things to do in gettysburg pennsylvania
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is a historic town famous for its role in the American Civil War. Here are some things to do in Gettysburg:
Gettysburg National Military Park: This park is the site of the Battle of Gettysburg, where the Union and Confederate armies clashed in 1863. Take a self-guided driving tour of the battlefield, or join a guided tour to learn more about the battle and its significance.
Gettysburg Museum of the Civil War: This museum features exhibits on the Battle of Gettysburg, as well as the broader context of the Civil War. The museum also has a collection of artifacts, including uniforms, equipment, and personal items.
Gettysburg National Cemetery: This cemetery is the final resting place for over 3,500 Union soldiers who died during the Battle of Gettysburg. The cemetery is also the site of President Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, which was delivered on November 19, 1863.
Downtown Gettysburg: The town’s historic district features many shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the Gettysburg Battlefield Visitor Center, the Gettysburg National Cemetery, and the David Wills House.
Gettysburg Ghost Tours: Gettysburg is said to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers who died during the Battle of Gettysburg. Take a guided tour to learn more about the town’s paranormal history.
Shriver House Museum: This museum is a historic house that was built in 1812 and served as a hospital during the Battle of Gettysburg. The house features exhibits on the history of the house and the battle.
Gettysburg Battlefield Railroad: Take a scenic train ride through the Gettysburg Battlefield, which offers a unique perspective on the battlefield.
Gettysburg National Cemetery’s Little Round Top: This is a popular spot for visitors to take in the views of the battlefield and to pay their respects to the soldiers who died during the battle.
David Wills House: This house was the home of David Wills, the man who was asked to write the Gettysburg Address. The house features exhibits on the history of the house and the battle.
Gettysburg’s many shops and restaurants: Gettysburg has a wide range of shops and restaurants, including souvenir shops, antique stores, and historic homes.
Gettysburg’s many historic homes: Gettysburg has many historic homes, including the Shriver House Museum, the David Wills House, and the Jennie Wade House.
Gettysburg’s many parks and trails: Gettysburg has many parks and trails, including the Gettysburg National Military Park, the Gettysburg Battlefield Trail, and the Culp’s Hill Trail.
Gettysburg’s many festivals and events: Gettysburg hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Gettysburg Festival of the Arts, the Gettysburg Book Festival, and the Gettysburg Civil War Weekend.
Gettysburg’s many historic sites: Gettysburg has many historic sites, including the Gettysburg Battlefield, the Gettysburg National Cemetery, and the David Wills House.
- Gettysburg’s many ghost tours: Gettysburg is said to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers who died during the Battle of Gettysburg. Take a guided tour to learn more about the town’s paranormal history.
Some popular events and festivals in Gettysburg include:
- Gettysburg Festival of the Arts: This festival features live music, food vendors, and art exhibits.
- Gettysburg Book Festival: This festival features author readings, book signings, and literary discussions.
- Gettysburg Civil War Weekend: This festival features reenactments, living history demonstrations, and historical lectures.
- Gettysburg Ghost Tour: This tour takes visitors through the town’s most haunted sites.
- Gettysburg Christmas in the Country: This festival features holiday decorations, food vendors, and live music.
Getting to Gettysburg:
- By car: Gettysburg is located about 60 miles southwest of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and about 100 miles north of Baltimore, Maryland.
- By bus: Greyhound and other bus companies offer service to Gettysburg.
- By train: The Amtrak Pennsylvanian train stops in Gettysburg.
- By plane: The nearest airport is Harrisburg International Airport, which is about 60 miles from Gettysburg.
Accommodations:
- Hotels: Gettysburg has many hotels, including the Gettysburg Hotel, the Hampton Inn, and the Holiday Inn.
- Bed and breakfasts: Gettysburg has many bed and breakfasts, including the Gettysburg B&B, the Jennie Wade House, and the Shriver House Museum.
- Camping: Gettysburg has several campgrounds, including the Gettysburg National Military Park Campground and the Eisenhower National Historic Site Campground.
Food:
- Restaurants: Gettysburg has many restaurants, including the Gettysburg Hotel Restaurant, the Jennie Wade House Restaurant, and the Shriver House Museum Restaurant.
- Food trucks: Gettysburg has several food trucks, including the Gettysburg Food Truck Festival.
- Grocery stores: Gettysburg has several grocery stores, including the Gettysburg Market, the Walmart, and the Giant Food Stores.
Tips:
- Plan ahead: Gettysburg is a popular tourist destination, so plan ahead and book your accommodations and tours in advance.
- Be respectful: Gettysburg is a historic site, so be respectful of the battlefield and the soldiers who died there.
- Bring a map: Gettysburg has many historic sites and trails, so bring a map to help you navigate.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Gettysburg has many historic sites and trails, so wear comfortable shoes to help you navigate.
