The largest Revolutionary War battle in the area was fought on this site just off Route 1 on September 11, 1777. The British won, the American army lost thousands of soldiers, and the remaining American troops retreated to Valley Forge while the British went on to occupy Philadelphia.

Despite the devastating outcome, history buffs enjoy exploring the grounds and visiting the two restored homes that served as headquarters for George Washington and General Lafayette as they camped here. The Visitor Center (878 Baltimore Pike, 610/459-3342, www.ushistory.org/Brandywine, Tues.–Sat. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Sun. noon–4:30 p.m. Mar.–Nov.; Thurs.–Sat. 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Sun. noon–4:30 p.m. Dec.–Feb.) has a small museum containing artifacts, exhibits, and a gift shop.

The grounds are always free and open to the public, but there is a fee for admission into the museum and a guided tour of the grounds and historic homes ($5 adult, $3.50 senior, $2.50 child 13–18, free 12 and under). Tours are offered daily throughout the year, with the exception of March when they are offered on weekends only; last tour is at 3 p.m.