Stones River National Battlefield Reviews

We volunteered for a clean up event at the Stone's River Battlefield today. The part of the Battlefield we were on is not connected to the main site. It is accessed by turning off NW Broad onto Van Cleve. It is a beautiful piece of the park. There are shady trees and large limestone outcroppings that are perfect for taking pictures. You can also follow the trail marked with historic markers and see a nice view of the Stone's River.

There is a Visitor Centre with a lot to see. Across the road is the main cemetery and a trail to follow of thy key battle points. Very evocative and really good. No charge. Closes at 5pm.

Stones River battle resulted in the 6th most casualties of any Civil War battle, more than well-known Antietam, Shiloh and Fredericksburg, but seems to be overshadowed by these and other more famous battlefields for some reason. I was therefore glad I could visit the battlefield to learn more about it. And the visitor center provides good background to start an auto tour that includes 6 auto stops. Unfortunately, only about half of the battlefield is preserved. While this includes key sites like Hell’s Half Acre and the Meat Grinder areas of the fighting, it’s hard to appreciate a battle when major sections have been developed and can’t be toured. It’s just the nature of the location in what is now a Nashville exurb, but battlefields like Shiloh and Gettysburg that preserve the full site offer fuller comprehension of the battle than Stones River does.

Found this place on accident when asking the hotel desk clerk if there were any historical sites in the area. What a pleasant surprise. Wonderful visitor center, interactive museum and reenactments of artillery and black powder rifles.

Not a huge battlefield park but it was well maintained and lots of nature trails. The park office had a nice gift shop and helpful personnel.

The battle field is a somber place to visit. It is very well done with the air conditioned inside review of what happened in December and how the boulders hurt the artillery placements.

Very educational visit. Learned things about the civil war that I was not aware of. Loved the narrative that you can access on your phone to explain the different areas.

The Ranger telling A quick story and answering our questions very clearly he had answers to every question

Great way to spend the afternoon. Love the self guided tour. The museum is really well done and very educational. The entire battlefield has a great layout with lots of trails. You can walk, run, bike or drive. Over all it’s worth stopping. The park service does a great job in keeping history preserved.

Don't pass this place up in your visit to the Nashville area! Our visit was fantastic, and we arrived just in time for a personalized caravan tour. You will find yourself immersed in history and at some points, I felt we could get a true feeling of what occurred at the site by exploring where parts of the battle actually occurred.

Walking where so many soldiers paid the ultimate sacrifice is humbling. Over 24000 soldiers died in three days .!if you like history the park will interest you .

Sadly, much of the Stones River battlefield has been gobbled up by development since the Civil War, but the park that remains and is protected by the National Park Service serves as a great monument to the events and participants who fought there... start your visit at the park headquarters, and get a map of the battlefield... at the various stops, get out of your car and walk around... the battle was fought in a December/January, so a cold day like we had will put you in the right mindset... imagine advancing or retreating across the open fields or the broken rock ground of the Slaughter Pen under fire... walk down to the ford at the McFadden Farm stop, and imagine troops retreating across the swiftly flowing river during the final day's attack... don't forget to visit the remains of Fortress Rosecrans (built after the battle), which dominated the town of Murfreesboro from that point on, and was engaged in later actions in 1864... the park area is small compared to places like Gettysburg and Shiloh, but is sufficient to give you a glimpse into the hell it was in late 1862...

The visitor center was clean and well-maintained. The staff was friendly and informative. The informational displays were well done and informative. We walked the trails but the signage is not good for people walking. It was a nice day and we got a lot of miles in walking, which was our intent, but without my nephews Pokeman Go App to guide us to some of the sites, we would have missed many of them. The map supplied in the pamphlet wasn't as helpful as it should have been. Provided a good lesson on what occurred during the Civil War. The Average rating is due to the walking tour being difficult. From other reviews, it sounds like the auto tour has much better signage. The site is free.

Great Civil War History to do on your own. Eye opening. Clean and informative Visitors Center. Park Rangers were very nice and knowledgeable.

What a great little gem the stones river battlefield national Park is! From the motor tour, hiking trails, as well as the visitor center, it’s a fine, free stop in Murfreesboro. You can always find a helpful and informative ranger inside. There’s also a nice little gift shop and very clean restrooms.

Love taking my dog here for hikes. Plenty of space to breathe some fresh air, and feel like you’re no where near town.

Tremendous amount of history about the Battle of Stones River in Dec 1862. Nearly 25,000 died here. Glad we are preserving our history in Murfreesboro.

Great to see our tax dollars at work with the Department of Interior and NPS.

If you know you War history, you’ll appreciate the visitors center. NPS were very informative and engaging.

No cost to go (thanks tax payers).

This battlefield tour is complimented by a phone prompt for each viewpoint. We drove in a car from place to place and were able to dial up a short, concise explanation of the battle and lives lost in the fight. The volunteer ranger in the visitor center was delightful to talk with and added to the enjoyment of the trip. A small but well maintained area.

We feel so grateful to live so close to this historic battle ground. We visit here often. All employees are friendly and full of knowledge. They offer different programs throughout the year and it's open 364 days a year. You cannot beat the price of FREE!!

Enjoyed the battlefield. Amazing place to visit. Loved walking around and seeing the different things there.

We did the tour last weekend. It was very interesting and historic. This was our second time visiting. We has good time. It’s worth seeing.

The Stones River National Battlefield & Cemetery is a beautiful place to visit, to learn, and to reflect on our history. It is also a wonderful place for walking, jogging, running or bicycling, and is wheelchair-friendly with wide paved walking trails and roads, Moreover, it is a great place for viewing wildflowers and a hotspot for birding.

Fall is a fabulous time to explore this national military park. The setting for this park is beautiful, as this battle was fought along the Stones River. We spent nearly the entire day going from place to place on the car tour. The video in the visitor's center helped us understand the battles.

My wife and I love Civil War history and we are glad to have visited this battlefield. It's great that the National Park Service and the American Battlefield is working hard to preserve our history. The battlefield grounds are absolutely is beautiful. The tree lined road heading to the Slaughters Pen gorgeous.

Spent almost two hours, could have spent more time there. We feel we got a good understanding of what happened by using the audio tour as we drove through the park.
Visitors Center and the tour site signs were very informative.

Our favorite sight was the Slaughters Pen. Can't imagine the chaos and horror these soldiers faced for two hours as the Confederates closed in on three sides.

Highly recommend this park to anyone who enjoys history and is a must for Civil War buffs.

My husband is a HUGE civil war buff. We loved this. It is very well taken care of and very informative. Definitely worth the trip and we will return.

This was a very interesting place with lots of history. We were able to watch a short film about the Civil War. The people working there were very informative and really knew their stuff. We road around to most of the sites.

Easy to find location. About 600 acres of a Historic Battlefield. The main Visitors Center has a lot of information and re-creations. The park rangers are friendly and very knowledgeable about the history of the battle. They have multiple canons, supply wagons, monuments and a cemetery where you can take pics. There is a great little driving/walking tour that ends up being about 6 miles. At stops along the way you can dial a number and hear pertinent info on what happened over 150 years ago on these hallowed grounds. The gates close at 5pm but once inside the gates you can finish that section of the tour. At the Visitors Center they have a great little gift shop and very clean & well maintained bathrooms. There's a 15 minute video that is a must see to set the tone of your visit. This is a great place for families to learn a little history of this great country and the struggles endured to make it that way. Enjoy 😊

This is a great place to learn about the civil war, particularly the battle of stones river, or Murfreesboro as the confederates called it. There is a federal graveyard here.

We enjoyed our visit and loved learning more about the battle. It’s a beautiful area with some very moving places and exhibits but also room for the kids to explore. The kids loved the old canons and the outdoor exhibits! The museum itself is very nice and the staff were very friendly and informative and we enjoyed chatting with them! There was a rather ill behaved dog in the shop part of the building, which we weren’t happy to see wearing a “service dog” vest, which we had to roll our eyes at. Other guests mentioned it belongs to a staff member which frankly shocked me. As a person whose family member had a REAL service dog, it’s tough to take and a bit offensive seeing fake ones masqueraded as real ones. Other than that I would recommend a visit here!

You can learn a lot just by looking at and reading the tombstone inscriptions, but there are different "areas" of the battlefield that give you more history of different battles fought, various wartime strategies involved, specific locations and landmarks, and the numbers of lives lost in these battles....this gives you a good feel for the significance of conflicts in this area, and it's easy to find your way around, and well-marked. In terms of acreage, this is not a huge battlefield,which makes it less intimidating for some.

This is a beautiful historic stop. The walking paths and trails are well maintained, with easily 3 miles of walking available. The stops are educational and somewhat awe inspiring. Definitely recommend!

First-time visitor and it won't be my last. The volunteers inside the visitors center were outstanding. The 9-minute film is very well done. Don't skimp on the walking trails. Wow!

I had no idea how huge the Stone Creek battle was. Take a guided tour, it is incredible. The National Park people are wonderful. The entire experience was incredible. 24k men lost in 3 days of horror. Unbelievable. You have got to see this when in the area.

Nice museum at the visitors center, beautiful an honour full cemetery.
The directions on the property are not many / always clear (mileage to next location)

The two year war during the War Between the States. Not really but they did start the Stones River Battle on December 31, 1862 and continued until January 2, 1863 for three days. It was one of the most costly battles of the Civil War in which 23,525 soldiers were killed, wounded, or captured. Many of the wounded died of their injuries. Both Armies lost nearly a third of their men in battle. The Union Army called it the Battle of Murfreesboro. The Visitor Center and gift shop are very nice. We watched a short movie about the battle and a ranger talk.

this is a great place to visit if your looking to enloy civil war history. Walking the actual battle fields where to two main army's met for a three day battle provided you with a good idea what it was like.

This was very informative about a civil war battle most people are unaware of. There's a short film summarizing the story and a cemetery you can walk through. The grounds are well kept.

We had a visit at the end of January. Weather was not conducive to walking the trails but the Visitors Center was exceptional. The Park Rangers were very courteous and gave good detail of what went on during the battle, also provided map of the grounds. There is a short movie about the battle is in Visitor Center. Nice exibits.

Group elementary field trip was a nightmare for chaperones. Students weren't supervised because chaperones were not apprised of the schedule nor given a map, nor any guide narrative after leaving the Slaughter Pen presentation. When asked about the lack of a map, chaperones were told, "it is on the website!" Also, because of no direction, after students were seated in the picnic area, the ranger said we went to the wrong picnic area. However, because of no instruction, we were unaware of any other area for eating. I guess that was supposed to be on the website too.
A passerby said to a chaperone, " Looks like you have lost control!" That was a spot-on observation as chaperones were given no heads up as to what was next. The ranger rode in a vehicle on ahead of the whole set of kids to the final place. It could have been a better learning experience, but instead students could have been toured and narrated as to what happened at each sign on the scavenger hunt.
I won't bring another group of students another year. The artillery activity was great. The Slaughter Pen presentation was great. The rest was a bust!

You cannot really understand history until you have visited the places of history and felt the experience of those who lived in historic times. The experience comes alive at Stones River. As usual the National Park Service does an outstanding of interpreting history and interpreting the history through the lives of those who experienced it. They have not, as of yet, succumbed to the revisionist history trend prevalent today. The videos and the exhibits are well done. Ava, the historical interpreter, introduced us to the NPS app that easily allows you to have a personal audio tours. The park still has additional restoration work to do. Fortress Rosecrans needs much work and more funding is needed for further reclamation of this historical battlefield.

While traveling thru Murfreesboro TN on a previous vacation, we had briefly stopped at the Stones River National Battlefield Visitor Center, and found it very informative. So on this years vacation we scheduled the Battlefield as a must stop. We were not disappointed, The Park Manager is excellent. He gave a very detailed account of the battle and the events that lead up to it and the aftermath, he was outstanding. We have been to many Civil War battlefields and Stones River ranks right up with the best.
There is a small museum with a video that really helps you understand what happened during the battle and the overall Western theater of the Civil War.
Overall, this is one of the nicer Civil War battlefields we have been to. we highly recommend this park.

I'm a civil war buff and went to visit a friend so we stopped here. Nice to get a different view of civil war battles being from the East

The visitor center was great with friendly rangers who were helpful and knowledgeable. The video is worth watching and guys will like the collection of rifles. The museum part was well done. There is a drive along trip that helps put the battle into perspective. You can't go wrong here.

We spend our vacations visiting different Battlefields. If you are interested in the civil war and history you will enjoy this. I find it very interesting to see where these battles took place and to see some of the ground they had to endure. And to read and see at the same time as to what happened in that spot. Let alone the wild life that you can see.

Site of the bloodiest New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day in human history, the battle at Stones River featured big names (Bragg, Rosecrans, Sheridan), big armies (80,000 men) and big consequences. You had surprise attacks, frozen mud and devastating artillery.

Stones River National Battlefield is the 6th Civil War battleground I’ve visited and easily the most compact. The driving tour can be done pretty quickly, even if you take time to wander around the “Slaughter Pen”, “Hell’s Half-Acre” or the “Chicago Board of Trade Battery”.

The Visitor Center has a nice museum and movie (which really helped me grasp the complex ebb-and-flow of battle). The Park Ranger (Ava?) was knowledgeable and helpful, as was the guy in the gift shop (lots of good stuff there…go buy something).

Despite the battle’s name, you can’t really see the Stones River itself unless you exit the Park and go a half-mile to an overlook. In fact, as the Interstate roars over the Stones River a few miles southeast, there’s not a single sign identifying the waterway or the carnage. Signage to the Battlefield from the Interstate is spotty…easy for us GPS-free drivers to get lost.

The battle at Stones River was a morale boost for the Union, a political plus for Lincoln and a final resting place for thousands. It’s definitely worth a side-trip from the Interstate.

Driving sites as well as walking trails whatever you prefer. Helpful staff 6 stops on the battlefield with good information along the driving tour very informative about the battle

Very interesting and knowledgeable staff. If your a history buff this is a place to visit. A great place to take school age children also.

My parents and I stopped into Stones River National Battlefield for a visit on our road trip north to Ohio. I knew little about this particular battle, but the locations was good for us to stop. I was thrilled by the level of detail presented in the museum/visitor’s center. It was one of the better walk-throughs I’ve done for a battlefield. The exhibits were full of information, yet they were not overly wordy. That was needed since the museum was packed that day making it difficult to linger. The battlefield itself and neighboring National Cemetery were beautiful. Some cannon and wagons were on display near the visitor center. We did a combination of some light walking and driving. This was a great stop!

We've gone to the battlefield many times. There are several areas to explore. Though my favorite time to visit is in the mornings in the fall when it is often very foggy.

We had so much fun! I loved the visitors center and trails, kids loved the cannons and cemetery! The driving part of the tour was nice to get out of the heat, with plenty of places to pull over and get a longer look. I would love to return! Also, the gift shop is terrific.

One of the easiest civil war battlefields to picture in your mind.
Do the Jr Ranger, whatever your age. It will really enhance your experience.

Just stumbled onto this on our trip as we were making a stop in Murfeesboro and had some downtime to be able to visit this battlefield. Neat little battlefield that is very accessible to walk around, drive to and spend an easy 1-2 hours here tops.

You will not be spending hours and hours here to see everything but for a a battlefield I didn't know exist before visiting, it was worth a little detour to get out and stretch our legs.

I never knew the history of Stones River and was glad we visited.

The Visitors Center has a wonderful display and short film. The driving tour, with call in narrative, is amazing and furthers the feel of what happened here.

Don't miss this!

I love history and here in Tennessee, we are steeped in it. After our visit to the Oakland’s antebellum Mansion, we had lunch then drove a short distance to the Stones River Battlefield.

My sister-in-law loves National Parks and really looked forward to this venue. We toured the visitor center and she and my brother said it was possibly the best visitor center they’ve ever seen. I had to agree, it was a virtual museum dedicated to the battlefield and the soldiers who fought and died there.

We enjoyed a short video, listened to several recordings of events during the battle, and enjoyed several displays of artifacts taken from the battlefield. The entire battlefield and visitor center are free. The visitor center gift shop is comprehensive and a great place to grab both souvenirs and historical books that further your understanding of the war.

You can take a self guided driving tour of some of the battlefield or if you like to walk, you can walk a trail that runs about 3 miles. The battlefield has numerous cannon and ammunition limbers in various locations. You will also see cutout silhouettes of soldiers in particular areas to simulate the battle lines.

Just across the street from the visitor center is the National Cemetery. Solemn and reverent.

I have no doubt I will visit this battlefield again. This little known battle resulted in 23,000 casualties...one of the highest casualty counts in the war.

If you’re a history buff, or if you are just an American who wants to know more about their country, this is a must see location.

Worth visiting just for the Slaughter Pen. McFadden Farm location has beautiful scenery. Murfreesboro has grown up around the battlefield, so the battlefield is split up. Worth the drive to get to McFadden from the main battlefield location.

We enjoyed the short movie that summarized the Civil War battle fought on this site. The Park Rangers are friendly and helpful.

Found through Ancestry site that my Great Grandfather's Brother David was buried here in Murfreesboro. My husband and I made the treck on the way back from Georgia, and got there before the visitor center was open. Fortunately for us, a wonderful Ranger was there and went in to find the exact site of my Great Uncle's grave. She gave us a short history of the place. Both Union and Confederate deceased troop, African American and Caucasion are buried here side by side. Also, there are Viet Nam and other deceased veterans of other Wars buried in Stone's River Cemetery. Placing a penny on the headstone is a tribute of respect. YOu are not supposed to place anything else on the graves. BEAUTIFUL Place.

For the past 18 years my family and I have visited Murfreesboro, TN. We always have a glimpse of Stones River. It’s probably one of the most beautiful places. Serene & calm, I’d say my prayers for those who’ve made the ultimate sacrificed for our freedom. I thank them. Each Memorial Day Weekend, a small ceremony takes place. To remember our fallen. I think this is a beautiful tradition! And I really hope, future generations will never forget. The price that was paid, for us to live as we do. God Bless America.

This is a place you could spend all day at if you have the stamina for it. I found it to be a good activity to kill some time while we waited for a flight. This would be an excellent place for hiking/walking/running. There are trails all over the place. The tour is quick if you are driving from location to location. This is a sacred place. I would recommend going here. I rated it the way I did because I felt that it lacked the ability to hold my interest for the entire time. That's just me though.

We picked a beautiful Fall day to visit the Stones River site. As with all locations, checking the NPS website first is key. Information (including visitor center hours) was up to date and accurate. Staff at the center were helpful and friendly. The museum took just the right amount of time to visit without losing the attention of our teens. It had several personal testimonies that brought individual stories to life. The driving tour using the app gave great details and made you feel that you could picture the battle around you. There were also multiple trails to walk/bike to see sites even closer. The standard video was not available in the center due to COVID, but it was viewable online. A recommended visit for anyone interested in the Civil War, history or enjoying a walk through nature.

go on a nice day weather wise because theres a beautiful walking trail theres also the information center and some really nice as well as helpful park rangers

Recently visited here with my brother, his teen daughter, and my teen son.
We went through most of the battlefield first as the Visitor's Center closes at 5 pm. We were a little confused the first day as we had no reference for the troop movements, but we were able to see much of the battlefield the first night. The paths are well marked, and you can hike through the woods or take paved paths to most areas.
The second day we started at the Visitor's Center. The staff there were helpful and friendly. The Park Manager is excellent. He was very excited to talk to us when we asked about Witness Trees (trees alive during the battle). I wish I could remember his name, he was outstanding. I have been to larger Civil War battlefields and Stones River's visitor's center staff blows away all the other park rangers I've spoken with at these more well-known parks.
There is a small museum with a video that really helps you understand what happened in Murfreesboro and what happened afterwards as far as following events in the Civil War.
The second day, we visited the National Cemetery and McFadden's Farm. Even though the Farm is a drive away from the rest of the park, it was easy enough to find. There are plenty of signs marking which way to go.
My brother and I were totally "into" this park. My niece and son were not as much, but they are also not into history.
Overall, this is one of the nicer Civil War battlefields I have been to. I highly recommend this park.

We have been to this battlefield many times as we have lived in this town most of our lives. The most recent visit was last week with my four children.

The visitors center has been redone recently and it is very professional. The stops on the either walking or driving tour are very good as well. My oldest three children did the Ranger booklet program and received a badge. The young lady that was in charge of the children's program is very good with kids, enthusiastic and helpful.

The Ranger booklets are really good as they have different activities for different age levels from younger to teen levels and are clearly marked. My children were challenged but it was not too difficult to accomplish. I think to get the badge, the child must complete 6 activities in the book and my children did 10. Some of the activities can be done in the visitors center and some can be done on the outside tour.

We did the driving tour and did not get out of the car because my toddler was being grumpy. Otherwise, we would have gotten out at the stops. On days during the Spring and Fall when the weather is not to hot or too cold, we have done the walking tours many times.

Great place to go just for peace and quiet. We are tracing our family ancestory. Went here and cleaned some of ancestors graves. Took pictures. Calming place.

Even if your not a history person, I believe this is a great place to visit. There are many different areas to visit on the site. I would recommend beginning at the visitor’s center to learn about the battle. You can drive many parts of it to see the battle grounds. Make sure you stop by the Haven Bridge Monument. It is the oldest civil war monument. It was very neat to see how well it has stood up to the elements.

Stopping at the information building is a must to get the most out of this visit.. You will learn about the Stones River battle and tremendous loss of life particularly on the Confederate side.. There is a large cemetery on the grounds and monuments, the sites are marked off and you can see at your leisure. Not an all day thing but they also cater to groups and classes of students. No cost. Free parking..

I wish we would have had more time but we were driving to Savannah and I guess maybe I bit off more than I could chew. We might have to go back again and spend more time.

We drive up and down Interstate 24 between Chicago and Florida. As we are not in a real hurry, stopping at Stone Rivers National Battlefield was very enjoyable. Starting at the Visitor Center, you learn about this battle that had significant casualties on both sides. If you stay in your car and don’t walk the grounds, you can probably do the center and the tour in about 2 hours.

Came here early to run and I was in awe of the place. It was also a rainy, foggy morning so that added to the atmosphere, but it just felt like such a sacred hallowed place, seeing all the places where battles were fought and how many gave up their lives in one of the bloodiest battles of the civil war. Definitely recommend visiting here.

What a great educational experience. Here was one of the biggest battles of the civil war which was was documented and visually easy to understand. The staff at the Battlefield Center was excellent and their presentations were very helpful. The facility was well layed out and exceptionally clean. For those who like history this is a great place to visit.

I live right beside the Stones River National Battlefield The McFadden Farm and visit it on a regular basis. It's my zen place. It's gorgeous! With the river running right through it, I can move away from everything else. It's lovely and any time of year it can help me relax or turn away from stressors.

Most shocked to encounter rude NPS Rangers here who barked orders; “Don’t use that door” (when it was clearly marked Exit), seemed pleased to tell you that there was no movie due to Covid (showing at every other NPS stop we made on this trip) & just generally negative! Jerks! The mosquitoes were in attack mode! Double spray before hiking the trails 😮

Well kept historical site. You have a motor trail and some walking trails throughout the park. Plenty of locations to learn about the Civil War history which took place here. There’s a well manicured cemetery right across the street.

There is a well done film that gives an overview of the conflict in the building, and some artifacts on display. You can either walk paved trails to various spots on the battlefield, or ride in your car, and view the stops on the park road with information plaques. There is also a beautiful cemetery to visit as well.

So Glad we stopped to visit the battlefield. It is full of so much history of our country. So much to see. Be sure to leave enough time in your schedule to fully enjoy this treasure.

This was an interesting place to visit. Very nice visitors center which is not open every day due to covid, so if you visit, be sure to check the website and pick a day when the Visitors Center is open. There is a driving tour of the battlefield which is interesting, but you don't see an much as you would at a larger battlefield like Shiloh. The US Park Service has an app which will assist your driving tour but after numerous tries, i was never able to get the app to download and I'm reasonably sure it wasn't the fault of my phone, so i think something may be wrong with the download or the app. I found Hazen's Brigade Monument very interesting. It was built in 1863 by soldiers and is the oldest civil War monument still standing on its original ground.

This national park is excellent and the audio tour was very complete. The staff was extremely friendly and knowledgeable. The only reason we give it four stars is it was difficult to orient the directions of the troops during the battles. We had to wear masks in the building, that was just fu e with us.

Definitely go see this battlefield. Start in tourist center and read about the battle followed by a nine minute movie going into details. You can tour by foot, bike, or car. The battlefield is spread out so car might be your choice if you want to see it all. The actual Stones river is down the road and you don't want to miss this part. There was nobody else there besides us so I think most people skipped it. You can use your phone to do an audio tour at each stop. Also, you have to cross the street to see Hazen Brigade memorial (one of the oldest) in "Hell's Half Acre".

Nice area with plenty of space and walking trails. Good for lesrning about the civil war battles in the area. I even saw some wildlife!

Beautiful setting for a somber memorial. There’s a lot to learn and see. I recommend taking a hike and really thinking what must it must have been like. Great place to get lost in history. Park staff are knowledgeable and helpful.

Great battlefield and cemetery that can be viewed in an hour or 2. Visitors center was closed but could call number for guided audio tour.

I've been visiting this battlefield for over 40 years. The displays are wonderful, and the rangers cool. This spot offers the best in town 5 mile hike through the woods ever, pretty flat. Shorter loops available, too!

This is a great site with lots of history. The interpretive center is a good start. The grave yard is a sobering thought of those that fought against slavery. Good signs with descriptions and explanations.

I love this place. When you go and visit it you get to watch a short film about the Civil War. If you walk the paths throughout the battlefield you get chills just knowing that brave men fought and died there. If you go to the battlefield at night..like 2 or 3am and just start snapping pictures with your camera you will see many, many orbs in your pictures. It is quite amazing.

Took a five year old here and she loved the place. This attraction is part of the National Park Service and very educational. The five year old did some activities in order to become a junior ranger. This was very exciting trip for her.

I took my 5th grade class here last year and they loved it. The guides were very knowledgeable and the museum scavenger hunt had the kids engaged. Don't miss the Slaughter Pen, it is a humbling place.

Tremendous site of the Civil War and the hard fight and bitter outcome that took place here. A must for historians and students alike

The park ranger was super helpful. I recommend watching the twenty minute movie that helps explain the time frame and battles that took place here more than 150 years ago. There is a national cemetery across the street. It is a relatively small national park site. Arrive early as the farm is off site and both places lock up by 5 pm. You need at least and hour and a half. Within an hour of Nashville. We stayed in Manchester because the hotel prices are not as high as in Nashville, but there are many hotels in Murfreesboro.

Super friendly staff , very knowledgeable !!! Nice trails for walking. Love the audible tour over your phone !!

The park ranger assigned to us was knowledgeable and provided us a good background to the Civil War as well as the battle that took place at Stony River. The museum was also very informative.

Thus tour is so educational. You will feel the effects of the war on this evening tour by lantern light. Each scene is unique to soldiers and/or their families and how the war affected their lives. It is an experience you will always remember.

I can’t count how many times I’ve driven by the sign for the battlefield and thought someday. Well today was the day! We stopped at the visitors center and got a map from one of the rangers. He told us how we should do the museum and off we went. It began with a nine minute movie and followed with several static displays. Most gripping was the bayonet used to pull dead bodies on the battlefield. Being a southern educated male I appreciated the fact that slavery was hammered into your head upon visiting the museum. We followed the map and toured the battlefield and the two cemeteries. Outstanding trip to the big city of Murfreesboro!

Great place to learn the history is the civil war and Murfreesboro amend what happened during the battle and time frame

Stones battlefield was a neat place to visit. Things were marked well. Facilities were clean. The NPS really keep this place up.

Had an enjoyable afternoon going thru the visitor center musuem. You can also drive around to different battle sites. There is also across the hghway a very large cemtetary for both the north and south soldiers. LOved the large cannons and most things were hands on.

I didn't know anything about the Battle of Stones River until working on my geneaology. This is an absolute outstanding National Park. I highly recommend downloading the NPS app and follow the tour route. Also, get out of your car and hike to spots, especially the Slaughter Pen. As with all battlefields, please be reverent. While the park is pristine and beautiful for walks, the whole reason it exists is because of the loss of human life.

Also, toward the end of the tour you can hike down to the Stones River. Definitely do that!

This park is a great half day adventure off the highway. The facilities are great as is the museum. The trails are numerous and there is.plenty of parking. Great for a picnic. The cemetery is hollowed ground and nice to reflect on all the sacrifice.

Good stop for history lovers or just to take a walk. Visitor center has displays and video about the Civil War battle. Does not take very long to go thru..but you can spend a couple hours to see all. Has cemetery to walk thru

We have driven by the sign for this place many times and finally we went for a visit. The visitor center has a nice movie and exhibit about the battle giving the visitor a good and not too complicated overview of the battle and the importance as it relates to the civil war.

The cemetery is worth a walk and there is a drive around the battlefield when you can engage yourself to the level you desire.

There are hiking trails there as well. We did not hike this time but will come back for a walk another time.

Highly recommended for any history buff.

War is Hell - and the Civil War proved it. The Stones River Battlefield was the site one of the most vicious battles of that war. Both sides had successes and failures. Almost a third of the 8!,000soldiers were killed or wounded.
The battlefield is laid out in a way that can be visited by car and on foot. Visiting the key battle areas - The Slaughter Pen, Hell's Half Acre, and the Confederate charge at Stones River - bring to life the horrors of war.

The is one of the best NHPs for battle visualization.

So much history of a tragic war. This park is beautifully kept. The cemetery is humbling to see. So much yo learn and it is put together with audio guides to enhance the story. Also a short loop drive.

We stopped here on our trip to Nashville. We did the cemetery tour, when a ranger talks about the some of the significant events of the battle and the history of the cemetery. We also did the self-guided auto tour. Definitely worth the trip

Very nice place and museum very well done. Welcoming and friendly staff. Very well documented and perfect museography.

Bring your walking shoes. A place to learn more history the American Civil War and take a nature hike.

A great national park 30 minutes south of Nashville. This is a well maintained and informative National Park that commemorates the Battle of Murfreesboro. There is a great visitor center and lots of walking paths. If you want to learn more you can travel the green-way along the Stones river to Fort Rosecrans. This will be an informative way to learn something and get a little exercise outside. Well worth a visit.

Our out of town company have really enjoyed the driving tour of this civil war battle. Unable to walk or even stand for long periods of time, they were fascinated by the wonderful visual pictures the narrator presented. Be sure and get a map of the numbered stops at the visitors center as a few are hard to locate without it. EZ to dial in and punch each stops number to hear the narration.

The Stones River National Battlefield is one of those hidden gems in the nation's public lands. The National Park Service does an excellent job of running a facility that is not only top-notch in its overall experience, but an excellent place to learn while relaxing. The Civil War isn't something taught well in many places around the country, but the opportunity to walk a battlefield, stand where soldiers fought within shouting distance of their enemies and realize how personal war really was (and is) is eye-opening. The public facilities are excellent, the staff well educated and more than willing to spend time helping with recommendations for hikes, historic spots or simply helping you identify the flora and fauna of the area. Excellent place to take a break, clear your head, and simply enjoy the outdoors- within 5 minutes of dining, lodging, and shopping.

We had only time for a short visit but were impressed by the amount of information both in the Visitors' Center and the layout of the battlefield. The personnel were friendly and helpful. There is a lot of history explained here.

Stones River National Battlefield is a great way to spend the day and fun for the whole family! Best of all admission is free ! The visitors center is large with exhibits from the battle. The staff are very knowledgeable and ready to answer any question you may have. The battlefield is quite large complete with walking trails. Parking is provided throughout so you can park and walk through sections of the battle. Some of the trails are paved while others are gravel, there are some are covered in woodchips. You are able to walk some of the same paths the troops once walked! At the visitors center there are picnic tables under shade trees so you can pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it with the family. From time to time they also have reenactments. For more info these you should check their website or Facebook page. The day I went they were having a Cavalry demonstration.

I have visited the Stones River National Battlefield previously. During this visit to the Murfreesboro area, I stopped by again thinking I might visit again and noticed the posts for the audio auto tour. We decided to "take" the tour and was not disappointed. This is an excellent way to tour this historical area in your vehicle and it's free! We were able to hear the tour through our auto bluetooth. The commentary is brief but very well done. You'll gain a different perspective being right in in the field where the battles were located. Highly recommended if you are visiting the visitor's center or as a stand-alone tour if your time is limited. Kudos to the folks who produced this auto tour. Well done!

For History buffs or general interest, this is an interesting place. It is part of the Park service with a very friendly and helpful staff. The museum is not large but does walk you through a rather important 3 day battle that is not well covered in Civil War History. It proved to be a pivotal supply depot for the Union Army early in the war and throughout the conflict. We did not have the time we should have allowed to take in the driving tour. It is walk able. The Union Cemetery is near by and is also worth visiting as it is an active one, containing graves of not only descendants but locals KIA in WWI, WWII, Korea & Vietnam.

I had no idea that as many soldiers died here as did in Gettysburg. I never learned about that so now I had an up close and personal look at the battlefield and armaments. There are cannons that the kids will enjoy.

Nice Civil War battlefield. It has a great visitor center and nice walking paths. The field is not really big compared to the battle as a lot of the land is developed right now, which is too bad. But it is worth the visit, especially if you enjoy Civil War stuff.

Always enjoy visiting our National Park treasures. This one was no exception. Have been to many national battlegrounds and found this one to be very informative. One of the few that you are actually following the flow of the battle.

We toured one week before Memorial Day. The people who made history come alive did a great job and to see the many headstones from all over the US shed light on how many people fought for what they believed in.

I had wanted to visit this site since I found out that a 2nd great uncle had fought here. In his recollections, he told of the miserable conditions he encountered as a Union soldier from December 31, 1862-2 January 1863. The Rangers at the Visitor Center were just wonderful. They looked up where my soldier would have been on the battlefield. The museum is very well organized. Loved how it told the story of real human beings who were in the war. Do not miss the movie. I will never think of the song, Home Sweet Home, in the same light again. We drove the entire battlefield including Stop #6, the McFadden Farm which is some distance from the Visitor's Center. We arrived as it opened at 0900 and stayed until noon. Ended our visit back at the Visitor's Center and bought several items, including a book and a map of the battle, for the Civil War "buff" in our family. I cannot recommend this place enough. The cemetery was very beautiful, but the most emotional part for me was a tie between the "Slaughter Pen" (Stop #2) and the Hazen Brigade Monument where I noted two young men from Kentucky with the same last name (probably brothers) who have a tombstone there. I put a pebble on top of each of their tombstones. Please visit if you get a chance.

We visited this historic site (which is actually 3 parts) on a lovely Fall day. The main part of this historic site where the Visitor Center is was the busiest. Where we entered, there was a long drive through fields and woods until you reached the Visitor Center. On the way were walking trails, history placards, and cannons. There were even a few metal silhouettes of soldiers with rifles located in the fields. It was a very nice drive with stops to look at the placards.

The Visitor Center was also very neat and clean but the bathrooms were a disaster due to the number of kids there. The Rangers were friendly and full of information although we had already done our homework before we arrived.

Across from the Visitor Center parking was the National Cemetery. You have to cross a busy highway but the crosswalk is marked and there are flashing lights. We walked the Cemetery and most of the graves were from Ohio units (Confederate soldiers are not generally buried in National Cemeteries, although some exceptions have been found by historians).

We decided we wanted to see the McFadden Farm part of the battlefield, so we had to go over the interstate and wound up on the infamous Trail of Tears for part of the drive. The original battlefield was 3,000+ acres but only portions are part of the NPS historic site.

The McFadden Farm part is not as popular although there was another car there. There are beautiful walking trails there too and I wish we had had more time! At this location is the large monument to the battle on January 2, 1863 in which the Union had 58 cannons stationed on a hill, and within an hour, 1800 Confederate soldiers were either dead or wounded.

Also on the high ground is the McFadden Family Cemetery, which is in ruins.

All in all, I definitely want to come back here after I have had more time to research the battle and regiments. I know my great-grandfather, a Union soldier, did NOT fight here, but I had several 4th great-uncles who were in the Tennessee Infantry (Confederate) who probably did. This is definitely of great interest to me. Really recommend this beautiful park.

I visited on a day when there were Confederate Civil War Reenactors doing Cavalry displays. It was very cool. I started at the Visitor Center across from the National Cemetery and then worked my way around by car to all of the sites that I could get to in the area. I didn't realize there were sites all over town, so I only got to the ones in the main area. I took a few short hikes and a lot of pictures. All of the displays and the information boards were excellent. I even got a Blue/Gray Magazine that had all of the history of the battle and sites to see.
This is a great stop for any history buff, like me. Take water!

Went to check out the battlefield it was sad so many people died there.
There are some trees there that I had never seen before

This was extremely interesting and I can't imagine not seeing the MOVIE first which really explains this particular battle. The exhibits and the rangers were very helpful. Drove across to the Cemetery as it had snowed that morning and did not want to walk across the street due to the temperature. So glad the decision was made to visit here.

Moving experience - I had never heard of Stones River and never knew the impact that this battle had on the end result of the Civil War. It is part of the National Park system.

We ended up only being able to do the driving tour due to rain and wind. It was still very interesting and well worth the drive to get there. They have a museum which includes a nine minute video. I would recommend making sure you stop by to see it and the artifacts. I would also recommend walking the area to get a better feel for what actually took place there.

This location needs a few days to take in the history of what took place here during the Civil War. We will be returning to visit more of this historic location.

This site is really best visited by car. The main building has a nice little museum that's free to enter. small gift shop. We walked over to the cemetery which was sad but intriguing.

I went looking for the places that my great, great grandfather would have been during this battle. A young lady ranger at the welcome center found and pinpointed where he was each day of the battle. What a great experience.

NIce displays. We took the cemetery tour, which was much too long. We didn't want to be rude and walk away, so we stayed with it to the end, but the presentation could be better done.

Interesting film and exhibits in the visitor centre give you a good overview of the battle. We did the driving tour around the 6 points of interest. Very helpful and knowledgeable staff.

The Battlefield and attached cemetery in Murfreesboro were in the area of one of the largest battles of the civil war. Between the excellent staff, who are always willing to take time to answer any of your questions, to the available app-led tour of site highlights, this place is absolutely amazing.

They also periodically offer interpretive shows with reenactors that are very enlightening and moving. Warning: the candlelight tours of the cemetery are not for youngsters who cannot be still/quiet for about an hour.

To not visit here if you are in the area would be a huge mistake!

This National Battlefield gets an A+ for its staff, exhibits, self-guided auto tour, beautiful national cemetery and its excellent hiking/biking trails to key battlefield sites. We walked in the visitor center and were immediately greeted by a friendly and knowledgeable park intern who explained what was available for visitors to see and do and also gave us a brief history of the battle. The park film is a must-see to begin your visit, about 9 minutes long. Take time to go through the excellent and sometimes heart-wrenching exhibits. Then take a stroll across the street to the National Cemetery before getting in your car for the auto tour. We had no idea such loss of life occurred here during the civil war and it was quite moving to walk the areas where fighting occurred. Be sure to stop at the oldest civil war monument in the country, one of the last auto tour stops. We spent 3 hours total here and found it compelling, educational and an important site for Americans to reflect on their history.

So the wife and i live here in Murfreesboro Tennessee and decided to check out this little park by a river we often drive by .Turns out it's the back side of Stones River battlefield Very pretty ,A nice walk by the river .We ended up walking around part of the Battlefield it's self very nice well kept some very beautiful scenery and a great little education on the Battle that took Place Hard too believe that such a beautiful place was the site of so much death worth a day or a half of a day the wife and I are going back with bike and a lunch to ride the Greenway enjoy the sites and have a nice lunch by the river some where I'm not much of a history kind of guy but this was pretty cool and I will be visiting it again .

My husband is the civil war buff so I can't actually comment on the battle aspect. So my opinions are regarding the things I look for when visiting a battlefield. We have visited maybe 10 or so and this one was not at the top of my list. The museum was very good except for one exhibit that could have used more lighting. The movie was short and to the point of what happened at Stone River. The talk by the ranger was entertaining though not that informative. He did have some good insight on the Hazen Brigade Monument concerning the two headstones outside the wall. The battlefield tour only has 5 stops and the last one is covered separately in trip advisor (Hazen Brigade) so there really isn't much to see. The battlefield is lacking in monuments It did have a fairly nice bookstore/museum shop.

looking into the past to an unforgettable period of time was a humbling experience along with the cemetery and the trail of tears it is a place you won't forget

Wander the Battlefield, spend time in the Main Building looking at letters f ok both Union and Confederate Soldiers. Watch the excellent video that explains the Battle. Take the tours available and at different times of the year, reinactments of a soldiers life in the field. The Battle of Stones River was a major Battle contested by both sides as to who really prevailed as the Army of Tennessee met with the Union Forces bent on pushing them out of Middle Tennessee!

We loved it! The sky the air,the history and my dog ran and ran loving every minute of our exploring!

We stopped here since it was close to our hotel expecting to spend under an hour. Instead, we visited for several hours, despite it being a rainy day. Our visit started with our being greeted warmly by three rangers who gave us an overview of the site. They were able to answer all our questions and clearly direct us to the stops along the auto route.

The movie at the Visitor Center was very informative and the displays in the Museum were really well done. I’m embarrassed to admit knowing nothing of this battle beforehand despite its importance to the war and despite the staggering number of casualties, over 23,000.

After leaving the Visitor Center, we followed the auto trail and were moved at the magnitude of the battlefield. We stopped at the Hazel Brigade Monument which we were told is the oldest standing Civil War Memorial. We also drove to McFadden Farm where you could envision the soldiers fording the river.

I’m thrilled we stopped here and would definitely return.

If you are interested in Civil War history, this battlefield is a must see. There was an important battle here and this park details the battle. There is a wonderful interpretive center here. The staff were helpful and shared a lot of information and background. This is a large park with several sections. There is plenty of room for picnics and hikes.

It is a wonderful history lesson for your kids. There are A grave sites of Civil War Soldiers, cannons all around and places where generals and other soldiers Union and Southern walked and fought and died. A place everyone should visit.

This is a Historical Gem Site that no-one should miss. In addition, the attraction does not charge admission. The Park staff was friendly - be sure to watch the film at the visitor center. You can download a free app from the National Park Service and listen to the audio explanation at the various stops on the tour route. We drove the 4.5 miles, but you could also bike or walk. It does an excellent job of explaining and instilling the battles. Oh, all the soldiers from both sides that gave their lives, were injured, or forever changed.....It’s a somber filled location. Be sure to also visit the cemetery across the road (as you begin the auto tour).

I cannot believe I have not visited before now. What a great place to learn about the Stones River Battle, tour the battlefield- and do not skip the historical center and gift shop. The guides are a wealth of knowledge, and people of all ages will enjoy these beautiful grounds.
You can spend an hour, or a day. I suggest you do not rush, as you will enjoy this historical site.

The visitor’s center is well worth a visit. It is not huge and overwhelming but gives you enough info to educate you on what happened here. Then after you finish in the center, take a drive through the countryside and visit the stops that show you where the battle took place. This is a low key activity but very enjoyable if you have the time. We are glad we stopped.

Went there with 4 grandchildren. Up to date visitors center staffed by very knowledgeable Rangers. There is a 9 minute informative video summary of the battle and many well done exhibits about various facets of the battle. Large Union graveyard adjacent.

We have been coming here since we were students. Interesting historical site. There is a small museum and gift shop. You can either drive or walk to see historical sites. The Civil Ear Reannactment was very interesting too. But you will need to find when.
If you are in this area, it is worthwhile to visit this historical site. Might take 1 hour or two here. Then you can get some shopping or fine dining at the Avenue after.

We visited this historic place as my wife had a family member get wounded here and later dying from his wounds. The museum was truly educational and the rangers friendly and entertaining. We spent time in the cemetery and then drove to the various stops on the provided map. It perhaps meant more to us because of the family connection but this place is definitely worth a visit.

Compared to Gettysburg or other battlefields it’s not as large or has the monuments but still great if you love Civil War history. I am from the area and have always loved coming here

National Treasure, exhibition, artifacts including uniforms ,personal items, pictures, camp life.
The park headquarters has many things of historical importance and interest.
Great place where many of us locals walk our dogs, jog, and ride our bicycles.

Granted, this has been my first and only visit to a Civil War battlefield. I guess I can try to understand average reviews and below which critique the visitor center, as I do not know how large or informative the others are. I personally found that the rangers were outstanding and highly informative about this place, as well as the museum and moving film. I am grateful for their contribution to this special visit. I appreciated the interactive exhibits which showed or broadcasted actual letters from the soldiers and even a simulated rucksack which we are invited to lift so we could have a small idea on what material items they had to carry, along with the weight of looming death or guaranteed visions of slaughter.

I am saddened at some of the reviews which said it was a good place for a jog, not much to see, or the worst - highlighting this somber, significant place as a good pokemon spot for a stupid video game. If those are your expectations, then this place is not for you.

Good historical place to visit. Be sure to see the short movie at the Visitors Center. It provides a good background for the battlefield tour.

A cell phone guided driving tour makes it easy to see the overall battle areas as depicted in the movie.

Recommend this.

The battlefield is full of history and is well preserved. Plan to spend an hour or two going through the battlefield.

Very humbling and somber experience, but totally worth it! It’s not as commercialized as more famous battlefields, which I think actually contributed to the great experience I had. The storytelling on the tour feels more authentic and personal than places like Gettysburg. It really was a tragic and costly battle that doesn’t get the attention it deserves. I encourage you to check it out rather you love Civil War history or not. I think everyone could get something out of the experience!

Also, I went with a friend who grew up just 3 miles from the battlefield. She warned me before that it can be spooky, and that locals (including her) believe it is haunted. I don’t know about it being haunted, but it definitely was eerie.

We took my mother in law here. It was a nice drive through tour that connect through the radio. Very interesting- would suggest taking out of town guests here

Visit to see what it was really like. Step into the war. Lots of things to see. Also a short movie. Fun

My husband and I love history and especially anything civil war related. We loved our trip to the battlefield and will definitely return. We especially enjoyed visiting the “ slaughter pen” the history presented here is quite amazing.

This was a destination we wanted to see, it was off our route but a well worth while side trip. The park was extremely well preserved and presented. The Park Rangers are very friendly and knowledgeable. Everybody needs to be reminded of the past so that we do not make the same mistakes in the future. Maybe those elected or who rise to supreme power need to be bought to places like this so they can make better decisions about conflict.

Went with a group of moms and kids that were walking and in strollers. Good place to hunt Pokémon and enjoy the outdoors while learning too.

This is about the 20th visit I've made here in my life. This trip was with my dad, husband, & kids that needed some fresh air on our holiday trip. We've already explored the cemetery and the museum. The kids got Junior Ranger badges here a few months ago. Their favorite stop, and mine, is the Slaughter Pen. It was the site of a crazy battle and you can see exactly why it was a slaughter. However, the rocks here are perfect for an adventure! If you've never been before, do the whole Junior Ranger program with the kids. If you're a local that wants a place to get out in nature, this is a hit.

Planned in advance to visit the battle field and so glad we did. I wish we could have spent more time here. If you love history, it is a must see.

If you are into history or you aren't, this place gives you all the feels. Make sure you watch the 9 minute movie and to the drive around the property.

Fabulous. The facility is clean, welcoming and very interesting. You can look up names of relatives buried in the cemetery and visit their grave sites.

The staff here is what makes it so great they are all very knowledgeable and know their history There is so much to learn about the civil war at this location. They have filed markers to show where things were back then compared to now

Free and a must-see for anyone interested in Nashville history, the Civil War, or US History. Parking got full fast, we visited first thing in the morning. The tour is informative and accessible on foot or via car. It is very cool to have audio narration as you stand in the same spot as tens of thousands of soldiers did. A must-see destination to appreciate our history.

This battle is some times referred to the 90 day battle. There is a nine minute introductory video to set up the battle for you. You can drive much of the route but also plenty of places to walk and explore. This is a national park and free to the public.

I am not the history buff in the family so I had pretty low expectations on this excursion. I get confused by names and dates and directions so a battleground & cemetery are not usually something I can really follow. However, we went to the quick storytelling (held daily at 1pm) held at the Stones River Cemetary and was blown away. I learned so much. The storytelling was interesting and explained so well that even I could follow the history of this important battle. I also tried the self-drive audio tour, but that was more confusing for me and not too enjoyable. They do an escorted self-drive tour, but we had to leave before that started.

Excellent displays, National Park App to assist in the tour, staff knowledgeable, well-maintained grounds. Chilling experience.

Has a lot of History and Great Trails. My fave is the Lantern Tour at Night!!
The Park Rangers are always very helpful and have a lot of Knowledge about the Park. Also a Must see is the war reenactment. Cannons too !

Nice place to walk around and visit. You can learn a lot about the civil war and battle that took place in this area..

A gfeat battlefield park ranging from fields, to woods, and even marshland. You can drive most of it if you like but it is best enjoyed on foot on a pleasant day. The main entrance on the highway will come up quick but if youre diligent you won't miss it.

Visiting family in area, kids going the Jr ranger booklets, so we stopped here. The ranger at welcome desk was very friendly and helpful with the kids questions. He mentioned some points of the park we should be sure to see. One of the activities the kids needed to complete was walk the cemetery and find certain graves. It was humbling to stand among those headstones. We then drove to certain spots on the tour - again, very humbling to think about what those men went through, on the same ground we were standing on. And it was very hot that day, to think of the men in wool uniforms in some of those battles....goodness. Visitor center had good displays. Due to covid restrictions the kids had to leave their booklets there. They got them back in the mail the following week, along with their badge and a very nice note from the rangers.

If you love Civil War History, this clean, well-maintained battle site is a must-stop! Stop at the Visitor Center first, look at the exhibits, watch the movie, and then for a nominal fee, rent the battlefield narrated tour. We did this, much better and more informative than just following the free map, especially if it's your first time here..

I wish we had known about the information app, prior to our arrival. The tour of the battle field meant little without it. The visitor center is closed, so there is no way to get information that way either. I'm sure it would have been very interesting.

I really was not educated on Stones River Battle but was in the area I knew I should stop. I arrived before the Visitors Center opened at 9 am. There were plenty of self-guided displays to inform a visitor. Plenty of items (cannons, caissons, memorials) to view and touch. Several more remote historical areas to explore via well paved trails that many use as running trails. The adjacent National Cemetery was solemnly impressive.

Well maintained national park and the staff at the visitors center were very knowledgeable about the history of the stones river battle and very friendly.

I had never heard of Stones River, so going here was a real learning experience. We did the driving tour, although there are many walking tours too. We saw many people walking and some joggers. What an amazing and peaceful place!! So much history!

The battleground has multiple entrances, has guided tours, illustrates the vastness of the battles and the tremendous losses of life. Excellent site for Civil War buffs and historians.

I enjoyed the visitor’s center and wished I’d had more time. The information, picture and short film were great!

I have always been interested in the Civil War and this is the second battlefield I've visited. The Park Rangers were very friendly and helpful. The displays in the main building are very helpful in understanding what happened here and the film is very informative. An amazing place to visit.

There is a small museum/interpretive center here with very friendly and helpful staff. There are 6 stops on the battlefield trail with some walking trails if you have time. Unfortunately we didn’t have the time or inclination to explore the paths this visit. Yeah, it was a bit hot and humid that day. A month or so from now would be much more pleasant in the fall. We did get to see the Hazen
Brigade Monument for the first time. How we missed it last time is a mystery to me. Oh, it was the first Civil War monument erected and during the war in 1863. It made for a nice stop on the way to Bell Buckle.

The museum is nice, and the driving tour was easy to follow. There are a few places to get out and walk some trails. If you're visiting in the warmer months, wear bug repellant!

Since I now have a dog in tow, I look for things to do with him. This was a beautiful place to walk and learn some history along the way.

This is a Civil War battlefield in the middle of a very busy town. Frankly, if we weren't in town for a wedding, I'd have never thought of visiting. I'm glad we did though.
Unfortunately, this is one of those civil war battlefields that's spread out & has points of interest all over. It's also incomplete - much of the battle is now underneath a parking lot. Sad.
Start at the visitor center. The rangers are very helpful & can tell you a lot about the battle & points of interest. The museum has information & some artifacts. There's also a film. There's trails as well.
If you go to the McFadden Farm you can walk the Stones River Greenway. It's paved & eventually will take you to Fortress Rosecrans.
Across the street from the VC is the National Cemetery. It's an easy walk. Drive a short ways down the road & on the cemetery side is the oldest Civil War monument left standing. It's also the site of "Hell's Half Acre" .
We spent the morning here, but you could easily spend a day walking the trails & visiting every site.

Wow this was an amazing experience. Learning about the men and women who gave up their lives, and why they did it. Be sure to take (bug spray) just in case.

We visited multiple battlefields this week (Chickamauga, Chattanooga, Fort Donelson) and this was not the most geographically impressive. It was another interesting piece of the civil war story. There was an easy 3.3 mile loop hike which was a good leg stretcher on our way up north.

Stones River NB gets an A+ in my book. Have never seen a Civil War site so well maintained. Maintenance staff mowing, pulling weeds, working on trails, etc. the ENTIRE time we were there. The park rangers were great. Took the cemetery tour and learned a lot of lesser known facts. The driving tour was also top notch with excellent stops; many cool monuments to see. Don’t like history? No problem. This park has paved bike and walking trails all over the place. Only minutes from Murfreesboro...a nice up and coming town; 40 minutes to Nashville. Free admission and an excellent Junior Ranger program. Check it out...you’ll be glad you did.

A must visit. It’s historical value alone. There was a 4 day battle here, with +6000 tombstones remaining. There are several miles of trails available, asphalt, stone, and mulched. There are several informative displays on the trails as well as a thorough museum in the visitor center. This is a tranquil, clean, family friendly visit for the important history that happened on these hallowed grounds.

It was a very quiet day when I was there. No ranger talks or tours, not sure if they are ever offered. I found the 2 minute call ins at each tour stop very informative and made helped me make sense of what I was seeing. I think it did help that I had also read up on the battle before arriving. Spent about 3 hours, but partly that was due to the distance between sites. Also visits Fortress Rosecrans - not part of the park, but very interesting with a nice boardwalk.

Very somber well worth it to see. Just to walk around and look at the sight was an honor. This is our countries history right here

Worth the stop .... history buffs will enjoy, would be fun to still or ride a bike, rich in history!

Beautiful grounds and very interesting museum. Check their schedule out, as they offer great programs. Their Lantern Tour is one of my favorites!

I had not read very much about this battle, so was new to me. As with most nat'l battlefields, there was a very nice visitor center. The driving tour is not all that long, but gives you an idea of what happened there. Unfortunately, urban developement has taken over much of the area. It is still well worth a couple of hours of your time.

Both my husband and I had reviewed this important site prior to visiting. We were certainly impressed both with the upkeep of the Battlefield and the staff in the visitor center. We were given advice on where to start our tour and the history behind what happened here. Being from Australia we knew a little about the civil war but our visit here certainly enlightened us.

Stones River Battefield is very well done. The volunteers Tim and Louis were great, and very interactive with my three children doing the Jr Ranger program. The information was informative and we really enjoyed the trails and getting to explore. Two things to know if you are going. All of the sites are not right at the main park and the Jr Ranger books are not in order with the stops. Worth the drive and a great way to spend a day.

The battle of Stones River near Murfreesboro, Tennessee, which began on the last day of 1862 and lasted for three days, doesn't attract the notoriety of more celebrated Civil War battles such as Gettysburg, Vicksburg and Antietam. But historians insist (1) it was one of the bloodiest battles in the war, (2) it opened up the South for Ulysses S. Grant's drive to Chattanooga and William T. Sherman's drive to Atlanta and (3) it helped to legitimize Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation that went into effect on January 1, 1863. Located at 3501 Old Nashville Highway, three miles northwest of Murfreesboro and 28 miles southeast of Nashville, the 570-acre Stones River National Battlefield was the site of a strategic Union victory. Of 81,000 soldiers who were involved in the conflict, nearly 24,000 were casualties. Four must stops on the battlefield tour are the 31-foot-high obelisk that commemorates the January 2, 1863 position of massed Union artillery used to repel a Confederate assault on Union troops across the river; an intact segment of Fortress Rosecrans, the largest enclosed earthwork built during the Civil War; and the Stones River National Cemetery, which was established in 1864 and contains nearly 7,000 interments; and Hazen's Brigade Monument, which was constructed in 1863 and is the oldest surviving Civil War monument standing in its original location. The battlefield was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966.

This deserves nothing but 5 stars, it is one of the finer civil war battlefields, having a museum, radio guided driving tours, hiking trails, gift shop, and artillery pieces.

I spent just a few hours here before my flight back home. I enjoy the scenery and saw a lot of people in bikes and running. I went to the visitor center and the guides where very friendly. The museum was very nice too. After that I went across the street to see the cemetery and saw a couple looking for the grave of their great grandfather there. Awesome hah. The only thing is that the cemetery needs to be mowed. I didn't try to walk between the graves because of the tall grass. Otherwise it was a nice place to visit for half a day.

The park is well maintained and easy to navigate with the car or on foot. Depending on which way you enter the park, you may have to drive a little bit to get to the visitor center. They were very friendly and had a short introductory film and small museum. It is not a large visitor center or gift shop, but they were very friendly and helpful. They have free maps that are easy to follow and you can rent an audio tour or do a free one with your cell phone. The area is beautiful and would be great for hiking and picnicking. There is a lot to learn here about this important Civil War battle.

We were lucky enough to get on a tour they do sometimes in the day to practice for the regular tours. All the guys were spot on, you would have never have known it wasn't the real thing. I am sure the regular tours are even better. The battlefield has a lot to offer, there are so many headstones to look at and appreciate what these brave men gave up. There is also a fantastic museum across the street worth looking at as well.
If you are interested in civil war history and get the opportunity to get on a tour, take it. It is well worth it, very informative, and entertaining.

Not as good as Gettysburg and Antietam, but it was much closer than I thought. I went on a guided tour with a ranger, which added an extra element of knowledge to the group.

This battlefield is huge with a lot of space between the sites. I would recommend a combination of driving between the battlefield sites and then walking around at the actual sites. Make sure to stop at the visitor center for an interesting exhibit on the battle as well.

Very moving look back at American history. Seeing these civil war battlefields and the informative videos, reminds us how division & dis-unity can cause severe & deadly consequences. We need to keep visiting these sites and taking our children & grandchildren to absorb the impact. We chose to drive the tour due to physical limitations, but there were many stops to get out & read more details. We appreciated the audio tour, but a few more signs directing visitors to the more distant sites would have been helpful.

A horrific battle!
The park is a great place to spend a couple hours with family and appreciate history. Take the cemetery tour. Very little walking and interesting.

I love this place! Paved and dirt trails for everyone. Plenty of wildlife to see and a great workout to give you.

Impressive presentation of this bloody Civil war battle.
The story begins in the visitor center .
Great story boards and exhibits of the military weapons.Give you a complete view of why this battle took such a high toll of lives.
Then jump into the car.Numerous stops on road where narration is available by calling a phone number on your cell phone.Clever!!!!
For a sobering impact ,across the road is the battle cemetery.
Stone River made quite an impact.Hard to image this period of our nations history.

It's sad to say I'd be bored by any NPS site, though I thought the entire place was rather dull. Now we did not visit the headquarter homes nearby, as we've seen that sort of thing before. But otherwise it was set up as a field where the battle took place. Nothing particularly interpretative or engaging about it.

The staff are very knowledgeable and willing to answer any questions. The displays are wonderful and the area is beautiful in the spring. I will visit again and encourage anyone who loves to visit historical places to add this to your list.

I not only love the history here, but I also love the walking paths in this area. You can always see decent size deer here as dusk sits. I have two great-great uncles buried in the graveyard here, so I always will visit. The visitor's center is the highlight of this set up.

Everything was amazing about the place. My family of 4 including 2 teens went. Started with the visitors center which was really cool then was given a map to do a self-guided tour. At each of the stops they had a phone number you could call and would tell you about the stop (just like a tour guide). It may sound lame to some but it was really cool and everyone had a good time. Took us about 2 hours to do everything including the visitors center.

Spent a few hours exploring Stones River and taking in the historic significance of the place. It features several walking and biking trails around the property which are very nicely maintained.

The sight of one of the bloodiest battles of the civil war during the last days of December 1862. The battle lasted only 4 days but saw over 25,000 dead and wounded. The battle not only affected the outcome of the Civil War but also affected the neighboring community. The visitor center is open 9-5. The park is free. While driving the battlefield, you are instructed to use your cell phone for a self guided tour. The National cemetery is located on the premises also. Highly Recommended while in the area...

Our thanks to Ranger Ava for the Car Caravan tour at 2 pm last Sunday. Making about 4 stops throughout the Park, Ava described the events that led up to the battle, the battle itself, and the aftermath. Ava shared the history in such an engaging way all ages from elementary kids to seniors left the battlefield understanding and retaining so much more than a textbook description. Ava's description of the "Slaughter Pen" area was riveting. Having relatives who fought in the Civil War at Chickamauga, the Stones River Battlefield sets the stage for what will come. Thanks Park Service for preserving our heritage.

There is so much to see here, starting in the visitor center and if the weather is nice there are some great walks around the area whilst learning about the massive battle that killed over 23,000 soldiers. Check out the Hazel Brigade Monument which is one of the Oldest Civil War Memorials. Allow plenty of time to enjoy.

NPS staff very helpful and knowledgeable about the battlefield and the exhibits. Very detailed displays and artifacts. National cemetery across the street is very moving. Also make sure to visit the Evergreen cemetery as well.

The Museum is wonderful, and the staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. We drove through and stopped at each location and called the number that talked about it. Beautiful scenery. So much history there. We even went to the cemetery there.

This civil war battlefield was a very educational experience. Spots of importance were well marked & we were able to listen to the narrative on our phones. Trails were well maintained. The visitor center was well laid out & highly educational. Very impressive with canons at points of conflict & cutouts of civil war fighters.

The property is a park with paths for walking, running, or biking. On the grounds you will find some artifacts and signage explaining the Civil War events that took place on the grounds. There is a small, free museum that provides information on the Civil War. Across the street are graves of fallen soldiers. If you are nearby and want to get some exercise and get a dose of limited historic facts, this park is recommended.

Pleasant paved walk with the option of going "off road" in several locations. Posting's through out walk which is nice. You definitely want to get a free map as the area is spread out and requires driving.

Can't beat the price.

Walked the battlefield on a hot day in August. Enjoyed the history lesson. The heat, not so much....

The museum and self- driven car tour can be done in an hour or two. This was a very critical battle due to the location of roads and railroads. The museum is free and has good displays detailing the battle. There is also a short video (9 minutes) about the battle.

We took the caravan tour. Abby the intern gave a great tour. She showed us maps and described the battle scene for us. Between stops we were able to cool off in the air conditioning in our own car. Great experience. I would recommend it.

I highly recommend going to the visitors center, they have highly knowledgeable staff and tons of information and history for you to see there. After that choose to do the walking or driving tour. The tour stops have a phone number you can call and listen to information pertaining to that location.

Admittedly, I did not have enough time here. The display in the visitor center is very informative in helping you appreciate the significance of the site; stop there first before wandering the grounds.

All Americans should visit this battlefield and the nearby cemetery. You will walk away with mixed feelings, as I did during my visit.

Tennessee is full of history and this NP certainly did not disappoint. It is well maintained and the park ranger fielded many questions.

There is a nice ranger station with lots of artifacts and a mini movie that discusses the battle. You can drive around the park with a map or walk to see where the Confederates/Yankees held camp and fought this magnificent battle.

Summer time is hot and humid so bring a hat and some water if you choose to walk around.

Didn't expect to find such a great running location at a national battlefield,but Stones River has both paved surfaces and dirt trails for exploring. The trails are a little technical with lots of stones (hence the name), but what a beautiful 4 mile run. Visit the cemetery across the street for a contemplative walk.

It was an excellent way to spend a beautiful Autumn day walking outside. Great history lessons abound.

We took in a re-enactment on Saturday in September the last weekend! Took our three year old grandson too! He loved it as much as the adults. He called the gun firing exercises “fireworks”!

One of the best historic sites I have ever visited. I personally like to take my time at each display and with this being an auto tour made that happen. Loved that there were signs at various places that told the story of the battle that occurred and the significance. The written details made me feel as if I were actually there. The historical monuments just added to the feel. This is a MUST SEE in my book if you are a civil war buff.

love this place love walking it the indoor mesuem was also amazing wow what an experience we will fo back for sure

Every time I come to this Battlefield, I learn something different. I have lived in the Middle Tennessee area for 20 years and have walked the trails at Stones River, attended their Hallowed Ground program, have brought visiting friends and family for a museum tour and walk. My husband and I even brought a cat on a leash for a walk when we were first married, but I don't recommend doing that now as on any given day, you can see multiple dogs on leashes with their humans.

On this visit, my husband and I learned about coins on the graves. We noticed pennies left on the graves, something we have never seen before. What we came to understand was that pennies are left on soldier's graves to show the family that someone came and paid their respects. How amazing! As a history buff, I wondered how those families would react to find that someone had paid their respects in 2017.

Most of the graves located @ this Battlefield are from the Union, or North. The grounds are well kept, and there is a quiet that descends on you as you walk the property and read the names of those too young that died. There are also markers with a number as a name could not be assigned, as there were too many dead without identification. The reality of what happened on this Battlefield is sobering, and a reminder of a time in our nation's history not to be repeated.

I encourage you to visit this landmark. You will not be disappointed!

Very friendly helpful staff, nice exhibits ( few things out of order) Indoors not the best place for a toddler but the grounds and walking around the historical site is nice. Knowing what happened here like any battle site always makes me a little weepy. Its definitely a must see if your in the area.

During the past year I have been researching my family's history. I found out that my great-grandfather had enlisted in the 36th Regiment of the Indiana Infantry and fought in the Battle of Stones River, one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. He was badly wounded during the early hours of battle on December 31, 1862, but survived. Since my wife and I were driving from Florida to Chicago to visit family, we took a few hours to get off the road and visit the battlefield. When we walked into the Visitor Center, a ranger asked if he could be of assistance. I told him about my great-grandfather and he was able to tell me a lot about the battle that I didn't know, and he showed me exactly where his regiment was attacked. The exhibits painted a picture of the battle, but later standing on the same ground where my great-grandfather fought and was injured, and his fellow soldiers killed, was humbling. It was an outcrop of rock they call the "Slaughter Pen", where they were surrounded and shot by Confederate soldiers. Now I better understand and appreciate these soldiers' bravery and sacrifice. I say "thank you" to the wonderful rangers and volunteers who made this experience possible.

My family and I drive through the battlefield all the time. You get a chance to see the wild life roaming the battlefield as well as learn about the battle of Stones River.

Great place to learn about the battles that took place in this sad part of American history. Also a good place for long hikes.

They do a really good job keeping up the Battlefield and the way you get the tour, You dial in on your phone but we had a hard time finding the different spots so if they would have like spot maps at the beginning of the tour, I think it would make it so much better that way you could follow it in order maybe. But we walked through the trails for what felt like miles and found snakes mating on some tree stumps with people walking by so that is pretty dangerous in the future when they hatch. But we Never found some of the spots and I have a Service dog and we walked into the information center and the old man working there looked at my service dog who has a vest on that says SERVICE DOG and he says "hey you can't have THAT in here!!" and I said he is a service dog he said oh is he I said yes it says so on his vest and he said he couldn't see it LOL it is a regular Bright RED service dog vest! no way you can miss it! But that old man just seems like he hates his job and was grumpy anyway! other than that they don't sell water in the information center which seems odd that is the only state run Park that the information center didn't sell water bottles that I have been to.

The visitor center is very well done with a lot of great exhibits. The staff was great giving background and history lessons. Definitely watch the short movie offered there. On the self guided tour get out at stop 2 I believe and walk through the woods, the river of stones is incredible.

Awesome history lesson. Thoughtfully laid out and the cemetery is sobering. It's all explained well on the historical signs and in the museum.

It’s amazing how brave these solders were on both sides during this battle. The museum does a good job telling the story and their is a short film too. Be sure to download the app for the driving tour. It’s a easy way to get the information while driving.

A visit to Stones River eaves you wanting to know more. We ended up visiting a site in Franklin Tn and Shiloh. The reasons for this war were driven by deep seeded beliefs and divisions. It was bloody with the battles swing swift and deadly for both sides. A war today would be vastly different and more deadly just because of population increases. History has a way of repeating. It’s good to know the whys and how’s.

If you love history, this is a good stop for you. It is interesting to walk through the park, seeing the unusual terrain and imagining the bloody battle that occurred there.

Our kids collect Jr Ranger badges and this is about 3 hours from home so we did a trip to the area over Memorial Day weekend. The park is very nice. Mostly grasslands with some trees. Clearly a park that lots of locals come to. Lots of people jogging/bike riding/walking dogs which was kinda weird because you don't really see that at battlefields normally (but in a way kinda refreshing that the land doesn't just sit vacant). Nice audiotour through the park with several pullouts. Very nice visitor center and museum.

Well kept grounds. Interesting information in the visitors center. Knowledgeable and friendly staff.

A great quite place to reflect on the past and to learn more about history. It is a beautiful place to walk and meditate. If you are here at the right times of the year they have candlelit tours while sharing some of the history.

Well kept, beautiful grounds with very helpful rangers and excellent displays. Enjoyed our walk around the area, watch out for ticks in the high grass!

Its a nice place to visit and go for a walk. Great landscapes for family photos. Not allot of parking area some come early.

The historian Tim at the visitor center was excellent. His description really made it real and took you back in time to those fateful days. Also be sure to see the film.

We enjoy touring historical sites and this is Another nice National Battlefield Area. We used the NPS phone app audio guide as we drove around this battleground site. Park Staff nice and informative. Visitors Center well maintained. COVID precautions in place.

This is a very moving tour and our guide, Ava, was absolutely FANTASTIC!! Be sure you visit the Slaughter Pen, it is worth the short walk.

I appreciate history so I was happy to go visit the Stones River Battlefield and National Cemetery at the end of June. My wife & I arrived about 1:45 pm and intended to take the self-guided driving tour but they offer a volunteer-led caravan tour which starts at 2pm each day. (In the caravan tour the volunteer drives the lead car and everyone else follows behind in their own vehicles.) We chose to follow in that tour to get more one-on-one information.

The total course has 6 stops but the caravan tour stops at only 4 out of the 6. Our guide was William, an intern, and he did a great job for his first tour of this type. He was knowledgeable about the battle, the opposing sides, and the landscape. He was able to answer any question presented to him.

The last stop is across the street at the National Cemetery. It's a very sobering moment rich with meaning. Only Union soldiers are buried there, but are buried side by side with colored soldiers who were fighting for their freedom, too. In the photos, the small, square markers are the unidentified soldiers; gravestones of the colored men have the letters USCT on them for United States Colored Troup. I even found a grave with the same name as my father and also from Ohio!

The caravan tour took about an hour and a half. There are also walking/biking paths you can access but it was 90° & humid that day so, yeah...no walking tour in the hot sun for us.

We didn't spend very much time in the Visitors Center because of the caravan tour beginning right after we arrived. We simply decided not to go back over once the tour ended and we needed to be elsewhere soon. I was told it has three main rooms which showcase Murfreesboro before, during and after the Civil War. There is a small gift shop in there as well and big restrooms.

Riding Through History: A Bicycle Tour of Stones River National Battlefield is incredible. Our plans had to be changed so in order to take this tour, my husband and I had to spend the night and then drive 4 1/2 hours home. The tour was worth every extra mile we drove!

It was a beautiful fall day, the bike trails are not strenuous at all, mainly flat, and they cover the entire battlefield. There were several stops so you had a chance to rest, if needed, and you can bring water as well. There was also plenty of time for pictures.

However, the best part is having a tour guide that is passionate about history in general and this battle in particular. Being there with an expert makes the history come to life. Ranger John is so knowledgeable and entertaining that I was sad when the tour was over. He added so much more information than you could possibly get in an audio tour and we could ask questions and discuss the various possibilities for how history hinged on so many variables.

I wish every national park had a bike tour if they could all be this good! It is worth renting a bike to go on this tour!!!

This is the first place I went when I got to Nashville. Found it very beautiful and very interesting. Museum and gift shop were great also. People there were very nice.

One of my favorite wars to learn about is the Civil War or as the southerners call it the War between the states. Since I was going to the south, I had to see a battlefield. I chose Stone River because it's so close to Nashville. My brother and I went on the carvan tour and it was worth it! Ranger Ava was great(she was the best ranger) and the little girl who was telling on her dad was awesome too! I have never heard about this battle before this tour.

We learned about a crucial battle the is not as well known as others, despite the high casualty total. It was well worth visiting.

The museum is very informative and they have a nine minute film that gives a quick overview of the battle here. The cemetery is beautiful and it’s wonderful we honor those that lost their lives so we could all be free! There is driving tour with audio on your phone. We would have loved to stroll the different paths, but the t-storm kept us in the car!

Always an excellent choice and superior staff. Get out and walk the trails, dog friendly, and connects to the Murfreesboro Greenway system.

As a child, I was taught about the Battle of Murfreesboro. Very expressive display about how this battle changed a number of Union tactics and capabilities. And how the victory here bolstered Abraham Lincoln’s famous executive order. … the emancipation proclamation.

The Stones River National Battlefield, located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, is a National Park that offers a driving tour and walking trails. The park's Visitor Center houses a museum and gift shop, providing a comprehensive history of the battle through exhibits of uniforms, artillery, and other period memorabilia. On select days, the park features cannon demonstrations and living history encampments. Additionally, the Stones River National Cemetery, where over 6,000 Union soldiers are laid to rest, is a must-see for visitors to the area.

I am reviewing the battlefield as a hardcore Civil War buff. I have been to just about every major Civil War battlefield and to many smaller ones. I visited Stones River 20 years ago and came away disappointed. Nothing has changed to improve my opinion.

1. This was one of the major battles of the western/Tennessee theater. It was the site of the first permanent Civil War monument. Despite this, the entire battlefield has been lost to the worst sort of sprawl and development imaginable. Imagine a giant strip mall. That's Murfreesboro.

2. The visitor center is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Too bad so sad for those of us traveling in the middle of the week, I guess. It also doesn't open until 11 on Sundays. The auto tour (which is only 6 stops) closes at 5 PM. I'm not sure why given their isn't much to protect and the auto tour is so short. (The battlefield has one monument outside the national cemetery behind a gate and a handful of artillery pieces.)

3. The most iconic and emotionally evocative image of this battlefield was the broken artillery battery at the Slaughter Pen. This was removed as supposedly historically incorrect by the NPS and replaced with those steel cut outs of soldiers which have become popular in the last few years. They add nothing to the site and they look as fake as they sound. The broken cannons, while perhaps not historically accurate, were a stark and evocative image of the terrible fighting that occurred in this sector.

4. Speaking of historical accuracy, unfortunately, so much of the battlefield has been lost to sprawl that it is impossible to understand what happened or to understand even where you are. There is so much traffic whizzing past that even in the national cemetery, you can't hear yourself think.

5. The park appears to be of questionable safety, if the signs warning about vandalism are any indication.

6. I did get a laugh out of all the signage telling portrait photographers that they and their clients can't monopolize the extremely limited tour stop parking. I've seen this activity at other Civil War battlefields although Stones River is the first battlefield where I've seen signs about it. Why anyone would want their yearbook, wedding, or family photos done at a place where men bled and died has always struck me as completely bizarre but here we are.

On the plus side, Fortress Rosecrans, which is tucked behind a golf course, was a surprisingly neat site even though most of it has been lost to development as well.

If you would like to visit a great Civil War site in Tennessee, skip Stones River, and head west to Shiloh or south to Chickamauga. Shiloh is pristine and like stepping back in time, and Chickamauga has a great collection of monuments and a well-laid out tour route which will allow you to understand the battle. (If you hit Chickamauga, don't miss Point Park and Lookout Mountain).

This battlefield is easily accessed and interesting. The facilities are clean and up to date. The Junior Ranger program is well thought out and enhances the visit. The fighting here was brutal, made worse by the fact that it was New Year’s. We spent 2 hours and covered it pretty thoroughly.

We enjoy American history but knew very little about the horrendous battle fought in this area. The museum was very interesting and the driving tour through the battlefield was an incredible eye opening experience. But the cemetery was as heart wrenching as the one in Gettysburg. We wish we would have had more time to do some of the walking trails throughout the park. It’s a place you won’t want to miss if you like history. The staff at the visitor center were so knowledgeable and helpful. Be sure to get instructions on how to navigate the battlefield it’s a bit tricky.

I am interested in the Civil War. I was thrilled to see this Park close to our hotel. The evening we visited it threatened rain so I didn't get the full experience. However, what I saw was well done and I look forward to going back when I am in the area again.

We went to take a tour of the battlefield and cemeteries. The weather was pleasant, so the self guiding map made it all very nice.
We toured the inside visitor center first to view a short movie and see some informative displays.
We went into the small shop, but very expensive, so we didn't do much there.
All in all, I would recommend this if you like Civil War history....it's great.

The Stones River National Battlefield site has lots of paths and interpretations along the way. The video in the Visitor's Center is very informative, the staff is most helpful and informed, and the displays are set up nicely. This is a good place to not only learn more about the Civil War battles here in Tennessee, but also to relax in a natural environment in an open walking setting.

Great multimedia car tour that is great in any weather. Interesting dialog with visuals that are not just informative but helping one understand the horror of war from a number of perspectives.

The Battle of Stones River was the 6th bloodiest battle fought in the war yet remains little known. The National Park Service does a really good job of presenting the events leading up to, during, and after the battle. Great walking trails!

Interesting site and rather well done but make the course out of summer heat because it is too painful. Instead, plan for the fall period.

This is a large place but we were able to take a car tour following a guide who walked us around multiple significant locations. Between her commentary and the metal statues and cannons set up it really helped visualize what was happening during the battle. There is a museum at the visitor center with good information. My only critique is that they need to provide more information on what was happening socially, politically, and economically leading up to the civil war. Like most museums of this type it does not provide a complete understanding of the causes of the war or the motivations of each side.

Learning about the Stones River Battlefield was very interesting, but yet so tragic. It’s a pretty place. We saw deer when we were there.

We were on the way to Bell Buckle and had time to stop here at Stones River. We have been here before but I just wanted to drive the route since it was a pleasant day. Of course there are only 6 stops on the driving route with some offering a path to see a little more if you have the time. I did get a map from the helpful and friendly rangers at the visitors center. Unfortunately it it not as well preserved as some Civil War sites but was a nice diversion. Nevertheless it is an important Civil War site but I wish they would have had the foresight to preserve more of it.

The museum was average at best compared to all the different Civil War museums we have been to. If we are in the area again when they are having the reenactments I might go again but I'm not sure.

We decided to do the driving tour and even with a map to go by we missed quiet a few places. We just could not find them. I would recommend having someone highlight the route on the map to make sure you can find things. Some of their stops were just fields or empty lots where something used to stand (not very interesting). Maybe the walking tours would have been better but we didn't have that much time.

We went for a school field trip and you should never take 5 classes with 25 students it gets to crowed. I loved walking on the rocks and going on the hike it was also fun learning how to shot cannons. I would go again it's very informational.

Several sites on the driving tour, and several walking trails as well if that is preferred. Good information along the driving tour and at the visitor center.

The COVID pandemic meant the museum wasn’t open but the staff had an interpretive employee giving the general layout. The trail has mobile phone interactive kiosks that tell the story at the marked stops. Several trails exist from two miles to over four miles. The adjoining cemetary is a sobering reminder of the cost of war in terms of human life.

Enjoyed our tour of the battlefield. We went there on a Thursday and found out that the Visitor Center was not open Tuesday - Thursdays. I'm guessing that the reduced hours had to di with Covid-19.

We liked this national battlefield. There was a very interesting visitors center and then one could drive to different points and call to get audio descriptions. A very worthwhile visit for us! Recommend!

This park does a good job educating visitors about the events that happened here; park staff are very knowledgeable and friendly. My two boys completed the Jr. Ranger program. We visited the cemetery, Hazen Monument and Fortress Rosecrans. The auto tour is well done.

Main battlefield has a visitor's center and national cemetery. There are other related civil war sites scattered throughout Murfreesboro that are nearby.

I consider myself an American History buff and I knew nothing about this battle or the importance of it to the Civil War. Worth the trip. You can download an app and go on an audio tour of the battlefield, very informative.

I really enjoyed learning about this battle and the war. Things were explained well and some things setup to show how it happened. the metal figures around helped get you into the exhibit.

The displays are wonderful, and the rangers very knowledgeable. This park offers a great insight into life as a solder in the civil war. You can hike through the battlefields/woods over pretty flat countryside. Long and short loops are available. They have markers and equipment to show where things were back then during the campaign. This battle, its intensity and importance to the Civil War and it’s eventual outcome, are not common knowledge; well that’s what our American friends said.
In the war cemetery, or just outside it, we found one of the most unique monuments in the world. The Hazen's Brigade Monument (built 1863), it is the oldest surviving American Civil War monument, standing in its original location. It was actually erected by the surviving solders of the brigade to honour their fallen comrades, (approximately 50) who fought bravely to delay the advancing Confederates and gave their lives in this endeavour and helped turn the tide the union’s way.

Very humbling experience. The audio auto tour was very informative. The national cemetery gives you goosebumps. Very nice visitor center and gift shop.

I enjoy the serenity of civil war battlefields. This one is a must see. NOT one of the larger battlefields but very walkable. Plan to spend at least a full day exploring Murfreesboro. Don't miss Fortress Rosecrans.

Stones River marks the site of a Civil War Battlefield in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The park itself is smaller, but like other National Park Service-owned Civil War sites in the area, it has a well marked and mapped driving tour. This tour is shorter than the other battlefields I've visited, but the format is the same, numbered stops with additional information on the Park Service map and available audio tour. There are no earthen-works in place, only split rail fences and cannons to mark the battlefield locations.

Stones River is also the home to earliest Civil War monument, the Hazen Brigade Monument, which was constructed before the war even ended.

I have had the extreme pleasure of visiting several Civil War battlefields in Tennessee and Georgia with my father. This a very beautiful park with a walking and driving tour. The park rangers are polite and helpful with an immense amount of knowledge of the area and history.In light of today's social outlook on our history, it is sobering to consider where have come from and what lies ahead of us as a country. It is sad that fathers, sons, husbands and brothers died at a horrible cost. Regardless of political ideals men gave their lives for all of us. It is up to us to protect all of our values and stay human. Well worth the the time and energy to explore the area and reflect its meanings. There were no fees while we were there.Enjoy......

This is part of the national parks service, and is a self-drive, self-guided tour of the Stones River Battlefield. Recommend starting at the Visitor Center to get an idea of the battle that happened here as well as a map to the various locations. Very moving.

Interesting historical area. Also a good place to capture images. Best enjoyed in early quiet hours of the day or around sunset.

We spent the better part of one day at the visitor center, doing the driving tour, walking around at each stop and shopping in the gift shop. The museum part of the center was very well done, helping us understand the battle. We found unique gifts to buy. No cost to visit.

Very eerie and informative. Be careful if your gifted with a 6th sense. I got a headache from the time I entered until I left upon which the pressure in my head went away.

The numerous tombstones sit starkly in the morning sun under the trees as you drive up to the park. Please stop at the visitors center and watch the video that reenacts the battle fought here during the Civil War. The rangers greet everyone, which is so refreshing!!! The museum is excellent!!! Stop here!!!

Stopped by and followed tour route and was impressed with entire battlefield, visitors center is good for any age. Also stayed for reenactors and cannon firing, very impressive. Nice area for local people to walk and bike, Rangers are very nice and informed, good repore with all age groups

I was too late arriving to visit the visitor's center which I think would have helped understand and plan my visit better. Vey well maintained area, as the Park Service always supplies. Takes the visit to the cemetery to fully grasp the magnitude of what took place here.

My husband and I like to come here and walk our dog , on leash of course. The paths are good and the nature is beautiful. Our granddaughters (8 & 9) were with us and have not been in the museum or seen the battlefield since they were toddlers. We took turns taking them through the museum and gave them a brief story of this battle as well as the War between the states. They enjoyed the museum and the trails and asked if we could bring them back again without the dog so we could spend lots more time in the museum. The battlefield and surroundings are true history and we are so glad it's here for future generations to learn and know about.

We arrived early to this historic battle site to find it opening later so we road around the site and visited the burial sites adjacent to.

My time here started off great, as soon as I walked into the visitors center/gift shop, a volunteer/staff member came up to me and offered to give me a map and explain a little about the area. I didn't get her name, but she was a really sweet older lady. She explained the map to me, although ironically enough I somehow got off trail anyway...lol I chose to walk the park as opposed to driving, because I had been sitting at an expo all weekend and felt the walk would be nice. However, for those not wanting to walk, you can still see the major sites. I found the "Slaughter Pen" to be extremely interesting, and it was quite an experience to be standing where part of a battle was fought and so many died. I had never seen rock formations quite like these and it was easy to envision the way the soldiers used them for cover. After walking the park and seeing all the sights, I walked over to the memorial across the street, and while I cannot remember the name at this moment, there was a sign explaining this was one of the first monuments to be put up to the fallen soldiers. Visited the small cemetery at the monument, and it was touching to see some men going around putting pennies on all the tombstones. When they ran out of pennies they just picked up and used some rocks to make sure every tombstone had something on it. I also walked across the street to the National Cemetery, which was interesting as well. Great place to visit, definitely recommend it.

The Stones River Battlefield is well maintained. The layout is good, with various trails for easy walks and plenty of signs. The rangers are friendly and helpful. Admission is free. I stopped here and stretched my legs for a couple of hours during a long drive across Tennessee.

Took an uber from Nashville. So worth it. Trails and wildflowers and history in a beautiful setting. The cemetery is also beautiful and serene and so we'll maintained. The national park service does such a wonderful job!

This was a very important battle during the CW. I had no idea that so many soldiers lost their life in this battle.

Very informative if one is into civil war history. Great story although a sad one of the loss of 24,000 brave soldiers. Many trails to walk on, run or bike on and even a car tour of the grounds.

Very interesting information.if you visit i side staff very friendly and knowledgeable. Willing to answer all question.Outside self guided tour either walking trails or driving..cemetery visitors have a solemn assessment of atrocities of brother against brother..well worth the stop..

There are specific sites at Civil War battlefields that you should visit, sites that played significant roles in the outcome of the conflict. Like the Angle and Little Round Top at Gettysburg or Burnside's Bridge at Antietam or Snodgrass Hill at Chickamauga or Marye's Heights at Fredericksburg. At the Battle of Stones River, located three miles northwest of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, and 28 miles southeast of Nashville, be sure to visit McFadden's Ford. From the ridge overlooking the river and McFadden's Ford, Union Captain John Mendenhall deployed 45 guns hub-to-hub that resulted in 1,800 Confederate casualties in less than an hour and saved the day for Union General William Rosecrans. It was the final action of the Battle of Stones River, which was fought from December 31, 1862 to January 2, 1863, and resulted in the highest percentage of casualties of any major battle in the Civil War, higher than the infamous bloodbaths at Shiloh and Antietam earlier that year. The McFadden's Ford marker is on North Thompson Lane or State Highway 268 on the right when traveling south. It is located along the Stones River Greenway Trail, adjacent to the McFadden's Ford unit of Stones River National Battlefield. The Union victory was significant because it boosted Union morale after its defeat at Fredericksburg and reinforced President Abraham Lincoln's foundation for issuing the Emancipation Proclamation, which ultimately discouraged European powers from intervening on the Confederacy's behalf. Another significant site on the battlefield is the Hazen Brigade Monument, the nation's oldest intact Civil War monument erected in May 1863 by William Hazen's brigade at Hell's Half Acre. In 1906, a 31-foot-tall obelisk was erected to commemorate the position of the massed Union artillery used to repel the Confederate assault. The 709-acre battlefield also includes Stones River National Cemetery, established in 1865, with more than 6,000 Union graves.

The Visitor Center includes an extensive museum with detailed battle maps. There’s also an outdoor loop trail which you can drive/walk/hike. Unfortunately, due to rainy weather following us around, we weren’t able to take advantage of the loop trail. Next time. If you’re in the area, you may want to stop here. The people in the Visitor Center are friendly and knowledgeable and the gift shop has a number of books that I haven’t seen at other stores. At least I now have a book detailing the battle, even if I wasn’t able to take the outdoor loop and see the geography.

Wondered across this location. Looking for something outdoors. When we arrived they were conducting a civil War reenactment. This was so cool and our timing was great. We did not know about this battlefield and the importance during the Civil War.

This is an area rich in history. It is a somber trail but we learned a lot. The cemetery is interesting to walk around. We also learned a ton of information by my daughter doing the Junior Ranger activities. We highly recommend it!