11 Best Things To Do in Gettysburg

1. Gettysburg National Military Park

Free, Parks and Gardens, Monuments and Memorials, Sightseeing

2 hours to Half Day

Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania offers a rich historical experience, perfect for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can explore the battlefield where the pivotal 1863 Civil War battle took place. Start at the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center to view artifacts, watch the introductory film, and see the impressive cyclorama painting. Guided tours, whether by bus, car, or even horseback, provide detailed insights into the battle's events and key locations. Walk or drive through iconic sites like Little Round Top, Devil's Den, and Pickett's Charge. The Soldiers' National Cemetery, where President Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address, is a solemn and reflective stop. For outdoor lovers, the park offers hiking trails that blend natural beauty with historical landmarks. Special ranger-led programs and reenactments are also available, providing an immersive educational experience. Whether you're there for history, nature, or both, Gettysburg National Military Park offers a memorable visit.

2. Eisenhower National Historic Site

Historic Homes/Mansions, Sightseeing

1 to 2 hours

The Eisenhower National Historic Site, located in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, offers a rich blend of history and scenic beauty. As the former home and farm of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, the site provides a unique glimpse into the personal life of the 34th President of the United States and his wife, Mamie. Visitors can tour the Eisenhower home, which remains furnished as it was during their residency, offering a genuine step back in time. The grounds include the President's putting green, cattle barns, and scenic walking trails, perfect for leisurely exploration. The site also features informative exhibits and guided tours that delve into Eisenhower's military and presidential careers, as well as his agricultural pursuits. Special events, such as historical reenactments and educational programs, are often held throughout the year, providing additional engaging experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Eisenhower National Historic Site offers something for everyone.

3. Sachs Covered Bridge

Free, Sightseeing

1 to 2 hours

Sachs Covered Bridge, located in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is a historic and picturesque spot that offers several engaging activities. As one of the most photographed bridges in the United States, it's a fantastic place for photography enthusiasts to capture its rustic charm and scenic surroundings. The bridge, dating back to 1852, is steeped in history, having played a role during the Civil War, which makes it a compelling visit for history buffs. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk across the bridge, soaking in the serene ambiance and beautiful views of Marsh Creek. The area around the bridge is perfect for a leisurely picnic, with nature providing a tranquil backdrop. For those interested in ghost stories and paranormal activities, Sachs Covered Bridge is rumored to be haunted, offering an intriguing spot for ghost tours and nighttime explorations. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or the supernatural, Sachs Covered Bridge provides a diverse and enriching experience.

4. Shriver House Museum

Museums, Historic Homes/Mansions, Sightseeing

Less than 1 hour

The Shriver House Museum, located in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, offers a unique glimpse into civilian life during the Battle of Gettysburg. Visitors can tour the meticulously restored 1860 home of George and Hettie Shriver, experiencing firsthand the domestic challenges faced during the Civil War. The museum provides guided tours where knowledgeable docents, often dressed in period attire, recount gripping stories of the Shriver family and the impact of the war on their lives. You can explore various rooms filled with authentic period furnishings and artifacts, including a sharpshooters' nest in the attic and a hidden wine cellar. Additionally, the museum features exhibits on medical practices of the era and the role of women during the war. Interactive displays and occasional live demonstrations enhance the educational experience, making the Shriver House Museum a compelling destination for history enthusiasts of all ages.

5. Gettysburg Museum of History

Museums, Free

2 hours to Half Day

The Gettysburg Museum of History offers a captivating journey through one of America's most significant historical events, the Battle of Gettysburg, and broader American history. Visitors can explore an extensive collection of Civil War artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, and personal items belonging to soldiers. The museum also houses exhibits on Presidents, World War I and II, and other pivotal moments in American history. Unique items such as John F. Kennedy memorabilia and artifacts from the Titanic enhance the experience. The museum's layout allows for an intimate and self-paced exploration, with detailed descriptions providing context to each exhibit. Additionally, the museum offers guided tours for those seeking a deeper understanding. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts, providing a tangible connection to the past through its well-preserved and thoughtfully presented collections.

6. Jennie Wade House

Museums, Historic Homes/Mansions, Sightseeing

Less than 1 hour

The Jennie Wade House, located in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, offers a unique glimpse into the life and times of the only civilian killed during the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863. As you tour this historic house, you can explore rooms preserved to reflect their appearance during the Civil War, complete with period furnishings and artifacts. Knowledgeable guides provide detailed narratives about Jennie Wade's life, the harrowing days of the battle, and her tragic fate. Visitors can view the bullet hole that ended Jennie's life and learn about the impact of the war on local civilians. The house also features exhibits on Civil War medical practices and daily life during the era. For those interested in the paranormal, the Jennie Wade House is reputed to be haunted, offering ghost tours that delve into its eerie history. This combination of history, storytelling, and a touch of the supernatural makes for a compelling visit.

7. Gettysburg Diorama & History Center

Museums

Less than 1 hour

At the Gettysburg Diorama & History Center, you can immerse yourself in one of the most pivotal moments of American history. The centerpiece of the center is an intricately detailed diorama that spans over 800 square feet, depicting the Battle of Gettysburg with remarkable accuracy. You can witness a 30-minute light and sound show that narrates the events of the three-day battle, providing a comprehensive overview of the strategies and key moments that shaped the outcome. The diorama is brought to life with thousands of hand-painted soldiers, artillery, and terrain features, offering a bird's-eye view of the battlefield. Additionally, the center houses a variety of exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents from the Civil War era. Interactive displays allow you to delve deeper into the lives of the soldiers and civilians affected by the battle. The knowledgeable staff are available to answer questions and provide further insights, ensuring a rich and educational experience for history enthusiasts of all ages.

9. Dobbin House Tavern

Free, Historic Homes/Mansions, Sightseeing

1 to 2 hours

Dobbin House Tavern, located in historic Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, offers a unique blend of dining, history, and charm. As one of the oldest buildings in the area, dating back to 1776, it provides a rich historical ambiance that transports visitors to the 18th century. You can enjoy a meal in the cozy, candlelit rooms of the Springhouse Tavern, which features a menu of colonial and modern American dishes. For a more formal dining experience, the Alexander Dobbin Dining Rooms serve gourmet cuisine amidst period décor. Beyond dining, the Dobbin House Tavern also houses a museum that showcases its historical significance, including its role as a stop on the Underground Railroad. Visitors can explore the meticulously preserved rooms and learn about the house's storied past. Additionally, the venue offers unique gift shops where you can purchase period-themed souvenirs, local crafts, and historical books. Whether you're a history buff or just seeking a memorable dining experience, Dobbin House Tavern offers a captivating journey through time.

10. Gettysburg Battlefield Bus Tours

Tours, Sightseeing

1 to 2 hours

Gettysburg Battlefield Bus Tours offer a captivating journey through one of the most significant sites in American history. On these tours, you can immerse yourself in the events of the Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point in the Civil War. Knowledgeable guides, often dressed in period attire, provide engaging and informative commentary, bringing the past to life with vivid details about the strategies, key figures, and poignant moments of the battle. The comfortable, air-conditioned buses take you to major landmarks, including Little Round Top, the Peach Orchard, and Cemetery Ridge, ensuring you don't miss any critical spots. Additionally, you can opt for special themed tours, such as the evening ghost tours, which delve into the eerie tales and legends of the battlefield. Whether you’re a history buff or a curious traveler, Gettysburg Battlefield Bus Tours offer a comprehensive and memorable way to explore this historic site.

11. Gettysburg Ghost Tours

Tours

1 to 2 hours

Gettysburg Ghost Tours offer a captivating experience that delves into the eerie history of one of America's most haunted locations. As you walk through the historic streets of Gettysburg, expert guides narrate chilling tales of paranormal activity and unexplained phenomena, rooted in the town's Civil War past. The tours often include stops at famously haunted sites such as the Jennie Wade House, the Gettysburg Hotel, and various battlefields where soldiers once fought fiercely. Participants can expect to use ghost-hunting equipment like EMF meters and dowsing rods, adding an interactive element to the experience. Night tours provide an extra layer of spookiness, with lanterns lighting the way as shadows loom large. Special themed tours, such as the "Civil War Ghosts" or "Family-Friendly Spirits" options, cater to different interests and age groups. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, Gettysburg Ghost Tours promise a spine-tingling adventure that immerses you in the town's haunted legacy.