Valley Forge National Historical Park

There are few better places to go learn about the high, sobering price that the men of the British colonies of America paid in order to gain us our freedom so that we could one day become the United States of America.
This national park is free, serene, beautiful, and chock full of history that is critical to observe, remember, and to be retold to each new generation of Americans.
You’d do yourself a great disservice if you do not take the time to visit it, especially if you do not take your children here to learn about the American Revolution.
(And for the low, low price of free you really have no excuse. Go, go now.)

We’re not often in this area but when we are Valley Forge Park is always on our «to visit» list. Informative and well-​cared this is a great full-​day or few hour visit for a fascinating slice of American history.

I wasn’t expecting much from Valley Forge – I knew it was a lot of self-​guided touring, driving, and walking – but there are other better national parks. What happened at Valley Forge is amazing and during my trip to the East Coast I learned a huge amount about the Revolutionary War and I’m constantly in awe of what the founders were able to accomplish. But you won’t get that sense from visiting Valley Forge unless you really supplement your experience there. After I visited, I read the Sarah Vowell book, «Lafayette in the Somewhat United States» and THAT is how I really appreciated Valley Forge and what happened there. I didn’t learn that much from the actual sites and there were very few NHP staff to ask questions of on the Sunday in September that I visited. The site itself seems like just a big park now. But what happened there was people suffered, starved, and died of disease. But they also trained. Valley Forge holds a lot of significance because it’s where George Washington and Von Steuben (did you know he couldn’t get work in Europe because it was rumored he was gay? So he came to the grand USA to remake his name) got the troops in shape to ultimately win the Revolutionary War.
I’m glad I visited because now I can say I did, but it’s not worth traveling for JUST Valley Forge unless you’re a huge history buff or have someone, like a guide, explaining things to you. Otherwise, you probably won’t get that much out of visiting and it will just seem like a big park.

I love driving through Valley Forge whenever we are in the area visiting family. We were fortunate to be in the area in October just in time for the fall leaves… simply gorgeous.

Beautiful park, well maintained and huge. We decided on the self guided driving tour because we went with our 3 young kids. Honestly this is probably the way to go for most people if you are looking to see the sights.
Grab a map when you first come in at the visitor center and decide what you want to see so you can decide if walking or driving is for you. You can also opt for a guided tour here.

We come to Philadelphia for the MCKC dog show most years. This year the Saturday show at Devon was cancelled because of the rain so we were left with nothing to do. We were staying at the Valley Forge Comfort Inn so we thought we should check out its namesake. This is a very nice park so close to King of Prussia Mall it is hard to believe the location. Movie, exhibits and auto tour took us all morning and we had fun learning about what happened that winter our country’s first army came into its own. I can’t believe we waited 20 years to check this out. (The movie was informational, but really needs to be redone to measure up to the other parks we have been to.)

I would give this four stars, but I’d of liked to have seen more inside the visitors center and someone dressed up? I saw one person on break in costume on a cel phone and that was all. Only one place had a park ranger to answer questions other than the visitor center.
It was larger than I thought. I’d of liked to have seen more. For example, perhaps an actual marker to where all the little cabins were. We got a plaque that told you, but you couldn’t really fathom it in your mind. Perhaps Four or more stone marker or a small wall or fence or something to show you how large the area was where the encampment was.
Nothing but a couple stone houses are original. They didn’t even have actual period furnishing. They had «of or around the era or century». Yeah you heard that right… not 16^th century furnishing but 17^th century stuff… but I guess they don’t have great funding. You’d think they would because of the nature of how important it was.
Gettysburg (although civil war and not Revolutionary) was far better. Also Williamsburg is awesome compared to this and we even have a place where i live where Cornwallis was, that is good… Yorktown. I’ve been to Boston too and at least they had of the time period or original. So wish they’d fix that.
Also, the walking to George Washington’s headquarters (where he stayed with a farmer) was a LONG walk from the parking lot. I think they should make a shorter path other than the zig zag they had going. I understand that was to make the incline easier and the handicapped easier. But for those wanting to cut out time, they need steps or a slope or something else other than the street.
Lastly, there’s a house there in ruins that was just a farmer’s house, but it’s of the time and the back is sooo cool. Could have a stellar view but it’s overgrown and we went down the steps and shouldn’t have. One step on those thin slippery steep steps is a death waiting to happen. They need to put a barrier up there to keep people like me out. And they need to fix that farm. It could be awesome.
The covered bridge is under construction and to me already looked like something new. Seems like it’s old look is gone… sad to see that.
But I still gave it three stars because it’s steeped in history and they did a good job in other parts. It was a nice drive, free and overall fun. There was a place to get snacks only and a drink in the visitors center and a gift shop. I also gave it three stars because they went outof their way to provide rest rooms throughout the route. Don’t walk it. It’s many miles. You should drive or just pick a small section to walk through. I liked the arch also. Nice memorial. The train depot was kind of nice.
Kids might get bored, but let them run around. Plenty of space for that, lots of grass, trees etc.

I’m from Philly and have grown up coming to this park. It truly is a national treasure. The history within it is amazing and the picturesque grounds really takes your breath away. I recommend checking out the log cabins. When you see where they stayed and envision the winter if you don’t go during the winter months you can get a picture of what they went through. It doesn’t take that much to connect to the park and our forefathers. A lot of the park is a driving tour with spots to get out and walk around. I always loved having my picture taken on the canons when I was younger. I recommend checking out the arch and Washington’s statue. This is an amazing peaceful place. Give it a whirl. It’s great for history buffs and if you just want a peaceful drive/​walk.

Valley Forge NHP has been on my list for a long time. When we found ourselves with a free day, we chose this park. I didn’t realize initially this was a driving park, but on such a hot day, it was great.
First stop, as always, is the visitors center. We saw some of the artifacts and the store, and was disappointed that they ran out of stickers for the passport. i would think they would be prepared for the influx of tourists on a holiday weekend. But the stamp still worked.
We picked up a map and started driving. There were some places that were 1 way only, but we were able to choose what we wanted to see. Saw a lot of people picnicking and running (in 90 degree heat) and it’s a big park (about 23 miles). We followed the trail and drove to a few must see spots such as the national Arch and Washington Headquarters. I did think it was cool to touch the same bannister that Washington touched.
We finished the spot in about 2 hours but if you stopped everywhere and hiked you could make it several days long. Saw it once so probably won’t be back again.

Beautiful park, lots of hiking trails, cool vistas, and great bike riding. Just watch out for ticks!

What a great national park! We had wonderful day here exploring a national treasure. We purchased the DVD guided tour and saw things at our own pace. It was very informative and, mostly, not confusing to follow the path it led us on.
Visiting the actual site gave us such a different perspective of the place we had all read about in history books as children. It covers a huge area — who knew? It was amazing to tour General Washington’s headquarters and think about who else had walked through these rooms.
The park is beautifully well-​kept. The relatively new visitor’s center was very nice and informative. Staff were friendly and helpful. I enjoyed the story teller who performed just for my young grandson and myself — well done! The park is very pet friendly; we brought our large dog (as did many other visitors), and felt very comfortable (There were doggie watering stations in at least two areas we visited.) All-​in-​all a great park and a great experience!

I tried, really tried, to do right by this park and actually walk through it. Unfortunately I ended up here on a brutally hot day, so instead most of my trip here took place in lazy American mode; car tour that is.
Be forewarned that if you do take the encampment tour by car you will often be spit out onto public roads. Locals around here have no patience for tourists so I felt myself being rushed and often tailgated. I saw others being obnoxiously honked at, so just be prepared to floor the gas in regular traffic at certain intervals. I have to say that takes away a bit of the charm.
Besides that this park is very well maintained and has a clean and informative welcome center at it’s main entrance. Here you will find some Revolutionary era artifacts set up like a museum. Some of their more interesting pieces include firearms and field surgery tools.
Also be forewarned that in terms of attractions along the encampment tour, many are still under construction. However, there are a fair number of beautiful sculptures (including the arch, which is definitely worth a look at outside of your vehicle) and the highlight of the tour which is Washington’s Headquarters. Definitely take some time to go see the headquarters and get a feel for the kind of life people lived in that era (and also shake your head wondering how they survived the humid summers without air conditioning).
Overall a nice park, and it is rather large as well. This is a good way to spend a day learning history and taking in the sights, and don’t forget that the biggest plus is that it’s a free park.

If you love history and enjoy the great outdoors this won’t disappoint!
We hit the Visitors Center first and it had a lot of Revolutionary artifacts displayed with laminated description cards. Very helpful. They have a theatre which shows presentations about the Revolutionary times. Also, a nice gift shop with lots of items to choose from.
Instead of taking the trolley we opted to just drive the Encampment Tour instead. Going at our own pace we stopped when we saw something of interest. Log cabins and old cannons — costumed characters showing how some things were done at that time. Beautiful statues along the way. The views are gorgeous.
We also stopped at the chapel and took a walk inside. Serene. Lovely. A couple years ago we had stopped here on a cold January day and just sat in the chapel in awe at the glass stained windows and the ornate wood carvings. It’s a special place.
A walk around the area behind the chapel is a gift shop, used book shop and a cemetery.
We plan on returning again for a nice hike and picnic.

We’ve been here twice now. One weekend we went up and did the guided Encampment Tour on the trolley and thought it was great! The tour was informative and educational and still entertaining enough for our 8 year olds. It was just over 90 mins long and saw the big things at the park, the monuments, the huts and statues. It’s a gigantic park with a huge trail that goes around it. I can’t speak about the trail, I haven’t run on it, but it’s long!
In the parking lot just passed the visitors center, there is a trailer that rents bicycles by the day or hour for both kids and adults. Behind that is a snack bar, with some tables next to it, as well as clean enclosed bathrooms.
This past weekend, we chose to go up for a picnic! We stopped for sandwiches and drove around until we found the perfect spot with both trees for shade and an open field for kite flying. There were also picnic tables close by that we chose not to use, as well as enclosed bathrooms– see, the perfect picnic spot! It was a beautiful day and several other families enjoyed the area, as well. Clean, well kept and safe. The perfect spot and we will definitely return!

This park is definitely worth a trip if you have a car and you are in the Philadelphia area. On the first visit, its really worth it to do the full driving tour. On follow up visits it is a great place to go running or biking. Recently we stopped in on a snowy day and wandered into one of the soldiers huts where two guides were warming up by the fire. We chatted with them for some time about how the huts were built and learned a lot!

Not a walking park. Definitely a whole-​day affair. Every single time I have come here, I’ve biked out from Philadelphia along the river path, so it was pretty easy to zip from point to point within the park itself. This park is HUUUUUGE — walking around on foot would take forever.
I adore American history, so the visitor’s center is a good treat — maps, souvenirs, and an excellent exhibit which runs you through the history of the park and the American revolution. Guest services are very helpful and friendly.
PROTIP #1 for bikers — if you’re biking and you’re relying on the visitor’s center as your rest stop at the end of your trip, arrive before 5pm, which is when the visitor center closes.
Cabins and cannons are spread throughout the park, along with some other noteworthy sites such as the arch, the cathedral, and various little monuments. Some gorgeous vistas and interesting wildlife (I’ve seen falcons, eagles, deer, raccoons).
PROTIP #2 for bikers — this park is hilly as hell. Your quads will be screaming at you the next day. Consider it a challenge. The views are worth it, especially around sunset.
Grab a bike and a friend with a good attitude who likes history, bike out here, and enjoy!

Most people know about George Washington’s led forces at Valley Forge. However, actually being here, walking the grounds, seeing the housing, and learning about the history via the museum and movie really bring it all together like never before. You will be walking among the winter encampment of the Continental Army from 1777 – 1778. Valley Forge served as a strategic high ground to keep tabs on the British. There were many obstacles such as cold temperatures, rampant disease, and shortage of clothing and supplies. Depending on when you visit there may be fun reenactments or programs. There will likely always be a ranger tour or talk to learn more. I enjoyed the self guided driving tour and it allowed me to cover a lot of ground.

I was in Philadelphia for 4 days for a wedding. Much of that time was filled with wedding events, so when I realized that we were staying close to Valley Forge and that I had time to fit it in, I was really excited!
My husband and I decided to do the driving tour. I was amazed at the size and beauty of this historical park. It was neat getting to stop and see so many spots that I have read about in nistory books.
There is a phone number that you can call at each stop and it gives information on that spot. The tour took us a little over an hour and was totally free. I highly recommend taking in this piece of history if you are in the area.

So much to see here and so much to do here that it’s tough to capsulate everything into a single review.
While there are 28 miles of trails for hiking, walking, biking and horseback riding that’s NOT the point of why this place is here. At some point if you haven’t invested the time (as it seems a lot of the reviewers have not) to find out what went on here or to see what the NPS offers you really should because you’re missing out on learning about one of the key spots that shaped the Revolutionary War’s outcome.
The basic gist is that over the winter of 1777 The British had occupied Philadelphia and Washington needed a place where his men could be close enough to watch what they were doing/​keep the pressure on them but be far enough away that no sneak attacks could occur. Enter, Valley Forge. This location was a strategically sound high ground which could be properly defended (versus Washington’s stupid moves back in the day at Fort Necessity during his first time being charge) where if the British attempted to attack they would have been seen for miles.
Shortages of clothing did cause severe hardship for a number of men, but many soldiers had a full uniform, and the well-​equipped units patrolled, foraged, and defended the camp. The sound that would have reached your ears on approaching the camp was not that of a forlorn howling wind, but rather that of hammers, axes, saws, and shovels at work.
Under the direction of military engineers, the men built a city of 2,000-odd huts laid out in parallel lines along planned military avenues. The troops also constructed miles of trenches, five earthen forts (redoubts), and a state-​of-​the-​art bridge over the Schuylkill River.
Disease, not cold or starvation was the true scourge of the camp. Army returns reveal that two-​thirds of the nearly 2,000 men who perished died during the warmer months of March, April, and May, when supplies were more abundant. The most common killers were influenza, typhus, typhoid, and dysentery. Dedicated surgeons, capable nurses, a smallpox inoculation program (which Washington initially would not allow until Martha got inoculated anyway then GW changed his mind), and camp sanitation regulations limited the death tolls.
The biggest feat that occurred at VF was that the fighting force finally gelled into a cohesive until thanks in large part to former Prussian officer Baron Friedrich Wilhelm Augustus von Steuben who arrived in camp in February 1778. He drilled & trained the soldiers and gave them a sense of purpose and a simply something to do over the winter other than focus on not being paid and being poorly supplied.
After that winter the army went after the British in June of 1778 truly defining the term E pluribus Unum.
When you go:
Cost: Free (You’re tax dollars pay to keep this place going so might as well see what the hell is going on.)
Time:
Over the course of the year there is a plethora of different things going on from daily Ranger led tours to trolley tours to a self guided driving Encampment Tour (purchase the CD from the store it’s worth it) with many other special events that go on year long.
Don’t get me wrong in that we walked a good 4 – 5 miles of the trails the day we were here but at the same time enjoy the solitude, enjoy the monuments and soak in the history of a place that is central to the United States being the United States.
(If your kids are into the Junior Ranger Program this one is not terribly tough but some of it needs to be done at the visitor center, some by watching the cheesy movie and some but getting on the driving tour to visit a few places.)

This lush hunk of real estate was finally brought into the National Park system almost two Centuries after George Washington chose it as a strategic location following the ⁹⁄₁₁ battle with the British at Brandywine. Then in a lesser inspired version of Washington planning — this time DC not the General — a broke federal agency in 2011 allowed Toll Brothers to buy a chunk of open land in the middle of the park. Then arranged to buy it back two years later. Toll Brothers wants to thank Congress for the $ 5M it made. Does that make you feel warm & fuzzy, taxpayer?
We visited on a rainy, late summer day when many people may have hit the nearby King of Prussia mall instead of getting wet. Or a history lesson. Or a workout. Pity.
Valley Forge is a rolling tableau of trails and paved roads. It’s Free. It’s pet friendly. It’s fabulous hiking & biking country.
Mount Misery and Mount Joy cap the horizon. Details of legends align in their retelling of how the peaks got their names. A farmer loses a daughter and she’s found. A soldier loses his way and is recovered alive. A Boy Scout wanders off piste and is geo-​cached back to safety. Misery & Joy, all in one story. Just like the Park.
We took the 90 minutes of docent led trolly ride around the park. It’s well worth the $ 17 to do so. It includes two stops — At the reproduced «hutts» occupied by enactors who stay at the ready to describe their clothes and their Revolutionary time customs to you. Perhaps it’s too much of a national sensitivity in this gun wary time, but the obligatory firing of the muskets didn’t happen. The second stop is at the 20thC. restored railway station cum museum that waits beside active train tracks curling next to the Schuykill River. This summer, two boys died on the tracks near this station when a freight train overtook them. It barely made news.
Death is the underlying theme of the park. Though 8 out of 10 deaths during George Washington’s six months of winter encampment were said to have been attributable to disease and not to combat, don’t expect to visit a National Cemetery. The sick were carried on their one way trip to ill equipped, understaffed & outlying infirmaries. What IS underground here is the buried archeology of sanitation trenches veining the hills where up to 12,000 rough troops trained. Oh, and a toxic dump from an old abestos plant.
I especially liked the rebuilt Headquarters where, yes, Washington slept there. You can touch the same railing that the legendary General used.
Speaking of famous hands, the Visitors’ Center has a glass case with original letters written by George Washington and other 1700’s denizens. The script is beautiful and the descriptions to officials and loved ones are quite moving.
Don’t blast through Valley Forge. Stop to sit on the curved benches and listen to the Park’s storytellers. Oratory is coming back in vogue. Do it just to be cool if you are one who can’t martial interest in more than one aspect of this Valley Forge national treasure.