It’s been more than 160 years since the Battle of Gettysburg changed the trajectory of the Civil War, but the historic event—and its subsequent speeches, sieges, and surrenders—still echo through this Pennsylvania town. Visiting history buffs should head straight to the Gettysburg National Military Park and National Cemetery, as well as the numerous museums in and around the city. Whether you want to learn more about one of the country’s most significant events or simply pay homage to the fallen soldiers, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Gettysburg.
Gettysburg gets busiest—and stickiest—in July and August. If you want to avoid the sweaty mid-Atlantic summer, then aim for spring or fall, when you’ll also have a bounty of fresh produce from local family-run farms, including crispy apples in autumn, to sample. Reenactment events are held year-round, with the mock Battle of Gettysburg taking place every July. The city and battlefields also have a special charm in the snow, if you can face the wintry chill.
The city is flat and compact, with shop- and restaurant-lined streets spoking out from a historic square, making Gettysburg ideal for getting around on foot. But the battlefields and main monuments are spread out, meaning you’ll want to either drive (with the option to park and then walk) or join a bus or Segway tour. You can also follow a hiking or cycling trail for a more immersive experience, just bring plenty of water and sun protection in summer.
Gettysburg is a tight-knit community with a cosmopolitan flair thanks to its ties to Gettysburg College. Spend time in town before rushing off to see the battlefields. Highlights include unique museums like Shriver House, a 19th-century family home visited with a costumed guide, and Farnsworth House Tavern, where you can get a taste of Civil War-era menu items like peanut soup. Antique-hunters should save suitcase space because specialized shops and street markets abound.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone EDT (UTC -5) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 4 | Tours 40 | Reviews 4,152 |
Gettysburg is best known for National Military Park, otherwise known as Gettysburg Battlefields. This is where some of the fiercest fighting took place between the United States and the rebel Confederacy during the American Civil War. Today, you’ll find picturesque fields, bike paths, and military statues—plenty to keep you busy.
...MoreAny day trip to Gettysburg should include a walk, bike ride, or drive through the Gettysburg Battlefields, either self-guided or with a guide. Spend time in a museum—for example, the Civil War-era Shriver House—and browse the shops and galleries within the quaint and historic downtown area.
...MoreYes. Gettysburg is compact and walkable, home to a historic downtown area. The town’s main hub is Lincoln Square, filled with unique shops, cozy pubs, and restaurants, as well as the occasional antique market. Streets branch out in every direction, making it fun and easy to explore on foot.
...MoreYes, you can visit for free. There is no fee to see the Gettysburg Battlefields or the National Cemetery. However, for a guided tour—by bus, Segway, private car, or even horseback—expect to pay. You’ll also need an admission ticket to see the exhibits and Cyclorama at the Visitor Center.
...MoreIdeally, you’ll need two or three days in Gettysburg to make at least one trip to the Gettysburg Battlefields, visit a museum or two, and spend time enjoying the town’s unique and historical atmosphere. If you’re short on time, consider a guided tour to make the most of your visit.
...MoreYes, Gettysburg is worth visiting. Go, not only to see its most famous landmark—the Gettysburg battlefields—but also to experience its picturesque and community-oriented small town. The charming, walkable downtown is filled with first-rate historical museums, art galleries, antique markets, and many dining options—enough to spend days exploring.
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