Top 13 places to visit in Gettysburg

Gettysburg National Military Park marks the site of the pivotal 1863 battle in the American Civil War, where Union and Confederate forces clashed in a brutal three-day conflict. The park covers over 6,000 acres and includes a wealth of monuments, cannons, and the Gettysburg Address memorial, allowing visitors to grasp the monumental events that unfolded here. Plan a few hours to explore the park's extensive trails and visitor centre exhibits. The best time to visit is during spring and fall when the landscape is painted in vibrant colours, but summer brings a reenactment of the battle, adding a unique atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the many historical markers while walking the grounds.

The Jennie Wade House is known as the only civilian residence to be hit by a cannonball during the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863. This modest home served as a hospital for wounded soldiers and is preserved as a museum, offering insights into the life of Jennie Wade, who died here during the fighting. Plan to spend at least an hour exploring the exhibits that recount the story of the battle and the impact on local families. The house is located just a short walk from the Gettysburg National Cemetery and other significant battle sites, making it a convenient stop for those tracing the history of the area.

Devil’s Den is a prominent rock formation and battlefield landmark situated in the Gettysburg National Military Park, known for its distinctive boulders and rugged terrain. This site played a critical role during the Battle of Gettysburg in July 1863, serving as a strategic position for Confederate sharpshooters. Visitors come to explore the dramatic landscapes and understand the significance of the site in Civil War history. The best time to visit is during the fall, when the foliage adds colour to the scenery. Nearby, Little Round Top offers sweeping views and insight into the battle’s dynamics, enhancing the experience.

Little Round Top is a prominent hill on the Gettysburg Battlefield, standing at 1,055 feet and serving as a crucial defensive position during the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863. Its rugged terrain and rocky outcrops are where Union forces held firm against a Confederate charge, influencing the outcome of the Civil War. Visitors often explore the walking trails that lead to the summit, offering expansive views of the battlefield. The site is best experienced in the early morning or late afternoon when fewer crowds are present. Nearby, the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center provides additional context to this significant historical location.

Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center is the central hub for understanding the Battle of Gettysburg, fought in July 1863, which was a turning point in the American Civil War. The visitor center features extensive exhibits, including artifacts from the battlefield, and the immersive Cyclorama painting that depicts Pickett's Charge during the climax of the battle. Allocate a few hours to explore the museum and consider joining a guided tour of the battlefield for a deeper context. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for walking the grounds, while summer can be hot and crowded. Nearby, the historic town of Gettysburg provides additional insights into the era.

The Shriver House Museum is a restored home dating back to the 19th century, located on Baltimore Street in Gettysburg. Built in 1851, it served as the residence of George and Elizabeth Shriver during the pivotal Civil War battle of 1863. Noteworthy for its original furnishings and the family’s narrative, the house offers a glimpse into civilian life during wartime. Allocate an hour for a guided tour, which includes poignant stories about the Shrivers and the impact of battle on their lives. It’s advisable to visit in spring or fall for milder weather, and the Gettysburg National Military Park is a short walk away for further exploration of the area’s history.

The Eisenhower National Historic Site was the former home of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Established in 1967, this 189-acre property features the main house where Eisenhower lived with his wife, Mamie, and the Gettysburg farm that served as a retreat for the president amid his post-war leadership in the 1950s. Visitors can explore the house, restored gardens, and outbuildings that reflect Eisenhower's lifestyle and legacy. Allow at least two hours for a thorough visit, especially if you’re interested in the extensive grounds. The site is just a short drive from the Gettysburg National Military Park, making it easy to combine visits.

The Gettysburg Heritage Center is a museum and educational facility that focuses on the pivotal Civil War battle fought in 1863. This contemporary structure offers exhibits featuring artifacts, documents, and multimedia displays that narrate the complex history of the Battle of Gettysburg and its significant impact on the nation. Allow about an hour to explore the main exhibits, and consider visiting the adjoining gift shop for books and souvenirs. The site is conveniently located near the Gettysburg National Cemetery and the historic downtown area, making it easy to combine visits to other nearby memorials and landmarks.

The Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center is located in a historic building that served as a hospital during the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863. The museum focuses on the Civil War, particularly the events that unfolded here, featuring interactive exhibits, artifacts, and extensive educational programs that connect the past to present discussions on conflict and reconciliation. Visitors should allow at least an hour to explore the main exhibits, with particular attention to the views from the observation deck overlooking the battlefield. The museum is near other significant sites, such as the Gettysburg National Cemetery and the historic Lutheran Theological Seminary. The quieter winter months offer an opportunity for reflection without the crowds.

The Gettysburg Museum of History is dedicated to the pivotal 1863 Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. Located adjacent to the historic battlefield, the museum features an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that recount the events leading up to and following this significant conflict, making it a crucial site for understanding the war's impact. Allow at least two hours to explore the exhibits thoroughly. The museum’s location next to the National Cemetery makes it easy to visit both sites in one trip. Arriving early in the day can enhance the experience, as the museum is less crowded and you’ll have more time to engage with the displays.

Gettysburg National Cemetery is a 17-acre site established in 1863 to honor Union soldiers who died in the Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. The cemetery is the final resting place for over 3,500 soldiers, marked by simple headstones that reflect a solemn yet dignified memorial landscape. Notable features include the ornate Soldiers' National Monument, which stands at the entrance. Visit for an opportunity to reflect on the profound sacrifices made during this pivotal battle. Plan to spend at least an hour, allowing time for the Gettysburg Address plaque and nearby sites like the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center. Early mornings or late afternoons are especially peaceful for contemplation.

The David Wills House is a meticulously preserved 19th-century home located on Baltimore Street in Gettysburg, known for its association with President Abraham Lincoln, who stayed here before delivering the Gettysburg Address in 1863. The house now serves as a museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that highlight its historical significance during the Civil War. Visitors can explore the various rooms, which retain much of their original character, including Lincoln's bedroom. Plan to spend at least an hour absorbing the rich history. The house is only a short walk from the Gettysburg National Cemetery, making it easy to combine both sites in one visit.

Evergreen Cemetery is a historic burial ground established in 1854, notable for its rolling hills and mature trees that create a serene atmosphere. It is the final resting place of several key figures from the Battle of Gettysburg, including Union leaders and local citizens, alongside monuments that commemorate the conflict's impact. A walk through the cemetery reveals impressive Civil War memorials, including the Soldiers’ National Monument. Plan to visit in the early morning or late afternoon when light casts a gentle glow over the gravestones. Nearby, the Gettysburg National Cemetery offers additional context to the site’s significance, linking it to the broader narrative of the Civil War.