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Wars and Conflicts

History at Sunset is an annual series that focuses on areas rarely visited, stories rarely told, or familiar sites seen through a different lens. Park rangers lead each History at Sunset program. All programs are free and take place every other Saturday evening at 6:30 pm. Most include walking, with distances ranging from about 0.5 to 1.5 miles. Participants are recommended to bring bug spray and…

211 parks and sites (NPS)

About Wars and Conflicts

  • A ranger speaks to a group of 30 people seated on a lawn in front of a historic house.

    History at Sunset · Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park

    History at Sunset is an annual series that focuses on areas rarely visited, stories rarely told, or familiar sites seen through a different lens. Park rangers lead each History at Sunset program. All programs are free and take place every other Saturday evening at 6:30 pm. Most include walking, with distances ranging from about 0.5 to 1.5 miles. Participants are recommended to bring bug spray and water and to wear sturdy and comfortable walking shoes. 2026 History at Sunset Schedule All programs begin at 6:30 pm an…

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  • A four story house with tower sits on a hillside covered in trees

    Visit the Wayside: Home of Authors · Minute Man National Historical Park

    Witness to over 300 years of history! From revolutionary patriots to famous authors, the Wayside has played host to many influential thinkers in American History. Learn more about the Wayside: Home of Authors by clicking here!

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  • Wilkinson Trail marker in foreground, trail with 3 hikers cutting through meadow

    Hike the Wilkinson Trail · Saratoga National Historical Park

    Saratoga National Historical Park preserves the sites associated with the 1777 Battles of Saratoga. Follow the footsteps of those before you as you hike along hallowed ground. The grounds of Saratoga National Historical Park are open daily, year-round, from sunrise to sunset. Check our operating hours page for updates. Stop by the visitor center to grab a trail map of the Wilkinson Trail. What to Expect BRING WATER! There is no water available along the trail and fountains are turned off during the winter months. N…

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  • Individual luminaries sit in front of hundreds of graves in the rolling hills of a cemetery.

    Fredericksburg National Cemetery Luminaria · Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park

    The Fredericksburg National Cemetery Luminaria is an annual event featuring over 15,000 lanterns in the cemetery – one for each soldier buried in the cemetery grounds. This event takes place on the Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend. The luminaria honors soldiers who have died in the service of this country. Saturday, May 23, 2026 8 pm - 11 pm Note: This event is weather-dependent. Check the park's website and social media for event updates or any cancellation information. Where The cemetery is located at the interse…

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  • A park ranger stands before a stone monument pointing and talking to a crowd of visitors

    Concord's North Bridge: History and Memory ~ 11:00am Daily · Minute Man National Historical Park

    11:00 a.m. Daily North Bridge At 11:00 a.m. meet a Park Ranger at the benches by the North Bridge for this 30 minute program. Learn about the momentous battle at Concord’s North Bridge, where the British Army suffered its first casualties of the war, and the legacy of this event in American History.

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Featured parks for wars and conflicts

Programs & experiences

History at Sunset

Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park

History at Sunset is an annual series that focuses on areas rarely visited, stories rarely told, or familiar sites seen through a different lens. Park rangers lead each History at Sunset program. All programs are free and take place every other Saturday evening at 6:30 pm. Most include walking, with distances ranging f…

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Hike the Wilkinson Trail

Saratoga National Historical Park

Saratoga National Historical Park preserves the sites associated with the 1777 Battles of Saratoga. Follow the footsteps of those before you as you hike along hallowed ground. The grounds of Saratoga National Historical Park are open daily, year-round, from sunrise to sunset. Check our operating hours page for updates.…

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Historic Fort Self-Guided Tour

Fort Stanwix National Monument

A self-guided tour guide can be found inside the park brochure. A more-depth version, of the fort facilities, can be provided upon arrival by a park ranger at either the visitor center or fort entrance. This tour booklet will bring you through the various structures of the fort and explain their uses as well as many de…

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Ranger's Choice Programs

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

From the War of 1812 through the Second World War, Fort McHenry allows for a wide variety of history and subjects to be the topic of the park's ranger programs. Join rangers as they present pre-established programs that help orient visitors to the park's amazing stories! Rangers Choice Programs happen daily at 11:15 AM…

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Multi-Park Loop

Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Overview: Did you know that Rock Creek Park connects to many other parks in the region? This hike is a 10-mile loop that will take you to some sites managed by Rock Creek Park in Georgetown. In addition, it connects to the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail , Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park…

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Guided Tours of Bent's Old Fort

Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site

Take a tour with a Park Ranger to learn more about Bent's Old Fort. Each tour lasts approximately forty-five minutes and begins in the plaza. Tours are limited to fifteen participants and will explore the historic use of the site and the reconstruction of the fort in the 1970s. Learn more about Plaza Access Learn more…

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Walk the Freedom Trail

Boston National Historical Park

Originally conceptualized in the 1950s, the Freedom Trail ® is an iconic symbol of Boston. Its red brick line snakes through some of the oldest parts of the City, navigating visitors to some of the most significant historic sites in the Downtown, North End, and Charlestown neighborhoods of Boston. The trail itself does…

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Upcoming events

Upcoming programs and events at parks in this collection (from the NPS Events API).

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Workshops
Jun 12
Cape Hatteras National Seashore

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse: Reflect on the Past, Preserve for the Future

 

Discuss the details and history of this beautiful sentinel and learn about current restoration efforts.

11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Meet at Hatteras Island Visitor Center Pavilion
Workshops
Jun 12
Chesapeake Bay

Visions of Southern Delaware: Artworks of Jack Lewis

 

🎨🌾 Visions of Southern Delaware: Artworks of Jack Lewis 🖌️ A Celebration of the Places We Love Discover the beauty, charm, and character of Southern Delaware through the eyes of beloved artist Jack Lewis at The Seaford Museum . This special exhibition, presented in partnership with the Delaware Historical and Cultural Affairs Office , showcases paintings, murals, and sketches of the Southern Delware artist, Jack Lewis. 🌟 Exhibit Highlights: 🎨 Original paintings, murals & sketches 🖌️ A look at the legacy of one of Delaware’s cherished artists ❤️ A heartfelt tribute to the region Jack Lewis always called home ✨ Though Jack traveled and painted around the world, Southern Delaware remained close to his heart—and his artwork continues to celebrate its beauty for generations to come. 📅 Exhibit Dates: May 2 – September 6, 2026 Open Tuesday–Saturday and the first Sunday of each month 🕐 Hours: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM 📍 Location: 203 High St, Seaford, DE 19973 🖼️ Come experience the landscapes, memories, and artistic vision that continue to connect a community to one of its most beloved painters.

01:00 PM - 04:00 PM
The Seaford Museum 203 High St, Seaford, DE 19973
Guided Tours
Jun 12
Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Bodie Island Lighthouse Climb

 

Available for purchase on recreation.gov. Lighthouse climbing ticket sales are available starting the day of the climb at 7:00am, with climbs available every 20 minutes 9:00am – 5:00pm.

09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Ranger Programs
Jun 12
Boston African American National Historic Site

Black Heritage Trail Tour

 

Free Register Register in advance on Eventbrite Join a Park Ranger from the National Parks of Boston to explore the rich history of the Black community in 1800s Beacon Hill. The Black Heritage Trail ® showcases residences and community buildings associated with a Black community that thrived on, and near, the north slope of Beacon Hill before, during, and after the American Civil War. Throughout that time, this community organized for equal rights and access to equal education. Community members championed the movement to abolish slavery and even housed freedom seekers on their journey along the Underground Railroad. This tour lasts approximately 90 minutes. Register for the tour in advance on eventbrite . It begins at the Massachusetts 54th Regiment across the street from the Massachusetts State House and ends at the Museum of African American History , covering about 1.4 miles. The Black Heritage Trail Tour runs Wednesday through Sunday at 10 am and 1 pm. *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space."

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
This tour begins at the Massachusetts 54th Regiment and Robert Gould Shaw Monument and ends at the Museum of African American History
Workshops
Jun 12
Eisenhower National Historic Site

Eisenhower Home Tours

 

Regularly scheduled tours of the Eisenhower home will take place Thursdays through Mondays, from Thursday, May 28 through Monday, October 26. Home tours are first come, first served. Space may be limited depending on crowd sizes on the day of your visit. Visitors should check-in at our visitor contact station on-site and reserve a spot before their home tour program. Groups of 10 or more should reserve tour times outside of our regularly schedule home tour schedule. Click here to learn more on scheduling your group of ten or more.

10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Eisenhower National Historic Site
Workshops
Jun 13
Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Life on a Barrier Island

 

Wars, hurricanes, winds, and ocean currents have all had impacts on the shores of Cape Hatteras. Join us to learn about the forces of change and the captivating world of life on an island .

02:30 PM - 03:00 PM
Meet at Hatteras Island Visitor Center Pavilion
Guided Tours
Jun 13
Chesapeake Bay

Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse Tours

 

🌊 Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse Tours ⚓ Set Sail for History! Climb aboard for a one-of-a-kind adventure to one of the Chesapeake Bay’s most iconic landmarks! Enjoy a scenic boat ride followed by an exclusive, docent-guided tour inside the legendary Thomas Point Shoal Lighthouse —a true treasure of maritime history. Your journey begins at the Annapolis Maritime Museum , where you’ll depart for an unforgettable experience on the water. Your tour also includes admission to the Annapolis Maritime Museum , so you can explore even more maritime stories before or after your trip. ✨ Tour Highlights: 🚤 Scenic boat ride on the Chesapeake Bay 🏠 Guided interior lighthouse tour 🎟️ Museum admission included 📚 Stories of keepers, storms, and seafaring life 📸 Amazing photo opportunities 🕘 Tour Times: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM 📍 Departure Location: 723 Second St, Annapolis, MD 21403-3323 Step inside history, feel the Bay breeze, and discover why this lighthouse has guided sailors for generations! 🌟

09:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Tour departs from the Annapolis Maritime Museum. Your tour includes admission to the museum. 723 Second St, Annapolis, MD 21403-3323
Ranger Programs
Jun 13
Eisenhower National Historic Site

WWII Tours of Gettysburg National Cemetery

 

Gettysburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for over 500 Americans who died serving their country during World War II. From Pearl Harbor to D-Day, the stories of these fallen servicemembers represent tremendous courage and bravery of Americans during World War II. Join an Eisenhower NHS park ranger to visit their graves, explore their stories, and connect with the "greatest generation." These programs are 45 to 60 minutes in length and meet at the Taneytown Rd entrance to Gettysburg National Cemetery.

01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Eisenhower National Historic Site
Workshops
Jun 15
Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Life on a Barrier Island (Ocracoke)

 

Wars, hurricanes, winds, and ocean currents have all had impacts on the shores of Cape Hatteras. Join us to learn about the forces of change and the captivating world of life on an island .

02:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Meet outside of the Ocracoke Discovery Center.
Workshops
Jun 15
Cape Hatteras National Seashore

The Ocracoke Lighthouse: Celebrating Over 200 Years of Service

 

Discuss the details and history of this beautiful sentinel and the keepers that kept the light burning .

11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Meet on the boardwalk of the Ocracoke Lighthouse.
Workshops
Jun 15
Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Banker Ponies

 

Come meet the ponies who once roamed as a wild herd and learn about their living history on Ocracoke Island.

08:30 AM - 09:00 AM
Meet outside of the Pony Pens - 8 miles from the Discovery Center.
Workshops
Jun 16
Cape Hatteras National Seashore

Bird Walk (Ocracoke)

 

An introduction to the birds of Ocracoke. Meet winged residents and those traveling the Atlantic Flyway. Binoculars are available.

08:30 AM - 09:30 AM
Meet outside at the beach access parking lot adjacent to the NPS Ocracoke Campground.

All parks (211)

Adams National Historical Park
National Historical Park

Adams National Historical Park

MA

From the sweet little farm at the foot of Penn’s Hill to the gentleman’s country estate at Peace field, Adams National Historical Park is the story of “heroes, statesmen, philosophers…and learned women” whose ideas and actions helped to transform thirteen disparate colonies into one united nation.

African American Civil War Memorial

African American Civil War Memorial

DC

Over 200,000 African-American soldiers and sailors served in the U.S. Army and Navy during the Civil War. Their service helped to end the war and free over four million slaves. The African American Civil War Memorial honors their service and sacrifice.

Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island

CA

Alcatraz reveals stories of American incarceration, justice, and our common humanity. This small island was once a fort, a military prison, and a maximum security federal penitentiary. In 1969, the Indians of All Tribes occupied Alcatraz for 19 months in the name of freedom and Native American civil rights. We invite you to explore Alcatraz's complex history and natural beauty.

Aleutian Islands World War II National Historic Area
National Historic Area

Aleutian Islands World War II National Historic Area

AK

The remote Aleutian Islands, home to the Unangax̂ (Aleut) people for over 8,000 years, became a fiercely contested Pacific battleground in World War II. Some Unangax̂ were taken from their homelands as Japanese prisoners of war while the others were evacuated from the islands by the government. Both groups suffered greatly during the war, and some would never return to their villages.

Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
National Historic Site

Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site

PA

The first railroad to cross the Allegheny Mountains, the Allegheny Portage Railroad was the final piece of the Pennsylvania Main Line Canal. "The Portage" opened in 1834, marking the first time that there was one, direct route between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. All things to all people, it served merchants, passengers, slaves in pursuit of freedom, and soldiers from the Mexican War.

Amache National Historic Site
National Historic Site

Amache National Historic Site

CO

Amache, also known as the Granada Relocation Center, near Granada, Colorado was one of ten incarceration sites established by the War Relocation Authority during World War II to unjustly incarcerate Japanese Americans. Over 10,000 people, most American citizens, were incarcerated at Amache from 1942 to 1945.

American Memorial Park
Park

American Memorial Park

MP

American Memorial Park honors the American and Marianas people who gave their lives during the Marianas Campaign of World War II. At the park, memorials stand in tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the US Servicemen and Chamorro and Carolinian civilians who were killed in the battles between the United States and Japan that took place on Saipan, Tinian, and the Philippine Sea in 1944.

Amistad National Recreation Area
National Recreation Area

Amistad National Recreation Area

TX

An oasis in the desert, Amistad National Recreation Area consists of the US portion of the International Amistad Reservoir. Amistad, a Spanish word meaning "friendship," is known for excellent water-based recreation, camping, hiking, and rich cultural history dating back nearly 5,000 years. Amistad is also home to a wide variety of plant and animal life both above and below the water.

Anacostia Park
Park

Anacostia Park

DC

Welcome to Anacostia Park, your neighborhood national park in the heart of Washington, DC! Enjoy exercise along the river trail or relax by the water, Anacostia Park is a breath of fresh air and a space to unwind amid a bustling city.

Andersonville National Historic Site
National Historic Site

Andersonville National Historic Site

GA

Nearly 13,000 men died on these grounds, a site that became infamous even before the Civil War ended. Their burial grounds became Andersonville National Cemetery, where veterans continue to be buried today. This place, where tens of thousands suffered captivity so others could be free, is also home to the National Prisoner of War Museum and serves as a memorial to all American prisoners of war.

Andrew Johnson National Historic Site
National Historic Site

Andrew Johnson National Historic Site

TN

Andrew Johnson's complex presidency (1865-69) illustrates the Constitution at work following the Civil War. As the President and Congress disagreed on Reconstruction methods, the Constitution served as their guide on balance of powers, vetoes, and impeachment. In the end, it evolved as a living document with pivotal amendments on freedom, citizenship, and voting rights - topics still vital today.

Antietam National Battlefield
National Battlefield

Antietam National Battlefield

MD

23,000 soldiers were killed, wounded or missing after twelve hours of savage combat on September 17, 1862. The Battle of Antietam ended the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia's first invasion into the North and led Abraham Lincoln to issue the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation.

Showing 112 of 211 parks

Wars and Conflicts | Explore by Activity