Virginia boasts more battlefields than any other state in the United States. It served as a crucial battleground during the American Civil War, where armies clashed across its terrain, stretching between the wartime capitals of Washington and Richmond.
Guided Tours Through History
Battlefield Tours of Virginia offers an expanding selection of tours across these historic sites, led by knowledgeable local guides. These tours cater to all levels of interest, from those new to Civil War history to seasoned enthusiasts. Far from being simple recollections of military maneuvers and outcomes, the tours provide a deep dive into the era’s politics, the broader strategic context, and the human stories of generals, soldiers, and civilians alike.
Immersive Experience
For a truly comprehensive experience, spending about four hours per battlefield is recommended. This allows for a detailed exploration of each site, encompassing all tour stops, covering necessary distances, and unfolding the multi-day narratives that spanned numerous locations. To enhance understanding, it’s suggested to visit battlefields in a specific geographic region and in chronological order.
Personalized Exploration
Should any questions arise about the tours, Battlefield Tours of Virginia encourages potential visitors to reach out for more information. Additionally, for those interested in exploring multiple sites in one trip, the company offers Combo Civil War Battlefield Tours.
A Journey Through Battlefields
Fredericksburg: Battle of Fredericksburg
This tour delves into the battle beyond Marye’s Heights, covering the town of Fredericksburg, Slaughter Pen Farm, and Prospect Hill.
Chancellorsville: Battle of Chancellorsville
Explore one of Robert E. Lee’s greatest victories and learn about Stonewall Jackson’s critical Flank Attack.
Mine Run: Battle of Mine Run
Discover the often-overlooked events of the Fall of 1863, unfolding after the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg.
The Wilderness: Battle of The Wilderness
Experience the site of the next major battle post-Gettysburg, marking the start of Ulysses S. Grant’s Overland Campaign.
Spotsylvania Court House: Battle of Spotsylvania Court House
Witness the second battle of Grant’s campaign and explore Lee’s famous defenses, including The Mule Shoe and The Bloody Angel.
Cedar Mountain: Cedar Mountain Battlefield
Learn about Stonewall Jackson’s final independent command and the Union’s strategic maneuvers in Virginia.
Brandy Station: Battle of Brandy Station
Hear about the largest cavalry battle in North America, initiating the Gettysburg Campaign.
Rappahannock Station & Kelly’s Ford: Battles of Rappahannock Station & Kelly’s Ford
Trace the Army of the Potomac’s efforts to confront Lee’s forces in Culpeper County.
North Anna: Battle of North Anna
Explore the third battle of Grant’s Overland Campaign, featuring Lee’s strategic trap and well-preserved Civil War earthworks.
Cold Harbor: Battle of Cold Harbor
Understand Grant’s aggressive tactics against entrenched Confederate positions in this intense battle.
Seven Days’ Battles
Experience the climax of General McClellan’s Peninsula Campaign and Lee’s counter-offensive over a week-long conflict.
Northern Shenandoah Valley: Northern Shenandoah Valley Campaigns
Visit Winchester’s battlefields from two different campaigns, in a city known for changing hands over 70 times.
Southern Shenandoah Valley: Southern Shenandoah Valley Campaigns
Explore the Shenandoah Valley’s multiple battlefields, sites of critical conflicts during the Civil War.
African American Civil War: From Enslaved to Soldier Tour
Learn about the transition from slavery to military service for African Americans and their first engagements against Lee’s army.
Embark on these tours to step back in time and explore the rich, complex history of Virginia’s Civil War battlefields.
Conclusion: A Journey Through Time
Embarking on a tour with Battlefield Tours of Virginia is not just a visit to historical sites; it’s a journey through the pivotal moments of American history. Each battlefield has its own story, interwoven with the fabric of the nation’s past. From the strategic maneuvers of generals to the personal tales of soldiers and civilians, these tours offer a comprehensive and immersive experience into the Civil War era. Whether you are a history enthusiast or new to the subject, these tours promise an enlightening and memorable exploration of Virginia’s rich historical landscape.
Tour Overview Table
| Battlefield Location | Tour Name | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Fredericksburg | Battle of Fredericksburg Tour | Marye’s Heights, local town areas |
| Chancellorsville | Battle of Chancellorsville Tour | Stonewall Jackson’s Flank Attack |
| Mine Run | Battle of Mine Run Tour | Events of Fall 1863 post-Gettysburg |
| The Wilderness | Battle of The Wilderness Tour | Start of Grant’s Overland Campaign |
| Spotsylvania Court House | Battle of Spotsylvania Court House Tour | The Mule Shoe, The Bloody Angel |
| Cedar Mountain | Cedar Mountain Battlefield Tour | Jackson’s last command, Union strategy |
| Brandy Station | Battle of Brandy Station Tour | Largest North American cavalry battle |
| Rappahannock Station & Kelly’s Ford | Battles of Rappahannock Station & Kelly’s Ford Tour | Army of the Potomac’s maneuvers |
| North Anna | Battle of North Anna Tour | Lee’s trap, Civil War earthworks |
| Cold Harbor | Battle of Cold Harbor Tour | Grant’s attacks on Confederate positions |
| Seven Days’ Battles | Seven Days’ Battles Tour | McClellan’s campaign, Lee’s offensives |
| Northern Shenandoah Valley | Northern Shenandoah Valley Campaigns Tour | Multiple battlefields, Winchester history |
| Southern Shenandoah Valley | Southern Shenandoah Valley Campaigns Tour | Valley battlefields, key conflicts |
| African American Civil War | From Enslaved to Soldier Tour | African American military service history |
Explore these historic sites and gain a deeper understanding of the American Civil War, its impacts, and the people who lived through it.