Learning the Civil War facts is super important when studying the history of the United States. We are lucky enough that there are so many awesome options when it comes to studying this sad part of history. Roadschooling gives us the advantage to be able to learn about this time in history than see it first hand. If your family is studying the Civil War, then you need to visit these Civil War sites.
12 Civil War Places to Visit When Studying the Civil War
One of my favorite things to do when studying history is to stand where it happened. Gettysburg was the first place this happened for me as a kid and I will never forget it. It all just clicked. WHY certain tactics worked. How much the land impacted the battle and more.
So let’s take a look at the Civil War places to visit when you are studying the Civil War.
Richmond National Battlefield Park
Richmond Battlefield in Richmond, Virginia – Some would note this place as being the heart of the South. There are tons of different parks and museums to visit in this historical place. The Richmond Battlefield has so much history make sure to grab your book for your Jr Ranger Badge.
Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park
Chattanooga National Military Park – The Battle of Chattanooga was a powerful one during the Civil War. Your family will enjoy the history and checking out the 5,300-acre battlefield.
If you are looking for Battle of Chattanooga Facts check out this article too!
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania – Studying the Civil War is fascinating when you visit a site like Gettysburg, PA. The Battle of Gettysburg was an important part in our history. PS it’s free to visit!
We love doing the driving tour with the map from the visitor center. We have also done a horseback riding tour and that was really fun too!
Lincoln Memorial – While there isn’t a battle here, there is plenty of awesomeness to be seen. As the 16th president of the United States of America, it serves as a great memorial in honor of the Civil War. The site has a lot of Civil War info too.
A pair of cannons at sunset on the Antietam National Battlefield near Sharpsburg, Maryland
Antietam National Battlefield in Antietam, Maryland – The Battle of Antietam was one of the bloodiest wars in American history. You can do a self-guided tour of Antietam.
Related – The Top 10 Revolutionary War Sites You Have to Visit!
Shiloh National Military Park in Shiloh, Tennessee – This was the largest battle in the Civil War’s Mississippi Valley Campaign and lead to a Union Victory. Learn the history of this attack.
The old stone house in the center of the Manassas Civil War battlefield site near Bull Run
Manassas National Battlefield Park – Does Bull Run come to mind from what you learned in your history books? This is where one of the major battles of the war took place. A really cool place to visit and get a feel for the Civil War and its history.
Fort Pulaski – Right outside Savannah Ga there is so much history here from an attack on the fort to the how soldier lived during wartime. They have a great Junior Ranger program for the kids and it’s right on the water so it has some amazing views.
Fort Sumter National Monument – Located in Charleston South Carolina this is one Civil War site you will need to take a boat to get to! But it’s worth it the views from water alone!
Plus they have so much history here. You learn about this place in school, and you can’t beat standing here in person.
Vicksburg National Military Park – Located in Vicksburg Mississippi. This is known for its 47-day standoff for control of the Mississippi River.
Andersonville National Historic Site – Known for their cemetery of many prisoners of war from the Civil War. These prisoners were mostly held in Fort Sumter.
Kennesaw Battle Field – Lots of history here with trails to hike. The visitor center has a free museum, and you can drive or hike to the top of the mountain for some great history, and you just can’t beat the views! It was so peaceful up there. One of my favorite views from any site on the list.
When studying the Civil War, there is no shortage of things to study. Make sure you head out to visit some of these sites and maybe some not listed. What are your favorite Civil War places to visit? Let us know in the comments below!
Homeschool Literature
Monday 9th of January 2017
Taking advantage of studying the Civil War while roadschooling sounds like an amazing experience! Seeing all those places firsthand...what an incredible opportunity. I've personally been able to visit Manassas, but I'd love to someday visit the others you've listed!