In the mid 1800s, Aquia Landing was the terminus of the RF&P Railroad. Here, passengers took steamboats up the Potomac River to Washington, DC. During the Civil War, it was the site of the first naval engagement, and an important logistical access point, controlled largely by the Union troops. When the Union arrived in Stafford, this pivotal transportation point also became a destination for many enslaved people who sought refuge behind Union lines and were transported from this site to points north or abroad. Noted freedom-seekers who passed through this point include William & Ellen Craft, Henry "Box" Brown, and John Washington. This site was designated to the NPS National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom in April 2009, and a new exhibit is in development. A Civil War Trail marker is located in the park. Today, open year-round, this historic site and public park offers a riverside beach, sunbathing, fishing, picnicking, volleyball, and swimming (NO lifeguard on duty). Two large shelters are available to rent for special events (540-658-5019 to reserve). Alcohol is not permitted. HOURS: mid-Mar to 31 Oct, 8am-8pm. 31 Oct to mid-Mar, 8am-5:30pm.

The visitor center introduces the extensive action that took place in the Fredericksburg area during the Civil War. Located on Sunken Road, a focal point during the Battle of Fredericksburg, the center serves as a starting point for a tour of the Fredericksburg-Spotsylvania National Military Park. Re-live ""Lee's most-one-sided victory"" against Union General Ambrose E. Burnside at Marye's Heights and Chatham. The action took place in December 1862. Open daily from 9 am-5 pm, except January 1, Thanksgiving Day and December 25. Hours expand on spring and fall weekends and daily during the summer. Admission is free, but a fee is charged for the 22-minute film: $2 ages 10-61, $1 ages 62 and above.

Scene of nearly two weeks of fighting, the Battle of Spotsylvania Courthouse reached a climax at the "Bloody Angle." For 20 hours on May 12, 1864, the Bloody Angle witnessed the most intense hand-to-hand combat of the war. Historians man the exhibit shelters daily during the summer season and on weekends during much of the spring and fall season. On those days, historians also lead guided tours of the Bloody Angle at 1 and 4 pm. For complete information from the National Park Service, visit www.nps.gov/frsp.