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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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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.

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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.
• 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 & 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

Inclusions:.

• App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
• Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Travel over multiple days or on your next trip within 1 year of your purchase.
• Easy to use: Stories play automatically by GPS. Hands-free. Get HELP all day: Call, Chat, or Email.
• At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos/ snacks/hikes. Go at your own pace.
• Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
• Don’t miss a thing: Full itinerary, travel tips, professionally narrated videos, text, and hidden gems.

Exclusions:

• Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
• Entry tickets or reservations to any attractions along the route.
• Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.

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Gettysburg Driving Tour App

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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.

Gettysburg Story Tour + Film

• Jake Boritt - Filmmaker
• Stephen Lang - Narrator
• Gabor Boritt - Historian
• Production Team
• Cinematography
• Maryland Public Television
• American Public Television
• Press Releases
• Before Battle
• July 1, 1863
• July 2, 1863
• July 3, 1863
• After Battle

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HereStory App: The Gettysburg Story audio tour is available on the HereStory  app. A redeemable code is required for the audio content. This code is located on a card in the back of the guidebook. Find the HereStory app for  Apple iOS  or  Google Android .

-Download the HereStory app -Enter the redeem code -Click “Submit” 

The Gettysburg Story: Battlefield Auto Tour  audio should download to your mobile device. Begin your tour by playing track 1 "Invasion!" Stop and start the audio tracks as you progress along the auto tour route.  User is responsible for device performance & data usage. Follow instructions in guidebook or app, operate safely and follow all traffic laws.

HereStory app iOS beta version launched Aug. 1, 2019. Requires iOS 12.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. Android beta launched Oct. 1, 2019. Requires Android 6.0 and up

To purchase the tour or film goto our shop.  If you have older code for the tour on Bandcamp or Detour please contact  us for new code for the HereStory App.

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The Best Way to Tour the Gettysburg National Military Park

The Gettysburg National Military Park encompasses nearly 6,000 acres with over 26 miles of roads connecting major battlefield landmarks including Cemetery Hill and the “High Water Mark”. There are over 1,300 monuments, markers and memorials, 400 cannons and numerous historic houses.

Over 1,300 Monuments, Markers and Memorials

If you have one day for this trip, spend it exploring the iconic Gettysburg National Military Park, site of one of the most important battles of the Civil War and one of the greatest speeches of all time. Gettysburg offers a great opportunity to explore the Civil War from the micro to the macro level.

Total Stops: 1

Total Time: 4-6 Hours (7-8 if you love to hike)

Total Distance: 2-mile radius

Before You Go:

• Print or Download this Tour Map
• Watch the Gettysburg Animated Map
• View the Gettysburg 360° Virtual Tour
• Download the Gettysburg Battle App

Stop #1: Gettysburg National Military Park

Time: 4-6 Hours

Details: https://www.nps.gov/gett/index.htm

What To Do:

• Find out what Ranger Programs are scheduled for that day.
• View the film, A New Birth of Freedom , and see the Cyclorama. A ticket for the film includes the Cyclorama, after the film, you will go immediately into the Cyclorama.
• Tour the museum, which will give you a history of the war as a whole, not just the Battle of Gettysburg.
• Stop by the gift shop and bookstore.
• Follow the NPS Auto Tour Route and get out and explore each stop.
• Purchase a touring CD from the bookstore.
• Use the Civil War Trust’s free Gettysburg Battle App on your smartphone or iPad.
• Hire a Licensed Battlefield Guide to accompany you.

Don’t Miss:

• Little Round Top – Location of the Union left flank, famously held by the 20 th Maine and Col. Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain.
• Devil’s Den – Site of vicious fighting just below Little Round Top.
• The High Water Mark – The point of the Cemetery Ridge where the Confederacy reached the Union center after Pickett’s Charge, on the third and final day of the battle.
• Soldier’s National Cemetery – The resting place for more than 3,500 Union Troops killed in the battle.

If you have time:

• Visit the David Wills House, where Lincoln stayed the night before he gave the Gettysburg Address. The house has been recently renovated into a wonderful museum.
• Take a battlefield hike on one of Gettysburg’s trails. See your NPS touring map for locations Hike the Fish Hook (the right flank defensive position of the Union army for a rigorous walk.
• Do what strikes your fancy. Gettysburg is a battlefield on which you could spend hundreds of hours and never do the same thing twice. Explore what interests you!

Make Some History This Weekend in Gettysburg

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Gettysburg Audio Tour 12+

Robert barry, diseñada para iphone.

• #99 en Viajes
• 4.2 • 5 calificaciones

Capturas de pantalla del iPhone

Descripción.

The battle of Gettysburg was the largest and deadliest single battle ever fought in the western hemisphere. Now experience it like never before with the Gettysburg Audio Tour. Follow the tour in a customized map of the Gettysburg national park auto tour as you listen to over 1 1/2 hours of narration and sound effects telling the story of the 3 day battle. With 17 audio stops, this tour provides you and your family with what you need to learn about one of the most important events in United States History. The app is easy to use. Begin at the Gettysburg visitor center. Follow the tour on the map, or use the provided list tour stops to navigate the official tour. You can even follow the tour with a free map provided at the visitor’s center. Tap play and let the tour stop audio play all the way through. When complete, the next tour stop automatically loads in the player. Drive to the next tour stop and tap play again. It’s that simple. If you need directions, a button will open Apple’s map application and provide directions from your location to the next tour stop from wherever you are. Why buy an expensive CD at the visitor center that you will have to store and never use again? The Gettysburg Audio Tour is like having a personal guide right in your car. Look no further as you have found the only thing you need to experience the Gettysburg battlefield.

Calificaciones y reseñas

5 calificaciones

Good choice

We stopped in Gettysburg for a day and were looking for something to learn about the battle. This app is just what we were looking for. Highly recommended!

Very Interesting

I found this app very informative on the tour. I highly recommend it to anyone driving the Gettysburg area.

Shrill Voice

The narrator’s voice is so shrill I couldn’t listen to it.

Privacidad de la app

El desarrollador ( Robert Barry ) no ofreció detalles sobre sus prácticas de privacidad y el envío de datos a Apple. Para obtener detalles, consulta la política de privacidad del desarrollador .

No se proporcionaron detalles

El desarrollador tendrá que proporcionar detalles sobre la privacidad cuando envíe su próxima actualización de app.

Información

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• Política de privacidad

Compatibilidad

Compartir en familia

Hasta seis miembros de la familia pueden usar esta app con la opción compartir en familia activada., quizás te interese.

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A Few Ways To Tour The Gettysburg Battlefield

Rightfully so, touring Gettysburg National Military Park is high on the to-do list of most people traveling to Gettysburg, Pa. The 6,000-acre Civil War military park is steeped in history and holds the stories and legacies of the thousands of soldiers who fought here during the Battle of Gettysburg. Because there is so much history to discover, and so many ways in which to discover it, we’ve broken down the options of touring the battlefield for you.

Whether you’ve never toured the Gettysburg battlefield and need a place to start, or if you’ve toured it many times and are just looking for a new perspective, check out our list of ways to tour the battlefield in Gettysburg!

On Horseback

Experience the Gettysburg battlefield from a higher perspective while riding a horse. Gettysburg has many horse tour companies to choose from, all offering memorable experiences, and most offering Licensed Battlefield Guide tours. You don’t have to be experienced to take a horse tour in Gettysburg – your guides will be sure to acquaint you with your horse and make sure you are comfortable before you depart. If you have a horse of your own, the Gettysburg battlefield is a great place to visit for a day of riding. Just grab a map of the horse trails on the battlefield before you begin.

With a Licensed Battlefield Guide

If you’re looking for an in-depth and personalized tour of the battlefield, hire a Licensed Battlefield Guide to show you the way. A Licensed Battlefield Guide will find what interests your group the most and provide a tour of the battlefield designed specifically for you. You can sit back and take it all in, as they drive your car for you, telling stories of the battle and answering any and all questions that you may have.

Gettysburg Battlefield Bus Tours offers several options for those looking to tour the battlefield on a bus. Take a dramatized audio bus tour, where the sound of a Hollywood cast of actors and technicians recreate the Battle of Gettysburg throughout the tour. Or, hear the stories and insights of the battle on a tour with a Licensed Battlefield Guide. If you want to feel the wind blowing through your hair, be sure to book a spot on the double decker bus!

In a Horse-Drawn Carriage

If relaxing in a horse-drawn carriage sounds more appealing to you, you can do that in Gettysburg, too. Take a step back in time and take in the sights of the battlefield at a leisurely pace with a horse-drawn carriage tour of the battlefield. Horse Tours of Gettysburg offers a variety of horse-drawn Licensed Battlefield Guide tours – some offering an overview of the Battle of Gettysburg as well as more in-depth special topic tours. Once you’ve done the battlefield, be sure to check out their horse-drawn carriage town tours as well!

Lace up your walking shoes and explore Gettysburg National Military Park on foot! Choose a section of the battlefield and walk in the footsteps of soldiers. Try one of these eight great battlefield walks and hikes . Or make your way through these seven secrets of the Gettysburg battlefield . For more of a guided walking experience, Gettysburg National Military Park offers free Park Ranger-led battlefield walks throughout the year that help to tell the many stories of the Battle of Gettysburg.

Self-Guided Tour

Sometimes, getting a little help navigating the battlegrounds at Gettysburg can go a long way. Many of our visitors love the luxury of touring Gettysburg National Military Park at their own pace with the help of a guided program – a CD for their car or a downloadable app. You can take your time, or fast-forward for a quicker tour, all with the help of Gettysburg Battlefield Self-Guided Tour by Action Tour Guide and Battlefield Driving Tours .

On Your Own

There are several options for self-guided tours of the Gettysburg battlefield which enable you to tour in your own time and in your own way. Stop by the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center or Destination Gettysburg to pick up an auto-tour map. These maps highlight key locations on the battlefield with brief descriptions of each stop. Or download an app that takes you through an auto tour of the park.

With 6,000 acres of park and many ways to explore it , touring the battlefield is something that you can do again and again while continuing to experience something new. What ways will you tour the battlefield?

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14+ Things to do in Gettysburg with kids [Itinerary included]

T here are tons of things to do in Gettysburg with kids, and the vast majority of these are educational. It is like a living classroom where you can explore the battlefield, learn about the strategies used and understand the impact of the battle.

The charming town is also worth a visit. With its historical architecture, museums, memorials and monuments.

Below is a list of top things to see, as well as info on where to stay, what to eat, and a four-day itinerary.

When the area be sure to check out Philadelphia and Washington DC or plan a whole East Coast road trip !

Top Things to Do in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

We’ll start by listing the top things to do in the city. These incredible attractions made our list because they are the most interesting, fun, and unique options in the area, so choosing from this list is a great way to ensure an awesome getaway.

Gettysburg National Military Park Visitor Center

First on our list is the Gettysburg National Military Park Visitor Center. The Gettysburg Foundation runs this in partnership with the National Parks Service, and we found it quite different from most other national parks’ visitor centers.

While there are a handful of exhibits that are free to look at, the vast majority of things to do in the visitor center cost money. This building has a well-put-together museum with a film and a cyclorama painting. These things are all great ways to start your visit to the area, but none are cheap, and there are no discounts available for “America the Beautiful” pass holders, so go in knowing that.

While in the visitor center, be sure to pick up a map of the battlefield as well as any Junior Ranger books you’d like!

Gettysburg Battlefield and National Cemetery

Obviously, you will want to see the battlefield while in Gettysburg. You can do this on a paid guided bus tour, but we actually just did a self-guided car tour and enjoyed it plenty. We ended up looking up short videos on YouTube along the way to better explain some historic events, but I recommend getting an audio tour like this one instead .

While touring the battlefield, be sure to stop at the National Cemetery. This is where Lincoln gave his famous Gettysburg Address. You’ll also want to see Sach’s Covered Bridge and Devil’s Den.

Shriver House Museum

The happenings on the Gettysburg battlefield are only half the story. The civilians of Gettysburg had to deal with the aftermath, and it wasn’t pretty. One of the best ways to learn about this is by visiting the Shriver House Museum.

This museum is set inside the restored 1860 home of the Shriver family. Tour guides wear period attire and walk you through the home, recounting the story of what happened in the town after the battle was over—a facet of wartime history that unfortunately tends to get overlooked.

Jennie Wade House

Another restored historic home in Gettysburg worth visiting is the Jennie Wade House. This was the home of Jennie Wade, the only civilian who lost her life during the battle of Gettysburg. This occurred when a stray bullet passed through two doors and struck Jennie through the heart.

The details of this story make it an even more tragic one and are especially compelling when told by the knowledgeable, costumed tour guides in the Jennie Wade House. Tours last about half an hour, are very affordable and are well worth taking.

David Wills House

One of my favorite things in Gettysburg was visiting the David Wills House in Lincoln Square. As you may have guessed, this was the home of David Wills, a prominent Gettysburg attorney who had the Civil War show up at his doorstep in a manner of speaking. His house was where Abraham Lincoln stayed the night before his famous Gettysburg Address and where the president wrote the final words of that address.

Parts of the home have been restored to reflect what they likely looked like when Lincoln stayed there. Other parts now contain museum exhibits about David Wills, Abraham Lincoln, the Gettysburg Address, and more.

This museum is run by the National Parks Service and is free to the public. That said, it is essential to note that it is not always open, so you will want to check the hours before your trip.

Seminary Ridge Museum

The Seminary Ridge Museum is located in the historic Lutheran Seminary, which is conveniently located along the route of the NPS battlefield tour. It’s a great addition to any Gettysburg trip, especially if you have older children or teens.

Be sure to get a guided tour of the cupola. This tour offers a surprisingly personal and moving look at the events of the first day of the Battle of Gettysburg. It also allows you to take in an amazing view of the area, the same view that General John Buford saw as he watched an onslaught of Confederate troops arrive.

During your visit, you will also learn about how the seminary was used as a makeshift hospital. You’ll see how the hospital was set up and learn about some of the hospital’s medical treatments.

Children of Gettysburg 1863

While the Seminary Ridge Museum is ideal for older kids, the Children of Gettysburg 1862 museum is perfect for younger kids (and even those up to age 11 or 12)!

The museum is small but jam-packed with family fun and plenty of hands-on fun that lets kids today get a taste of what life might have been like for children living in Gettysburg during the Civil War. They can play with the toys kids played with in the 1800s, try their hand at being a drummer boy, and even help care for an injured soldier.

Every visitor chooses a real child from the past and follows their story through the entirety of the museum, learning what became of them after the battle ended. This makes the whole experience more personal and helps kids connect with the past on another level.

Eisenhower National Historic Site

Okay, so unlike the attractions on our list so far, this one has nothing to do with the Battle of Gettysburg. Nevertheless, the Eisenhower National Historic Site was a great stop that I highly recommend adding to your list of must-dos while you’re in the area.

This site was the home of Ike and Mamie Eisenhower. Tours of the house are run by the NPS and are 100% free to the public. They are also fascinating, and the kids had fun doing their Junior Ranger books as they listened to stories about this extraordinary man.

There is one thing you definitely want to know before visiting. However, parking at this attraction is minimal. In fact, it’s so limited that a paid shuttle bus runs from the Gettysburg visitor center to the historic site. From what I gather, the shuttle is the only way to guarantee you get to see the house on weekends and during special events. That said, we went on a regular weekday in the summer and had no problem finding a parking spot.

Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum & Candy Emporium

Looking for something fun to do that doesn’t have anything at all to do with history? Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum & Candy Emporium is one good pick. This is really just a gigantic candy and souvenir shop, but it is tons of fun to visit.

From giant elephants and a whimsical garden outside of the store to a collection of 12,000 elephant figurines inside, there is something unique around every corner of this attraction. To top it all off, many of the candies and treats are made fresh in-house, something you won’t want to miss!

Perrydell Farm and Dairy

Okay, so this one is actually about 45 minutes from Gettysburg, but it was worth the drive. Perrydell Farm is a working dairy farm where visitors are invited to get up close and personal with the cows.

You can pet the baby cows, milk a fake cow, and even watch the actual milking process if you arrive at the right time. All of these activities are free, so all you have to pay for is your delicious ice cream, which is made right there at the dairy.

This was super fun and educational stop that the kids loved!

Land of Little Horses

Another great attraction for those looking for a bit of history-free fun, Land of Little Horses is a “performing animal theme park” that features adorable miniature horses. These horses performed a fantastic show in a wonderful, air-conditioned indoor arena.

After the show, be sure to check out the pig races, mini horse grooming experience, unicorn pictures, gem mining, and other fun family activities.

Utz Factory Tour

Yet another educational spot you’ll want to check out is the Utz Factory. This chip factory offers free self-guided tours to anybody who is curious about the chip-making process.

The tour was very interesting. We could look down through windows at what the employees and machinery were doing and actually watch the chip-making process in real time. There was signage explaining what was going on, and even the kids in our group made a point of slowing down to read.

At the end of the tour, everyone got a free mini bag of potato chips. We also made sure to visit the factory outlet to get some awesome deals on even more snack foods.

Gettysburg Guided Tours

Besides the many museums and historic homes throughout the town, Gettysburg has a super cool downtown area that is well worth exploring. There are signs throughout the area explaining the history of certain buildings, and the whole downtown is just adorable.

One of the best ways to explore downtown Gettysburg is on a tour. Ghost Tours, Food Tours, Segway Tours, and Walking Tours are all available, and no matter which one you choose, you’re sure to have an awesome time.

Tour the Battlefield in a Horse Drawn Carriage Tour the battlefield at a slow and relaxing pace

Guided Battlefield Horseback Ride Tour Great for family with kids older than 8 years old, this tour lasts for 2 hours.

Ghosts of Civil War Walking Tour Learn little known facts on this 1.5 hour tour.

Historic Downtown Walking Tour Hear untold stories of the battle.

Downtown Food Tour Check out 6 of the most popular food destinations in Gettysburg

Self Guided Audio Walking Tour Experience a large selection of historic Gettysburg including the Gettysburg Museum of History, Adams County Courthouse, Gettysburg Heritage Center, and the Witness Tree.

What to Eat in Gettysburg

Of course, you will want to have some good grub while you’re visiting. We tried a few different spots during our two weeks in Gettysburg, and these were our top picks.

Gettysburger

Are you looking for a super-filling meal? Like your burger with a unique twist? Then the delightfully named Gettysburger is your spot. The burgers here are large—my husband and I could have shared one, no problem—and they come with unique toppings like apples or pulled pork.

Best of all, the staff here were super friendly and welcoming, something we all loved after a long day of sightseeing.

Lincoln Diner

For an inexpensive meal, head to Lincoln Diner. We went to this one with friends and had a lovely time.

The kids all enjoyed pancakes, the adults got various types of dinner foods, and everyone was happy. My salad was delicious! To top it all off, the eatery was within walking distance of the downtown attractions, and our bill wasn’t much more than we would have paid at McDonald’s!

Where to Stay in Gettysburg

Having a place to rest up between days of exploring is essential. Are you wondering what sorts of lodging options are available in Gettysburg? Fortunately, there are plenty.

Campground Island

A beautiful and peaceful campground is located just 17 miles from Gettysburg, Campground Island is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Both full-hookup and partial-hookup RV sites are available, as are tent camping sites. Amenities include a playground, an outdoor theater, spots for fishing and hiking, and more.

Best Western Gettysburg

Prefer a hotel over a campground? Best Western Gettysburg is a favorite in the area for a reason. This lovely hotel is located just a mile from Gettysburg National Military Park and close to all the other fun attractions the town offers. Guests will enjoy a swimming pool, free parking, and beautiful, clean rooms.

Hilton Garden Inn Gettysburg

Located just minutes from all the historic landmarks of Gettysburg. This hotel is great for families.

Vacation Rental

Cushing Cottage at Brierfield

Some people need room to spread out while they vacation. If you fall into this category, you might prefer this beautiful little Cushing Cottage at Brierfield. Set on 17 acres of lovely property just outside of town, this adorable cottage has a screened porch, a fully stocked kitchen, and everything else you need for a comfortable stay.

Beautiful Farmhouse

This historic farmhouse contains 40 acres and sits right on the battlefield. Perfect for large families, this house sleeps 8-10 people. Enjoy the catch-and-release pond right on site.

Four-Day Gettysburg Itinerary

Last but not least, we wanted to share our 4-day Gettysburg itinerary with you. No, this doesn’t include all of the attractions listed above, but it has many of them, and following this itinerary will ensure you get the most out of a short amount of time in the area.

Day 1: Visitor Center and Battlefield

Use the first day of your Gettysburg trip to get acquainted with the history of the place in the national military park museum. If you have time, see the film and cyclorama painting as well. Grab a battlefield map and Junior Ranger book before you leave!

Once you have a map and Junior Ranger book, head to the battlefield. Use your audio tour (mentioned above) to learn about each stop as you make your way through the battlefield, and make sure to snap some photos and work on that Junior Ranger book along the way.

Day 2: Historic Houses

Day two is spent visiting some of the historic homes in the town. Shriver House is the first stop, as it gives you an opportunity to look at the battle and the aftermath from a different point of view than you viewed the events on the first day.

Next, head to the Jennie Wade house. Learn another personal story and better understand just how tragic this battle and the Civil War actually was for everyone involved, even civilians.

Finish the day at the David Wills House, where you learn the story of Abraham Lincoln’s visit to Gettysburg following the battle. See where Lincoln slept and try to imagine walking in his shoes back in 1863.

Day 3: More History Lessons

Day three involves a stop for the adults and teens in your group, as well as an attraction for the little ones. This first stop, the Seminary Ridge Museum, is for the older people in the travel party. It gives them an opportunity to understand the details of what happened during the first day of battle.

Stop two is all about the kids. This is a children’s museum unlike any other. It focuses specifically on the children of Gettysburg in 1863, giving kids a chance to connect with kids from the past.

Day 4: Eisenhower National Historic Site

On your last day in Gettysburg, take a minute to focus on something other than the Civil War and head to the Eisenhower National Historic Site. Take a tour of the Eisenhower home and admire the decorating skills of Mamie while listening to fascinating stories about the Eisenhowers.

Finally, celebrate a successful and educational visit to Gettysburg by watching the chip-making process and treating yourself to some delicious potato chips!

More Amazing Activities in Gettysburg

Lincoln Train Museum This amazing family-friendly destination includes a wonderful movie about historic train rides

History and Haunts Family Fun Ghost Tour This guided walking tour lasts for 75 minutes and explores the spooky side of this historic town.

Beer, Wine and History Guided Tour Experience some of Gettysburg’s most popular distilleries, wineries, and cideries.

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The post 14+ Things to do in Gettysburg with kids [Itinerary included] appeared first on Crazy Family Adventure .

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Alerts in effect, a new birth of freedom.

The Battle of Gettysburg was a turning point in the Civil War, the Union victory that ended General Robert E. Lee's second and most ambitious invasion of the North. Often referred to as the "High Water Mark of the Rebellion", Gettysburg was the Civil War's bloodiest battle and was also the inspiration for President Abraham Lincoln's immortal "Gettysburg Address".

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Have you experienced Gettysburg? This video shows you what it's like to visit Gettysburg National Military Park. From the veil of early morning fog through the day's setting sun, visitors experience all the incredible history of the battlefield.

The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center is the place to begin your visit to the battlefield.

Beginning March 30, Ranger programs will be offered sporadically on Fridays/Saturdays/Sundays. Check at Information Desk for more details.

We offer all our visitors the opportunity to experience the battlefield, no matter where you are, with our park-wide virtual tour!

Learn more about planning a field trip, curriculum materials for your class, traveling trunks, professional development and more.

Little Round Top CLOSED TO ALL VISITATION on July 26, 2022. It's estimated to reopen to the public in late Spring or early Summer, 2024.

Take a 3D tour of various buildings at Gettysburg NMP and Eisenhower NHS.

Use the slider to show what the battlefield looked like over 150 years ago compared to what it looks like today!

Last updated: April 5, 2024

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