National Park Service
Park Visitor Information - 2009
(Pennsylvania to Texas)
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Event Lists by State (select from the state list or from the drop list below)
AL | AK | AS | AZ | AR | CA | CO | CT | DE | DC | FL | GA | GU | HI | ID | IL | IN | IA | KS
KY | LA | ME | MD | MA | MI | MN | MS | MO | MT | NE | NV | NH | NJ | NM | NY | NC
ND | OH | OK | OR | PA | PR | RI | SC | SD | TN | TX | UT | VT | VI | VA | WA | WV | WI
Drop List of Events
Pennsylvania
Allegheny Portage Railroad National Historic Site
Special Events & Tours: Allegheny Portage Railroad NHS offers a variety of special events and tours, especially during the summer months when park rangers provide demonstrations and guided walks. One of the most popular special events is the ghost tour of the Staple Bend Tunnel. Many programs allow you to sit under the evening sky and take part in the Evening on the Summit Series. On July 11 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, watch park rangers cut stone and hew logs just as they did in the early 1800’s as the park celebrates 175 Year Celebration of the Portage Railroad. For more information, contact the park at (814) 886-6150 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/alpo/.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Pennsylvania/New Jersey
Special Events & Programs:
Saturday, June 13, 2009 7:00 p.m.: Park Lecture Series: Gardening for Birds & Butterflies
Saturday, June 27, 2009: Old-Fashioned Independence Day at Millbrook Village
Tuesday, June 23 and Wednesday, June 24, 2009 all day: Delaware River Sojourn
The sojourn is scheduled to pass through this park on these two days.
Saturday, July 11, 2009 7:00 p.m.: Park Lecture Series: Beneficial Insects in the Park
Wednesday, July 22, 2009 all day: Delaware River Clean Up
Saturday, August 8, 2009 7:00 p.m.: Park Lecture Series: Reading Barns & Telling Their Stories
Saturday, September 5, 2009: Apple Festival at Millbrook Village
Details to be announced
For more information about these and other programs, contact the park at (570) 828-2253or(908) 496-4458 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/dewa/.
Bookstore:The Park’s bookstores are run by a cooperating association, Eastern National. Eastern National also publishes and sells a number of materials that are specifically about this park, including:
Exploring Delaware Water Gap History: A Field Guide to the Historic Structures and Cultural Landscapes of Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area by park historian Susan Kopczynski.
Down the Delaware: A River User's Guide by park staff.
There were Camps Along the Delaware: Memories of boy scouting on the Delaware River by park seasonal interpreter and former camper Albert Zusman.
Eisenhower National Historic Site
Junior Secret Service Agent Program: Eisenhower National Historic Site offers a special "Junior Secret Service Agent program," for children aged 7-12. The Junior Secret Service Agent program allows the children to learn about President and Mrs. Dwight Eisenhower and how the Secret Service protected them on their farm in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.
Children participating in the Junior Secret Service Agent program engage in activities such as practicing radio procedure, looking for suspicious objects using binoculars, and becoming familiar with surveillance equipment in the site’s restored Secret Service office. Trainees may also have to approach a “suspicious” staff member and interrogate them about their activities. Parents should plan to assist their children as they complete this self-guided activity and learn about President Dwight D. Eisenhower and how the Secret Service protected him. Upon completing the program, the children will receive a Junior Secret Service Agent badge and certificate.
Eisenhower National Historic Site is open daily. All visits are via shuttle bus from the National Park Service Visitor Center, 1195 Baltimore Pike in Gettysburg. Shuttles depart every half-hour from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekends and every hour on weekdays. Admission is $6.50 for adults, $4.00 for children ages 6-12, under 6 free. The Junior Secret Service Agent program activities are included in the site admission and available daily. Families should allow at least two hours for their children to complete the program.
For more information contact the Eisenhower National Historic Site at (717) 338-9114 or visit the web site at www.nps.gov/eise.
Gettysburg National Military Park
Summer Ranger Programs: From mid-June through mid-August, Gettysburg National Military Park offers a variety of ranger guided programs for our visitors with subjects ranging from battle history to medical practices of the Civil War, living history and battlefield hikes. We also offer programs for our younger visitors. Ranger guided programs are offered at the visitor center, on the battlefield, and in the Soldiers' National Cemetery. Programs average twenty minutes to two hours in length, depending on the subject matter and location. Programs run daily from June 13 through August 16, 2009*. (*Dates are subject to change.)
Memorial Day Weekend Living History Events, May 23-24, 2009: Syke’s U.S. Regulars at Meade’s Headquarters, 10th Virginia Infantry at Spangler Spring &
the 119th New York Infantry at the Pennsylvania Memorial.
Memorial Day Parade and Ceremonies, May 25, 2009: 141st Annual Memorial Day observances. Parade held at 2 p.m. followed by a ceremony in the Soldiers’ National Cemetery.
Living History Program, May 30-31, 2009: 4th Maryland Artillery at Pitzer Woods & 6th New Hampshire Infantry at Spangler Spring.
Living History Weekends: Every weekend in June, July and August, Volunteer groups representing Union and Confederate troops provide a weekend of "living history" at Gettysburg National Military Park.
Annual Gettysburg Brass Band Festival: June 20, 2009, from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm
at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center. Held in conjunction with the Greater Gettysburg Brass Band Festival, the Regimental Band of the 8th Georgia Volunteer Infantry from Rome, Georgia, will present a concert of Civil War period band music at the National Park Service Museum and Visitor Center at 11:00 AM. The Wildcat Regimental Band will follow with their concert at 3:00 PM, also at the Museum and Visitor Center. These concerts are free of charge.
146th Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg: July 1, 2 & 3, 2009 - A series of ranger-conducted battle walks and special programs will mark the 146th Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg. The 146th Anniversary Battle Walks will be held July 1-3. A schedule will be posted on our Summer Ranger Programs page by June 1, 2009.
The Real-Time Programs guide visitors through the battle in chronological order in a series of special, short programs held at specific sites throughout the park. The schedule for these programs will be announced. A complete schedule of the park’s anniversary programs will be available at the Visitor Center Information desk. These programs are free of charge.
15th Annual Civil War Music Muster: August 22, 2009 - Civil War brass bands, fife and drum bands, and parlor music are presented in concert at the National Park Service Museum and Visitor Center, followed by a concert at the Pennsylvania Monument in the early evening. Groups will also perform at the Dobbin House Restaurant on Steinwehr Avenue in Gettysburg. Check at the park information desk for a complete schedule of performances. The Music Muster programs are free of charge.
For more information about these special ranger programs and events, contact the park at (717) 334-1124 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/gett/.
The Museum and Visitor Center at Gettysburg National Military Park: An awe-inspiring experience, the new Museum and Visitor Center at Gettysburg National Military Park celebrated its grand opening on September 26, 2008. This 139,000-square foot introduction to the Battlefield includes the newly conserved Gettysburg Cyclorama experience, the Gettysburg Museum of the American Civil War, a breathtaking film (A New Birth of Freedom), and space for education, meetings, research and curatorial services. The opening of the Museum and Visitor Center at Gettysburg National Military Park is an Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission endorsed project.
Bookstore: The Museum Bookstore, located in the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center, is your first stop for books and materials relating to Gettysburg and the Civil War. The store is open during regular visitor center hours and operated in partnership with the Gettysburg Foundation by Event Network, Inc. For information on books, videos, DVD's, and other merchandise offered by the Museum Bookstore, call (717) 334-2288.
Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
Living History Programs and Demonstrations: Programs are presented during summer months and during special events at other times of the year.
Fueling the Furnace: August 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, 2009 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm in the Historic village - Park volunteer colliers perform this multi-day program demonstrating the historical means of processing Hopewell’s surrounding forests into charcoal fuel for the furnace. The first task performed will be the construction of the charcoal pile. Made of stacked hardwood, the pile is skillfully erected and then given a cover of leaves and dirt. After its construction, it is set alight and allowed to slowly smolder for days until the wood is converted into charcoal. When "coaled" and sufficiently cool, the pile is "raked out" and the charcoal brought to the charcoal house for storage until it is needed. Though it takes days for the whole process to be completed, Hopewell’s volunteer colliers remain tending the pile. Working in shifts, they assure the process is successfully completed while demonstrating a historic trade that was vital to the operation of the furnace. Persons interested in becoming a volunteer collier can contact the park for more information. For more information about this and other programs, contact the park at (610) 582-8773 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/hofu/.
Independence National Historical Park
The park offers a variety of ranger-led programs throughout the year and especially in the summer. These free, ranger-led programs enrich visitors’ experiences of the park's many resources. For more information about these programs, contact the park at (215) 965-2305 or visit the park website at http://www.nps.gov/inde/.
Summer Programs:
Glass Armonica Demonstrations - at the Franklin Court Museum. The 15-minute demonstration is given on Saturday and Sunday at 12 noon and 2:30 pm. Listen to the story of Ben Franklin’s musical invention that started with water glasses.
Barnacles and Bullets - at the New Hall Military Museum, Saturday and Sunday at 1:30 pm. Enjoy a 15 minute program to learn about life for the average sailor and soldier during the Revolution.
Junior Ranger Induction Ceremony: Independence Visitor Center , 525 Market Streets Meet the Ranger at the Information Desk at the Visitor Center Sat & Sun only at 4-4:15 pm. A Park Ranger conducts a special ceremony for all the children who have completed our Junior Ranger booklet.
The following programs are offered in the Portrait Gallery in the Second Bank, 420 Chestnut Street.
Hidden History - Ask a park ranger for a card Wednesday –Sunday, 2-4:30 pm. Kids follow clues to uncover the special people in the exhibit, and then get a reward.
Moses Williams: Cutter of Profile - Wednesday - Sunday, 2:15- 2:30. Hear the amazing story of Moses Williams who learned to operate the Physiognotrace to earn his freedom and a good living making silhouettes in Peale’s Museum.
The Underground Railroad in Philadelphia - Saturday only, 3:30- 4:15 pm. Learn how Philadelphia’s free black population helped the enslaved to seize their freedom on the “Underground Railroad.”
Untold Stories of Independence Hall - Sunday only, 3:30-4:15 pm. Join a park ranger to hear about little know events that took place in Independence Hall after the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Learn about the fugitive slave trials, the huge mastodon bones assembled in Peale’s gallery on the second floor and more.
Steamtown National Historic Site
During the summer months, the park offers a variety of programs for the entire family. For more information about these programs, contact the park at (570) 340-5186 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/stea.
Guided Tours: Steamtown's short train rides and excursions are available seasonally. For 2009, we will begin operations with the “Scranton Limited” short train excursions on Sunday, April 19. The “Scranton Limited” short train excursions (approx. 30 minutes roundtrip) inside the Park boundaries will operate on Wednesdays - Sundays through December 6. You may also want to join a Park Ranger or a Volunteer on a 45-minute walking tour to see what it takes to maintain and repair steam locomotives. This walk through the historic Locomotive Shop of the former Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad allows visitors to see the huge behind-the-scenes system which helped every railroad run smoothly.
Train Rides: Few experiences are more thrilling and relaxing than riding behind a steam locomotive! Steamtown NHS will offer passenger rail excursions, most powered by a steam locomotive, to the following special community event destinations. Cost and reservation info, and information on our full 2009 Excursion Season, is available at www.nps.gov/stea by clicking the “Train Rides” link!
“Armed Forces Day”: May 16, 2009 at East Stroudsburg - train departs at 9 am, and returns 4:30 pm (approx). Displays, vendors, arts and crafts, railroad tower tours at East Stroudsburg Borough.
“Founder’s Day”: June 27, 2009 at Delaware Water Gap - train departs at 9 am and returns at 5:30 pm (approx). Displays, vendors and special presentations at Delaware Water Gap Township.
Railfest 2009: September 5 and 6, 2009 – This year’s theme is “The 1940s.” An excursion to Moscow, PA is scheduled to depart each day at 1 pm, returning at 3 pm (approx).
“Bridge Day”: September 12, 2009 at Tunkhannock Viaduct - train departs at 2 pm, and returns at 4:30 pm (approx).
Excursion reservations must be pre-paid, and tickets are non-refundable unless an excursion is cancelled by Park Management; excursions listed above include the daily Park Entrance Fee. We accept all major credit and debit cards. Excursion reservations are available beginning April 6 (Tunkhannock Viaduct reservations expect to open on July 20). Phone (570) 340-5204 for reservations and tickets, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm daily.
Junior Ranger Programs: Steamtown NHS offers two Junior Ranger programs - one for children ages 6-8, the other for ages 9-12 - that may enhance your visit! For children ages 5 and under, we offer a special "Exploring Steamtown" activity sheet that offers children another opportunity to have fun exploring the museums with their parents. These no-charge programs are available at the Visitor Center.
Bookstore: The Park’s bookstore is operated by Eastern National, a cooperating association of the National Park Service. Eastern National offers books and other educational items relating to the interpretive themes of Steamtown NHS. The store is located between the Ticket and Information and Visitor Centers, in the former Oil House. To contact the Park bookstore, call (570) 340-5213.
Valley Forge National Historical Park
For more information about the various summer programs offered, contact the park at (610) 783-1077 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/vafo/.
Summer Programs: Everyday from June 20, 2009 to August 31, 2009, Daily - Beginning June 20 through Labor Day, visitors can enjoy twice-daily ranger-led walking tours, costumed interpreters at Muhlenberg Brigade, Varnum’s Quarters and Washington’s headquarters, "Story of Valley Forge" guided trolley tours and bike rentals. Once Upon a Nation storytellers share anecdotal first-hand accounts of the encampment at four benches located throughout the Park. And during Valley Forge After Hours tours, every Saturday night through October, visitors can enjoy a Colonial fare picnic, meet Martha and General Washington and share a campfire and stories. Fee charged for trolley tours and After Hours tours.
Muhlenberg Brigade Living History Interpreters: Every Sunday Weekly from 11:00 am to 3:30 pm atTour Stop #2 Muhlenberg Brigade - Living History interpreters discuss soldier life and the Valley Forge Encampment. Soldiers and/or camp followers present ongoing programs and answer visitor questions at Muhlenberg Brigade (weather permitting).
National Trails Day: June 6, 2009 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at the Betzwood Picnic Area - Outdoor recreation and healthy living will be celebrated during National Trails Day festivities at Valley Forge National Historical Park’s Betzwood Picnic Area located on the north side of the Park. Visitors can hike along the River Trail, participate in educational clinics, fitness assessments, view partner exhibits and more designed to promote the rewarding relationship between good health and our natural environment. Free and open to the public.
March-out of the Continental Army Commemoration Living History Program: June 20, 2009 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at Muhlenberg Brigade - To honor those soldiers who left Valley Forge and went on to secure our nation’s independence, interpreters from the Oneida Indian Nation, Park Rangers, and volunteers will host a living history encampment at the Park’s Muhlenberg Brigade. Cannon firings are conducted at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Free and open to the public.
COMMERCIAL SERVICES
Puerto Rico
San Juan National Historic Site
Throughout the summer months, join a ranger to discover more about San Juan National Historic Site. Orientation talks are held every hour on the hour in both Castillos San Felipe del Morro and San Cristóbal. Interpretive programs include Tunnel Tours and walks through the outer defenses of the largest Spanish fortification in the New World! A cultural dance and music festival is held every Tuesday evening. For more information about these programs and festival, contact the park at (787) 729-6960 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/saju/.
LeLoLai Festival: Every Tuesday from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Fort San Cristobal - The Lelolai Festival is a fabulous program exposing visitors to typical Puerto Rican music and dance in authentic settings. Offered every Tuesday, this is undoubtedly one of the most all-encompassing and attractive cultural festivals in Puerto Rico. Specifically designed to showcase the Island’s enticing blend of Spanish, Indian and African traditions, customs and heritage, the Puerto Rico Tourism Company has proudly organized this festival for more than 25 years.
South Carolina
Cowpens National Battlefield
Sunday in the Park Series: Cowpens National Battlefield will have activities from March 15 – August 16 on the 3rd Sunday of the month (April 19, May 17, June 21, July 19, and August 16) and on the 4th Sunday in September (September 27). These will include historical activities that children and parents can do at the Robert Scruggs House from 2:00 – 4:00.
Living History Encampments and Weapons Firing Demonstrations: Reenactors will fire reproduction muskets, rifles, and cannon on May 30, June 6, June 20, July 4, August 1, and September 5, 2009.
The park will have Fireworks and Family Fun on July 3, 2009. Activities will include the Junior Patriot Program in which children will take Oath of Allegiance and sign it with a quill pen, roll their own musket cartridges, and learn the musket drill. The day will end with fireworks around 9:00 p.m.
Kings Mountain National Military Park
During the summer the park offers a variety of interpretive and special programming. For more information about these programs, contact the park at (864) 936-7921 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/kimo/.
Children’s Colonial Day: June 13, 2009 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm at the park Visitor Center - Kids will have a chance to experience 18th century kids activities and clothing. Play games such as Game of Graces, Rolling Hoop and Jacobs Ladder. Learn the weapon drill of a militia soldier, join the militia and sign the oath using a quill pen. Ever wore breeches or a waistcoat or how about a petticoat and shortgown? Learn what these items are as kids try on 18th century clothing. Once you complete the 18th century activities, visit Kings Mountain State Park’s Living History Farm where kids will experience what it was like to live on a 19th century farm.
Trade and Craft Fair: June 27 & 28, 2009 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm at the parkVisitor Center - Artisans will demonstrate a variety of skills like fur trapping, tanning, joinery and carpentry. Learn about colonial medicine, herbs and 18th century games and toys.
Sign the Declaration of Independence on Independence Day: July 4, 2009 from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm at the park Visitor Center.
Ken Bloom in Concert: August 15, 2009 from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm at the park Visitor Center - Ken Bloom, a talented musician will be performing in the visitor center. The performance will feature Celtic and Early American Colonial Music.
Backcountry Militia Encampment: August 15, 2009 from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm at the park Visitor Center - The Backcountry Militia will discuss life on the Carolina frontier. A variety of demonstrations will be held including weapons firing, cooking and more.
Ninety Six National Historic Site
The park offers living history programs during the summer months on several Saturdays. For more information about these programs, contact the park at (864) 543-4068 or visit the ark website at http://www.nps.gov/nisi/.
"Living History Saturdays": May 6, June 20, July 18, August 15, 2009 - Step back in time to the 1700s as reenactors display Colonial skills used in daily living such as fireplace cooking, baking, woodworking, crafts and musket firing. There will be special talks and tours available.
South Dakota
Badlands National Park
During the summer season, visitors can enjoy a diversity of ranger-guided programs that appeal to those with varying interests and abilities. Walks, talks, children's activities, and audiovisual programs delve into the uniqueness of the park's resources.
Geology Walk: Daily at 8:30 a.m. - Explore the geologic story of the White River Badlands on this 45 minute walk. Meet at the Door Trailhead located at the far east end of the Doors/Windows parking area two miles south of the Northeast Entrance Station on the Badlands Loop Road. Wear a hat and closed-toe shoes. Terrain is varied.
Prairie Walk: Daily at 5:30 p.m.- Join a park ranger for this easy, 1/2 mile walk into the prairie. Meet at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center for an exploration of prairie life and landscape. Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a hat and water.
Fossil Talk: Daily at 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m.- Explore what fossils can tell us about the story of ancient life in the Badlands and why they should be protected at this 15 - 20 minute talk. Presented at the Fossil Exhibit Trail, 5 miles northwest of the park headquarters/visitor center on the Badlands Loop Road.
Evening Program: Daily at 9:00 p.m. (Starting August 1st, the evening program will be given at 8:30 p.m.) - Join a park ranger for a 40 minute presentation at the Cedar Pass Campground Amphitheater. A weekly listing of program topics is available at
the Ben Reifel Visitor Center and bulletin boards throughout the park. Program will start when the sky is dark!
Junior Ranger Program: Daily at 10:30 a.m. - Calling all visitors between 7 and 12 years of age! Meet at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center for a 45 minute adventure into an aspect of the Badlands. Wear closed-toe shoes and a hat. It may be a walk, a game, or another activity. Attendees will be awarded a Junior Ranger badge. Parents are
also welcome!
For more information about these programs and other activities, contact the park at (605) 433-5361 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/badl/.
Bookstore:Enjoy a full selection of books to learn more about the park. We invite you to visit the Badlands Natural History Association (BNHA) bookstore in the Ben Reifel Visitor Center. Books are available to learn more about the park's natural and cultural history. Souvenirs can be purchased to serve as reminders of your enjoyable trip. Contact: www.badlandsnha.org or write Badlands Natural History Association, P.O. Box 47, Interior, SD 57750; (605) 433-5489; fax (605) 433-5248.
COMMERCIAL SERVICES
Missouri National Recreational River (South Dakota andNebraska)
From Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, park rangers present a variety of programs every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Lewis & Clark Visitor Center. These programs may include hands-on exhibits on the Lewis & Clark Expedition, fur trade, and homesteading, or creative programs on peace medals and life on the Great Plains.
Rangers offer numerous other programs and tours at MNRR’s partner sites. Through these programs, you can discover the unique nature of the Missouri River of the past and present, recreational opportunities, and the fascinating history connected to the “Big Muddy”. You can visit our ranger programs page to download a complete schedule and program descriptions.
Here is a sample of some programs available:
Walk Through History - A ranger-guided walk through Yankton’s Riverside Park introduces you to the fascinating history of the Missouri River, Yankton, and some of the interesting characters who influenced the growth of this river town. Starts at the Chamber of Commerce on highway 50.
Canoeing 101 - Before you go out to explore the Wild and Scenic River, learn the basics of canoe handling and safety in this clinic led by National Park Rangers in cooperation with South Dakota State Parks. Held on the south shore of Lake Yankton between the boat ramp and the fishing pier. Must be 12 or older. Pre-registration required; contact South Dakota Lewis & Clark Recreation area, 605-668-2985.
Movie Night - Going on to the Badlands, Mt. Rushmore, Little Bighorn Battlefield, or other National Parks? This ranger-hosted program offers you a preview of the history and grandeur that await you.
Bicycle Tour—This 8 mile out-and-back easy family ride from the Aquarium to the Chief White Crane campground shows you a few of the area’s recreational opportunities and offers insights into the story of the Missouri River and the reasons for and effects of the six major dams. Bring water, sunscreen, and snacks if desired. Helmets and appropriate shoes required, children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Bicycles may be subject to safety inspection. Limited to first 15 registrants. Pre-register at 402-667-2546.
Kids’ Fishing Clinic —A national park ranger and South Dakota state naturalists introduce you to the game fish of the Missouri River and the fun of catching them. Learn about fishing regulations, tackle, bait, and how to identify fish. Meet at “The Bubble” just outside the Chief White Crane Campground.
Luggage of the Plains – Plains Indians used hide parfleches much as we use trunks, dressers, and storage boxes today. Discover life on the Great Plains and the art of making these containers as you assemble your own to take home.
All programs are free; programs at most state park partner sites require state entrance fees. For more information about these and other programs, contact the park at 402-667-2550 or 402-667-2551. More information is also available at http://www.nps.gov/mnrr.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
Guided Tours: Ranger Walk (30 minutes) - Walk with a park ranger along the first half of the Presidential Trail to the base of the mountain carving. The ranger will highlight the natural and cultural history of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills. This fully-accessible walk begins at the Grand View Terrace. Programs are offered frequently each day throughout the summer months. For more information about the program, contact the park at (605) 574-3171 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/moru/.
Sculptor's Studio Talk (15 minutes) - Learn about the tools and techniques used in the carving of the mountain sculpture. Talks include stories from the workers, demonstrations of the tools and the artist's working model. Programs are offered frequently each day throughout the summer months.
Evening Program (45 minutes) - Join a park ranger in the park's outdoor Amphitheater for an inspirational program focusing on the presidents, patriotism and the nation's history. Beginning with a ranger talk, this program continues with the film Freedom: America's Lasting Legacy and culminates in the lighting of the memorial. The program is fully accessible and begins at 9:00pm from May 24 until August 14. From August 15 through September 30, the program begins at 8:00pm.
Sculpture Workshops (1 week) - Free Sculpture Workshops are offered on the Borglum View Terrace by Mount Rushmore's artist in residence. Stop by to see how participants learn clay and stone-carving techniques similar to those used by artist Gutzon Borglum.
Kids' Exploration Area (10-30 minutes) - Calling kids of all ages, this area is designed just for you! Explore the natural, cultural and historic aspects of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills at this interactive area located off the Grand View Terrace.
Lakota, Nakota, and Dakota Heritage Village (10-30 minutes) - Explore the history of the Black Hills and the American Indian tribes who have populated this land for thousands of years. Located along the first section of the Presidential Trail, this area highlights the customs and traditions of local American Indian communities.
Bookstore: The Mount Rushmore History Association Bookstores have provided the memorial with over $1,000,000 since 1993. This funding is used for intern and volunteer staff, provides free publications for visitors, fund the parks Junior Ranger and Rushmore Ranger programs, supply the flags for the Avenue of Flags, fund special events throughout the year, contributes to the parks educational programs, fund interpretive exhibits, contribute to the care and protection of the Lincoln Borglum Museum Collection, publish promotional material for the park and publish educational books, pamphlets and products with direct input from the National Park Service to increase public awareness of park significance. The bookstores carry a variety of books about Mount Rushmore and surrounding parks. They also carry games for kids, games for adults, books on Native Americans, Pioneer Women and a good selection of DVD's and Videos. To access the bookstore online, go to http://www.mtrushmorebookstore.com/Content/19.htm.
Tennessee
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina
Ranger-Guided Walks & Talks: Evening campfire programs, guided hikes, history demonstrations, and other ranger-led programs are generally conducted from June through October in the park. Evening slide programs are traditionally held one or more nights per week at Elkmont, Cades Cove, and Smokemont campgrounds. Guided walks, ranging in length from 0.25 mile to 5.0 miles, are conducted throughout the park. Specific program times and locations are listed in the summer and fall editions of the Smokies Guide newspaper and on park bulletin boards. The Smokies Guide is available at visitor centers or by calling (865) 436-7318. Publication dates are June 1 and Sept. 1. Visit the park website at www.nps.gov/grsm/ to learn more about programs and events in the park.
Bookstore: Great Smoky Mountains Association is a nonprofit organization that operates several bookstores in the park and in surrounding communities. They carry a wide array of items to make your trip to the park more enjoyable and memorable. Shop now! Profits generated by purchases are donated to educational, scientific, and historical projects in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
COMMERCIAL SERVICES
Stones River National Battlefield
Park rangers and volunteers offer guided tours of the battlefield on a regular basis from May through October. Most battlefield tours are caravan tours. Visitors follow the tour leader in their own vehicles. There are also a variety of other ranger programs too. For more information about the programs and events, contact the park at (615) 893-9501 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/stri/.
Programs and Events:
A Soldier’s Story: Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday Weekly from May 4, 2009 to June 5, 2009, from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm at the Visitor Center - Visitors are invited to join a ranger or volunteer as they tell the story of a soldier who fought in the Battle of Stones River. Program starts at the visitor center at 2 pm.
We Fought at Stones River: Every Tuesday & Thursday Weekly from May 5, 2009 to June 4, 2009 from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm at the Visitor Center - Experience the Battle of Stones River by listening to the experiences of a Union or Confederate unit. Program starts at the visitor center at 2 pm.
There Are Many Sides To A Story: June 6 & 7, 2009 at 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM, 11:00 AM to 11:45 AM, 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM, 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM, 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM, 2:30 PM to 3:00 PM, 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM, 3:30 PM to 4:15 PM at the Visitor Center - Visitors will hear multiple viewpoints from soldiers and civilians as they describe the Battle of Stones River and other Civil War events in Murfreesboro. Program Schedule:
- 10 AM - Is This God’s Will? - Join soldiers and civilians from Murfreesboro as they describe their experiences leading up to Forrest’s Murfreesboro Raid in July 1862.
- 11 AM - It Could Not Be Well Avoided - Many of the characters from the previous program will share their stories from the fall and winter of 1862.
- 1 PM - The Slaughter Pen - A Federal and Confederate soldier will share their stories from one of the deadliest places on the battlefield. (Includes a Musket Firing Demonstration)
- 1:30 PM - The Business of War - Local businessman John Spence will share his insights on the war’s impact on his town.
- 2 PM - The Line That Wouldn’t Break - Two soldiers will talk about the fighting along the Nashville Pike on December 31, 1862. (Includes a Cannon Firing Demonstration)
- 2:30 PM - Losing Everything - Mrs. Hollie McFadden will talk about the terrible losses her family suffered during and after the Battle of Stones River.
- 3 PM – Breckinridge’s Charge - Listen to the stories of two soldiers who fought in the final action of the Battle of Stones River. (Includes a Cannon Firing Demonstration)
- 3:30 PM - 1895: A Memorial Visit to Stones River National Cemetery - Join characters from the year 1895 as they visit the cemetery and share the stories of some of the soldiers who are buried there.
Living Under The Guns: Every Saturday and Sunday Weekly from May 3, 2009 to June 6, 2009 from 11:00 am to 11:30 am at the Visitor Center - Learn about war on the homefront in Murfreesboro through the story of one its residents. Programs will not be offered when living history or special events are scheduled.
The Slaughter Pen: Every Monday Weekly from June 8, 2009 to August 10, 2009 from 10:00 am to11:00 am at the Visitor Center Join a ranger for a walk into one of the bloodiest and most pivotal areas on the battlefield. (60 minutes)
A Ride Through History: A Caravan Tour of Stones River National Battlefield: Everyday from June 8, 2009 to August 16, 2009 from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm at the Visitor Center - Visitors will follow a ranger in their vehicles and stop at four sites to learn about the events and people that are part of the story of the Battle of Stones River. Program will not be offered when a living history or special event is scheduled.
Hallowed Ground: A Lantern Tour of Stones River National Cemetery: June 6 & 20, July 11 & 25, August 8 & 22, and September 5, 2009 at 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm, 7:45 pm to 8:45 pm at the Visitor Center - Stones River National Battlefield will offer eight presentations of Hallowed Ground: A Lantern Tour of Stones River National Cemetery during 2009. Hallowed Ground is a program dedicated to allowing visitors to appreciate the cost of war through the stories of soldiers, and their loved ones, who are buried in Stones River National Cemetery. A ranger will lead the group on a lantern lit walk through the cemetery and stop at several gravesites where volunteers portraying soldiers and civilians will share stories taken from the letters and diaries of the period.
The program last about an hour. Videotaping, flash photography, and flashlights are not permitted during the program. Reservations are required and must be made by calling (615) 893-9501 starting at 9 AM on the Monday preceding the program date. Reservations will not be taken in the visitor center or by e-mail. There is a limit of four tickets per caller and reservations are not transferable to another program date.
Program Dates and Times:
Bookstore: The Stones River National Battlefield bookstore is managed by Eastern National. Visitors can choose from an array of books and other items that contribute to a continuing educational experience. Eastern National makes an annual donation from its sales to Stones River National Battlefield.
Texas
Big Bend National Park
Ranger Guided Programs: Scheduled interpretive programs are offered year-round to help you discover more about your park. Join a park ranger for a guided hike, evening program, talk, or workshop on Big Bend's natural and cultural history. These free programs are offered daily. Programs vary weekly, so check at any visitor center for a current schedule when you arrive, or view it ahead of time here. For more information about these programs, contact the park at (432) 477-2251 or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/bibe/.
Bookstore: The Big Bend Natural History Association operates bookstores at all five visitor centers in Big Bend National Park, as well as at the Amistad National Recreation Area. An online bookstore is also available and items can be purchased over the phone with a credit card. Call (432) 477-2236 for more information. Proceeds from book sales directly benefit park goals and support interpretive programs and materials.
COMMERCIAL SERVICES
Chamizal National Memorial
The park offers a variety of interpretive programs during the summer months. For more information about these programs, contact the park at (915) 532-7273 or visit the park website at http://www.nps.gov/cham/. All interpretive programs at Chamizal National Memorial are free to the public.
Scheduled Interpretive Programs:
Armchair Explorers Travel Series: From the comfort of our theater, travel by video each month to an exciting national park site. See the wonders and hear the stories behind some of the our nation’s most intriguing parks, memorials, monuments, battlefields, and other special places that make up more than 391 sites managed by the National Park Service. This program takes place every third Wednesday of the month from 10:30-11:30 am.
Ranger Guided Hikes: Chamizal National Memorial offers ranger guided programs that highlight the history of the Chamizal dispute and the sincere diplomacy that ended the 100-year dispute between these two neighbors as well as the culture of the border region. If you are interested in a ranger program, please call us at (915) 532-7273 ex. 125 or send us an email (cham_interpretation@nps.gov) to schedule a walk through the history and culture of the borderland.
First Fridays Film Festival: The film festival presents Hollywood movies that capture various themes of the border region. Films are shown in the theater the first Friday of the month, and shows start at 7 pm.
Puppet Shows: Learn about the Chamizal story through the magic of marionette and hand puppets. The memorial offers puppets shows targeted at the k-5th grade audience at various times throughout the year. Please call (915) 532-72732 ex. 130 for more information. Most shows last for one hour.
Theater Events: Chamizal National Memorial has a 475-seat state of the art indoor theater and an outdoor amphitheater that can accommodate 10,000+ visitors. Theatrical and musical events are held in the theater almost every weekend of the year. During the summer, Chamizal National Memorial also hosts Music Under the Stars, which is an outdoor concert series. Musical acts from around the country entertain visitors with a variety of musical genres on Sunday evenings (6-9 pm) from mid-June-mid-August. On average 5,000-10,000 visitors attend each of one these outdoor summer concerts. For a complete listing of our theater events please visit the schedule of events page on our website (http://www.nps.gov/cham/planyourvisit/events.htm).
Bookstore: Chamizal National Memorial’s bookstore offers one-stop shopping for unique items representative of the border region culture and style. Visit Chamizal National Memorial's bookstore page (http://www.nps.gov/cham/supportyourpark/bookstore.htm) to view a sampling of our products. In addition to finding one of a kind gifts, books, and mementos you also support interpretive and education programs at Chamizal National Memorial. The Chamizal National Memorial Bookstore is operated by Western National Parks Association, a private, non-profit organization, whose mission is to promote preservation of the national park system and its resources by creating greater public appreciation through interpretation, education, and research.