How to Take a Historical Tour of Antietam

The Battle of Antietam was the first major battle of the Civil War fought in the North. The battle occurred near Sharpsburg, Maryland on September 17, 1862. Approximately 23,000 people lost their lives, and it remains the bloodiest day in American history. Plan at least one full day to tour Antietam.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Visit the visitor center to see museum exhibits and get information about self-guided tours. View at least one of the two films shown in the visitor center. "Antietam Visit," recreates the battle and is shown on the hour. The "Antietam Documentary," narrated by James Earl Jones, is shown at noon daily.
2. Listen to one of the park rangers give a talk about the history of the battlefield.
3. Take the 8.5-mile self-guided driving tour around the battlefield. There are 11 stops along this route. Purchase a CD in the bookstore to guide you through the tour.
4. Consider hiking portions of the battlefield with your iPod. Choose from four separate podcasts which cover four trails. Be sure to download the podcasts before leaving for your Antietam tour.
5. Tour the Pry House Field Hospital Museum. For hours of operation, call [phone].
6. Plan your visit around one of the special events scheduled throughout the year. Contact the visitor center at [phone] or check the website for a calendar of events.

Tips & Warnings

• Make a reservation with a guide if you want a more detailed tour of the battlefield.