Henry Hill
The heart of First Manassas, where Jackson stood "like a stone wall". An easy loop from the visitor center.
Manassas National Battlefield Park
Where the Civil War's first major battle ended any hope of a short war, and where Stonewall Jackson got his name.
Families drove out from Washington with picnics in July 1861 to watch what they expected to be a quick Union victory at Bull Run. They fled with the retreating army. A second, far larger battle was fought on the same ground in August 1862.
It's the closest major battlefield to Washington, with walking trails over open hills.
- Best Time
- April–June and September–October
- Time Needed
- Half a day
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Grounds open every day
- Getting There
- About 30 miles west of Washington, DC, by car.
What to See
3 of 3 are freeStone Bridge
The old turnpike bridge over Bull Run, with a pretty walking trail along the water.
Second Manassas Sites
Brawner's Farm and Deep Cut, on a driving tour of the 1862 battle.
Know Before You Go
- Check fees and visitor center hours at nps.gov/mana.
- Traffic on I-66 from Washington is bad at rush hour.
Where to Stay
An easy half-day trip from Washington, DC.
Where to Eat
Our picks are on the way.
Editor's picks. Nobody paid to be on this list.
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Last checked 2026-11-01. Part of the Mid-Atlantic list.