Manassas National Battlefield Park

Established in 1940 to preserve the site of two major U.S. Civil War battles, the Manassas National Battlefield Park comprises more than 5,000 acres of terrain where visitors can walk in the footsteps of the Union and Confederate soldiers who fought and died there. The First Battle of Manassas took place on July 21, 1861, and quickly disabused soldiers on both sides of the notion that victory would be an easy proposition.  Just over a year later, in August 1862, the three-day Battle of Second Manassas took place.  Lasting for three days, it claimed 3,300 lives, and was another important victory for the Confederates. Make sure to start your visit by going in the visitor center to ensure you see all the iconic sites the park offers such as the Stone House, the Stonewall Jackson Memorial, and the Stone Bridge.