Manassas Battlefield Park
The Manassas National Battlefield Park in northern Virginia marks the location of the first man-to-man battle of the Civil War.
In July 1861, North and South fought on the fields at Manassas near Bull Run. The fighting was heavy enough to dispel the popular idea that it would be a quick war.
Another battle was fought at Manassas in August 1862, resulting in a Confederate victory.
Today, the park commemorates the many soldiers who fought at Manassas on both sides. Visitors to this National Battlefield can tour the park, explore the museum, and take a self guided trail around the park.
The park stretches across 2,500 acres, providing opportunity for outdoor activity. The park offers a 20-mile self-guided driving tour, as well as hiking and bridle trails.
This sprawling park offers fitness buffs of all types a chance to stroll along rolling hills and on lengthy walking trails. Photographers will find some excellent views as well.
Location
Manassas National Battlefield Park is located in Manassas, Virginia. The address is 651 Sudley Road, Manassas, 20109.
Manassas is located in the northern region of the state. It is a 45-minute drive from Washington, D.C. along I-66 West and Route 234 North.
From Richmond, the park is a 1.5-hour drive along I-95 North and Route 235 North.
From Roanoke, Manassas is a three-hour drive along I-81 North.
For visitors flying into the park, the Dulles International Airport (IAD) is located about 15 minutes away from the park.
Hours and Admission
The park is open daily from dawn to dusk.
The Henry Hill Visitor Center is the main visitor center in the park. This building is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The center is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Admission to the park is $3 per person for adults aged 16 and over. Youth the age of 16 are admitted for free.
Manassas annual passes are available for purchase at the Henry Hill Visitor Center. Passes are $20.
Other important buildings located inside the park are the Brawner Farm Interpretive Center and the Stone House.
The Brawner Farm Interpretive Center features exhibits and audio-visual programs detailing the Second Battle of Manassas. This center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The historic Stone House, a residential building which became a busy hospital after the First Battle of Manassas, is open daily from 10 a.m. to -4 p.m. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house.
Things to Do
Visitors to Manassas National Battlefield Park are encouraged to explore the visitor center and museum to see first hand Civil War uniforms and artifacts.
Every hour, a film titled Manassas: End of Innocence, is shown at the center.
Guided tours are offered for the Matthews Hill Walking Tour and Henry Hill Walking Tour. Four walking tours relevant to the Second Battle of Manassas are also available.
Most walking tours are 30-45 minutes in duration.
Reenactments are shown throughout the year. Check the park’s schedule for more details.