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Half Day Driving Tour of Valley Forge National Park
4.9
213 Ratings
Philadelphia
Immerse yourself in the American Revolution with a half-day tour of Valley Forge National Historical Park. Explore historic sites, learn about the Continental Army, and marvel at the monuments that commemorate this pivotal period in history.
Duration:
4 hours, 30 minutes
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
- Valley Forge National Historical Park - This 3,500-acre park was once the encampment site of the Continental Army during the winter of 1777-1778 and displays a collection of memorials and monuments commemorating the soldiers and generals during a significant turning point of the American Revolutionary War.
- Boathouse Row - This row of historic boathouses housing social and rowing clubs is an iconic Philadelphia image, with the houses at night reflecting in the waters of the Schuylkill River.
- Visitor Center At Valley Forge - A recently revitalized Visitor Center is the perfect introduction to this beautifully preserved national park. Here, a self-guided exhibit and a fascinating documentary will detail what transpired on those hallowed grounds in the winter of 1777-78, how Washington’s men persevered in the face of horrific obstacles and how Washington himself grew into the legendary leader he would be remembered for.
- National Memorial Arch - This giant memorial stands to commemorate the arrival of Washington and the Continental Army at Valley Forge.
- Washington Memorial Chapel - This active chapel is a Gothic Revival-style memorial dedicated to General George Washington.
- Washington’s Headquarters - Nestled in a picturesque corner of the park stands a handsome stone home that served as the headquarters of George Washington for much of the Valley Forge encampment. You will have a chance to walk around this beautifully restored building, and if open to the public that day, see the gorgeous interior of all three floors.
- Statue of General Friedrich von Steuben - There are many unsung heroes of Valley Forge, but none had the immense impact that the Baron Frederich von Steuben had. The man that Washington entrusted to reorganize and retrain his weary troops, von Steuben utilized the Grand Parade grounds to transform the Continental soldiers into a lethal fighting force. A statue of the man stands on a bluff overlooking the fields of the old Parade where, as many historians agree, the American army was born.
- Muhlenberg Brigade - The Muhlenberg Brigade huts in Valley Forge hold historical significance as they served as winter quarters for General Peter Muhlenberg’s brigade during the American Revolutionary War in 1777-1778. These huts, constructed by soldiers under harsh conditions, provided shelter for troops enduring the severe winter at Valley Forge. Today, visitors can explore reconstructed huts and gain insight into the challenges faced by the Continental Army during this pivotal period in American history.
- Artillery Park - The Artillery Park in Valley Forge played a crucial role during the American Revolutionary War, serving as a key logistical and strategic hub for the Continental Army’s artillery units. Located within the historic Valley Forge National Historical Park, it features reconstructed artillery pieces and exhibits showcasing the artillery’s importance in the war effort. Visitors can explore the park to learn about the training, maintenance, and deployment of artillery units, gaining a deeper understanding of the military operations conducted at Valley Forge.
- Schuylkill River Trail - The Schuylkill River flows through Valley Forge, adding natural beauty and historical significance to the area. During the American Revolutionary War, the river provided a crucial waterway for transportation and communication for both the Continental Army and the British forces. Today, visitors to Valley Forge National Historical Park can enjoy recreational activities along the river, such as hiking, biking, and fishing, while also reflecting on its role in shaping the history of the United States.
What's Included
- Local English-speaking guide
- Donation to Valley Forge National Park
- Scenic views
- Transportation to/from Philly & Valley Forge
What's Not Included
- Additional food and drink
- Souvenirs
- Tips and gratuities for the guide
Additional Information
Relax and entrust your journey to our local expert who will guide you on a half-day trip through Philadelphia’s Rural Landscape to the famed Valley Forge National Historical Park in our comfortable tour van!
As you get onboard, we’ll set off to an important landmark of the American Revolutionary War. Your guide will narrate tales of the Continental Army’s war preparations, with a pause at the Muhlenberg Brigade Huts to expose their encampment conditions.
Your tour around the park may comprise a visit to the Valley Forge Visitor Center, which hosts historic relics and artifacts, and Washington’s Headquarters by the Schuylkill River. There will be ample time for you to admire interesting sites by walking, like the National Memorial Arch, an impressive tribute to the war servicemen, and the gothic-designed Washington Memorial Chapel.
Join us and unravel profound history symbolized by monuments scattered across Valley Forge’s scenic backdrop.
Location
1848 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy
Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Outside, in front of The Urban Farmer (Vehicle pull off spot along the Ben Franklin Parkway, side of the Logan Hotel)
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.9
(213 Ratings)
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John_c
Aug 1, 2024
Add this tour to your historic Philadelphia trip. If you get Rick as your guide, you will be even more fortunate! - Rick was very knowledgeable and accommodating. Valley Forge was very worthwhile and Rick made it even more interesting. Highly recommend Rick and the tour.
Review provided by Viator
June_c
Jul 31, 2024
Adventure at Valley Forge - An exceptional tour of Valley Forge with Thomas, an exceptional story teller and lover of history! My family and I thoroughly enjoyed the retelling of one of the revolutionary war’s most pivotal moments! I served 32 years in the military and Thomas opened my eyes to things I never realized about how the Army runs today! Worth every dime… add this to your Philadelphia itinerary!
Review provided by Viator
Johnk3228
Jul 30, 2024
Great Tour of Valley Forge - This was a great tour. Rick was courteous, engaging, and knowledgeable. The drive to Valley Forge was stress free and relaxing as Rick gave us stories on the Valley Forge history as well as information about Philadelphia. We learned a lot about Valley Forge and gained a perspective you just can't get from reading about it in a book. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in learning more about US history and Valley Forge in particular.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Xia0y0ngb
Jul 28, 2024
Valley forge tour - Awesome tour, not only educational but also fun. The service was provided far beyond tour itself, but lots of local other cultures
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Triciabc6788eh
Jul 28, 2024
Appreciation of history - This is truly something everyone should see and do to really appreciate all we have today! The small group tour was much more personable and enjoyable. Rick was a phenomenal tour guide!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Meghan_c
Jul 28, 2024
Great Trip Back In Time - Adam was a phenomenal guide. I am not someone who is very familiar with details about history and he made sure to bring the history to life. His enthusiasm was contagious and I left with a much greater appreciation for the events and location that were such an integral part of the Revolutionary War!
Review provided by Viator
Douglas_a
Jul 28, 2024
Adam was knowledgeable,... - Adam was knowledgeable, engaging, and offered great energy throughout the trip.
Highly recommend anyone who is in Philly to do this tour.
Review provided by Viator
Ceejaymikk
Jul 27, 2024
Great tour and tour guide - Tom is a great guide for this tour. Very knowledgeable about the American Revolution and presents it in an entertaining way!
Review provided by Viator
Jennifer_s
Jul 27, 2024
Great tour, learned a lot! - Our tour guide was fabulous! He was very knowledgeable, personable and engaging! He also had great recommendations for other sites in Philadelphia And surrounding areas! Thanks so much, Thom!
Review provided by Viator
Jennifersi7304ax
Jul 26, 2024
Even a history person learned something new - Thom was very knowledgeable and engaging! It was a great tour! Thom also had great recommendations for other tours and sites.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
