National Historical Park · Pennsylvania
Valley Forge National Historical Park
Valley Forge is the place where George Washington and the Continental Army took refuge during the winter of 1777-1778. Today the park protects 3,500 acres of meadows, woodlands, historic landscapes, and monuments commemorating the resolve of the Revolutionary War generation and honoring the power of people to pull together, overcome adversity, and find renewal through transformation.
Things to do
- Auto and ATV
- Scenic Driving
- Biking
- Fishing
- Fly Fishing
- Guided Tours
- Self-Guided Tours - Walking
- Self-Guided Tours - Auto
- Hiking
- Horse Trekking
- Living History
- Historic Weapons Demonstration
- First Person Interpretation
- Junior Ranger Program
- Wildlife Watching
- Birdwatching
- Park Film
- Museum Exhibits
- Shopping
- Bookstore and Park Store
Weather & when to go
Winters at Valley Forge are cold and damp with a cool spring and fall and a hot and humid summer. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for outdoor recreation during the snowy winter season. Find more detailed weather information on the <a href=https://www.nps.gov/vafo/planyourvisit/weather.htm>Weather page.</a>
Operating hours
Park Grounds
The park grounds including roads, parking lots, trails, and monuments are open from 7am to dark (30 minutes after sunset) year round. Park grounds remain open on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day.
Washington's Headquarters
Washington's Headquarters has summer hours and winter hours. Summer hours (when the house is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM) go into effect on Monday, March 23rd, 2026. Winter hours (when the house is open daily, 10 AM to 4 PM) go into effect on the first Sunday in November when Daylight Savings Time ends (Nov 1, 2026) and continue until Dec 31. Winter hours in the new year (when the house is open weekends only, 10 AM to 4 PM) go into effect on Jan 1.
FAQ
- Is Valley Forge National Historical Park free to visit?
- Valley Forge National Historical Park does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
- What are the hours at Valley Forge National Historical Park?
- The park grounds including roads, parking lots, trails, and monuments are open from 7am to dark (30 minutes after sunset) year round. Park grounds remain open on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day.
- Do I need a reservation for Valley Forge National Historical Park?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Valley Forge National Historical Park. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.
Keep exploring
More parks in Pennsylvania.