Got here early in the morning and started off at the visitors center to get a map and more info. I have to admit I really don't know a lot about the American Revolution, not sure why, but I don't, so the movie was great. They have a great info movie online and I watched that in my hotel before visiting, I highly recommend do that. Not one to argue with customs officials I did just that. He grew up nearby and said I have to come visit. Have to thank Homeland Security for this one, as the officer who did my screening told me to come visit here after I told them where we were going. The park is beautiful and there is more we could have seen. I only wish we had had a few more hours for our visit.

I was happy to know that Washington paid to rent the place instead of commandeering it. It was amazing to tour Washington's headquarters and to be in the same room where the general sat and strategized. He and our ten year old son got into a great conversation on British battles in South Africa and how they informed British military strategy. We enjoyed our chat with Steve and he was able to connect what was happening in Valley Forge with global events and trends (be sure to check out the exhibit he did on this on the second floor of the visitors center). This is clearly more than just a job for them. We also had lots of attention from the rangers who really helped bring Valley Forge history to life. We were lucky to be the only customers for that tour so our guide, Amy, was able to personalize the experience to us and to stop in a few locations that aren't on the main tour. I could have spent more time going through the exhibits but we booked the trolley tour.

We spent some time in the museum which is really well done, particularly as it appeals to both adults and kids. We only had a few hours so we watched the excellent introductory film which is narrated by Laura Linney. We visited in late December which was fitting as it gave us a sense of what it would have been like for Washington and his troops to sure up in cold weather with no shelter.

Valley forge casino visitors per year