Why Go to Gettysburg
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Gettysburg is a charming small town in southern Pennsylvania where some of the most important history in America unfolded. It works beautifully for a romantic weekend or an educational family trip, with family-owned shops, cozy inns and restaurants serving farm-to-table food and local drinks.
Most visitors come to understand the Battle of Gettysburg, the bloodiest battle of the Civil War and a turning point in the conflict. Explore Gettysburg National Military Park, where you can see the battlefield, monuments and the cemetery where President Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address. A licensed battlefield guide or guided tour brings the story to life. In town, visit the Jennie Wade House and the Shriver House Museum to learn how the battle affected local families.
When you're ready for a change of pace, tour the Eisenhower National Historic Site, the farm of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, and snap a photo at the historic Sachs Covered Bridge. I'll plan a weekend with the right guides, a historic inn and a balance of history and relaxation.
BEST FOR
Civil War history enthusiasts, museumgoers, families and heritage travelers
BEST MONTHS
Spring and fall are comfortable for battlefield touring; summer brings longer daylight and heavier visitation.
EXPLORE
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Gettysburg
North America › Mid-Atlantic › USA › Pennsylvania
Civil War history and Pennsylvania countryside
Military
History
Museums
Monuments
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Begin at the national park visitor center, then explore battlefield sites in sequence instead of hopping randomly between monuments.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Start here to choose an appropriate self-guided or licensed-guide route.
Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center
Primary orientation center with exhibits, visitor services and options for guided tours.
Use the NPS map and allow several hours for a thoughtful visit.
Gettysburg Battlefield Auto Tour
Historic park roads and stops exploring pivotal Civil War terrain.
Use marked trails and respect monument and landscape boundaries.
Little Round Top
Prominent hill associated with important fighting on the Union left.
Stone surfaces are uneven; watch your footing.
Devils Den
Rocky battlefield area below Little Round Top.
Keep visits respectful and check grounds access times.
Gettysburg National Cemetery
Historic burial ground and setting associated with Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.
A historic downtown hotel within walking distance of shops and restaurants.
Gettysburg Hotel
Lincoln Square
Hotel Tags
A boutique hotel in a restored historic school building near central Gettysburg.
Federal Pointe Inn, an Ascend Collection Hotel
West Gettysburg / near downtown
Hotel Tags
A full-service hotel near the northern approach to Gettysburg.
Wyndham Gettysburg
Gateway Gettysburg
Hotel Tags
A practical base for battlefield touring with convenient road access.
Hilton Garden Inn Gettysburg
East Gettysburg
Hotel Tags
A lodge-style property overlooking countryside near the battlefield region.
The Lodges at Gettysburg
West of Gettysburg
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Gettysburg
High 54°F · Low 35°F · Rain 3.1 in
Remembrance Day marks the anniversary of the Gettysburg Address.
Spring and fall are comfortable for battlefield touring; summer brings longer daylight and heavier visitation.
Best Times to Visit Gettysburg
WHEN TO GO
06
Cycling / Outdoor Transport
Use signed cycling routes or reputable activity operators where conditions and access permit.
05
Guided Tours
Organized excursions can simplify logistics for major landmarks and scenic routes.
04
Local Transit
Check the local transit provider for available routes, operating days and service areas.
03
Ride-Hail / Taxi
Use established taxi or app-based transportation where service operates; verify coverage in advance.
02
Walking
Walkable districts are ideal for exploring shops, restaurants and nearby cultural sights.
01
Rental Car
A rental car offers the most flexibility for attractions spread beyond the central visitor area.
Plan local transportation around your priority attractions. A rental car offers the most flexibility for attractions spread beyond the central visitor area. For remote trails, beaches and scenic corridors, review parking and road conditions before setting out.
Getting Around Gettysburg
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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