Valley Forge National Historical Park, Pennsylvania’s first state park, is a great place to take your whole family to hike, picnic, ride bikes, and learn about the historical events that occurred there from 1776-1777.  It was during that timeframe that General George Washington’s army camped at Valley Forge and endured a brutal winter in 1777.

Whether you are going to Valley Forge to learn about its historical significance or to spend time enjoying some of its 3,500 acres of wetlands, forests, grassy meadows, and streams, you will not be disappointed. There is so much to enjoy there year round.

If you are planning to take advantage of all the history Valley Forge has to offer, the Visitor Center is a great place to start.  It is open daily except Thanksgiving Day, December 25, and January 1. There are exhibits with original artifacts, an educational film, and many park staff to talk to and answer your questions.  To see all of the historical sites, you can choose to take a self-guided tour, a walking tour led by a park ranger, or a guided trolley tour.  You can even take a cell phone tour.  Park staff and rangers (some in Colonial period dress) are stationed at each of the stops.   

Valley Forge National Historical Park offers nearly 30 miles of trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding.  While we were there, there were families picnicking, walking dogs, playing catch, and flying kites.  There is an abundance of space for kids to run, play, and have fun. We decided that the next time we go there, we need to remember to bring our kite because it seemed to be the perfect place for it.  In the winter months, the park is also a popular place for cross-country skiing and sledding.       

Valley Forge National Historical Park is located in Montgomery County and is easy to get to.  It is close to the Pennsylvania Turnpike, I-76, and US 422.  For more information about upcoming and seasonal events, check out the Schedule of Events page.