Petersburg National Battlefield
VA
About Petersburg National Battlefield
Two hundred ninety-two days, eight offensives, over 70,000 casualties, U. S. Colored Troops, and the decline of Gen.
Lee's Army of Northern Virginia all describe the Siege of Petersburg. U.S.
forces cut off supplies to both Petersburg and the Confederate capital, Richmond. Today, the park preserves the sites of this pivotal campaign.
Things To Do
Visit Poplar Grove National Cemetery
Walk around Poplar Grove National Cemetery and reflect on the tragedy that befell the United States during the Civil War. Each simple headstone is a poignant reminder of the human cost of war.
Drive the Eastern Front Tour Road
The Eastern Front Tour Road is 4-miles, one-way, and has eight stops encompassing the first couple months of General Grant's assault on Petersburg in 1864.
Walk Around City Point
Walk around City Point to explore why this area was, and still is, a popular place for living along the rivers. The Eppes family established the Appomattox plantation and their home here as early as 1635, until 1976. In 1864, General Grant and the U.S. Army used City Point as its headquarters to supply the army during the Petersburg Campaign.
Available Activities
Weather
Winters are usually cool with temperatures averaging in the 40s. Spring and fall are mild. Summer can bring very hot and humid weather.
Getting There
The Eastern Front (Main) Visitor Center is located approximately 2.5 miles east of Rt. 95 off of Route 36 in Petersburg.
If travelling north on Rt. 95, take exit 50D and follow signs to Wythe Street. Once on Wythe Street, travel 2.
5 miles east to entrance of Battlefield. If travelling south on Rt. 95, take Exit 52 (Wythe Street).
Again, travel about 2.5 miles to entrance.
Plan Your Visit
Let Roamze help you plan the perfect trip to Petersburg National Battlefield with AI-powered itineraries.
Start PlanningHours
Eastern Front Tour Road and Trails
The Eastern Front Unit includes our main visitor center and a four mile, 8-stop tour road which includes the Fort Stedman and Crater battlefields. During Spring and Summer, the tour road closes at sunset or 8:00 pm (whichever is earlier). In the Fall and Winter, the tour road closes at 5:00pm. The Visitor Center is open from 9:00 - 5:00 pm daily except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Day when the park is closed.
General Grant's Headquarters at City Point
The grounds, with wayside exhibits are open during daylight hours.
Five Forks Battlefield
The recreational trails and driving tour stops are open daily.
