The crucial but little known Battle of Monocacy occurred during the last Confederate invasion of the north, which began when Confederate General Jubal Early pushed toward Washington, DC, with 15,000 troops. A Union force of 6600, led by General Lew Wallace, clashed with the rebels here on July 9, 1864, delaying their march by one day. This delay gave Union reinforcements time to organize, ultimately saving the nation's capital. Hiking trails and a driving tour stop by key battle sights.
Monocacy National Battlefield
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
20.38 MILES
A relative newcomer to the Loudon district, this solar-powered 20-acre winery in the Waterford Cluster incorporates meticulously restored and rebuilt…
11.17 MILES
On a bluff overlooking the Potomac, this 475-acre estate is one of the most attractive vineyards in Virginia. The winery has a 6000-sq-ft cave/cellar, and…
20.29 MILES
The best-known vineyard in the Loudoun Heights cluster, Breaux produces a wide range of wines, the best of which are the the Madeleine Chardonnay and the…
Harpers Ferry National Historic Park
19.79 MILES
Historic buildings and museums are accessible to those with passes, which can be found, along with parking and shuttles, north of town at the Harpers…
19.84 MILES
The site of the bloodiest day in American history is now, ironically, supremely peaceful, quiet and haunting – and uncluttered, save for plaques and…
2.54 MILES
Originally a flood control project, this mile-long walking path stretches along Carroll Creek between S Bentz St and S East St, all just south of the…
18.23 MILES
At the southern end of Potomac St, just a few steps from the lower town, take in a view of three states – Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia – from the…
18.3 MILES
Across from Arsenal Sq and one of the park's museums, this three-room gallery gives a fine overview (through videos and period relics) of the events…
Nearby attractions
2.54 MILES
Originally a flood control project, this mile-long walking path stretches along Carroll Creek between S Bentz St and S East St, all just south of the…
2. National Museum of Civil War Medicine
2.63 MILES
The National Museum of Civil War Medicine gives a fascinating, and sometimes gruesome, look at the health conditions soldiers and doctors faced during the…
11.17 MILES
On a bluff overlooking the Potomac, this 475-acre estate is one of the most attractive vineyards in Virginia. The winery has a 6000-sq-ft cave/cellar, and…
4. Brunswick Visitor Center & Rail Museum
13.22 MILES
The C&O Canal's little Brunswick Visitor Center doubles as the Brunswick Rail Museum. As quiet as this town is, it was once home to the largest rail yard …
13.24 MILES
This tiny park is a fascinating tribute to a profession that doesn't lend itself to many memorials: that of war correspondents. Civil War correspondent…
15.01 MILES
This family-friendly winery provides an intimate but informal tasting experience. Winemaker Doug Fabbioli is best known for the big dry reds he produces:…
15.18 MILES
It's tough to go wrong with Elk Run Vineyards, almost exactly halfway between Mt Airy and New Market. Stop by for the bucolic views, the cab franc and the…
17.44 MILES
The woods here hug Seneca Creek, which winds a twisty course to the Potomac. Miles of hiking and biking trails await, as well as boating opportunities in…