Washington's Headquarters
The small stone house where Washington and his staff ran the war that winter.
Valley Forge
Where Washington's starving army wintered in 1777–78 and came out a real fighting force.
About 12,000 Continental soldiers built a log city here in December 1777. Around 2,000 died that winter, most of disease. The Prussian officer Baron von Steuben drilled the survivors, and the army that marched out in June was a different one.
No battle was fought here. It's now a large and pleasant park of rolling hills, with rebuilt huts, Washington's stone headquarters and long paths.
- Best Time
- April–June and September–October
- Time Needed
- Half a day
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Grounds open every day; check nps.gov/vafo for building hours
- Getting There
- About 40 minutes by car northwest of Philadelphia.
What to See
4 of 4 are freeMuhlenberg Brigade Huts
Rebuilt log huts on the outer line, with rangers in season.
National Memorial Arch
A grand 1917 arch on the high ground, the park's photo.
Washington Memorial Chapel
A carved Gothic chapel and carillon, privately run, by the park.
Know Before You Go
- The sights are far apart; drive the loop, or bike the Joseph Plumb Martin Trail.
Where to Stay
A half-day trip from Philadelphia.
Where to Eat
Our picks are on the way.
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Last checked 2026-11-01. Part of the Mid-Atlantic list.