After spending 2 days exploring Philadelphia, we decided to check out Valley Forge National Historic Park. It also happened to be President’s day, therefore, we were in for an extra treat.
History of Valley Forge
Valley Forge NHP is the site of the 1777-1778 winter encampment of the Continental Army. George Washington had decided to have his troops spend the winter here to train and recoup from the prior year’s battles. They ended up building a diverse city of soldiers, women, and children, free and enslaved, wealthy and impoverished. However, the encampment only lasted 6 months then Washington led his troops north in pursuit of the British.
The winter encampment at Valley Forge is one of the most famous chapters of the American Revolution. The encampment tells us about the hardships and suffering that were faced. Similarly, it reveals the courage and strength needed to build shelters and trenches during a harsh winter. The encampment brought together people from all walks of life and resulted in an important crossroads militarily and politically in the American Revolution.
The park
We began our visit to the park at the Visitor Center. The permanent Visitor Center building was closed for renovation. Therefore, a temporary Visitor Center is located next to the parking lot. It is very small and consists of a gift shop and an 18-minute film. Unfortunately, there were no exhibits. We felt like the film was very outdated but informative. However, it gave a good explanation before we explored the grounds.
Entrance to Valley Forge NHP is free and the grounds are open daily from 7am to dark. The Visitor Center is open daily from 10am-5pm. The hours vary for Washington’s Headquarters, the Train Station, Washington Memorial Chapel, and Varnum’s Quarters. Check online for operating hours.
The park had extra events going on during our visit because it was President’s day. We were delighted to meet Mr. and Mrs. George Washington. There were also tables to create birthday cards for Mr. Washington and birthday cupcakes.
Encampment Tour
Next, we hopped in the car to drive the 10-mile Encampment Tour. There were 9 stops along the tour. Guests get to see reconstructed army huts, the National Memorial Arch, the Wayne Statue, Washington’s Headquarters, redoubts, Artillery Park, Varnum’s Quarters, and Washington Memorial Chapel.
Washington’s Headquarters will take you the longest. It consists of a train station and the original stone house that served as a residence and office for George Washington. You can also stroll the grounds to see displays and a statue of Washington.
The National Park Service does not fund or maintain the Washington Memorial Chapel. It is an active Episcopal parish. We were fortunate to have a knowledgeable church member give us a very detailed explanation of the chapel. In addition, at this stop, you will also find a small cafe and gift shop.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, we enjoyed our short visit to Valley Forge. Having been to Gettysburg in the fall, this was very similar but smaller in scale. The kids stayed interested and engaged most of our visit. They thoroughly enjoyed exploring Washington’s Headquarters.
Valley Forge NHP is about 20 miles northeast of Philadelphia and 12 miles from Homewood Suites, our hotel in Plymouth Meeting. It makes a very easy day trip during a visit to Philadelphia. Check out my post, 2 Days in Philadelphia with Kids, to read about the beginning of our trip.
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Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this post are strictly my own. I was not compensated for this post.
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