Half Day Driving Tour of Valley Forge National Park

This 3,500-acre park was once the encampment site of the Continental Army during the winter of 1777-1778 and displays a collection of memorials and monuments commemorating the soldiers and generals during a significant turning point of the American Revolutionary War.

This row of historic boathouses housing social and rowing clubs is an iconic Philadelphia image, with the houses at night reflecting in the waters of the Schuylkill River.

A recently revitalized Visitor Center is the perfect introduction to this beautifully preserved national park. Here, a self-guided exhibit and a fascinating documentary will detail what transpired on those hallowed grounds in the winter of 1777-78, how Washington’s men persevered in the face of horrific obstacles and how Washington himself grew into the legendary leader he would be remembered for.

This giant memorial stands to commemorate the arrival of Washington and the Continental Army at Valley Forge.

This active chapel is a Gothic Revival-style memorial dedicated to General George Washington.

Nestled in a picturesque corner of the park stands a handsome stone home that served as the headquarters of George Washington for much of the Valley Forge encampment. You will have a chance to walk around this beautifully restored building, and if open to the public that day, see the gorgeous interior of all three floors.

There are many unsung heroes of Valley Forge, but none had the immense impact that the Baron Frederich von Steuben had. The man that Washington entrusted to reorganize and retrain his weary troops, von Steuben utilized the Grand Parade grounds to transform the Continental soldiers into a lethal fighting force. A statue of the man stands on a bluff overlooking the fields of the old Parade where, as many historians agree, the American army was born.

The Muhlenberg Brigade huts in Valley Forge hold historical significance as they served as winter quarters for General Peter Muhlenberg's brigade during the American Revolutionary War in 1777-1778. These huts, constructed by soldiers under harsh conditions, provided shelter for troops enduring the severe winter at Valley Forge. Today, visitors can explore reconstructed huts and gain insight into the challenges faced by the Continental Army during this pivotal period in American history.

The Artillery Park in Valley Forge played a crucial role during the American Revolutionary War, serving as a key logistical and strategic hub for the Continental Army's artillery units. Located within the historic Valley Forge National Historical Park, it features reconstructed artillery pieces and exhibits showcasing the artillery's importance in the war effort. Visitors can explore the park to learn about the training, maintenance, and deployment of artillery units, gaining a deeper understanding of the military operations conducted at Valley Forge.

The Schuylkill River flows through Valley Forge, adding natural beauty and historical significance to the area. During the American Revolutionary War, the river provided a crucial waterway for transportation and communication for both the Continental Army and the British forces. Today, visitors to Valley Forge National Historical Park can enjoy recreational activities along the river, such as hiking, biking, and fishing, while also reflecting on its role in shaping the history of the United States.