Efforts to divert the traffic have thus far been unsuccessful, owing to existing traffic volume on alternate routes. The opening of this new, temporary facility will enable construction to begin on a $12 million renovation to the current Visitor Center (built 1976). While the holidays may look different this year, one thing is for certain there are ways to find joy…, With 2020 being the year it has been, we are all looking for a bit of an escape. The park is popular with groups of all ages, from elementary school field trips and scout troop outings to motorcoach tours. Our Story . As a park in an increasingly urbanized area, Valley Forge faces problems including traffic, urban sprawl, and an overpopulation of white-tailed deer. On December 14, 2018 the National Park Service opened a new 5,760 square-foot Visitor Center within Valley Forge … If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. Burk was also instrumental in the development of the park, including obtaining Washington's campaign tent and banner, which used to be on display in the visitor center but is now in the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia. Historical Valley Forge Memorial Gardens, located in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, was established in 1915 on farmland that dates back to the late 1600s. Next door to the train station is the main reason to visit Valley Forge National Historical Park. Valley Forge National Historical Park commemorates more than the collective sacrifices and dedication of the Revolutionary War generation, it pays homage to the ability of everyday Americans to pull together and overcome adversity during extraordinary times. However, neither the Upper Forge site nor the Lower Forge site has been reconstructed. Mountain Biking Valley Forge Park River Trail Add a review #56 of 297 mountain bike trails in Pennsylvania #2,423 in the world. The chapel is the legacy of Rev. Also owned by the park, the station, both platforms and the former parking area are in a state of disrepair.[19]. Surrounded by 3,500 acres of rolling green meadows and towering trees, The Philander Chase Knox Estate provides an oasis of natural beauty for your rustic and elegant event. Nearby, there are fun activities and attractions such as Valley Forge National Historical Park, Maurice Stephens House, and Varnum's Picnic Area for friends and family to enjoy. Staffed 10-4 weekends. The station was completed in 1911 by the Reading Railroad and was the point of entry to the park for travelers who came by rail through the 1950s from Philadelphia, 23.7 miles (38.1 km) distant. of the Soldiery. The arch was commissioned by an act of the 61st Congress in 1910 and completed in 1917. There are also several historical buildings that have not been made open to the public because of reasons such as their current state of disrepair. Valley Forge National Historical Park is located just 18 miles west of Center City Philadelphia and is easily accessible from New York City, Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. An overpopulation of white-tailed deer has resulted in "changes in the species composition, abundance, and distribution of native plant communities and associated wildlife" in the park. The bell tower houses the Daughters of the American Revolution Patriot Rolls, listing those that served in the Revolutionary War, and the chapel grounds hosted the World of Scouting Museum.[16]. VALLEY FORGE PARK ALLIANCE Your Oasis. The tower was closed in the 1980s because of deterioration, liability concerns, and the surrounding trees outgrowing the platform. Sitting atop a hill at the intersection of the Outer Line of Defense with the Gulph Road, the National Memorial Arch dominates the southern portion of the park. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and nature trips. Inspired by Burk's 1903 sermon on Washington's birthday, the chapel is a functioning Episcopal Church, built as a tribute to Washington. Please update this article to reflect recent events or newly available information. Check flight prices and hotel availability for your visit. Retail Sales Locations MBTA riders can purchase tickets and passes for the Commuter Rail, bus, subway, and ferry at stores located throughout the Greater Boston and Providence areas. The main trail is the Joseph Plumb Martin Trail, which encircles 8.7 miles of the park. With maps, photos and loaded with historical information. [15] The chapel and attached bell tower are not technically part of the park but serve the spiritual needs of the park and the community that surround it. Through the years, the park has grown to be much more than historic site. Valley Forge was designated a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 1961 and was listed in the initial National Register of Historic Places in 1966. 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