Stones River National Battlefield - The entrance to the Vicksburg National Military Park (and battlefield).
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Stones River National Battlefield

4.8
·3k reviews·Murfreesboro, United States

Explore a pivotal Civil War battlefield with a visitor center, museum, and marked trails, plus a humbling national cemetery.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Stones River National Battlefield - The entrance to the Vicksburg National Military Park (and battlefield).

Stones River National Battlefield

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a pivotal Civil War battlefield with a visitor center, museum, and marked trails, plus a humbling national cemetery.

4.8
(3k reviews)

"Pretty immersive experience. I can clearly see how the landscape would give an advantage in battle."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive or Walk the Tour

Utilize the marked stops and audio guide for a comprehensive tour, or explore the trails on foot . :walking: :car:

🎧 Audio Guide is Key

The phone guide system provides narratives for each area, bringing the battlefield's history to life . :iphone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hazen Brigade Monument

Hazen Brigade Monument

Battlefield

The oldest Civil War monument still standing in its original battlefield location.

Stones River National Cemetery

Stones River National Cemetery

Across the street from the battlefield

A humbling and solemn resting place for soldiers who fought and died in the battle.

Visitor Center & Museum

Visitor Center & Museum

Main entrance

Informative exhibits and helpful staff detailing the battle's significance and impact.

Slaughter Pen Area

Slaughter Pen Area

Battlefield trail

Experience the terrain that offered strategic advantages during one of the Civil War's bloodiest battles.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for History & Nature

Plan your visit to Stones River National Battlefield to coincide with living history events for an immersive experience.TikTok Consider visiting during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful trails, especially if you're interested in nature photography.TikTok+1

Navigating the Battlefield

The battlefield offers a visitor center with informative exhibits and a gift shop.Reddit You can explore via car or on foot, with marked trails and designated parking stops for a self-guided tour using an audio narrative system.Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
During living history events
Why
Immersive historical reenactments
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for hiking & nature
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Stones River National battlefield in Murfreesboro Tennessee hosts a centenary, visitors center, museum, and trails amongst one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War, and is managed by the National park service. #civilwar #historic #battlefield #trails #murfreesboro
@touringtennessee
20 likes • 534 views

🚗 Drive or Walk the Tour

Utilize the marked stops and audio guide for a comprehensive tour, or explore the trails on foot.Reddit+1 :walking: :car:

🎧 Audio Guide is Key

The phone guide system provides narratives for each area, bringing the battlefield's history to life.Reddit+1 :iphone:

Walk with me through the Stones River Battlefield in Murfreesboro, TN. Witness the land where this pivotal Civil War battle was fought that led to the Emancipation Proclamation. #hikes #tn #murfreesboro #walking #trails #battlefield #civilwar #stonesrivernationalbattlefield #stonesriver #nationalpark #livinglovingnashville #heatherbreclrealestate #luxuryhomeswithheather
@livinglovingnashville
20 likes • 736 views
The Clarke Family | Stones River National Battlefield Partnership with Law Offices of W. Scott Kimberly * * * #nashvillefamilyphotography #nashvilletnphotographer #nashvillephotography #nashvillephotographers #nashvillephotos #nashvilletn #nashvillephotographer #familyphotosession #familyphotographers #familyportraiturephotographer #portraits_today #photoshootlover #photoshootday #photoshoot📸 #in...
mary.margaretphotography
3 likes • 186 views

🌿 Watch for Ticks

Be aware of ticks, especially during warmer months, and take precautions when hiking the trails.Reddit :bug:

🏛️ Visit the Cemetery

Don't miss the National Cemetery across the street for a humbling historical perspective.Reddit :gravestone:

We are provided with these nationally protected places so we can visit, learn, and understand our country’s history.  Stones River National Battlefield Field is in Tennessee, and both sides of the army lost 1/3 of their troops during this bloody battle. On December 31st, the battle began and finally ended on January 2nd. 23,525 casualties were lost during this battle.  Areas in the park have ear...
jpicard_1713
9 likes • 326 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive or Walk the Tour

Utilize the marked stops and audio guide for a comprehensive tour, or explore the trails on foot.Reddit+1 :walking: :car:

🎧 Audio Guide is Key

The phone guide system provides narratives for each area, bringing the battlefield's history to life.Reddit+1 :iphone:

🌿 Watch for Ticks

Be aware of ticks, especially during warmer months, and take precautions when hiking the trails.Reddit :bug:

🏛️ Visit the Cemetery

Don't miss the National Cemetery across the street for a humbling historical perspective.Reddit :gravestone:

📅 Check for Events

Living history events and ceremonies offer a unique and immersive way to experience the battlefield.TikTok+1 :calendar:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Stones River National Battlefield for its historical significance, informative visitor center, and well-maintained grounds. The audio guide system and marked trails enhance the immersive experience, while the adjacent National Cemetery offers a humbling perspective. Some visitors note the presence of ticks during warmer months.

"Nice piece of history here. I always enjoy learning about these places and arrived as they were starting a reenactment. Nice little museum and gift shop. There is also the cemetery across the street that is quite humbling in my opinion. Check it out sometime!!"

Shaun Pelkey

"Pretty immersive experience. I can clearly see how the landscape would give an advantage in battle. Especially around the "Slaughter Pen" area. I expected a lot less and ended up spending almost three hours touring the multiple exhibits and using the phone guide system. There are 5 designated stops for parking and touring and multiple trails that are marked and clear. Ticks are out in abundance today but other than that this was a great little history buffer."

Michael Richardson

"Very nice visitor center and very informative attendees. Cost is free. You can drive or walk the main tour. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did."

Chad Hendershot

What People Like

Informative visitor center
Well-marked trails
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Presence of ticks

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Stones River National Battlefield is located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. It's easily accessible by car, with clear signage directing visitors from major roadways. The visitor center is the primary entry point for most visitors.TikTok+1

Yes, there are multiple designated parking areas throughout the battlefield, allowing visitors to stop and explore different points of interest. Some trails are paved and drivable, while others are dirt paths.TikTokReddit

Public transportation options to Stones River National Battlefield are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Local ride-sharing services may be an option from Murfreesboro.

The visitor center and some paved trails are generally accessible. However, some of the natural trails may be uneven or unpaved, which could pose challenges for wheelchairs and strollers.TikTok

Visitors can drive to designated stops and explore on foot, or follow the marked trails. An audio guide system, accessible via phone, provides historical context for each area.Reddit+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Stones River National Battlefield is free. The visitor center, museum, and grounds are open to the public without charge.Reddit

The park grounds are typically open from dawn to dusk. The visitor center and museum have specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official National Park Service website for the most current hours.TikTok

While there isn't always a formal guided tour, park rangers often lead interpretive programs. Checking the schedule at the visitor center or the park's website is recommended to enhance your visit.Instagram

Yes, Stones River National Battlefield occasionally hosts living history events and reenactments, particularly around significant dates like the anniversary of the battle.TikTok+1 These events offer a unique glimpse into the past.

Yes, the National Cemetery is adjacent to the battlefield and is also free to visit. It's a significant part of the historical site.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the battlefield trails, visit the informative visitor center and museum, see historical monuments like the Hazen Brigade Monument, and walk through the National Cemetery.TikTokReddit+1

Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits and driving or walking the battlefield tour. You could easily spend longer if you enjoy hiking the extensive trails.Reddit

Yes, there are several marked hiking trails, ranging from paved paths to dirt trails, offering opportunities to explore the battlefield and surrounding nature.TikTok+2

Dogs are allowed on the trails at Stones River National Battlefield but must be kept on a leash. They are not permitted in buildings like the visitor center.TikTok

The Slaughter Pen is a historically significant area of the battlefield known for intense fighting due to its terrain, which offered tactical advantages.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Hazen Brigade Monument, the rolling hills of the battlefield, the solemn rows of headstones in the National Cemetery, and the natural landscapes along the trails offer excellent photographic opportunities.TikTokInstagram+1

As a National Park Service site, drone usage is typically restricted. It's best to check the official NPS regulations for Stones River National Battlefield regarding drone operation.

Visitors often capture historical monuments, the cemetery, and the natural beauty of the landscape. Many also focus on capturing the atmosphere and historical significance of the site.TikTok

Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light, ideal for landscape and monument photography. Golden hour can create a dramatic atmosphere.TikTok

If you are photographing individuals or families for personal use, it's generally acceptable. For commercial photography, permits may be required. Always be respectful of other visitors and the solemn nature of the site.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Stones River National Battlefield offers a blend of history and outdoor activity that can engage families. The visitor center provides an introduction to the Civil War through exhibits and a short video.Reddit Kids can enjoy exploring the marked trails, which offer opportunities for walking and observing nature.TikTok+1 The concept of a battlefield can be a powerful way to teach children about history in a tangible setting.

Consider utilizing the audio guide system, which can make the historical narratives more accessible and engaging for younger minds. The National Cemetery, while somber, can also be a learning opportunity about remembrance and sacrifice. Look for any ranger-led programs that might be tailored for families. Remember to bring comfortable shoes and be mindful of ticks, especially during warmer months.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Enthusiasts & Reenactment Fans

For those passionate about Civil War history, Stones River National Battlefield is a must-visit. The site preserves a crucial battleground and offers a wealth of information through its visitor center, museum, and extensive battlefield tour.TikTokReddit The audio guide system is particularly valuable for in-depth understanding of troop movements and key events.Reddit

Keep an eye out for special events like living history demonstrations and reenactments, which provide an immersive experience and a chance to see history come alive.TikTok These events can offer unique perspectives and insights that go beyond static exhibits. The National Cemetery also provides a profound connection to the human element of the conflict.Reddit

🌳 Nature Lovers & Hikers

Beyond its historical significance, Stones River National Battlefield is a beautiful natural area with well-maintained trails. Hikers can enjoy a variety of paths, from paved, drivable routes to more natural, wooded trails.TikTok+2 The landscape offers opportunities for birdwatching, observing local flora, and enjoying peaceful walks.TikTok

Consider visiting during the spring or fall for pleasant hiking weather and vibrant natural scenery.TikTok Remember to wear appropriate footwear and take precautions against ticks.Reddit The trails offer a refreshing way to experience the site, combining outdoor activity with a connection to history.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Battle of Stones River: A Turning Point

The Battle of Stones River, fought from December 31, 1862, to January 2, 1863, was a pivotal engagement in the Western Theater of the American Civil War.TikTok It was one of the bloodiest battles of the war, with over 23,000 casualties combined.Instagram The Union victory here was crucial, bolstering morale and paving the way for the Emancipation Proclamation.TikTokInstagram The battle's outcome significantly impacted the Union's control in Middle Tennessee.

The battlefield itself is a testament to the ferocity of the fighting. Areas like the 'Slaughter Pen' highlight the challenging terrain that played a significant role in the battle's dynamics.Reddit The landscape, with its rolling hills and strategic natural features, would have been a formidable obstacle for soldiers.Reddit Much of the original battlefield has unfortunately been lost to development over time, a point noted by historians.TikTok

Today, Stones River National Battlefield preserves a significant portion of this historic ground. Visitors can explore marked trails, learn from the visitor center's exhibits, and reflect at the National Cemetery, which honors the fallen soldiers.TikTokReddit The site serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during this critical period in American history.Instagram

Exploring the Battlefield Trails and Nature

Stones River National Battlefield offers a network of trails that cater to various interests, from history buffs to nature enthusiasts. Visitors can choose between paved, drivable paths that connect key historical points or explore more natural, dirt trails that wind through wooded areas.TikTokReddit These trails provide an opportunity to not only understand the battlefield's layout but also to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.TikTok+1

Many visitors enjoy the hiking opportunities, with trails ranging in length and difficulty. The 'Stones River Battlefield Trail Loop' is a popular choice, offering a substantial hike.TikTok Along these paths, you might encounter diverse flora and fauna, including interesting plants like milkweed and even wildlife such as deer.TikTokInstagram The peaceful atmosphere of the trails makes it a great spot for a reflective walk or a nature photography outing.TikTok

When planning your hike, it's important to be prepared. As with many outdoor areas, ticks can be present, so taking precautions is advised.Reddit The trails are generally well-marked, making it easy to navigate and enjoy the historical and natural aspects of the battlefield.TikTok

The Stones River National Cemetery

Adjacent to the main battlefield is the Stones River National Cemetery, a poignant and humbling site that honors the Union soldiers who perished during the battle.TikTokReddit The cemetery features rows of uniform headstones, many marked with a grave number, name, and state, interspersed with blocks indicating only a grave number.TikTok It's a stark reminder of the immense human cost of the Civil War.

Walking through the cemetery offers a moment of quiet reflection and a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made. It's a place where visitors can pay their respects and connect with the history of the conflict on a personal level.Reddit The sheer number of graves underscores the battle's intensity and its lasting impact.

Many visitors find the cemetery to be a deeply moving experience, often described as humbling. It's an integral part of the Stones River National Battlefield experience, providing a complete picture of the historical event and its aftermath.Reddit

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