gettysburg college self guided tour

Gettysburg College Gettysburg College

Visit Gettysburg College

The Gettysburg College Admissions Office offers in-person tours of campus. Opportunities for on-campus interviews for h igh school students and transfer students are also available. If you aren’t able to travel to campus, we have a variety of virtual visit opportunities including online interviews, information sessions, and much more.

Campus visit

The Gettysburg College Admissions Office will be welcoming registered visitors for in-person tours of campus and interviews with an Admissions representative. We will continue to add dates and visit options weekly.

Learn about campus visits

Virtual visit

The Admissions Office offers a variety of ways for you to connect with us virtually including information sessions, interviews, and opportunities to meet with current students.

Learn about virtual campus visits

Plan your visit

After you have scheduled your visit, learn about visiting Gettysburg!

• Getting to Gettysburg - Driving directions, town and campus maps, transportation options
• Where to stay and eat - Lodging and restaurants
• While you are in Gettysburg - Explore the Battlefield or attend a show at the college-owned Majestic Theater.

Historic Gettysburg has something for everyone.

Questions to ask a current student:

• How are the food options at Servo ?
• Who can participate in the Sunderman Conservatory of Music ?
• How are the students involved in the community with the Center for Public Service ?
• What is a First-Year Seminar and which one did you take?
• What amenities and activities are offered at the John F. Jaeger Center for Athletics, Recreation, and Fitness ?

Meet the admissions staff

The Admissions Office staff is here to assist you with anything you need and tell you about everything Gettysburg College has to offer. Feel free to contact them !

Gettysburg Heritage Sites Self-Guided Walking Tour

Pennsylvania.

1 Lincoln Square Gettysburg , PA 17325 United States

Get Directions

Located in rural southcentral Pennsylvania, the town of Gettysburg is surrounded by Gettysburg National Military Park. In July 1863, 2,400 residents found themselves in the midst of the Battle of Gettysburg and cared for 21,000 wounded in its aftermath. In November 1863 President Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address and dedicated the Soldiers' National Cemetery.  This self-guided walking tour allows visitors to effectively explore the history of the town.

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A Gettysburg Self-Guided Driving Tour How To: Easy + Free!

• Post author: Rachel Means
• Post last modified: 2023-12-12

The Battle of Gettysburg was a pivotal turning point in the American Civil War. Known as the High Water Mark of the Rebellion, the bloody battle lasted for three intense days and forever put the small town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania on history’s map.

Take a self-guided, free Gettysburg driving tour today and see the battlefield where brother fought brother for the future of America.

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and associate of other programs, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Experience Gettysburg in One Day with a Self-guided Driving Tour

The town of Gettysburg has not ignored its place in American history; the town’s civil war battlefield history industry is thriving .

Honestly, it can be a bit overwhelming when planning your first visit to Gettysburg.

Not only is the battlefield a National Military Park encompassing 6000 acres, but the town itself also has museums and historical homes and tour companies around every corner.

If you only have one day in Gettysburg, opt for a self-guided auto tour of the battlefield. It’s FREE and can be tailored to your individual time needs!

How to Day Trip to Gettysburg Battlefield

Gettysburg, PA is an easy day trip from several states as well as from the US’s capital city of Washington, DC. Any of the following are good starting points for a day trip to Gettysburg, or it makes a great one day stop on an eastern US road trip .

• 45min south of Harrisburg, PA
• 1hr northeast of Harpers Ferry, WV
• 1.25hrs northwest of Baltimore, MD
• 1.5hrs north of Washington, DC
• 2hrs west of Wilmington, DE
• 2.5hrs west of Philadelphia, PA
• 3 hrs east of Morgantown, WV
• 3hrs north of Richmond, VA or Charlottesville, VA
• 3.5hrs east of Pittsburgh, PA

Personally, I’m willing to drive 2-3 hours each way for a day trip or even up to 4 hours if it’s a place I really want to go and/or I’m not likely to be in the area again for a while.

Some of you shudder at the thought of being in the car for 3 hours total, let alone one way. That’s fine.

Turn a day trip into an overnight trip. Drive up the night before or stay the night after to give yourself enough time to appreciate all the Gettysburg National Military Park has to offer.

Or, perhaps you need a weekend trip to make the most of your time at Gettysburg! Everyone gets 24 hours in a day. It’s up to you how you divide that time between sleeping, driving, and exploring. 😉

How Long Does It Take to Drive the Gettysburg Battlefield?

The most important thing to know about visiting Gettysburg is that it’s HUGE . The second most important thing to know is it’s POPULAR , especially in the summer.

During non-peak season, a Gettysburg auto tour takes about 2 hours with only a couple quick stops to get out of the car.

If you prefer to get out and take a lot of pictures and read all the exhibit plaques, it’ll take 3-4 hours, or longer, with stops at all 16 waypoints and at Barlow Knoll, Culp’s Hill, and the National Cemetery.

Our first trip to Gettysburg was November 2020, so crowds were low, as we had hoped.

I’m a huge history buff, so we read the map and exhibit plaques, watched the virtual tour video for each auto tour stop, and got out to take ALL the pictures.

All told, it took us about 5 hours to complete the entire battlefield auto tour loop.

It was a very thorough first visit to Gettysburg, and did I mention it was completely FREE! 😎

All bets are off during peak season , generally May to October but especially in early July around the anniversary of the battle.

Gettysburg National Military Park hosts over a million visitors to the battlefield each year, and the majority visit during the summer months.

Best advice : leave buffer in your time table for your day trip to Gettysburg.

Pro Tip: The anniversary of the battle is July 1-3 so the Independence Day holiday is always a particularly busy time.

Where to Start the Gettysburg Auto Tour

A self-guided auto tour covers all areas of the battlefield in more or less chronological order, from beginning to end of the battle.

Start at the national park visitor center and pick up a free map with the driving tour directions clearly marked.

The visitor center also has a museum, cyclorama painting, and historic film offered by The Gettysburg Foundation for a fee, if you’re interested in learning all the history ahead of your driving tour.

The map is invaluable throughout the day as it also has the restrooms marked! 😆

Car tour CDs and books abound, or you could purchase a guided bus tour or personalized guided driving tour at the visitor center, but the national park service website for Gettysburg National Military Park has a free virtual tour that corresponds to each stop of the battlefield car tour.

These national park ranger-narrated videos are typically 2-3 minutes , with a few longer ones, and walk through the Battle of Gettysburg as you progress from stop to stop. These videos are like having your own personal park ranger in the car with you, and it doesn’t cost a dime!

This is also a great way to visit Gettysburg virtually when you can’t travel!

Is the Gettysburg Self-Guided Driving Tour Easy to Follow?

Yes. The free maps have directional arrows and the roads are marked with signs throughout. Each driving tour stop has its own numbered marker.

Roads for the Gettysburg driving tour route are mostly one-way.

Once you start down West Confederate Avenue and into McMillan Woods on Seminary Ridge to Stop #4, there are very few options to get out of the one-way traffic loop until you get to Stop #12 in the middle of Cemetery Ridge.

Remember, there are restrooms available along the route but how fast you can get there is at the mercy of the cars in front of you. Don’t wait until it’s an emergency! 😅

Map of Gettysburg Driving Tour Waypoints

Use the official map from the Gettysburg Visitor Center when you’re driving around the battlefield. The map below is only for reference while you’re reading this article.

Driving Tour Waypoints at Gettysburg: A Journey in Pictures!

The Gettysburg car tour includes 16 stops that walk you through the geography and timeline of the battle.

1. McPherson Ridge

The battle begins on July 1 st , 1863.

2. Eternal Light & Peace Memorial on Oak Hill

Dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on July 3, 1938, the 75 th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, this memorial symbolizes the unity of a once divided nation.

The base is Maine granite and the column is Alabama limestone, topped by an eternal flame. A quarter million people attended the dedication, including many of the last Civil War veterans, both Union and Confederate.

3. Oak Ridge

Climb the observation tower for a panoramic view of this portion of the battlefield.

Barlow Knoll

This area doesn’t have a numbered waypoint marker, but it is part of the official driving tour.

4. North Carolina Memorial

One in four of every Confederate soldier killed at the Battle of Gettysburg was a North Carolinian.

5. Virginia Memorial

Confederate General Robert E. Lee sits atop his favorite horse on the top of this memorial, but this memorial is also meant to remember the everyday Virginian sons that fought and died here at Gettysburg. The picture below is the portion of the monument dedicated to them.

6. Pitzer Woods

Confederate Lt. Gen. Longstreet was General Lee’s “Old War Horse ” and reliably followed Lee’s command.

However, at Gettysburg, Longstreet disagreed with Lee’s strategy and reluctantly carried out orders, asking for a reassignment after the battle.

7. Warfield Ridge

The Confederates spent most of the second day of the battle trying to outflank the Union troops dug in on the high ground at Cemetery Ridge. Warfield Ridge was the launching point for the fight over Little Round Top.

8. Little Round Top

Chief Engineer of the Army of the Potomac Warren came to Little Round Top to find it unoccupied and a gaping hole in the Union’s flank .

His quick action in diverting troops to this location just in time to repel a Confederate flanking movement likely saved the outcome of the battle for the Union.

9. The Wheatfield

Remember, this area was largely farm fields at the time of this battle. Soldiers were fighting in and around fields and orchards and peoples’ homes and barns.

10. The Peach Orchard

11. Plum Run

12. Pennsylvania Memorial

Confederate memorials are typically one per state. Union memorials are typically per regiment, so there are more of them throughout the park.

All together there are over 1300 monuments and memorials preserved at Gettysburg, making it one of the largest collections of outdoor sculpture in the world .

The Pennsylvania Memorial lists every Pennsylvania solider, from private to general, who fought at Gettysburg. It is the largest monument in the park.

13. Spangler’s Spring

Confederates repeatedly tried to flank the Union forces on Cemetery Ridge. This spring was controlled by both armies at different points throughout the battle.

Culps Hill & Observation Tower

Another observation tower for amazing view s of this side of the battlefield. Unfortunately, during our visit all observation towers were closed. 😕

14. East Cemetery Hill

15. high water mark.

Pickett’s Charge on July 3 rd , 1863 saw 12,000 Confederate soldiers charge across an open field and uphill to try to dislodge the Union forces on Cemetery Ridge.

Decimated by Union artillery, the Confederates managed to briefly breach the low stone wall at The Angle but were unable to hold the position and eventually fell back to cover at Seminary Ridge before withdrawing completely.

This area is known as the High Water Mark of the Confederacy because it’s the furthest north the Confederate army ever reached.

After the Battle at Gettysburg, General Lee withdrew his forces and his northern campaign for the Army of Northern Virginia ended.

16. National Cemetery

The Battle of Gettysburg was the bloodiest battle of the American Civil War , over 51,000 casualties in three days. ( Common confusion: the Battle of Antietam was the bloodiest single-day battle with almost 23,000 casualties.)

The aftermath of the battle was horrendous. Where do you bury that many people at one time? The summer heat and fears of disease meant most were hastily buried in shallow graves across the farm fields where they fell.

The governor of Pennsylvania quickly heeded the call from Gettysburg residents to establish a central cemetery.

Land was purchased by the state of Pennsylvania and thousands of Union soldiers were exhumed from their hasty graves and reburied with proper grave markers at the newly created National Cemetery on the ridge they had died to protect.

The Confederate graves were mostly relocated to southern states’ cemeteries in the decade after the end of the war. However, a few still remain in Gettysburg.

The national cemetery also has a monument to President Abraham Lincoln and features a bust in the center and the words of his Gettysburg Address inscribed in the stone behind him.

Lincoln did not give the speech at this site, but the brick stage across from his monument has been used by many Presidents since to give speeches.

Other Things to Do at Gettysburg National Military Park

There is so much to do at Gettysburg, but with one day to spare a self-guided driving tour is a great option!

Have more time to spend in Gettysburg? You could:

• View the Museum, film, and Cyclorama painting at the Visitor Center
• See the David Wills’ House and the Gettysburg Train Station in town
• Take a guided bus tour or personalized licensed battlefield guide around the battlefield
• Visit the Eisenhower National Historic Site , right next to the Gettysburg Battlefield

Looking for other things to do near Gettysburg?

• Explore Antietam National Battlefield
• 15 Fun Things to Do in Harpers Ferry, WV
• First-Timer’s Guide to Cuyahoga Valley National Park
• Take a Self-Guided Tour of Washington, DC’s Monuments at Night

Happy Travels!

About the Author : Rachel Means

With six-figure student loan debt and only 10 PTO days per year, Rachel started traveling the world. A decade later, she’s paid off her loans, changed careers, and been to 36 US states and 14 countries. She’s an expert at planning and budgeting for travel and loves to help others do it, too! Read her full story here.

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This post has 2 comments.

I love history and would definitely like to do this tour.

That was a very descriptive blog on Gettysburg and it’s historical significance! Loved reading it.

Comments are closed.

Ultimate Gettysburg Self-Guided Bundle Tour

In the realm of historical exploration, the journey is as crucial as the destination. Imagine traversing the hallowed grounds of Gettysburg, armed with the Ultimate Gettysburg Self-Guided Bundle Tour. This meticulously curated experience beckons to uncover the narratives etched within Culps Hill and Gettysburg National Cemetery.

But what lies beyond these iconic landmarks? Stay tuned to unravel the immersive ghost tours, insightful battlefield walks , and the seamless navigation that awaits curious minds seeking a deeper understanding of American history’s pivotal moment at Gettysburg.

• Self-led tours with professional narration for history enthusiasts
• Inclusions of ghost tour and key battlefield walking tours
• Flexible scheduling and offline maps for seamless navigation
• Full refund available with 24-hour cancellation notice

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• 2-Hour Gettysburg Battlefield Guided History Bus Tour With a National Park Guide
• Gettysburg: Ghost Hunt Tour With Ghost Hunting Equipment
• Echoes of War All Ages Ghost Tour
• Spirits of Jennie Wade Ghost Night Tour in Gettysburg

Tour Highlights

Exploring the Gettysburg Self-Guided Bundle Tour unveils a captivating journey through key landmarks, battlefields , and historical sites that offer a deep dive into the rich tapestry of the Civil War era.

Battlefield insights reveal the intense conflicts that once raged across sites like Culps Hill and Devils Den. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of history at Gettysburg National Cemetery and Seminary Ridge battlefields , gaining a profound understanding of the sacrifices made during this pivotal moment in American history.

Historical landmarks such as these not only educate but also pay homage to the soldiers who fought bravely during the Civil War. The tour presents a unique opportunity to take in the stories and significance of these hallowed grounds.

Logistics and Meeting Details

Upon arrival at the Gettysburg Heritage Center, visitors will be directed to the meeting point for the self-guided bundle tour. When arranging the meeting for the tour, participants should keep the following logistics in mind:

• Locate the meeting point at the Gettysburg Heritage Center.
• Confirm the start time with the local provider in advance.
• Save money by purchasing a single tour for the entire vehicle.

These details ensure a smooth start to the self-guided tour, allowing visitors to maximize their experience while exploring the historic sites of Gettysburg.

Cancellation Policy

When planning to participate in the self-guided bundle tour at Gettysburg, visitors should be aware of the cancellation policy in place for the experience.

The refund process is straightforward, with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance. However, no refund is provided for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start time, and changes within this timeframe aren’t accepted. It’s essential to consider timing considerations, as cut-off times are based on the local time of the experience. Detailed cancellation policy information is readily available to ensure customer satisfaction.

While the cancellation policy is clear, visitors should also keep in mind the app functionality for a seamless experience.

Route Navigation and Updates

For seamless exploration of the self-guided Gettysburg bundle tour, visitors can rely on the route navigation and updates feature to ensure a comprehensive and up-to-date experience. Road closures and alternate routes are crucial aspects addressed to prevent missed stops during the tour.

The updated tour provides historical context and battlefield updates , keeping visitors informed about the significance of each site. In case of any closures, visitors have the option to revisit missed content at home and are even provided with suggestions for guides to navigate these closures effectively.

The tour’s validity remains indefinitely, allowing for flexibility and ensuring a fulfilling experience despite any unexpected obstacles.

User Feedback and Recommendations

Visitors’ feedback and recommendations provide valuable insights into enhancing the self-guided Gettysburg bundle tour experience, offering perspectives on the tour’s strengths and areas for improvement. While many users praised the tour experience, some highlighted the need for enhanced app functionality and smoother navigation. Specific recommendations included improving the user interface for easier interaction and ensuring the app remains updated with the latest information on closures and historical sites. Responding to this feedback by enhancing app functionality could significantly improve the overall experience for future visitors. Below is a table summarizing key feedback and recommendations:

Additional Resources

An array of additional resources is available to enhance the self-guided Gettysburg bundle tour experience, providing valuable insights and support for visitors seeking a deeper understanding of the historic landmarks and events. These resources aim to improve the overall user experience and offer assistance with timing and app functionality.

Enhanced Experience : Detailed historical background information on key sites for a richer exploration.

Timing Assistance: Suggestions for optimal visiting times to avoid crowds and make the most of the tour.

App Functionality and User Experience: Tips for maximizing app features and troubleshooting common user issues for seamless navigation.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we have reviewed.

• Evening Investigation – Small Group Gettysburg
• From Washington DC: Gettysburg Battlefield Private Tour
• Gettysburg Scavenger Hunt
• Haunted Past of Gettysburg – Walking Tour
• Civil War Ghosts of Gettysburg Tour by US Ghost Adventures
• Ghost Tour: History and Haunts – Family Friendly – Best in Gettysburg

Common questions

Are There Any Recommended Dining Options or Nearby Attractions to Visit During Breaks in the Tour?

During breaks in the tour, visitors can explore nearby attractions and dining options. Several restaurants and interesting places are within reach, providing a chance to refuel and discover more about the area’s history and culture.

Is There a Suggested Packing List or Recommended Attire for the Self-Guided Tour?

When embarking on the self-guided tour, visitors should consider a packing list that includes comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate attire , sunscreen , water , and a camera. Recommended attire is casual and layered for varying conditions.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Limitations for Participants on This Tour?

Age restrictions are not specified for the tour, allowing a wide range of participants. However, there might be limitations for accessibility due to terrain and walking distances. It’s recommended to check for specific requirements before booking.

Can the Self-Guided Tour Be Completed in One Day, or Is It Recommended to Spread It Out Over Multiple Days?

For optimal time management and sightseeing efficiency, it’s advisable to spread out the self-guided tour over multiple days. This approach allows visitors to thoroughly explore the key landmarks and fully enjoy the historical experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students, Seniors, or Military Personnel Interested in Taking the Tour?

Special discounts are available for students, seniors, and military personnel interested in taking the tour. Eligibility criteria apply. Group rates offer savings for those looking to explore Gettysburg’s historic landmarks. Contact the local provider for details.

Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Blood on the Battlefield Ages 16
• Gettysburg One-Hour Walking Tour: The Civilian Experience
• Gettysburg Small-Group After-Dark Ghost-Hunting Tour
• Gettysburg: Western Battlefield Licensed Guided Segway Tour
• Haunted Orphanage Ghostly Encounter Tour in Gettysburg
• Ghosts of the Gettysburg Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour
• Gettysburg: Private Tour With Licensed Battlefield Guide
• 100 Audio Guides Parks, Battlefields, Cities, Scenic Drives
• Gettysburg: Historic Downtown Food Tour
• Gettysburg: Paranormal Investigation at the Farnsworth Inn
• Ghosts of Gettysburg Ultimate Dead of Night Haunted Ghost Tour

Experience the ultimate Gettysburg self-guided bundle tour and uncover the rich history of this iconic battlefield. With captivating ghost tours, insightful walks through key landmarks, and offline maps for easy navigation, you can explore at your own pace.

Don’t miss this immersive journey through one of America’s most significant historical sites. Book your tour today and embark on a memorable adventure through Gettysburg’s past.

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Gettysburg Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour

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Welcome to the gettysburg battlefield self-guided driving tour.

Welcome to the narrated driving tour of the Battle of Gettysburg, the most crucial battle of the Civil War! Here, Union forces staged a nearly impossible defense against Confederate attackers–and won! Walk in the footsteps of Civil War soldiers, re-live the battle strategies of the key generals, and embark on an adventure that brings this historic three-day battle to life on your Gettysburg auto tour.

This self-guided Gettysburg Auto tour lets you explore Gettysburg’s historical wonders with maximum flexibility, safety, and value. Hop in your car, set up the tour guide app on your phone, and get started. All audio plays automatically based on location.

Follow the Battle

The tour follows the intense 3-day battle at Gettysburg chronologically. It begins at the Gettysburg Heritage Center, where you learn about the lead-up to the battle. Before you start driving, download the Action Tour Guide app and enter your unique password to access the audio tour. Then, you’ll explore McPherson’s Ridge, the site of the first skirmish of the first day. From there, you continue past the Railway Cut, Iverson’s Pits, and Seminary Ridge until you reach the end of Day 1.

As you continue to follow the route on the Gettysburg Auto Tour, begin Day 2 with an exploration of Little Round Top, Devil’s Den, the Peach Orchard, and Culp’s Hill. Day 3 then starts with the infamous Pickett’s Charge. This comprehensive tour ends at the Gettysburg Cemetery, where you hear Lincoln’s poignant Gettysburg Address. And if you ever have questions, feel free to reach out to us over chat, call, or email – we’re always available and looking forward to helping you!

The Gettysburg Address

Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate — we can not consecrate — we can not hallow — this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us — that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion — that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain — that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

Abraham Lincoln November 19, 1863

Starting Point Address: Gettysburg Heritage Center Parking Lot at 1 Culp Street. Culp St Gettysburg, PA 17325

Little Round Top Rehabilitation Project Closure Notice

Little Round Top is CLOSED for 18 months. For more, click here . However, you don’t have to miss out on this historic site’s fascinating stories and sights. With our tour, you can still listen to the narrations and view the pictures of the battle that took place at Little Round Top. You will learn about the brave soldiers who fought and died there, the strategic importance of the hill, and the heroic actions that changed the war’s course. Our tour will give you a vivid sense of what it was like to be at Little Round Top, even though you can’t see it in person.

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• Gettysburg Tours: Embark on the ultimate self-guided drive for $24.99 per person and save 40%.
• Baltimore to Gettysburg Tour: Baltimore and Gettysburg are only about an hour and a half drive from each other, so it is easy to combine them into one trip. 
• Civil War Tours Bundle: Drive through 6 self-guided battlefield tours for $39.99 per person and save 43%.

Looking to expand your tour? 

• Valley Forge Tour:   By visiting both sites,  you can visualize the   continuity and evolution   of the fight for freedom, spanning the Revolutionary War and the Civil War.

Want all of our tours? Upgrade to Action+ :

• An annual $99.99/year subscription offers access to over 150+ tours.
• Unlimited use throughout the year.
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How Does It Work?

• Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
• Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
• To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
• The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
• Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.

What You'll See

Gettysburg visitor center.

Embark on this journey into the past at the Gettysburg Visitor Center! Get ready to be transported right into the middle of the battlefield... both in time and space. As we begin driving along the Gettysburg Battlefield Auto Road, we step back in time to the eve of battle. Who are the combatants? The generals? What are they fighting for? Why? We'll dive into the history of the United States of America up to the point of the Civil War. That'll help us understand what made Gettysburg such a poignant battle, and why a victory here was so important.

McPherson Ridge (Auto Tour 1)

As we continue driving, dawn breaks on the first day of battle. At McPherson's Ridge, Union and Confederate armies clash and generals on both sides order their regiments into place. We'll be able to imagine the movements of the battle as we look out over the ridge.

The Railway Cut

Our drive takes us over the Railway Cut, where we'll explore the different battle strategies of the generals on both sides of the fight. This was the unlikely site of a major skirmish during the first day. We'll continue forward, diving into the backstories of some of the key battlefield players.

Eternal Light Peace Memorial (Auto Tour 2)

As we drive, we'll pass the first of many memoirals at Gettysburg - the Eternal Light Peace Memorial. This memorial commemorates the reunification of the United States. Maine granite forms the base, while Alabama limestone forms the pillar -- a symbolic unification of north and south.

Oak Ridge Observation Tower (Auto Tour 3)

We'll continue driving along the Gettysburg Auto Road. Our next stop is at the Oak Ridge Observation Tower. Here we'll be able to jump back to that first day of battle -- but by now, it's the afternoon. We'll "join" the fight as Union soldiers try to keep the Confederacy at bay. The top of this tower is a great place to get panoramic views of the historic fields that once saw so much violence and bloodshed.

Battlefield Sallie Memorial

We'll continue driving, following the progress of the first day of battle as we follow the Gettysburg Battlefield Auto Road. Though we'll pass several more memorials, one in particular stands out: the 11th Pennsylvania Infantry Monument. There’s a dog sculpted on the other side of the statue’s base. That’s Battlefield Sallie! She served as a mascot of the 11th Pennsylvania Infantry, and accompanied these Union soldiers for most of the Civil War. We'll drive past Sallie and learn a little about the importance of drummers and military music during the war.

Seminary Ridge Museum

Our journey continues along the Gettysburg Auto Road as evening descends on the first day of battle. Union soldiers have paid heavily and lost ground. Is there any hope of success? We'll explore the various plans and strategies the generals come up with as they bunker down after the first day.

North Carolina Memorial (Auto Tour 4)

Our drive takes us past the North Carolina Memorial and Virginia Monument.

Virginia Monument (Auto Tour 5)

We'll continue driving along the Gettysburg Battlefield Auto Road. The infamous Pickett's Charge on Day 3 began at this stop, but we'll save that story for a little later on the tour. Instead, we'll now enter the second day of battle. Troops on both sides have begun to organize and mobilize. Whose strategy will finally succeed?

Pitzer Woods (Auto Tour 6) & Longstreet Observation Tower

Our drive takes us past the Longstreet Observation Tower, which offers a great vantage point over the second day's battlefield.

Eisenhower National Historic Site

Here we can take an optional detour off of the Gettysburg Auto Road to visit the Eisenhower National Historic Site, which overlooks the battlefield. President Eisenhower often stayed here.

Warfield Ridge (Auto Tour 7)

We're back on the Gettysburg Road, following the activities of Day 2 of the battle. Confederate troops assemble here, ready to attack one of the strategic Union outposts. Specially trained Union marksmen are in position to defend. The stage is set....

Little Round Top (Auto Tour 8)

Our drive passes Little Round Top, a critical skirmish site on the second day. Here Union soldiers just barely hold off Confederate troops, maintaining their control of this strategic hill. As we drive around the hill, we'll cross the Valley of Death -- an appropriate name for the site of such a bloody skirmish.

Devil's Den

Here, Confederate sharpshooters set up positions among the volcanic rocks. From the safety of the rocky cover at Devil's Den, they’re able to pick off soldier after soldier on the Union side.

The Wheat Field (Auto Tour 9)

We continue driving along the Gettysburg Auto Road, passing the Wheat Fields. This area represented the second major skirmish site on Day 2. We'll find ourselves in the heat of battle, fighting alongside Union soldiers to defend against the Confederates. We'll also learn about the strange tale of Union soldier JJ Purman.

The Peach Orchard (Auto Tour 10)

Our drives take us past the Peach Orchard, where the battles of the second day continued. We'll start seeing which strategies were successful and which were not as we drive past.

The Abraham Trostle Farm

We'll continue past the Trostle farm. When fighting broke out in Gettysburg, the Trostle family fled their home. They left so abruptly that dinner was still on the table!

Plum Run (Auto Tour 11)

Our journey along the Gettysburg Battlefield Auto Road now takes us to Plum Run, where we catch up with the soldiers who just escaped the skirmish at the Peach Orchard.

The George Weikert Farm

We'll continue towards the George Weikert Farm. Like the Trostles, the Weikert's hastily evacuated when the battle erupted. But they returned to a grislier scene -- their farm had been converted into a battlefield hospital. As we drive, we'll learn a little about military doctors and the effects of war.

Pennsylvania Memorial (Auto Tour 12)

Our path brings us to the Pennsylvania Memorial. This monument commemorates the nearly 35,000 Pennsylvanian soldiers who fought in this battle. While the stakes were high for everyone, they were particularly intense for these men of Pennsylvania: they weren’t fighting for an abstract idea, they were fighting for their very state.

Spangler's Spring (Auto Tour 13)

The Gettysburg Auto Road brings us deeper into the Gettysburg woods, where we'll come across Spangler's Spring. We'll dive into the significance of this small but mighty site and then continue forward to Culp's Hill Tower. Here, Union and Confederate soldiers clashed again, fighting for control of this strategic outpost. Luckily for the Union, they are able to defend the hill until evening finally descended.

East Cemetery Hill (Auto Tour 14)

We continue the driving tour to East Cemetery Hill. Night has fallen across the battlefield, and ordinarily, this would mean an end to the fighting. But the Confederate failure to fully capture Culp’s Hill bothers them, so they try a nighttime raid. This was the moment the Union came closest to losing. Through a mixture of perseverance, skill, and luck, the Union prevailed. Once we explore this historic site and understand what was at stake, we'll continue driving. Day 2 has come to a close; the third and final day of battle is ahead.

The High Water Mark (Auto Tour 15)

The third-day dawns, and the Union and Confederate troops prepare for a final, epic battle. This is the infamous Pickett's Charge by the Confederates. We'll stand at the top of the hill, looking down at the empty expanse of the final battlefield. As we follow the progress of this last charge, we'll take a look at the "high water mark" -- the spot that marks the farthest the Confederacy advanced up the hill, towards the Union defenses.

National Cemetery (Auto Tour 16)

We'll follow the Gettysburg Battlefield Auto Road to the final stop: the National Cemetery. Here we visit and honor the graves of the fallen Union soldiers who defended their country and morals.

Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address

This is also the site of President Abraham Lincoln's famed Gettysburg Address. Given the monumental nature of the battle, most people expected President Lincoln to deliver quite a lengthy speech. But Lincoln didn’t want to steal attention that he believed belonged to the Union soldiers who sacrificed their lives here. Our tour officially ends at this final, poignant stop.

Preview The Tour

  can you tour gettysburg without a guide.

These days, there are much better options for touring a historic site like this than the type of Gettysburg guide you might have in mind. More specifically, you can get a rich, exciting, and complete tour of the Gettysburg Battlefield by using an app!

  Can you drive through the Gettysburg Battlefield?

While the roads through the park will take you close to the major battlefields, in many areas, you’ll have to get out of the car to actually stand on the fields where the combat took place, such as Little Round Top. A Gettysburg Driving Tour app will help you locate the specific battlefield sites so you can get up close and personal with history.

  Is Gettysburg open in the winter?

Now, folks generally associate the Gettysburg Battlefield with the hot, humid days of summer, especially since the battle itself took place on the first three days of July 1863. Ironically, that’s exactly what makes winter such a good time to visit Gettysburg.

  Can you tour Gettysburg by car?

Absolutely you can! In fact, I’d say a Gettysburg driving tour is the absolute best way to experience this historic battlefield. Sure, you could pay to hop on a tour bus, but then you’re on someone else’s schedule and won’t have the chance to really explore the key sites across the field.

  What’s the weather like in Gettysburg?

Luckily for traveling history buffs, the weather in Gettysburg is fairly predictable, even during the peak days of summer. The average temperature maxes out at around 85 degrees fahrenheit. That said, if you’re used to dry heat, the humidity on the Gettysburg Battlefield is something to keep in mind.

  What is the best time of the year to visit Gettysburg?

If you’re going for authenticity, summer is the season for you. The heat and yellowing grass will give you a great idea of the conditions under which the Union and Confederate soldiers fought all those years ago. For comfort, however, spring or fall are more temperate, have smaller crowds, and offer more pleasant scenery.

  What are 3 facts about the Gettysburg battlefield?

The battle itself stretched for three days and involved more than 160,000 soldiers. There were a staggering 120 generals present on the battlefield, of whom nine were mortally wounded or killed. But despite the size of the struggle, only one civilian was killed during the fighting.

  What was unique about the Battle of Gettysburg?

The Battle of Gettysburg served as a major turning point in the Civil War. Many historians consider it the closest the Confederacy ever got to defeating the Union and winning the war.

  How many died at Gettysburg per day?

There were nearly 50,000 casualties during the Battle of Gettysburg, including almost 8,000 dead. The first day saw 15,000 casualties, and the third saw nearly as many, but the second day remains the bloodiest day of the battle. Over 20,000 men were killed, injured, or went missing on that second day of fighting.

  Why is the Gettysburg Battlefield important?

The Battle of Gettysburg target=”_blank” marks the point where the Confederate invasion of the North came to an abrupt end, signalling the beginning of the end for the rebellion. Had Lee emerged victorious at Gettysburg, he would have marched on other Northern cities, and perhaps even Washington, D.C., changing the course of history.

  Are there still bodies at Gettysburg?

There are still bodies buried in unmarked graves across the Gettysburg battlefield, but don’t worry about accidentally stumbling upon one of these grisly sites. It happens quite rarely, and always makes for big news when it does. For more details, read our blog post .

  Can you walk Pickett’s Charge at Gettysburg?

Walking Pickett’s Charge at Gettysburg is an experience like no other, and you should absolutely do it if you have the chance! Following in the footsteps of all those men who rushed to their untimely end, looking up at the same ridge they hoped to take… It makes this historic battle feel a whole lot more real.

  Why did people fight at Gettysburg?

Confederate and Union forces battled at Gettysburg during General Lee’s invasion of the North. The Union decided to engage Lee’s forces here in order to prevent him from advancing any farther toward key strategic positions like Harrisburg or Washington, D.C.

  How long did the battle of Gettysburg last?

The Battle of Gettysburg lasted for three long, bloody days. It began on July 1st, 1863 and raged until the late afternoon of July 3rd.

  How many days do you need to tour Gettysburg?

A single day is sufficient to tour the Gettysburg battlefield, even if you’d like to explore the town of Gettysburg afterward. Still, it’s a good idea to start in the morning to make sure you have enough time to see everything.

  What is a must see when I travel to Gettysburg?

When visiting Gettysburg, you’ll definitely want to see crucial battlefield landmarks like Cemetery Ridge, Little Round Top, and Devil’s Den. Luckily, the Auto Tour Route which weaves throughout the park leads directly past all these important sites.

Inclusions and Exclusions

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• (717) 337-0445

The Mark Nesbitt Ghosts of Gettysburg Ghost Tours are the original ghost tours in Gettysburg. All stories are from the Ghosts of Gettysburg series and have been written & research by Mark Nesbitt, a historian and former park ranger for the NPS.

Tours run rain or shine. Our gift shop sells ponchos and umbrellas if needed.

We kindly ask you not record video or audio during the tours. Photos are welcome.

Adult Tickets are $16.50 plus tax. Children ages 4-8 are $5 per person. Children 3 and under are Free.

If you don’t see any dates that fit your itinerary or you would like to have a private tour of your own please reach out to the shop at 717-337-0445. We offer competitive rates on private tours and can accommodate most situations.

Baltimore Street Tour

Downtown gettysburg, $16.50 plus tax | 1 hour 15 minutes.

• Hear stories about the Ghosts of Gettysburg Tour  Headquarters-where disembodied voices have been recorded and a child has been spotted…a century after his death.
• Visit the County Courthouse that witnessed the battle, was filled to over-flowing with wounded soldiers…and now holds visitors from another world.
• See the church where so many amputations occurred they had to drill holes in the floor to let the blood run out and where a spectral undertaker continues to walk to the nearby cemetery…removed decades ago.

Carlisle Street Tour

The gettysburg college.

• Stroll over temporary grave sites which seem to release their former contents at will.
• See where the lost soul “The Blue Boy” hovers outside a dormitory window–three stories up!
• Walk to the building where two dormitory workers descended in an elevator into a Civil War Hospital–130 years after the war was over!

Chambersburg Street Tour

• Walk with your guide along the streets occupied by the Confederate forces during the battle. • Touch the buildings the soldiers touched over 150 years ago; see the site of the home of Gettysburg’s “citizen hero” John Burns who Abraham Lincoln asked to meet; • Hear about the ghostly happenings at the engine house seen on TV’s “Ghost Adventures.”

Battlefield Self Guided Tour

Complete at your own pace.

The Battle of Gettysburg was horrific. Soldiers teetered on the threshold between this world and whatever comes after. Centuries later, long after the battle, their stories continue. Journey to sites on the Gettysburg Battlefield where mysterious and unexplainable happenings have taken place. These are the true stories of eerie encounters, experienced by visitors to the battlefield. The self-guided audio tour is narrated by Mark Nesbitt, author of the Ghosts of Gettysburg book series.

Ghosts of Fredericksburg Tour

Peer beyond the veil with this spooky self-guided tour of Fredericksburg’s supernatural side. Guided by GPS and narrated by Mark Nesbitt, creator of the original Ghosts of Fredericksburg candlelight walking tours, it’s a ghost tour which operates completely on YOUR schedule! Hear chilling true tales of colonial specters, poltergeists in the Rising Sun Tavern, the infamous White Lady of Chatham, and more as you weave your way through this gorgeous, haunted city.

Savannah, GA Self Guided Tour

All ghost tours are led by guides in period-dress carrying candlelit lanterns. The tours are comfortably paced walking tours through downtown Gettysburg. Our tours are based on storytelling, combining the history of Gettysburg and the battle that took place here, with mysterious tales of the still lurking dead. If you’re looking for a “haunted house” experience, this is not the tour for you!

The tour schedule varies depending on the time of year. Please go to the  Tour calendar to see what tours are running on the dates you will be visiting Gettysburg.

Yes. Group rates for our public tours are available for groups of 10 or more when one person pays for everyone . The group rate varies based on tour. 

Private tours are available for groups of 15 or more. Tour times are flexible—we set times to accommodate your itinerary. For every 24 tickets paid for, you receive one complimentary ticket. A credit card number is required to reserve your ghost tour. A confirmation will be emailed to guarantee your reservation.

To schedule a group tour, contact our office at 717-337-0445 or email us at [email protected]

All of our tours are outside walking tours. You are more than welcome to walk through our haunted building and the guides include stories about our building on their tours. All of the buildings in Gettysburg are privately owned. Tour companies that take you inside a building, own that building.

People have experienced things while on our tours, but all that we can guarantee is that everyone will learn a little history, hear some great ghost stories and have fun on the tour. If a ghost makes an appearance, it’s an unexpected bonus!

All tours are an Hour and 15 minutes in duration. The total walk is roughly 3/4 mile for all of our tours.

We highly recommend that you purchase your tickets via our website or by calling our office at 717-337-0445 by 6:30pm on the day of the tour. There is a borough ordinance that dictates how many people we can put with one guide, so a tour may sell out. Tickets are NOT guaranteed if they are not purchased in advance.

The tours go out rain or shine. A tour is only cancelled if there is dangerous weather at the time of the tour. Please contact our office at 717-337-0445 if you have any questions or concerns about whether your tour is going as scheduled.

Yes. Our tours are family-friendly and most children enjoy the tour. You may want to bring a stroller if you have any concerns about your child getting tired part way through the tour.

Reservations must be canceled at least 24 hours prior to start of tour. Cancellations within 24 hours of tour time will be offered to either reschedule for another time or receive a gift certificate. No calls/no shows are ineligible for any refunds or transfers.

Yes. The tours take place entirely outdoors on the sidewalks throughout the downtown area.

SHOP HOURS: Currently Closed for the 2023 season.