Valley Forge National Historic Park

Valley Forge National Historic Park offers a glimpse into American history amid a picturesque 3,600-acre landscape.

A visit to the Park should begin with a stop at the Welcome Center. Grab a map and check out the exhibits, artifacts, and gift shop. An 18-minute film offers insight into the lives of the soldiers at Valley Forge. Complete with uplifting music complete and canons firing, it's sure to put you in a patriotic mood before exploring the sprawling grounds.

The winding roads and trails of the park can be traversed on foot, by bike, horseback, or by car. Six miles of pet-friendly, multi-use trails connect the park to Philadelphia and to the Appalachian Trail, and are as popular with locals as they are with visitors. A car (or guided trolley tour in the spring and summer) is the best way to see all the historic sites, which are spread out over several miles.

A free cell phone tour is available. Just dial the number posted at key stops along the Encampment Tour, including George Washington’s Headquarters, the Muhlenberg Brigade huts, the Memorial Arch, and enter the code for that stop to learn more about its history. Be sure to stop at Washington Memorial Chapel, which also has a great used book store, gift shop and café in the back.

There is always something to see and do at Valley Forge Park, but there is no better time than Summertime at Valley Forge. There are special events, storytelling benches, and a variety of ways to explore.

While no battles were actually fought here, more than 2,000 American soldiers died from disease during the six months the Continental Army spent at Valley Forge during the winter of 1777-1778. General George Washington chose the location because it was close to Philadelphia, at the time occupied by the British army, yet far enough away to be relatively safe from surprise attacks.

It was brutally cold and the army lacked adequate clothing, food, and medical supplies. Yet they persevered against all odds. It was here that they trained and came together as a cohesive and powerful force that went on to defeat the British army and ultimately win the war.