Antietam National Battlefield

Address:Sharpsburg, Maryland
Tel: (301) 432-5124

Visit the battlefield where after one day, more U.S. soldiers were killed, wounded, or missing than at any other time in American history. It was the Battle of Antietam that ended the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia's first invasion into the North and led to Lincoln's issuance of the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation—a critical moment in American history.

Kick off your visit to the Antietam Battlefield by watching the 26-minute, award-winning film shown hourly which recreates the famous battle and highlights President Abraham Lincoln's visit to Union commander General George B. McClellan. Visitors can view the battlefield itself by taking the self-guided driving tour, which is 8½ miles long with 11 different stops. Or, if you're looking to enjoy the fresh air, walk or bike the battlefield instead. There are audiotape tours as well, which enhance the self-guided tour or if you like, opt for the personalized tour, in which the Antietam Battlefield Guides provide you with a guide who will drive your vehicle around the park. While you're here, take a few minutes to stop by the Pry House Field Hospital, which was also General George McClellan's headquarters prior to the battle and a field hospital afterwards. Be sure to set aside between 1-3 hours to take it all in here at Antietam National Battlefield. To get to the battlefield, go east on Interstate 70 and take exit 29A onto Route 65 South. The Visitors Center is 10 miles south on the left.