DAYTRIPS: ANTIETAM

by Jamie Alvarenga

The Haunted Battlefield In Maryland Both History Buffs And Ghost Hunters Will Love

Calling all history buffs AND ghost hunters! The following historic battlefield in Maryland is known as one of the most haunted places in the world. It makes for a great day trip any time of year, whether you visit during warmer months or prefer to explore during cool, autumn months. Read on to learn more and add this infamous Maryland battlefield to your to-do list.

Antietam National Battlefield is located in Sharpsburg, Maryland.Google Maps

This area is where the infamous Battle of Antietam took place during the American Civil War. On September 17, 1862, 23,000 soldiers were killed, wounded, or missing.Doug Kerr / Flickr

Knowing how many men died here gives an eerie feeling as you stroll the grounds. There are plenty of informational signs explaining the history of the area...Doug Kerr / Flickr

...and picturesque statues as well.Doug Kerr / Flickr

Antietam National Battlefield covers a whopping 3,229 acres, so there's much to see. Be sure to check out Burnside Bridge...Doug Kerr / Flickr

...and don't forget to visit Bloody Lane, a sunken road where about 5,600 casualties met their fate.Doug Kerr / Flickr

Most ghostly encounters occur along Bloody Lane, with visitors often reporting the smell of gunpowder. Some have even reported spotting men in confederate uniforms walking along the sunken road.Craig Fildes / Flickr

Other paranormal happenings at the battlefield include seeing blue balls of light floating around and the faint sounds of a drum cadence.Kevin Thomas / Flickr

Whether you believe in the ghostly stories or not, you can't deny that this is one of the deadliest places in human history.Craig Fildes / Flickr

Head here for a stroll, to pay your respects, and to admire how this once-gruesome place is somehow oh-so scenic.Doug Kerr / Flickr

Visit the Antietam National Battlefield website to learn more, and to plan your trip. You can also follow the official Facebook page for fascinating history lessons and photos.

Speaking of haunted places, would you dare go on this creepy day trip through Southern Maryland? It’s a perfect adventure to take this fall!

Address: Antietam National Battlefield, 302 E Main St, Sharpsburg, MD 21782, USA