Immerse yourself in the history of the Revolutionary War at Valley Forge National Military Park with this self-guided tour. Explore the camp where General George Washington and his troops endured a harsh winter and discover the critical role it played in the war. Download the Tour Guide App and embark on a journey through time.
- Visitor Center At Valley Forge - Welcome to Valley Forge, where George Washington and his Continental Army faced one of their greatest ever challenges. When he arrived here in December of 1777 and hunkered down for a long, cold winter, Washington knew his army may not survive to see the spring. It stands today as a testament to the strength and resilience of the rebel forces.
Note: This 10+ mile-long tour covers the essentials of Valley Forge in 2-3 hours.
- Muhlenberg Brigade - Next, you’ll arrive at the site of the Muhlenberg Brigade, where you’ll hear about “Devil Pete” Muhlenberg, a former reverend who set aside the good book to pick up a rifle during the revolution.
- Maine Memorial - After that is the Maine Memorial, honoring the soldiers from Maine and emphasizing how tenuous the connections were between men from the different colonies during this time.
- National Memorial Arch - Then you’ll arrive at the National Memorial Arch, perhaps Valley Forge’s most notable monument. This impressive arch honors the entire continental army who wintered here, both those who survived and those who didn’t.
- General Wayne Statue - The next monument, a statue of General Wayne, is dedicated to another of Washington’s fiercest fighters. Wayne didn’t earn the nickname “Mad Anthony” for nothing!
- Knox’s Quarters Parking - Next, you’ll visit Henry Knox’s quarters, where the self-taught artilleryman turned general served as an important voice of reason during the long winter months.
- Delaware Memorial - Continuing on, you’ll come to the Delaware Memorial and learn about how the situation at Valley Forge began to unravel.
- Commander in Chief’s Guard Huts (Valley Forge National Park) - Next up, at the huts of George Washington’s personal guards, you’ll get a glimpse into a secret plot to take down the Commander in Chief.
- Valley Forge National Historical Park - Well, here he is - the man, the myth, the legend, George Washington himself. A veteran of the French and Indian War, Washington was appointed to the head of the Continental Army by the Continental Congress in 1775, due to his extensive military experience and the belief that having a Virginian in charge would unify the colonies more than a New Englander like John Hancock. As a commander, Washington is known more for his organizational skill and leadership qualities than his tactical abilities, which are considered decidedly average. He is known as a thoughtful and analytical leader, making him the perfect choice for a war against a powerful enemy like the British.
- New Jersey Brigade Memorial - Your route takes you next to the New Jersey Brigade Memorial, which honors some of the most well-trained, dependable troops in the entire ragtag army.
- Statue of General Friedrich von Steuben - As the months drag on, one thing has become very clear to General Washington. His army, tough as they are, are not even close to ready to fight this war. They’ve barely survived their first few months in Valley Forge, and everything is on the verge of falling apart. Something has to be done. Somehow, this ragtag group of surly volunteers has to be turned into a real army, or surviving this winter will mean nothing.
- Varnum’s Quarters - Next, you’ll see the stone house used during that fateful winter by General James Mitchell Varnum, one of Washington’s closest advisors. Varnum is best known for bringing the first Black soldiers into the Continental Army.
- Patriots of African Descent Monument - After that is a monument which honors those very soldiers: the Patriots of African Descent Monument. This memorial provides a fascinating window into an often overlooked slice of history.
- Philander Chase Knox Estate - An optional stop takes you to the Philander Chase Knox Estate, where the Attorney General who served under Presidents McKinley and Roosevelt once lived.
- Valley Forge National Historical Park - Another detour takes you to the Valley Forge Train Station, which has all sorts of info not only on old-timey trains, but also on General Washington.
- Washington Memorial Chapel - Fans of revolutionary history will want to detour to the Washington Memorial Chapel, which boasts a replica of Philadelphia’s Liberty Bell!
- Washington Memorial Chapel Cemetery - Behind the Memorial Chapel you’ll find the Washington Memorial Cemetery, where several important figures like Philander Knox have been laid to rest.
- Maurice Stephens House - You can also visit the Mauricce Stevens House, built atop the site of another general’s quarters used during the winter of 1777.
- Port Kennedy Railroad Station - Those intrigued by abandoned places will find lots to like at the Port Kennedy Railroad Station, a defunct station that’s been shuttered since the 1980s.
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- Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone
- Great value: purchase per car, not per person. More affordable than bus or guided tours!
- Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales and thrilling history for a memorable journey!
- Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!
- Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.
- Comprehensive route and stops: See it all, miss nothing, leave no stone unturned!
- Go at your own pace: Start anytime, pause anywhere, enjoy breaks for snacks and photos freely!
- Hands-free: audio stories play on their own based on your location. Easy to use!
- Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations
Welcome to Valley Forge National Military Park, a historic American Revolution site! In the icy December of 1777, General George Washington camped the Continental Army here to wait out the long winter. The following six months tested the mettle and resilience of his ragtag fighting force and served as a critical turning point in the Revolutionary War. Explore the rich backstory of this historic Revolutionary America site with this self-guided tour.
After booking, check your email to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. These steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. From there, follow the audio instructions and the route.
New, extra validity — now yours for an entire year! Use multiple times over multiple trips!
This isn’t an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
- How to access: Once you book a tour, you’ll get a confirmation email with instructions. Follow the instructions right away: • Download the separate app • Enter the password • Download the tour • MUST DO while in strong wifi/cellular.
- How to start the tour: Open Action’s separate audio tour guide app once onsite. • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If multiple tour versions exist, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction. • Go to the starting point. (Note: no one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided). • The audio will begin automatically at the starting point. If you face audio issues, visit the FAQ. • Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
- Amazing Savings: why pay for an expensive, crowded, and limited bus tour — priced per person! — when you can have ONE amazing audio guide on your OWN phone for your WHOLE group?
- Flexibility and Convenience: • Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. It’s perfect for tailoring your exploration and revisiting your favorite spots on future trips. • Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace, free from the constraints of a group.
- Comprehensive Tour Experience: •The app provides a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated audio stories, scripts, images, videos, and recommendations for additional activities. • Enjoy a private experience without the crowds, ideal for personalized stops and photo opportunities.
- Comprehensive Tour Experience: •The app provides a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated audio stories, scripts, images, videos, and recommendations for additional activities. • Enjoy a private experience without the crowds, ideal for personalized stops and photo opportunities.
- Memorable Keepsakes: • Utilize the app’s images to create a photo book or share on social media, ensuring you have high-quality, crowd-free memories from your trip.
- Preparation: • After booking, download the app and the tour using a strong Wi-Fi connection. • Review the tour at home before your trip for a better experience.
- Starting the Tour: • Open the app upon arrival at your destination. • Select the appropriate tour based on your starting point. • Head to the starting location; the audio will begin automatically. • Follow the suggested route and adhere to the speed limit for an optimal experience. • By following these instructions and taking advantage of the app’s features, users can enjoy a personalized, flexible, and in-depth exploration of their destination at their own pace and convenience.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.