Planning to explore Fredericksburg’s Civil War battlefields or historic sites, but worried about the federal government shutdown impacting your visit? Don’t cancel your plans — you can still visit many of the area’s historic locations during this time.
While National Park Service (NPS) staff are mostly furloughed, outdoor areas remain accessible for self-guided visits. Here’s what’s open, what’s closed, and how to make the most of your trip.
Fredericksburg Battlefield
The Fredericksburg Battlefield grounds are open from dawn to dusk, including battlefield roads, trails, and outdoor monuments. Visitors can still explore the Sunken Road, the Marye’s Heights area, and the nearby cemetery viewpoints, as well as read the many interpretive wayside signs for a self-guided tour through history. Interpretive Rangers are not available at this time, but Law Enforcement Park Rangers are still present, ensuring you still feel safe during your visit.
The Park Store remains open daily from 9 am to 5 pm and is a great resource for information on the region’s historic sites. It’s also the perfect spot to pick up souvenirs, maps, and guides to other National Park Service locations—especially helpful if you plan to visit additional sites where Visitor Centers are currently closed.
- For any questions regarding an upcoming visit or more information, you can call (540) 693 – 3200 and select the option to speak to the Park Store. You can also email [email protected].
Please note that the Fredericksburg Battlefield Visitor Center (including the building, restrooms, and exhibits) is closed during the government shutdown. Ranger-led programs and tours are paused, and indoor restrooms are unavailable, so be sure to bring water and plan to use nearby facilities before your visit.
Chatham
Chatham’s grounds, gardens, and riverfront overlook remain open to visitors, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting to explore. You can stroll along the walking paths, read the outdoor interpretive signs, and take in the sweeping views of the Rappahannock River.
However, the main house and indoor exhibits are closed during the government shutdown, and restrooms and other indoor facilities are unavailable. Even so, Chatham’s gardens and panoramic views are still well worth the visit—especially in the fall, when the colors and calm atmosphere make it a perfect spot for reflection or photos.
Note for Parking: Although the grounds are open to the public, the gate is currently closed and the site’s parking is not accessible at this time. If you would like to visit Chatham, parking is available at nearby Pratt Park, just a short walk away.
Chancellorsville Battlefield
At the Chancellorsville Battlefield, visitors can still explore the historic landscape along the open battlefield roads and driving tour routes. Trails and outdoor monuments, including the Jackson Wounding Trail, remain accessible for self-guided exploration. Interpretive waysides and markers throughout the park help tell the story of one of the Civil War’s most dramatic battles.
The Chancellorsville Battlefield Visitor Center, restrooms, and water fountains are closed during the shutdown, and all guided tours and ranger programs are paused.
Wilderness Battlefield
The Wilderness Battlefield is open for visitors to drive or walk along its historic roads, trails, and outdoor monuments.
Ellwood’s grounds and surrounding walking trails are also accessible, however the house itself is closed, along with on-site restrooms and ranger staffing.
Note for Parking: Although the grounds are open to the public, the gate is currently closed and the site’s parking is not accessible at this time. If you would like to visit Ellwood, you may park by the gate and walk onto the site. Please use caution and your best judgement when parking.
Spotsylvania Court House Battlefield
At the Spotsylvania Court House Battlefield, visitors can still experience the battlefield’s rich history through the open driving tour route, interpretive signs, and walking trails, including the iconic Bloody Angle. Outdoor monuments and scenic viewpoints remain accessible for those who want to explore at their own pace.
Tips for Visiting During the Shutdown
You can still have a great experience at these historic sites — just plan ahead:
- Go self-guided. Download the NPS app before your visit, which features guided audio tours for the region’s NPS sites. You can also download battlefield maps and trail guides on the NPS website for each location.
- Bring essentials. Water, snacks, and comfortable shoes are must-haves since facilities are closed.
- Be respectful. Please stay on marked paths and pick up any trash you bring with you.
- Enjoy the calm. With fewer crowds and no scheduled programs, you’ll find a rare sense of quiet reflection on these historic grounds.
- Take a Tour. Fredericksburg Battlefield Tours and Hallowed Ground Tours are still operating with guided group and personal tour options.
Even with the government shutdown, Fredericksburg’s history is still wide open.
Download the NPS App on the Apple Store or Google Play.
Visit the NPS website for the region.
Updated 10/13/2025