburg National Battlefield

Vicksburg National Battlefield, located in Vicksburg, Mississippi, preserves the site of the crucial Civil War Battle of Vicksburg, which took place from March 29 to July 4, 1863. The park commemorates the greater Vicksburg Campaign and the 47-day siege that led to the city's surrender. This Union victory, coupled with the fall of Port Hudson, Louisiana, granted the North undisputed control of the Mississippi River, effectively splitting the South. The park spans over 1,700 acres and features a 16-mile tour road that provides access to various historical sites and monuments. Visitors can explore reconstructed forts and trenches, offering a tangible connection to the past. The park is home to over 1,350 monuments and markers, commemorating the soldiers and events of the siege. Key attractions within the park include the restored Union ironclad gunboat USS Cairo and the Vicksburg National Cemetery, the final resting place for over 17,000 Civil War soldiers. The Visitor Center offers exhibits, a park film, and information to enhance the visitor experience. The park's landscape, characterized by rolling hills and steep ravines, bears witness to the courage and sacrifice of soldiers and civilians during the siege. Note that North Union Avenue and Grant Circle are currently closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic for repairs due to severe weather damage in 2020. Additionally, the National Cemetery is closed to vehicles but open to pedestrians, with parking available at the USS Cairo parking lot.

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