Monocacy National Battlefield
5201 Urbana Pike, Frederick, MD, 21704
In the summer of 1864, toward the end of the Civil War, the Confederacy hatched a plan to capture Washington DC. At the Monocacy National Battlefields, visitors can learn how their defeat unfolded and see where the fiercest fighting took place. The site is also a national park, with nature to explore across 1,647 acres (667 hectares).
The basics
The battle at Monocacy marked the last time the Confederates pushed north, and their failure to take Washington DC changed the course of the Civil War. Head to the Monocacy National Battlefield’s visitor center to learn about the war and its legacy. You can see the battlefields by following designated walking trails, or by driving. The site offers a free 5-stop, self-guided audio tour, and tour operators also offer bus tours of the battlefields.
Things to know before you go
Entry is free to both the park and the visitor center year-round.
The visitor center is fully wheelchair accessible. A portion of the 0.5-mile (0.8-kilometer) Gambrill Mill Trail, which runs alongside the Monocacy River, is also accessible to visitors using wheelchairs.
Groups of 12 or more people can book a battlefield tour with a park ranger. Email or call to reserve your spot.
Dogs are welcome, but they must be kept on a leash. Clean up after your pet (visitors can find pet waste receptacles).
Monocacy National Battlefield is a trash-fee park. Bins are only for pet waste and not for any other garbage.
How to get there
Monocacy National Battlefield is just outside Frederick, around seven minutes by car from the downtown area. If you’re driving from Washington DC, take 1-270 northbound and merge eastbound onto I-70. Get off at Exit 54 MD Rt. 85/East Street and follow GPS directions until you get to Monocacy National Battlefield. From the Baltimore area, take I-70 westbound.
When to get there
The park is open daily from morning to sunset, except for a few holidays. The visitor center is open for regular business hours daily during the summer season; it’s closed Tuesday–Wednesday in the winter. Check the schedule online for holiday closures. Frederick has famously muggy summers, so bring plenty of water and sun protection if you’re coming then.
Learn about the daily lives of soldiers at the National Museum of Civil War Medicine
This immersive and informative museum gives visitors an idea of the harsh realities that soldiers once faced on the battlefield. Along with wartime injuries and appalling living conditions, men grappled with the mortal threat of disease. At the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, visitors can read the personal stories of people impacted by the war and learn about innovations in medicine that emerged from the bloodiest conflict in American history.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!