Thomas Farm Monocacy
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Thomas Farm Monocacy

4.9
·28 reviews·Urbana, United States

Explore the historic Thomas Farm, a pivotal site of the Battle of Monocacy, where Civil War history meets scenic trails.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for hiking

CrowdLow
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Thomas Farm Monocacy

Thomas Farm Monocacy

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for hiking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the historic Thomas Farm, a pivotal site of the Battle of Monocacy, where Civil War history meets scenic trails.

4.9
(28 reviews)

"A must-see for its fascinating history and peaceful trails, despite some road noise."

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TIP

🚶‍♀️ Trail Exploration

Easy, wide trails perfect for a stroll. Dog-friendly on leash! :dog: Great for birding too. :bird:

🎧 NPS App Tour

Use the NPS app for a self-guided tour. :iphone: It brings the history to life with fascinating stories.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Thomas Farm Battlefield

Thomas Farm Battlefield

Monocacy National Battlefield

Explore the grounds where a pivotal Civil War battle unfolded, saving Washington D.C. See preserved structures and interpretive plaques.

Monocacy Battlefield Trails

Monocacy Battlefield Trails

Monocacy National Battlefield

Enjoy easy, wide-open trails with historical markers and opportunities for birding. Dog-friendly for leashed pets.

Interpretive Center & Exhibits

Interpretive Center & Exhibits

Monocacy National Battlefield Visitor Center

Gain in-depth knowledge about the Battle of Monocacy and its significance through informative exhibits and displays.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Thomas Farm at Monocacy National Battlefield is a historical site, not a typical farm attraction. Visit during daylight hours for the best experience exploring the battlefield and trails. Check the National Park Service website for any special events or ranger programs.

Respect the History

This is a significant Civil War battlefield. While dog-friendly on trails, remember to keep pets leashed and clean up after them. The landscape and structures are preserved to reflect the historical period.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for hiking
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Good for self-guided tours
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

WELCOME BACK🎉 Opening Day is TOMORROW! 🎃 We’ll be here 10am–6pm with 50% off pumpkins + corn maze, cow train, Kid Land, food trucks, beer & wine bar, paintball, yard games & more. 🍂✨ Come make the most of fall at the farm! 🌞🌽
@thomasfamilyfarm
2.6K likes • 39.5K views

🚶‍♀️ Trail Exploration

Easy, wide trails perfect for a stroll. Dog-friendly on leash! :dog: Great for birding too. :bird:

🎧 NPS App Tour

Use the NPS app for a self-guided tour. :iphone: It brings the history to life with fascinating stories.

Monocacy Battlefield. Thomas Farm. The third Confederate attack, July 9, 1864, about 3 PM. Hi Phinn. #monocacy #civilwar #FYP #bhfyp #history #confederate #rebel #battlefield #frederick #1864
peach_orchard_publishing
50 likes • 301 views
We’re back for this years installment of “From The Field!” : This season we are going through the 1864 Valley Campaign of Jubal Early, with a focus on the fighting on July 9, 1864 at Monocacy Junction! : Part Fifteen: The Battle Of Monocacy - Thomas Farm Pt. 1 : Battle footage owned by @lionheartfilmworks - “No Retreat From Destiny” : #TheHistoryThingsPodcast #FromTheField #1864 #ValleyCampaign #...
thehistorythingspodcast
10 likes • 92 views

🚗 Road Noise Alert

Be aware of road noise from I-270. :car: It can be noticeable on parts of the battlefield.

📜 Historical Plaques

Read the plaques for battle details. :scroll: They offer great context for the events that happened here.

A late Monocacy Monday, but we are out on the Thomas Farm Trail, checking in on one of our newest trail extensions here at Monocacy National Battlefield. It was near this high ground that Federal forces made a final stand aroumd 4pm on July 9, 1864 after being forced across Thomas Farm. The Federal lines stretched from near the Monocacy River to the north, all the way to the Baker Valley Road so...
monocacynps
95 likes • 668 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Trail Exploration

Easy, wide trails perfect for a stroll. Dog-friendly on leash! :dog: Great for birding too. :bird:

🎧 NPS App Tour

Use the NPS app for a self-guided tour. :iphone: It brings the history to life with fascinating stories.

🚗 Road Noise Alert

Be aware of road noise from I-270. :car: It can be noticeable on parts of the battlefield.

📜 Historical Plaques

Read the plaques for battle details. :scroll: They offer great context for the events that happened here.

🏠 Preserved Structures

See the original farmhouse, barn, and smaller buildings. :house: They look as they did during the battle.

What Travellers Say

4.9
(28 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Thomas Farm at Monocacy Battlefield for its fascinating Civil War history and well-maintained, easy trails. The preserved farm structures and interpretive plaques offer a great historical experience. Some find the road noise from I-270 to be a drawback, but the overall historical significance and natural beauty are highly appreciated.

"Great hike around the battle field of Monocacy National battlefield. Fascinating history. The battle that saved Washington DC."

Melissa Bernstein

"Deduct one star for road noise from 270 throughout - loud. Easy wide-open trail with options by the water. Dog-friendly. Wonderful landscape and history. Good birding."

Jeff Relyea

"Another interesting story to listen to through the NPS app self guided tour."

Chris Behrman

What People Like

Fascinating Civil War history
Easy, wide trails
Preserved farm structures

What People Dislike

Road noise from I-270

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Thomas Farm is part of Monocacy National Battlefield, located near Frederick, Maryland. Access is typically via roads within the battlefield park. Use GPS coordinates for the visitor center or specific trailheads. Parking is available at designated areas. Reddit

Public transportation options to Monocacy National Battlefield are limited. It's generally recommended to travel by car. Check local Frederick transit schedules for any potential bus routes that might get you close, though direct service to the battlefield is unlikely. Reddit

Driving directions will depend on your starting point. The battlefield is accessible from I-270. Consult a GPS or mapping service for the most accurate route to the Monocacy National Battlefield visitor center or specific trail access points near Thomas Farm. Reddit

Yes, parking is available at designated areas within Monocacy National Battlefield, providing access to the trails and historical sites like Thomas Farm. Reddit

While possible, biking to Monocacy Battlefield might involve riding on roads with traffic. The battlefield itself offers trails suitable for walking and exploring. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Monocacy National Battlefield, including Thomas Farm, is generally free to enter. There are no admission fees for exploring the grounds and trails. Reddit

The grounds of Monocacy National Battlefield are typically open from dawn to dusk. The visitor center has specific operating hours, which can vary by season. Always check the official National Park Service website for the most current information. Reddit

The National Park Service occasionally hosts special events, ranger-led programs, and living history demonstrations at Monocacy Battlefield, which may include areas like Thomas Farm. Check the NPS website for schedules. InstagramReddit

No, there is no entrance fee to visit Monocacy National Battlefield. It is a unit of the National Park Service and is accessible to the public without charge. Reddit

The grounds of Monocacy National Battlefield, including Thomas Farm, are accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, visitor center hours and specific program availability will vary. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

At Thomas Farm, you can explore the historical battlefield, walk easy trails, see preserved farm structures like the farmhouse and barn, and read interpretive plaques detailing the Civil War battle. InstagramReddit

Yes, the trails around Thomas Farm and throughout Monocacy Battlefield are generally described as easy, wide-open, and well-maintained, making them suitable for most visitors. Reddit

Yes, Monocacy National Battlefield is dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. They are welcome on the trails and grounds. Reddit

Thomas Farm was a key location during the Battle of Monocacy on July 9, 1864. It was the site of intense fighting as Confederate forces attempted to flank Union lines, a battle that ultimately helped delay their advance and save Washington D.C. InstagramReddit+1

Absolutely! Thomas Farm and the surrounding battlefield offer scenic landscapes and historical structures that are great for photography. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The preserved farmhouse, barn, and open fields of Thomas Farm offer picturesque views. The surrounding battlefield landscape also provides excellent opportunities for historical and nature photography. Instagram

Yes, the rolling fields and historical structures at Thomas Farm provide a beautiful backdrop for landscape photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram

Drone operations are restricted within National Park Service sites, including Monocacy National Battlefield, unless specifically authorized. Check the NPS website for current regulations. Instagram

You can capture images of the preserved farm buildings, interpretive markers, and the terrain that was central to the Battle of Monocacy, offering a glimpse into Civil War history. Instagram+1

Exploring the various trails around Thomas Farm will reveal different perspectives of the battlefield and structures. The high ground near the river offers strategic views. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Thomas Farm at Monocacy Battlefield offers a unique blend of history and outdoor activity that can be engaging for families. The easy, wide trails are perfect for little legs, and the open fields provide space for kids to move around. The preserved farm structures, like the original farmhouse and barn, can spark imagination about life during the Civil War era. Reddit

Encourage children to read the historical plaques and imagine the events that took place. The National Park Service app can also provide engaging content. It's a great opportunity to introduce kids to American history in a tangible, outdoor setting. Remember to bring snacks and water, and be mindful of the road noise from I-270. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Monocacy National Battlefield, including the Thomas Farm area, is a dog-friendly destination. Leashed dogs are welcome on all the trails, allowing you to explore the historical grounds with your furry friend. It's a fantastic way to get some exercise together while immersing yourselves in history. Reddit

Remember to always keep your dog on a leash and be a responsible pet owner by cleaning up after them. The wide, open trails are perfect for a good walk, and the natural surroundings offer plenty of sensory stimulation for your pet. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Photographers

For history enthusiasts, Thomas Farm is a must-visit. It's a key site of the Battle of Monocacy, a crucial moment in the Civil War that helped protect Washington D.C. The preserved structures and interpretive plaques offer deep insights into the battle's events. InstagramReddit+1

Photographers will find the historical farm buildings, rolling fields, and scenic landscape ideal for capturing evocative images. The interplay of history and nature provides a unique photographic subject. Consider visiting during the golden hours for the best light. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Battle of Monocacy: A Pivotal Moment

Thomas Farm was the epicenter of the Battle of Monocacy on July 9, 1864. This engagement, though a tactical defeat for the Union, was a strategic victory. Confederate General Jubal Early's forces were delayed in their advance on Washington D.C. by the determined defense put up by Union troops, including those fighting near Thomas Farm. This delay allowed Union reinforcements to arrive and bolster the defenses of the capital, effectively saving it from capture. InstagramReddit+1

The fighting near Thomas Farm was particularly intense, with Confederate troops attempting to flank Union positions. The landscape you see today, with its preserved farm structures and open fields, is largely the same terrain where these critical maneuvers took place. Interpretive plaques scattered throughout the battlefield provide detailed accounts of troop movements and key moments of the battle. InstagramReddit

Visiting Thomas Farm offers a tangible connection to this significant event in American history. It’s a place where you can walk the same ground as soldiers from over 150 years ago and reflect on the sacrifices made. The National Park Service works to preserve this landscape, allowing visitors to experience its historical context. InstagramReddit

Exploring the Battlefield Trails

The trails at Monocacy National Battlefield, including those around Thomas Farm, are designed for accessible exploration. They are generally described as easy and wide-open, making them suitable for a leisurely walk or a family outing. These paths allow visitors to traverse the historical grounds and appreciate the natural beauty of the area. Reddit

As you walk, you'll encounter interpretive plaques that offer insights into the battle's events, troop positions, and the significance of specific locations like Thomas Farm. These markers enhance the self-guided experience, providing context without needing a formal tour. The trails also offer opportunities for birding, adding another layer of enjoyment for nature enthusiasts. Reddit

Dog owners will appreciate that the battlefield is dog-friendly, provided pets are kept on a leash and their waste is cleaned up. This makes it a great destination for those who want to explore with their canine companions. Remember to bring water for both yourself and your pet, especially during warmer months. Reddit

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