Learn about History at Antietam National Battlefield

Few places illustrate the terrible cost of war like Antietam National Battlefield, scene of the bloodiest day's battle in the Civil War. On September 17, 1862, the Union army, coming from the east, met Robert E. Lee's Confederates, approaching from the west. In the battle that followed, nearly 23,000 men were killed, wounded, or missing in action. The Antietam National Battlefield is a well-preserved historic civil war battle site in northwestern Maryland, just a few miles from the West Virginia border.

This battlefield was the site of the bloodiest battle in American history and is a fascinating national park on the east coast that every history buff should visit. In other words, this is also one of the best things to do in Maryland. Today, the battlefield is still open countryside, studded with monuments to the regiments of both sides. The best way to start your day is at the visitors center, where you can explore the expansive museum and watch a quick but fascinating introductory film.

After you’re done exploring, head outside to the battlefield and join a park ranger for a talk or take the self-guided tour to soak in the history at your own pace. Civil War buffs will want to follow the entire eight-mile, self-guided tour route (on foot, on a bicycle, or by car); others should at least not miss the old Dunker Church, where the first clash occurred; the Sunken Road, where the next phase played out; and Burnside Bridge, where Union troops at great cost finally forced General Lee to withdraw.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/ancm/index.htm

Address: 302 E Main St, Sharpsburg, MD 21782, USA

Phone: 301-432-5124

Entrance fee: $4.00 Per Person (age 16 or older; 15 and under FREE)

Google rating: 5.0/5.0