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.
