Kayla MathieuGettysburg, Pennsylvania is renowned for the pivotal American Civil War battle that took place there in 1863, known as The Battle of Gettysburg. The conflict, which lasted from July 1 to 3, resulted in the highest number of casualties in the war and is frequently cited as its turning point. Presently, Gettysburg is celebrated for its abundant historical and cultural heritage. History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the museum and visitor center, Civil War artifacts, and observing the numerous monuments dispersed across the battlefield. Additionally, the town of Gettysburg itself offers a variety of charming attractions.
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Brief History of the Battle of Gettysburg
During a three-day American Civil War battle in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, the Union and Confederate armies fought in a conflict resulting in the largest number of casualties of the entire war. This battle is widely known as the turning point of the war after the Union Army defeated attacks from the confederation, ceasing General Robert E. Lee’s attempt to invade the north. At the end of the battle, nearly 8,000 men were killed, 27,000 wounded, and 11,000 missing.
Four months following the devastating battle, President Abraham Lincoln inaugurated the Gettysburg National Cemetery on November 19, 1863. At this ceremony, Lincoln gave one of his most renowned speeches, the Gettysburg Address. Comprising fewer than 275 words and taking only 3 minutes to recite, Lincoln’s impactful address encapsulated the essence of the Civil War.
Discover a child-friendly, historical overview of the Civil War by watching our YouTube video at the end of this post.
Table of Contents
- Sites and Monuments in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
- Tourist Attractions in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
- Places to Stay in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
- Antietam Battlefield
- Visiting Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
- A Brief History of the American Civil War YouTube Video
Sites and Monuments in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center
Gettysburg boasts more than 1,300 monuments and memorials, offering an abundance of sights. For a concise guide, begin at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center. This is where you can explore Civil War artifacts and view a film before venturing onto the battlefield. Entry into the building is complimentary; however, fees apply for certain features.
For those keen on exploring all that the Visitor Center has to offer, the following are the admission prices and what you will have access to.
- Gettysburg Museum of the American Civil War
- “A New Birth of Freedom” film narrated by actor Morgan Freeman
- Cyclorama painting depicting Pickett’s Charge
For additional details and to view ticket pricing:
Gettysburg Museum Experience Information, Tickets, and Prices
Touring the Battlefield
When visiting the center, don’t forget to grab a battlefield map. The site is open for self-guided tours at no cost, but private tour guides are also available if you would prefer. Additionally, auto and video tours are offered free of charge. For those interested in a two-hour bus tour, it operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you’d like to reserve in advance, you must book three days ahead by calling 1-877-874-2478.
Find additional details and guided bus tour prices:
If you’d prefer to enjoy a self-guided tour, you can access the audio and virtual tours. You can access them by using the links below.
Monuments in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
During our trip to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, we chose a self-guided tour of the battlefield. Following a stop at the Visitor Center, we picked up a map and proceeded to the initial point of the audio tour. Below are some of our favorite monuments.
Lincoln Address Memorial
The Lincoln Address Memorial is notable as one of the rare memorials globally that honors a speech rather than a person. Created by sculptor Henry Bush-Brown, the monument can be found at Tour Stop 16 within the National Cemetery.
Soldiers’ National Memorial
The Soldiers’ National Monument honors all fallen soldiers. Its distinctive feature is the figure of Lady Liberty atop the pedestal, mourning the deceased. This monument is also located at Tour Stop 16 in the National Cemetery.
George Gordon Meade Memorial
George Gordon Meade, a Major General in the United States Army, commanded the Army of the Potomac throughout the American Civil War from 1863 to 1865. He was involved in numerous significant battles. Originally serving as a corps commander, Meade was abruptly elevated to lead the Army of the Potomac in June 1863, taking over from Joseph Hooker. Just three days into his new command, Meade’s troops clashed with Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia at the Battle of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania. The statue depicted here shows General Meade mounted on his preferred horse, “Old Baldy.”
Eternal Light Peace Memorial
Atop this hill, the Confederates posed a threat to Union forces on McPherson and Oak ridges. Seventy-five years after the Battle of Gettysburg, on July 3, 1938, President Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicated the Eternal Light Peace Memorial. Constructed from limestone and granite, the monument is crowned with a natural gas torch, which burns eternally to symbolize the enduring unity of the United States.
Other Must-See Monuments and Museums
For a list of the other significant monuments, museums, and lodging in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, download the FREE Travel Guide to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania PDF.
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Tourist Attractions in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Following a visit to the Gettysburg National Military Park, make sure to explore the town for its numerous other attractions. Gettysburg is renowned not only for its Civil War battlefields but also for its picturesque countryside and historical sites, offering a distinctive glimpse into the life of this small Pennsylvania town.
The Daniel Lady Farm
A historical German bank-style barn built in 1842, the Daniel Lady Farm replaced a previously built barn constructed with logs. During the Battle of Gettysburg, this location was used as a field hospital for the wounded and dying. The barn still contains the initials of soldiers cared for at this location carved into a doorjamb as well as blood stains remaining on the floor.
The Daniel Lady Farm hosts numerous events, such as a Civil War Collector’s Show, the Battle of Gettysburg Reenactment, and various festivals throughout the year. Details on upcoming events are available on their website.
Children of Gettysburg 1863
The history, museums, artifacts, and monuments in Gettysburg are captivating but can be overwhelming for young children. The Children of Gettysburg 1863 museum is designed as a family-friendly, interactive children’s history museum. Situated on the historic property of John and Caroline Rupp and their six children, the museum today offers visitors a chance to learn about the Rupp family’s experiences during and after the Battle of Gettysburg through interactive exhibits. For more information on the Children of Gettysburg 1863 museum, including times and ticket prices, please visit their official website.
Fourscore Beer Co.
After a day spent discovering museums, artifacts, and monuments, dining at a local eatery is essential. Fourscore Beer Co. is a family-friendly restaurant that serves small plates, salads, tacos, nachos, burgers, and fries. They offer gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. The brewery prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients for their beer, which is brewed in tanks made in the USA from American stainless steel.
Places to Stay in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Enhance your visit to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania by choosing from a variety of historic hotels, inns, and bed & breakfast establishments.
Brickhouse Inn Bed & Breakfast
The 1898 Victorian house, situated in the heart of Gettysburg, is conveniently located within walking distance of numerous historical landmarks. Additionally, this venue provides a special add-on package that includes a Civil War ghost tour, a battlefield tour, as well as food and brew tours.
The Inn at Lincoln Square
This historic building, rich in history and played a role during the Civil War, now offers a unique lodging experience. Guests can choose from five living quarters, including three suites and two townhouses. Each unit features kitchen amenities, a private bathroom, and one parking space per unit.
The Federal Pointe Inn
Founded in 1896, the ‘Meade School’ stands as an architectural gem, blending federal and gothic styles, initially serving as the town’s first high school. Today, The Federal Pointe Inn presents a perfect blend of history and luxury for its guests. Beyond its accommodations, the inn features a thematic pub that resembles an old-fashioned classroom, offering a selection of local wines, craft beers, and fine spirits. Additionally, the Inn offers two elegant event spaces designed for exclusive business meetings and conferences.
Antietam Battlefield
If you’re interested in exploring more Civil War Battlefield Memorials, consider visiting Sharpsburg, Maryland. Located forty-seven miles southwest of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, Sharpsburg is renowned as the location of the Battle of Antietam. Known as the bloodiest single day in American history, the Battle of Antietam saw 23,000 soldiers killed, wounded, or missing after twelve hours of brutal combat on September 17, 1862. This battle halted the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia’s first incursion into the North and prompted Abraham Lincoln to issue the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation.
Similar to the setup in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, self-guided tours of significant historical sites are offered at no cost. Pick up a map at the visitor center to find the eleven distinct stops on the tour. Audio tours are an option, with CDs for sale in the gift shop. For a personal experience, book an Antietam Battlefield Guide in advance for a private tour. Rates may differ depending on the requested duration and group size. For further details, visit www.antietamguide.com.
Visiting Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is renowned for its rich historical and cultural heritage, offering numerous sites for history buffs and family-friendly educational experiences. Visitors can explore the museum and visitor center, view Civil War relics, and admire the many monuments scattered throughout the battlefield. The town of Gettysburg is filled with delightful attractions and learning opportunities, boasting a wealth of history and culture that has something to offer for everyone.
Good job on the Civil War video.a major turning point in our country…we used to have to memorize the Gettysburg address and I still know it but I don’t think they require it anymore…
I’ve been wondering about how things were going..last year most blogs were about the camper and showers or lack thereof in campgrounds ..hope that has improved…..are there better facilities on the East coast?
Anyway…Merry Christmas everyone.
Love Aunt Barb
Thank you! That is a great question! I decided to switch gears and write more about the places we have been. To be honest, I think we have already seen the best and the worst-case bathroom scenarios, so everything since has been unremarkable. But I will happily elaborate in my next post!