Stones River National Battlefield

Stones River National Battlefield, located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, is a preserved site that commemorates the significant Battle of Stones River, fought during the American Civil War. This historical park covers an area of approximately 650 acres and is managed by the National Park Service.

The Battle of Stones River took place from December 31, 1862, to January 2, 1863, and was one of the deadliest battles of the Civil War. It witnessed fierce fighting between the Union Army of the Cumberland, led by Major General William S. Rosecrans, and the Confederate Army of Tennessee, under General Braxton Bragg. The battle ended inconclusively, but it played a crucial role in boosting Union morale and securing middle Tennessee.

Visitors to the Stones River National Battlefield can explore various historical sites and landmarks associated with the battle. One notable spot is the Hazen Brigade Monument, which honors the Union soldiers who bravely fought during the battle. The Stones River National Cemetery is also located within the park, where over 6,100 Union soldiers are buried.

The park offers a range of activities for visitors interested in delving into the history of the Civil War. Guided tours are available, providing detailed insights into the battle and its significance. The visitor center, equipped with exhibits and a film, offers a comprehensive overview of the battle and its impact on the war.

Beyond the battlefield, visitors can explore other attractions nearby. The city of Murfreesboro offers various dining options, shopping centers, and accommodations, catering to different tastes and budgets. The Oaklands Mansion, a grand antebellum home showcasing Southern architecture and history, is worth a visit. Additionally, the Middle Tennessee State University campus is nearby and offers opportunities for cultural events and sporting activities.

Stones River National Battlefield offers a unique glimpse into a significant moment in American history. Its preserved landscapes and historical markers provide visitors with an educational and immersive experience, allowing them to engage with the courageous individuals who fought and sacrificed during the Battle of Stones River.

Stones River National Battlefield is situated in Middle Tennessee, specifically within the Rutherford County limits. Nestled along the eastern banks of the Stones River, the battlefield is marked by its picturesque landscape and historical significance. This pristine location offers visitors a glimpse into the area's natural beauty while also serving as a solemn reminder of the intense Civil War battles that once occurred here. The rolling hills and verdant fields provide an idyllic backdrop for exploring the preserved historical grounds, enabling visitors to immerse themselves in the turbulent history and geographical features of the region.

Address & Contact

1563 North Thompson Lane
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Driving Directions
Phone: 615-893-9501
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Stones River National Battlefield would be in October or November. During these months, the average maximum temperature ranges from 61°F to 73°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation is around 4 inches, ensuring milder rainfall compared to other months. These months also have relatively lower visitor counts, allowing visitors to avoid large crowds while exploring the battlefield.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Stones River National Battlefield are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Hands-On Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Arts and Culture Biking Road Biking Hiking Fishing Living History Self-Guided Tours - Auto Historic Weapons Demonstration Arts and Crafts Cultural Demonstrations Theater

Topics

Learn about these topics at Stones River National Battlefield: Animals Birds Geology Arts Transportation Fish Tortoises and Turtles Fire Military African American Heritage Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite Grasslands Scenic Views Forts Battlefields Monuments and Memorials Wars and Conflicts Civil War Enslavement National Cemetery Trains and Railroads Reconstruction

Visitor Centers

Visitor Center

The park visitor center and restrooms are open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm in Spring and Summer and 9am to 4:00 pm from November 1 through February 29 in fall and winter. The visitor center is closed on Thanksgiving and December 25th.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Stones River National Battlefield

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Stones River National Battlefield

Hampton Inn & Suites Murfreesboro

A stay at Hampton Inn & Suites Murfreesboro places you in the heart of Murfreesboro, within a 5-minute drive of Go USA Fun Park and Stones River Mall. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in Murfreesboro? This hotel has 1078 square feet (100 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 325 N. Thompson Lane, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link

Embassy Suites by Hilton Nashville SE Murfreesboro

When you stay at Embassy Suites by Hilton Nashville SE Murfreesboro in Murfreesboro, you'll be near the airport, within a 15-minute walk of Rutherford County Convention and Visitors Bureau and The Avenue Murfreesboro. Featured amenities include wired Internet access (surcharge), a 24-hour business center, and express check-out. Planning an event in Murfreesboro? This hotel has facilities measuring 43000 square feet (3870 square meters), including conference space. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 1200 Conference Center Blvd, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link

Candlewood Suites Murfreesboro, an IHG Hotel

A stay at Candlewood Suites Murfreesboro, an IHG Hotel places you in the heart of Murfreesboro, within a 15-minute walk of Saint Thomas Heart - Rutherford and Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 850 N Thompson Ln, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link

Residence Inn Nashville SE/Murfreesboro

Located in Murfreesboro, Residence Inn Nashville SE/Murfreesboro is in the business district, within a 15-minute walk of Rutherford County Convention and Visitors Bureau and The Avenue Murfreesboro. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Murfreesboro? This hotel has facilities measuring 500 square feet (46 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1409 Conference Center Blvd, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link

Hilton Garden Inn Murfreesboro

Located in Murfreesboro, Hilton Garden Inn Murfreesboro is within a 15-minute walk of Rutherford County Convention and Visitors Bureau and The Avenue Murfreesboro. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1335 Conference Center Blvd, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link

Holiday Inn Murfreesboro, an IHG Hotel

Located in Murfreesboro, Holiday Inn Murfreesboro, an IHG Hotel is in a rural location, within a 15-minute walk of Rutherford County Convention and Visitors Bureau and The Avenue Murfreesboro. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1453 Silohill Lane, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link

Home2 Suites by Hilton Murfreesboro

With a stay at Home2 Suites by Hilton Murfreesboro in Murfreesboro, you'll be within a 10-minute walk of Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital and Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 909 Thompson Lane Building A, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link

Courtyard Nashville SE/Murfreesboro

With a stay at Courtyard Nashville SE/Murfreesboro in Murfreesboro, you'll be a 3-minute walk from Rutherford County Convention and Visitors Bureau and 10 minutes by foot from The Avenue Murfreesboro. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, express check-in, and express check-out. Planning an event in Murfreesboro? This hotel has facilities measuring 1944 square feet (181 square meters), including conference space. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1306 Greshampark Dr, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link

Tru by Hilton Murfreesboro

With a stay at Tru by Hilton Murfreesboro in Murfreesboro, you'll be within a 10-minute walk of Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital and Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 909 Thompson Lane, Building B, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link

Hyatt Place Murfreesboro

Located in Murfreesboro, Hyatt Place Murfreesboro is within a 5-minute drive of The Avenue Murfreesboro and Rutherford County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Address: 2108 LOTHRIC WAY, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link