How to Visit Manassas Battlefield

Any Civil War buff knows that the first major battle on land was fought at Manassas, Virginia in 1861. A second bloody battle was fought there almost a year later. Now a national park, Manassas Battlefield Park has become a place for history buffs and tourists alike to visit.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Pay for entrance into the park. Fees are very reasonable at a cost of $3 per person for those over the age of 16, and those under 16 get in free. This ticket is good for 3 days. An annual pass costs $20, and a National Park Pass is $50 per person. Tickets may be purchased with credit cards, checks or cash.
2. Watch the park movie, "Manassas: End of Innocence." The film costs $3 for admission and is free for those under 16. They don't take credit cards here but do accept cash and checks.
3. Stop by the Henry Hill Visitors Center. The park movie is shown here as are the bookstore and museum exhibits. The museum features many exhibits pertaining to the battle, including a map with fiber-optic display of the fight, soldier uniforms and period weaponry.
4. Stroll through the park area where the actual battle took place. Park rangers give guided hikes. There are cannons and monuments scattered throughout the Manassas Battlefield.

Tips & Warnings

• The visitors' center has both water fountains and restrooms.