Exchange Hotel Civil War Museum Gordonsville Virginia
A historic hotel turned Civil War hospital, now a museum renowned for its chilling exhibits and reported paranormal activity.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Reenactments and full exhibits
Exchange Hotel Civil War Museum Gordonsville Virginia
Best Time
Reenactments and full exhibits
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic hotel turned Civil War hospital, now a museum renowned for its chilling exhibits and reported paranormal activity.
"Excellent details and very chilling information about life in a war era hospital."
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 3 hours to fully absorb the 3 floors of exhibits.
👻 Book paranormal tours early
These popular tours have age restrictions; check before booking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Civil War Hospital Exhibits
Interior Museum
Explore artifacts and learn about the 70,000 soldiers treated here, a truly chilling glimpse into history.
Paranormal Activity
Throughout the building
Experience the reported hauntings and spectral presences that make this a top haunted location in Virginia.
Historic Architecture
The building itself
Admire the 1860s architecture, a silent witness to the hotel's transformation into a crucial Civil War hospital.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Chills: Prepare for a Haunted Experience
Plan Your Visit: Time and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 3 hours to fully absorb the 3 floors of exhibits.
👻 Book paranormal tours early
These popular tours have age restrictions; check before booking.
📸 No interior photos
Unfortunately, photography is not permitted inside the museum.
🧐 Inquire about accessibility
Some areas like the kitchen may not be open during day visits.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Plan for at least 3 hours to fully absorb the 3 floors of exhibits.
👻 Book paranormal tours early
These popular tours have age restrictions; check before booking.
📸 No interior photos
Unfortunately, photography is not permitted inside the museum.
🧐 Inquire about accessibility
Some areas like the kitchen may not be open during day visits.
🗣️ Chat with staff
The staff are very informative and can share fascinating details.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the museum's detailed exhibits and chilling historical information about its time as a Civil War hospital. The staff are noted as being very informative and helpful. Some visitors expressed disappointment about inaccessible areas during day visits and the lack of interior photography. +1
"Excellent details and very chilling information about life in a war era hospital. They have 3 floors of exibits and there is so much to take in. The lady at the register was very informative and helpful. My only complaint is the only had mugs of that guy Lincoln, but none of the great Jefferson Davis."
Meade Skelton
"Jenny was very helpful, museum is packed with all kinds of history. Regret not being able to take photos inside. Purchased paranormal tour tickets but had to cancel because children under 16 were not allowed and it is not posted on website.
Disappointed that kitchen and depot were not accessible during day visit. Allow fore at least 3 hours to see everything, very informative!"
Glenda Fowler
"I had the most wonderful time at the reenactment there everyone was so professional and quite informative the reenactors were wonderful at learn so much I knew a lot but I learned so much more about the hotel it was fabulous thank you very much"
trina weir
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Exchange Hotel is located in Gordonsville, Virginia. It's easily accessible by car. Many visitors arrive via personal vehicle, and parking is typically available nearby.
Public transportation options to Gordonsville might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus routes or consider ride-sharing services if you're not driving.
Using GPS navigation is recommended. Search for 'Exchange Hotel Civil War Museum Gordonsville VA' to get accurate directions.
Gordonsville is a historic town with other points of interest. You can explore the town's charm after your museum visit.
Driving times vary, but it's roughly 1.5-2 hours from Richmond and 2-2.5 hours from Washington D.C.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary. It's best to check the official website or contact the museum directly for the most current pricing information.
For general admission, it's often possible to purchase tickets upon arrival. However, for special events like paranormal investigations, advance booking is highly recommended.
Hours can change seasonally. Always verify the current operating schedule on their official website before your visit.
Yes, besides general admission, the museum sometimes offers specialized tours, such as paranormal investigations, which require separate tickets. +1
Inquire directly with the museum about potential group rates or student discounts.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find extensive exhibits detailing the hotel's history and its role as a Civil War hospital, including surgical tools and medical artifacts. +1
Most visitors find that 3 hours is sufficient to explore all three floors of exhibits thoroughly.
Photography is generally not permitted inside the museum.
While not always explicitly advertised, staff members are often very informative. Special paranormal tours are also offered.
The museum has multiple floors. It's advisable to contact them directly to inquire about accessibility for specific needs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Exchange Hotel itself does not typically have a restaurant. However, Gordonsville offers several local dining establishments.
Outside food and beverages are usually not permitted inside the museum exhibits.
Gordonsville has a charming downtown area with various cafes and restaurants offering local cuisine.
There isn't a dedicated cafe or snack bar inside the museum.
Ask the museum staff for recommendations on nearby eateries; they often know the best local spots.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, exterior photography is generally allowed and encouraged to capture the historic building.
While interior photography is prohibited, sharing exterior photos on social media is common.
The front facade and the surrounding grounds offer great opportunities for capturing the hotel's historic charm.
Drone usage is typically subject to local regulations and may require special permission. It's best to check with the museum or local authorities.
Since interior photography is not allowed, you won't be able to photograph the exhibits directly. Focus on the historical information and atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For younger visitors, focusing on the historical context of the building and the stories of the soldiers can be more engaging than dwelling on the more intense aspects. Consider visiting during regular daytime hours for a less intense atmosphere.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
Booking a dedicated paranormal tour is highly recommended to fully immerse yourself in the hotel's spectral side. These tours often involve using ghost hunting equipment and exploring the building during its most active hours.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond its hospital role, the hotel's original architecture and its strategic location near the railroad junction offer further historical context. Engaging with the informative staff can also provide deeper insights into the local history of Gordonsville.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Exchange Hotel's Civil War Legacy
During its time as a hospital, the Exchange Hotel treated an astonishing 70,000 soldiers. The sheer volume of wounded and sick men overwhelmed the facility, leading to difficult conditions and a high mortality rate. Typhoid fever and diarrhea were rampant, claiming many lives.
The historical significance of the Exchange Hotel extends beyond its medical role. It stands as a testament to the profound impact of the Civil War on civilian infrastructure and the lives of ordinary people. Visitors often leave with a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made and the harsh conditions endured by those who passed through its doors.
Exploring the Paranormal Reputation
Many TikTok creators have documented their investigations and experiences within the hotel, sharing eerie encounters and theories about the lingering spirits of soldiers and doctors.
While the paranormal claims are a significant draw, it's important to approach these experiences with an open mind. The historical context of the hotel as a place of immense suffering undoubtedly contributes to its eerie atmosphere. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, the Exchange Hotel offers a compelling and often spine-chilling journey into the past.
![Jefferson School African American Heritage Center - Throat exams Contributor(s): United States. Children's Bureau. Publication: [19--?] Format: Still image Subject(s): African America Genre(s): Pictorial Works Abstract: Interior view of a childrens' health clinic; an African American child is having his throat examined, other children are sitting against a wall awaiting their turns. Extent: 1 photographic print : 21 x 26 cm. Technique: black and white NLM Unique ID:101448734 NLM Image ID: A029845 Permanent Link: resource.nlm.nih.gov/101448734](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.unsplash.com%2Fphoto-1676285885390-486f6cc426a3%3Fcrop%3Dentropy%26cs%3Dtinysrgb%26fit%3Dmax%26fm%3Djpg%26ixid%3DM3w3ODc2Nzh8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxKZWZmZXJzb24lMjBTY2hvb2wlMjBBZnJpY2FuJTIwQW1lcmljYW4lMjBIZXJpdGFnZSUyMENlbnRlcnxlbnwwfDB8fHwxNzU4NTM3NzM1fDA%26ixlib%3Drb-4.1.0%26q%3D80%26w%3D1080&w=3840&q=75)
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit