The First Battle of Manassas, also known as Bull Run, was the first major land battle of the American Civil War.
Thomas 'Stonewall' Jackson earned his famous nickname during the First Battle of Manassas when another officer noted he stood like a stone wall.
The park contains the site of the Deep Cut, where the largest mass grave of the Second Battle of Manassas is located.
Before the war, the area served as a crucial railroad junction for the Manassas Gap and Orange and Alexandria railroads.
The Stone Bridge, which spans Bull Run, was a critical bottleneck for retreating Union forces in 1861.
A portion of the battlefield was preserved early on by the Manassas Battlefield Confederate Park Association, which predates the National Park Service's acquisition of the site.
Manassas National Battlefield Park preserves the site of two major American Civil War engagements: the First Battle of Manassas in 1861 and the Second Battle of Manassas in 1862. The park spans over 5,000 acres and features extensive walking trails that traverse the historic landscapes where these conflicts occurred. Visitors can explore the Henry House, which served as a focal point during the first battle and houses remnants of the conflict. The park serves as a primary resource for interpreting the shift from the expectation of a short war to a prolonged, bloody struggle. Multiple self-guided trails include the Brawner Farm loop and the Stone Bridge trail, which provide access to strategic vantage points. The visitor center offers exhibits that detail the logistical and tactical maneuvers of both the Union and Confederate armies. As of mid-2026, the park remains open for year-round historical interpretation and recreational use.
The Henry House Hill overlook, providing a panoramic view of the primary conflict zone.
Start at the visitor center to pick up a map and view the battlefield orientation film before heading onto the trails.
Bring binoculars for bird watching and viewing distant terrain markers across the large open fields.
Wear sturdy footwear, as many of the historical trails consist of uneven dirt, tall grass, and rocky terrain.
Do not attempt to walk the entire 5,000-acre site in a single visit; focus on one specific battle area to avoid exhaustion.
The visitor center may have reduced operations during major federal holidays.
Maintain a respectful demeanor as the site serves as a military grave and memorial; metal detecting and artifact removal are strictly prohibited.
