A Guide to Civil War Sites in Kentucky

The Civil War is one of the most poignant and complicated times in American history. Many of our guests come to Kentucky to hear the stories of soldiers, citizens, and historical figures as they fought the harshest battle in the United States.

This Civil War guide will help you find the prominent historical sites near the Grand Victorian Inn. We’ll organize them based on how close they are to the Grand Victorian Inn. Don’t miss out on any of these must-see marvels and museums.

Battle for the Bridge Historic Preserve

Address: 810 Rush Island Bend Rd, Horse Cave, KY

Distance from Grand Victorian Inn: 16.8 miles (24-minute drive)

Hours: 7AM - 7PM

Our first major Civil War attraction is located in Horse Cave, KY. Fought near the Green River, the Battle for the Bridge was a contentious fight between Union and Confederate soldiers for access to the railroad. 

At this historic preserve you’ll learn about some of the fallen soldiers, the state of the war at the time, and see an authentic home from the era. Seasonal events are held frequently. Check out the calendar if you want to plan your trip around one of them.

Riverview at Hobson Grove

Address: 1100 W Main Ave, Bowling Green, KY

Distance from Grand Victorian Inn: 26.5 miles (31-minute drive)

Hours

Tues - Sat: 10AM - 4PM

Sun: 1PM - 4PM

Closed Monday

Originally the home of a Union sympathizer, the Riverview was later converted into a munitions base for the Confederate army. Learn more about this brave family and the impact the Civil War had on everyday civilians. We have more information about this historical site on our museums page.

Octagon Hall Museum

Address: 6040 Bowling Green Rd, Franklin, KY

Distance from Grand Victorian Inn: 39.3 miles (43-minute drive)

Hours 

Wed - Sat: 9AM - 3Pm

Closed Sunday through Tuesday

Visit this classic antebellum house on your Civil War tour. Constructed in 1847, the Octagon Hall has been used for a variety of purposes, but was used primarily as a safe house during the Civil War. For those fascinated by the paranormal, you can book a ghost hunt here.

Jefferson Davis State Historic Site

Address: 258 Pembroke-Fairview Rd, Pembroke, KY

Distance from Grand Victorian Inn: 82.7 miles (1 hour, 23-minute drive)

Hours

Monday - Saturday: 9AM - 4:30PM

For a fascinating introduction of an oft-forgotten political figure, drive to the Jefferson Davis State Historic Site. Jefferson Davis was the president of the Confederacy during the secession of the southern states. Learn about his life, influence, and view the beautiful limestone obelisk at this birthplace.

Fort Defiance Civil War Park & Interpretive Center

Address: 120 Duncan St, Clarksville, TN

Distance from Grand Victorian Inn: 93 miles (1 hour, 52-minute drive)

Hours
Tues - Sat: 10AM - 5PM

Sunday: 1PM - 5PM

Closed Monday

Are you most interested in viewing live demonstrations with professionals getting decked-out in Civil War attire? Come to Fort Defiance and this is what you’ll get. This fort was captured by Union soldiers in 1862, and was a magnet for runaway slaves. As an enlistment center for “Colored Troops”, Fort Defiance has a fascinating legacy in the Civil War.

As far as demonstrations go, you’ll be able to watch cannons firing and other old-fashioned weaponry be shot. You’ll learn about the emancipation of the slaves, the stories of soldiers from the Confederacy and the Union, and the experiences of former slaves during the war. 

If you’re a huge fan of historical landmarks, check out the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park. Learn about the renowned president and the circumstances of his life that lead him to the presidency.