Henry Hill

PARK OVERVIEW

Manassas National Battlefield Park preserves the location of two Civil War battlefields. The First Battle of Manassas (aka First Bull Run) was the first major battle of the war, taking place on July 21, 1861, three months after the Confederates attacked Fort Sumter. The Union felt that an easy victory was at hand and a quick end to the conflict would be the result. All that hope went up in smoke when the Confederates pulled out a last minute victory, sending the Union soldiers back to Washington.

A little over a year later on August 28, 1862, the two sides met again at the Second Battle of Manassas (aka Second Bull Run). This three-day battle was much bigger and much bloodier than the first. The Confederates were once again the victors, and this paved the way for General Robert E. Lee’s army to invade Maryland, the first and only Confederate push into Union territory. The fighting would culminate at Antietam less than a month later. This would be the most devastating battle of the war.

Visitors can learn about the First Battle of Manassas via a series of walking trails. The Second Manassas battlefield can be toured by vehicle. There are twelve stops on the tour. Short loop trails that further enhance the battlefield experience are located at most stops. Overall, there are roughly forty miles of hiking trails in the park.

For those who have their own horses, there are twenty miles of bridle trails available for horseback riding. Trailer parking is allowed at the Brownsville Picnic Area. Unfortunately, there are no bike trails, and the roads through the park are major highways.

A museum dedicated to the First Battle of Manassas is located in the Henry Hill Visitor Center. Information on the Second Battle of Manassas can be found at the Brawner Farmhouse. In addition to these two buildings, the historic Stone House is open at various times during the tourist season.

There are picnic facilities at the Brownsville Picnic Area and at Stuart’s Hill. Neither are geared for large gatherings, but they are perfect for those who want a bite to eat while visiting the park. The Brownsville facility has a covered pavilion and grills.

OPERATING HOURS

• The Henry Hill Visitor Center is open every day except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Hours are from 8:30 AM to 5 PM.
• The Brawner Farmhouse is open daily except for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Hours are from 9 AM to 5 PM.
• The Stone House is open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and on weekends only in April, May, September, October, and November. It is closed the rest of the year.
• The Henry House is typically open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day when staffing allows.
• All hiking and bridle trails are open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Times can always change, so before making travel plans be sure to visit the official Manassas National Battlefield Park’s Operating Hours and Seasons web page for the latest schedule.

FEES

There is no fee to enter Manassas National Battlefield Park.

SCHEDULING YOUR TIME

Henry Hill Visitor Center and Museum
allow 1.5 hours

Brawner Farm
allow 1.5 hours

Ranger-guided tour of Henry Hill
allow 1 hour

Second Manassas Ranger Talk
allow 30 minutes

Ranger-guide tour of Brawner Farm
allow 45 minutes

Hiking Trails
allow 1 hour + per trail

Second Manassas Battlefield Automobile Tour
• with hiking trails, allow at least 1 full day and possibly part of a second day
• without trails, allow 3-4 hours

Back to the Top