Having grown up in Murfreesboro, Stones River National Battlefield was something of a given in the background of my experience. We frequented it enough, but in my 6 year old brain I tended to equate the battlefield more with tired legs than exactly reverence. Oops.
Fast forward a few years and not only are my legs stronger, I’m bringing my kids on their bikes and even remote control cars! With the years the battlefield park offers guests more opportunities than ever to explore, learn, and engage with its historical roots. Check out my five things to do here.
Take the Trails
While ranger programs are held regularly through the week, self-guided tours of the battlefield are available from the comfort of your car! The driving tour includes six stops with information panels providing numbers for guests to call to hear about the significance of that area. Cleared trails are also marked for tourists to see more. To do everything would take about 3 hours, otherwise plan on about an hour for listening to the provided station and driving along tour.
Aside from the information provided, the sweeping fields and dense forest are intriguing to see, and the added cannons and soldier silhouettes add eye-catching interest. On a visit to the gravestones, see pennies left by guests paying their respects, according to the tradition for fallen service men and women.
Watch the Natives
Besides historical significance, the battlefield is an intersection of native Tennessee flora and fauna. Take advantage of the many paved and gravel walking trails on site to see some of the purest local examples of Tennessee
Terrain and other natural features had a profound impact on the Battle of Stones River. In order to maintain the cultural landscapes of Stones River National Battlefield, the National Park Service applies the latest science toward maintaining a healthy and diverse ecosystem.
The Battlefield contains a host of plants, animals, geologic features and other natural resources that are unique to middle Tennessee.
Study the Museum
The Battle of Murfreesboro was critical to the Union’s success during the Civil War. The Museum and Visitors Center features interpretive exhibits including artifacts and examples of life for soldiers and civilians during the war. Watch a movie about the battle in the theater, and then visit the wonderful bookstore which houses for fascinating written works on the battle and its personalities, as well as intriguing period games and replicas, art work, posters, and National Parks merch.
Tune into Programs and Events
For history buffs young and old the park offers a myriad of programs to facilitate continuing education and involvement. The “Every Kid Outdoors” program gives 4th graders free access to all National Parks and Lands for a year, the “Virtual Ranger” program encourages children to complete activities about the park and then turn them in for a badge, The “Traveling Truck” program allows teachers of all affiliations to check out trucks with focused activities to teach about an aspect of the battlefield and its history. During the week, catch the bicycle tours of the battlefield with rangers.
Give Back
Ongoing opportunities abound for individuals to become involved with the park’s mission including group service days, individual opportunities for visitor and grounds assistance, and a fun and meaningful artist in residence programs that allows artists to stay on site for 2-4 weeks creating (an application process is involved).
Stay up to date on events and programs at the Battlefield by visiting their website and Facebook page.
Stones River National Battlefield is located at 3501 Old Nashville Hwy. Murfreesboro. 615-893-9501. www.nps.gov/stri/index.htm. From March 1st through October 31st, the Stones River National Battlefield visitor center is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Laura Beth Payne is a writer mama and Murfreesboro native who lives in the Blackman community with her husband and two children. Follow her at @murfreesboromama on Facebook and Instagram for more family fun in and around the city!