I always thought Fredericksburg, VA is the best centralized location to visit important Civil War battlefields and related historical sites. Within thirty minutes' drive (or less) are four national military parks - Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness and Spotsylvania.

Atlanta has several attractions that are Civil War related: Stone Mountain, the Cyclorama, Kennesaw Mountain and the Margaret Mitchell House. In addition, countless historical markers pertaining to the battle for Atlanta are strewn across the city, mostly in residential areas.

In Chattanooga, you'll find Lookout Mountain and the Chickamauga/Chattanooga National Military Park system.