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Gettysburg Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Tour

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Tour Details

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Welcome to the gettysburg battlefield self-guided driving tour.

Welcome to the narrated driving tour of the Battle of Gettysburg, the most crucial battle of the Civil War! Here, Union forces staged a nearly impossible defense against Confederate attackers–and won! Walk in the footsteps of Civil War soldiers, re-live the battle strategies of the key generals, and embark on an adventure that brings this historic three-day battle to life on your Gettysburg auto tour.

This self-guided Gettysburg Auto tour lets you explore Gettysburg’s historical wonders with maximum flexibility, safety, and value. Hop in your car, set up the tour guide app on your phone, and get started. All audio plays automatically based on location.

We are proud to be an official member of the Gettysburg Heritage Center.

Follow the Battle

The tour follows the intense 3-day battle at Gettysburg chronologically. It begins at the Gettysburg Heritage Center, where you learn about the lead-up to the battle. Before you start driving, download the Action Tour Guide app and enter your unique password to access the audio tour. Then, you’ll explore McPherson’s Ridge, the site of the first skirmish of the first day. From there, you continue past the Railway Cut, Iverson’s Pits, and Seminary Ridge until you reach the end of Day 1.

As you continue to follow the route on the Gettysburg Auto Tour, begin Day 2 with an exploration of Little Round Top, Devil’s Den, the Peach Orchard, and Culp’s Hill. Day 3 then starts with the infamous Pickett’s Charge. This comprehensive tour ends at the Gettysburg Cemetery, where you hear Lincoln’s poignant Gettysburg Address. And if you ever have questions, feel free to reach out to us over chat, call, or email – we’re always available and looking forward to helping you!

The Gettysburg Address

Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate — we can not consecrate — we can not hallow — this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us — that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion — that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain — that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

Abraham Lincoln November 19, 1863

Little Round Top Rehabilitation Project Closure Notice

Little Round Top is CLOSED for 18 months. For more, click here . However, you don’t have to miss out on this historic site’s fascinating stories and sights. With our tour, you can still listen to the narrations and view the pictures of the battle that took place at Little Round Top. You will learn about the brave soldiers who fought and died there, the strategic importance of the hill, and the heroic actions that changed the war’s course. Our tour will give you a vivid sense of what it was like to be at Little Round Top, even though you can’t see it in person.

Upgrade and Save:

Upgrade to one of the below bundles and get the best value for your money!

• Gettysburg Tours: Embark on the ultimate self-guided drive for $24.99 per person and save 40%.
• Civil War Tours Bundle: Drive through 6 self-guided battlefield tours for $39.99 per person and save 43%.

Looking to expand your tour? 

• Valley Forge Tour: By visiting both sites,  you can visualize thecontinuity and evolutionof the fight for freedom, spanning the Revolutionary War and the Civil War.

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• An annual $99.99/year subscription offers access to over 160+ tours.
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• Includes free access to new tours as they are released.

Where To Start?

Starting Point Address: Gettysburg Heritage Center Parking Lot at 1 Culp Street. Culp St Gettysburg, PA 17325

How Does It Work?

• Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
• Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
• To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
• The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
• Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.

What You'll See

Gettysburg visitor center.

Embark on this journey into the past at the Gettysburg Visitor Center! Get ready to be transported right into the middle of the battlefield... both in time and space. As we begin driving along the Gettysburg Battlefield Auto Road, we step back in time to the eve of battle. Who are the combatants? The generals? What are they fighting for? Why? We'll dive into the history of the United States of America up to the point of the Civil War. That'll help us understand what made Gettysburg such a poignant battle, and why a victory here was so important.

McPherson Ridge (Auto Tour 1)

As we continue driving, dawn breaks on the first day of battle. At McPherson's Ridge, Union and Confederate armies clash and generals on both sides order their regiments into place. We'll be able to imagine the movements of the battle as we look out over the ridge.

The Railway Cut

Our drive takes us over the Railway Cut, where we'll explore the different battle strategies of the generals on both sides of the fight. This was the unlikely site of a major skirmish during the first day. We'll continue forward, diving into the backstories of some of the key battlefield players.

Eternal Light Peace Memorial (Auto Tour 2)

As we drive, we'll pass the first of many memoirals at Gettysburg - the Eternal Light Peace Memorial. This memorial commemorates the reunification of the United States. Maine granite forms the base, while Alabama limestone forms the pillar -- a symbolic unification of north and south.

Oak Ridge Observation Tower (Auto Tour 3)

We'll continue driving along the Gettysburg Auto Road. Our next stop is at the Oak Ridge Observation Tower. Here we'll be able to jump back to that first day of battle -- but by now, it's the afternoon. We'll "join" the fight as Union soldiers try to keep the Confederacy at bay. The top of this tower is a great place to get panoramic views of the historic fields that once saw so much violence and bloodshed.

Battlefield Sallie Memorial

We'll continue driving, following the progress of the first day of battle as we follow the Gettysburg Battlefield Auto Road. Though we'll pass several more memorials, one in particular stands out: the 11th Pennsylvania Infantry Monument. There’s a dog sculpted on the other side of the statue’s base. That’s Battlefield Sallie! She served as a mascot of the 11th Pennsylvania Infantry, and accompanied these Union soldiers for most of the Civil War. We'll drive past Sallie and learn a little about the importance of drummers and military music during the war.

Seminary Ridge Museum

Our journey continues along the Gettysburg Auto Road as evening descends on the first day of battle. Union soldiers have paid heavily and lost ground. Is there any hope of success? We'll explore the various plans and strategies the generals come up with as they bunker down after the first day.

North Carolina Memorial (Auto Tour 4)

Our drive takes us past the North Carolina Memorial and Virginia Monument.

Virginia Monument (Auto Tour 5)

We'll continue driving along the Gettysburg Battlefield Auto Road. The infamous Pickett's Charge on Day 3 began at this stop, but we'll save that story for a little later on the tour. Instead, we'll now enter the second day of battle. Troops on both sides have begun to organize and mobilize. Whose strategy will finally succeed?

Pitzer Woods (Auto Tour 6) & Longstreet Observation Tower

Our drive takes us past the Longstreet Observation Tower, which offers a great vantage point over the second day's battlefield.

Eisenhower National Historic Site

Here we can take an optional detour off of the Gettysburg Auto Road to visit the Eisenhower National Historic Site, which overlooks the battlefield. President Eisenhower often stayed here.

Warfield Ridge (Auto Tour 7)

We're back on the Gettysburg Road, following the activities of Day 2 of the battle. Confederate troops assemble here, ready to attack one of the strategic Union outposts. Specially trained Union marksmen are in position to defend. The stage is set....

Little Round Top (Auto Tour 8)

Our drive passes Little Round Top, a critical skirmish site on the second day. Here Union soldiers just barely hold off Confederate troops, maintaining their control of this strategic hill. As we drive around the hill, we'll cross the Valley of Death -- an appropriate name for the site of such a bloody skirmish.

Devil's Den

Here, Confederate sharpshooters set up positions among the volcanic rocks. From the safety of the rocky cover at Devil's Den, they’re able to pick off soldier after soldier on the Union side.

The Wheat Field (Auto Tour 9)

We continue driving along the Gettysburg Auto Road, passing the Wheat Fields. This area represented the second major skirmish site on Day 2. We'll find ourselves in the heat of battle, fighting alongside Union soldiers to defend against the Confederates. We'll also learn about the strange tale of Union soldier JJ Purman.

The Peach Orchard (Auto Tour 10)

Our drives take us past the Peach Orchard, where the battles of the second day continued. We'll start seeing which strategies were successful and which were not as we drive past.

The Abraham Trostle Farm

We'll continue past the Trostle farm. When fighting broke out in Gettysburg, the Trostle family fled their home. They left so abruptly that dinner was still on the table!

Plum Run (Auto Tour 11)

Our journey along the Gettysburg Battlefield Auto Road now takes us to Plum Run, where we catch up with the soldiers who just escaped the skirmish at the Peach Orchard.

The George Weikert Farm

We'll continue towards the George Weikert Farm. Like the Trostles, the Weikert's hastily evacuated when the battle erupted. But they returned to a grislier scene -- their farm had been converted into a battlefield hospital. As we drive, we'll learn a little about military doctors and the effects of war.

Pennsylvania Memorial (Auto Tour 12)

Our path brings us to the Pennsylvania Memorial. This monument commemorates the nearly 35,000 Pennsylvanian soldiers who fought in this battle. While the stakes were high for everyone, they were particularly intense for these men of Pennsylvania: they weren’t fighting for an abstract idea, they were fighting for their very state.

Spangler's Spring (Auto Tour 13)

The Gettysburg Auto Road brings us deeper into the Gettysburg woods, where we'll come across Spangler's Spring. We'll dive into the significance of this small but mighty site and then continue forward to Culp's Hill Tower. Here, Union and Confederate soldiers clashed again, fighting for control of this strategic outpost. Luckily for the Union, they are able to defend the hill until evening finally descended.

East Cemetery Hill (Auto Tour 14)

We continue the driving tour to East Cemetery Hill. Night has fallen across the battlefield, and ordinarily, this would mean an end to the fighting. But the Confederate failure to fully capture Culp’s Hill bothers them, so they try a nighttime raid. This was the moment the Union came closest to losing. Through a mixture of perseverance, skill, and luck, the Union prevailed. Once we explore this historic site and understand what was at stake, we'll continue driving. Day 2 has come to a close; the third and final day of battle is ahead.

The High Water Mark (Auto Tour 15)

The third-day dawns, and the Union and Confederate troops prepare for a final, epic battle. This is the infamous Pickett's Charge by the Confederates. We'll stand at the top of the hill, looking down at the empty expanse of the final battlefield. As we follow the progress of this last charge, we'll take a look at the "high water mark" -- the spot that marks the farthest the Confederacy advanced up the hill, towards the Union defenses.

National Cemetery (Auto Tour 16)

We'll follow the Gettysburg Battlefield Auto Road to the final stop: the National Cemetery. Here we visit and honor the graves of the fallen Union soldiers who defended their country and morals.

Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address

This is also the site of President Abraham Lincoln's famed Gettysburg Address. Given the monumental nature of the battle, most people expected President Lincoln to deliver quite a lengthy speech. But Lincoln didn’t want to steal attention that he believed belonged to the Union soldiers who sacrificed their lives here. Our tour officially ends at this final, poignant stop.

Preview The Tour

  can you tour gettysburg without a guide.

These days, there are much better options for touring a historic site like this than the type of Gettysburg guide you might have in mind. More specifically, you can get a rich, exciting, and complete tour of the Gettysburg Battlefield by using an app!

  Can you drive through the Gettysburg Battlefield?

While the roads through the park will take you close to the major battlefields, in many areas, you’ll have to get out of the car to actually stand on the fields where the combat took place, such as Little Round Top. A Gettysburg Driving Tour app will help you locate the specific battlefield sites so you can get up close and personal with history.

  Is Gettysburg open in the winter?

Now, folks generally associate the Gettysburg Battlefield with the hot, humid days of summer, especially since the battle itself took place on the first three days of July 1863. Ironically, that’s exactly what makes winter such a good time to visit Gettysburg.

  Can you tour Gettysburg by car?

Absolutely you can! In fact, I’d say a Gettysburg driving tour is the absolute best way to experience this historic battlefield. Sure, you could pay to hop on a tour bus, but then you’re on someone else’s schedule and won’t have the chance to really explore the key sites across the field.

  What’s the weather like in Gettysburg?

Luckily for traveling history buffs, the weather in Gettysburg is fairly predictable, even during the peak days of summer. The average temperature maxes out at around 85 degrees fahrenheit. That said, if you’re used to dry heat, the humidity on the Gettysburg Battlefield is something to keep in mind.

  What is the best time of the year to visit Gettysburg?

If you’re going for authenticity, summer is the season for you. The heat and yellowing grass will give you a great idea of the conditions under which the Union and Confederate soldiers fought all those years ago. For comfort, however, spring or fall are more temperate, have smaller crowds, and offer more pleasant scenery.

  What are 3 facts about the Gettysburg battlefield?

The battle itself stretched for three days and involved more than 160,000 soldiers. There were a staggering 120 generals present on the battlefield, of whom nine were mortally wounded or killed. But despite the size of the struggle, only one civilian was killed during the fighting.

  What was unique about the Battle of Gettysburg?

The Battle of Gettysburg served as a major turning point in the Civil War. Many historians consider it the closest the Confederacy ever got to defeating the Union and winning the war.

  How many died at Gettysburg per day?

There were nearly 50,000 casualties during the Battle of Gettysburg, including almost 8,000 dead. The first day saw 15,000 casualties, and the third saw nearly as many, but the second day remains the bloodiest day of the battle. Over 20,000 men were killed, injured, or went missing on that second day of fighting.

  Why is the Gettysburg Battlefield important?

The Battle of Gettysburg marks the point where the Confederate invasion of the North came to an abrupt end, signalling the beginning of the end for the rebellion. Had Lee emerged victorious at Gettysburg, he would have marched on other Northern cities, and perhaps even Washington, D.C., changing the course of history.

  Are there still bodies at Gettysburg?

There are still bodies buried in unmarked graves across the Gettysburg battlefield, but don’t worry about accidentally stumbling upon one of these grisly sites. It happens quite rarely, and always makes for big news when it does. For more details, read our blog post .

  Can you walk Pickett’s Charge at Gettysburg?

Walking Pickett’s Charge at Gettysburg is an experience like no other, and you should absolutely do it if you have the chance! Following in the footsteps of all those men who rushed to their untimely end, looking up at the same ridge they hoped to take… It makes this historic battle feel a whole lot more real.

  Why did people fight at Gettysburg?

Confederate and Union forces battled at Gettysburg during General Lee’s invasion of the North. The Union decided to engage Lee’s forces here in order to prevent him from advancing any farther toward key strategic positions like Harrisburg or Washington, D.C.

  How long did the battle of Gettysburg last?

The Battle of Gettysburg lasted for three long, bloody days. It began on July 1st, 1863 and raged until the late afternoon of July 3rd.

  How many days do you need to tour Gettysburg?

A single day is sufficient to tour the Gettysburg battlefield, even if you’d like to explore the town of Gettysburg afterward. Still, it’s a good idea to start in the morning to make sure you have enough time to see everything.

  What is a must see when I travel to Gettysburg?

When visiting Gettysburg, you’ll definitely want to see crucial battlefield landmarks like Cemetery Ridge, Little Round Top, and Devil’s Den. Luckily, the Auto Tour Route which weaves throughout the park leads directly past all these important sites.

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Gettysburg Driving Tour App

America’s greatest battle as you’ve never seen it before. Download today for self-guided GPS tours that put you right in the center of history.

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The Gettysburg Story

Gettysburg for kids, the best gettysburg auto tour app.

GPS guided in the comfort & control of your own car.

Flexible audio tours to work around your schedule.

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Plan Your Gettysburg Trip

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Gettysburg Battlefield Self-Guided Tour by Action Tour Guide

508-506-1844 Gettysburg Heritage Center , 297 Steinwehr Avenue Gettysburg , PA 17325

Same as Gettysburg National Park operating times.

Follow the Battle

Welcome to the narrated self-driving tour of the Battle of Gettysburg, the most crucial battle of the Civil War! Here, Union forces staged a nearly impossible defense against Confederate attackers and won! Drive in the footsteps of Civil War soldiers, re-live the battle strategies of the key Gettysburg generals and embark on an adventure that brings this historic three-day battle to life. This self-guided audio and GPS tour allows you to explore Gettysburg’s historical wonders with maximum flexibility, safety, and value.

The Action Tour Guide Gettysburg Battlefield self-guided driving tour, priced at $9.99, has 1,000+ reviews on the app stores, Tripadvisor and Viator.

Customer Reviews

Great way to see the battlefield, it was nice to go at our own pace, or be able to stop and eat whenever we were ready. 10 out of 10 would recommend.

– Heather, Tripadvisor

The directions were easy to follow and the stories were interesting and gave a clear understanding of the history of the battle. We loved the GPS-enabled stories so we didn’t have to worry about hitting pause and play at the right time.

– Kmac1710, Apple App Store

Driving through the wooded battlefield with real-time narration was a thrilling experience! Your directions were very simple with both audio cues and markers on the street! My car was able to make turns tour busses could not!

– Peter, Viator

Why choose our app?

• It plays automatically. The app knows where you are and which direction you are heading, plays audio automatically about the things you are seeing, and offers stories, tips, and advice. Follow the GPS map and the routing line.
• Discover fascinating stories. Be immersed in an engaging, accurate, and entertaining story about each point of interest. The stories are professionally narrated and prepared by local guides. Most stops also have additional stories that you can optionally choose to hear.
• It works offline. No data, cellular, or even wireless network connection is needed while taking the tour. Download over Wi-Fi/Data Network before your tour.
• Freedom of travel. There are no scheduled tour timings, crowded groups, or rush to move past stops that interest you. You have total freedom to skip ahead, linger and take as many photos as you’d like.
• Award-winning platform. The app developers received the famous “Laurel Award” from the Newport Mansions, who use it for over a million tours/year.

Recommended: Purchase one tour per vehicle. Everyone can listen at the same time!

Here’s how it works: Once you book the tour, we’ll send you two things: a unique password and an app. The password arrives instantly; however, please wait at least 5 minutes if you are in a low network zone. Download the app onto your phone and enter the password. Then download the Gettysburg tour inside. When you reach there, drive to the Gettysburg Heritage Center. Once there, launch the app and follow the instructions from there! Stick to our recommended route and speed limit for the best experience.

Your Gettysburg adventure with the Action Tour Guide app awaits!

A few Ways To Tour The Gettysburg Battlefield

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Gettysburg Audio Tour 12+

A battlefield tour guide, robert barry, designed for iphone.

• 4.2 • 5 Ratings

iPhone Screenshots

Description.

Experience the Battle of Gettysburg as you tour the most legendary battlefield in American history. The tour is as entertaining as it is educational! The battle of Gettysburg was the largest and deadliest single battle ever fought in the western hemisphere. Now experience it like never before with the Gettysburg Audio Tour. Follow the tour in a customized map of the Gettysburg national park auto tour as you listen to over 1 1/2 hours of narration and sound effects telling the story of the 3 day battle. With 17 audio stops, this tour provides you and your family with what you need to learn about one of the most important events in United States History. The app is easy to use. Begin at the Gettysburg visitor center. Follow the tour on the map, or use the provided list tour stops to navigate the official tour. You can even follow the tour with a free map provided at the visitor’s center. Tap play and let the tour stop audio play all the way through. When complete, the next tour stop automatically loads in the player. Drive to the next tour stop and tap play again. It’s that simple. If you need directions, a button will open Apple’s map application and provide directions from your location to the next tour stop from wherever you are. Why buy an expensive CD at the visitor center that you will have to store and never use again? The Gettysburg Audio Tour is like having a personal guide right in your car. Look no further as you have found the only thing you need to experience the Gettysburg battlefield.

Ratings and Reviews

Good choice.

We stopped in Gettysburg for a day and were looking for something to learn about the battle. This app is just what we were looking for. Highly recommended!

Very Interesting

I found this app very informative on the tour. I highly recommend it to anyone driving the Gettysburg area.

Shrill Voice

The narrator’s voice is so shrill I couldn’t listen to it.

App Privacy

The developer, Robert Barry , has not provided details about its privacy practices and handling of data to Apple. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

No Details Provided

The developer will be required to provide privacy details when they submit their next app update.

Information

• App Support
• Privacy Policy

Family Sharing

Up to six family members can use this app with family sharing enabled., you might also like.

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Gettysburg Story Tour + Film

• Jake Boritt - Filmmaker
• Stephen Lang - Narrator
• Gabor Boritt - Historian
• Production Team
• Cinematography
• Maryland Public Television
• American Public Television
• Press Releases
• Before Battle
• July 1, 1863
• July 2, 1863
• July 3, 1863
• After Battle

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Gettysburg Battlefield Auto Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

TICKET PRICES STARTING FROM

Taxes and fees will be calculated at checkout

Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! Welcome to the narrated self-driving tour of the Battle of Gettysburg, the most important battle of the Civil War! Here, Union forces staged a nearly impossible defense against Confederate attackers and won! Drive in the footsteps of Civil War soldiers, re-live the battle strategies of the key Gettysburg generals and embark on an adventure that brings this historic three-day battle to life. This self-guided audio & GPS tour allows you to explore Gettysburg’s historic wonders with maximum flexibility, safety, and value. After booking, you can check your email before downloading the Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. The preceding steps require good internet/wifi access. This is not an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit. New, extra validity — now, it’s yours for an entire year! Use multiple times over multiple trips!

Ticket Options

1 Option Available

Gettysburg Battlefield Auto Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $24.99

Ticket Information

• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per booking

What's Included

• Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone
• Great value: purchase per car, not per person. More affordable than bus or guided tours!
• Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales and thrilling history for a memorable journey!
• Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!
• Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.
• Comprehensive route and stops: See it all, miss nothing, leave no stone unturned!
• Go at your own pace: Start anytime, pause anywhere, enjoy breaks for snacks and photos freely!
• Hands-free: audio stories play on their own based on your location. Easy to use!

What's not Included

• Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations

Cancellation Policy

• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• How to access: Once you book a tour, you’ll get a confirmation email and an instructions email. Follow the instructions right away: • Download the app • Enter the password • Download the tour • MUST DO while in strong wifi/cellular
• How to start the tour: Once onsite, open the Action's Tour Guide App: • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If there are multiple tour versions, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction. • Go to the starting point. (Note: no one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided). • The audio will begin automatically at the starting point. If you face audio issues, visit the FAQ. • Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
• Amazing savings: • Driving Tours: Save money by purchasing a single tour for the entire vehicle, avoiding individual fees per person like on a bus tour. Connect your phone to the car speakers to share the audio.
• Flexibility and Convenience: • Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. It's perfect for tailoring your exploration and revisiting your favorite spots on future trips. • Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace, free from the constraints of a group.
• Comprehensive Tour Experience: •The app provides a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated audio stories, scripts, images, videos, and recommendations for additional activities. • Enjoy a private experience without the crowds, ideal for personalized stops and photo opportunities.
• Ease of Use and Accessibility: • The app is hands-free and activates stories via GPS, offering support through call, chat, or email. • There is no need for a continuous cell or Wi-Fi connection as the GPS map works offline.
• Memorable Keepsakes: • Utilize the app’s images to create a photo book or share on social media, ensuring you have high-quality, crowd-free memories from your trip.
• Preparation: • After booking, download the app and the tour using a strong Wi-Fi connection. • Review the tour at home before your trip for a better experience.
• Starting the Tour: • Open the app upon arrival at your destination. • Select the appropriate tour based on your starting point. • Head to the starting location; the audio will begin automatically. • Follow the suggested route and adhere to the speed limit for an optimal experience. • By following these instructions and taking advantage of the app's features, users can enjoy a personalized, flexible, and in-depth exploration of their destination at their own pace and convenience.

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Tickets are going fast and limited time remains to purchase tickets by June 14 for A Historic Evening with Stephen Lang, Jeff Shaara & Harold Holzer - Battle Hymns: Gettysburg in Myth, Music & Memory  on July 5, 2024. Reserve your seat today for this must see Gettysburg exclusive performance.

ALERT: Little Round Top is currently closed to all visitation for rehabilitation. The National Park Service estimates Little Round Top to reopen to the public in late Spring or early Summer 2024.  Learn more .

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Battlefield Car Tour

For three days in 1863, Union and Confederate forces met here on the fields, hills and ridges of Gettysburg in the turning-point battle of the American Civil War. 

Today, the 6,000-acre battlefield includes more than 1,300 monuments, markers and memorials to tell the story of the battle and the men who fought here.

Through preservation efforts, the historic battlefield landscape looks very much like it did in 1863. It continues to serve as an everlasting symbol of courage, remembrance and reconciliation.

Significance

Why take a car tour.

• So much to see. Monuments. Landmarks. Battlescape. You'll see them all and hear the stories as you tour the battlefield with your Licensed Battlefield Guide. Plan on allowing 2 hours minimum for your experience.
• So informative . You'll take an in-depth, personalized tour with your Licensed Battlefield Guide covering your specific areas of interest.
• So many questions.  Where's my state's monument? Are these the original cannon from the battle? Did Abner Doubleday invent baseball? Your guide can answer all of your questions and bring new understanding of the battle and personalities.

At A Glance

The National Park Service and the Gettysburg Foundation partner to enhance the preservation and understanding of the heritage and lasting significance of Gettysburg through the Foundation's public outreach and private financial support.

National Park Service website

Gettysburg Battlefield Tour by Car

Guided Car Tour

Meet your Licensed Battlefield Guide at the Museum & Visitor Center for your personal tour of the battlefield.

• See the monuments and hear the stories as you tour with your Licensed Battlefield Guide across the battlefield. 
• Your Licensed Battlefield Guide will drive your car on the tour of the battlefield (on board). 
• Personalize your tour with a focus on specific actions, units or events of the battle.
• Reserve your tour at least 24 hours in advance of your visit.
• Call to reserve your guided car tour.

Reservations:  877-874-2478 | 717-334-2436

Exhibits & Tours

Film, cyclorama & museum experience, the film, cyclorama & museum experience introduces you to the civil war before, during and after the battle of gettysburg and prepares you for a more meaningful tour of the battlefield., battlefield value package, film cyclorama & museum + battlefield bus tour.

Make the most of your Gettysburg visit. Package the Film, Cyclorama and Museum with a battlefield bus tour for one memorable Gettysburg experience.

Tour the Battlefield

By bus. by car..

Step onto the hallowed ground and experience Little Round Top (when available, after the rehabilitation project is completed), Devil's Den and the Angle beyond the history books and movies. You'll tour the battlefield with a Licensed Battlefield Guide either in your car or by motor coach.

Personalized Experience

Don’t miss a thing on your guided Battlefield Car Tour. Either onboard or point to point, your License Battlefield Guide will provide you with plenty of stops to answer your questions and enjoy your own private tour of the battlefield.

Call to reserve your guided battlefield car tour: 877-874-2478 or 717-334-2436

Gettysburg Cyclorama

Experience pickett's charge.

Originally displayed in 1884, the Battle of Gettysburg Cyclorama is a massive fully-restored, 360-degree painting that places you in the middle of Pickett’s Charge on the decisive third day of the Battle. 

Experience the Cyclorama as part of the Film, Cyclorama & Museum Package.

Ticket to the Past—Unforgettable Journeys

The new virtual reality experience at the gettysburg lincoln railroad station™.

All aboard for Gettysburg's first immersive virtual reality experience. During your visit, you will join one of three historic figures on a virtual journey to the railroad station following the Battle of Gettysburg and its aftermath in July 1863.

Children of Gettysburg 1863 ®

Family-friendly adventure.

Gettysburg's most family-friendly, interactive children's history museum. More than a typical children's museum, Children of Gettysburg 1863 ® tells the engaging stories of the children, teens and young adults who lived in and near Gettysburg during and after the 1863 battle.

Plan Your Visit to Gettysburg.

Whether you are visiting for the first time, or you return year-after-year, we can help you plan your visit. 

14+ Things to do in Gettysburg with kids [Itinerary included]

T here are tons of things to do in Gettysburg with kids, and the vast majority of these are educational. It is like a living classroom where you can explore the battlefield, learn about the strategies used and understand the impact of the battle.

The charming town is also worth a visit. With its historical architecture, museums, memorials and monuments.

Below is a list of top things to see, as well as info on where to stay, what to eat, and a four-day itinerary.

When the area be sure to check out Philadelphia and Washington DC or plan a whole East Coast road trip !

Top Things to Do in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

We’ll start by listing the top things to do in the city. These incredible attractions made our list because they are the most interesting, fun, and unique options in the area, so choosing from this list is a great way to ensure an awesome getaway.

Gettysburg National Military Park Visitor Center

First on our list is the Gettysburg National Military Park Visitor Center. The Gettysburg Foundation runs this in partnership with the National Parks Service, and we found it quite different from most other national parks’ visitor centers.

While there are a handful of exhibits that are free to look at, the vast majority of things to do in the visitor center cost money. This building has a well-put-together museum with a film and a cyclorama painting. These things are all great ways to start your visit to the area, but none are cheap, and there are no discounts available for “America the Beautiful” pass holders, so go in knowing that.

While in the visitor center, be sure to pick up a map of the battlefield as well as any Junior Ranger books you’d like!

Gettysburg Battlefield and National Cemetery

Obviously, you will want to see the battlefield while in Gettysburg. You can do this on a paid guided bus tour, but we actually just did a self-guided car tour and enjoyed it plenty. We ended up looking up short videos on YouTube along the way to better explain some historic events, but I recommend getting an audio tour like this one instead .

While touring the battlefield, be sure to stop at the National Cemetery. This is where Lincoln gave his famous Gettysburg Address. You’ll also want to see Sach’s Covered Bridge and Devil’s Den.

Shriver House Museum

The happenings on the Gettysburg battlefield are only half the story. The civilians of Gettysburg had to deal with the aftermath, and it wasn’t pretty. One of the best ways to learn about this is by visiting the Shriver House Museum.

This museum is set inside the restored 1860 home of the Shriver family. Tour guides wear period attire and walk you through the home, recounting the story of what happened in the town after the battle was over—a facet of wartime history that unfortunately tends to get overlooked.

Jennie Wade House

Another restored historic home in Gettysburg worth visiting is the Jennie Wade House. This was the home of Jennie Wade, the only civilian who lost her life during the battle of Gettysburg. This occurred when a stray bullet passed through two doors and struck Jennie through the heart.

The details of this story make it an even more tragic one and are especially compelling when told by the knowledgeable, costumed tour guides in the Jennie Wade House. Tours last about half an hour, are very affordable and are well worth taking.

David Wills House

One of my favorite things in Gettysburg was visiting the David Wills House in Lincoln Square. As you may have guessed, this was the home of David Wills, a prominent Gettysburg attorney who had the Civil War show up at his doorstep in a manner of speaking. His house was where Abraham Lincoln stayed the night before his famous Gettysburg Address and where the president wrote the final words of that address.

Parts of the home have been restored to reflect what they likely looked like when Lincoln stayed there. Other parts now contain museum exhibits about David Wills, Abraham Lincoln, the Gettysburg Address, and more.

This museum is run by the National Parks Service and is free to the public. That said, it is essential to note that it is not always open, so you will want to check the hours before your trip.

Seminary Ridge Museum

The Seminary Ridge Museum is located in the historic Lutheran Seminary, which is conveniently located along the route of the NPS battlefield tour. It’s a great addition to any Gettysburg trip, especially if you have older children or teens.

Be sure to get a guided tour of the cupola. This tour offers a surprisingly personal and moving look at the events of the first day of the Battle of Gettysburg. It also allows you to take in an amazing view of the area, the same view that General John Buford saw as he watched an onslaught of Confederate troops arrive.

During your visit, you will also learn about how the seminary was used as a makeshift hospital. You’ll see how the hospital was set up and learn about some of the hospital’s medical treatments.

Children of Gettysburg 1863

While the Seminary Ridge Museum is ideal for older kids, the Children of Gettysburg 1862 museum is perfect for younger kids (and even those up to age 11 or 12)!

The museum is small but jam-packed with family fun and plenty of hands-on fun that lets kids today get a taste of what life might have been like for children living in Gettysburg during the Civil War. They can play with the toys kids played with in the 1800s, try their hand at being a drummer boy, and even help care for an injured soldier.

Every visitor chooses a real child from the past and follows their story through the entirety of the museum, learning what became of them after the battle ended. This makes the whole experience more personal and helps kids connect with the past on another level.

Eisenhower National Historic Site

Okay, so unlike the attractions on our list so far, this one has nothing to do with the Battle of Gettysburg. Nevertheless, the Eisenhower National Historic Site was a great stop that I highly recommend adding to your list of must-dos while you’re in the area.

This site was the home of Ike and Mamie Eisenhower. Tours of the house are run by the NPS and are 100% free to the public. They are also fascinating, and the kids had fun doing their Junior Ranger books as they listened to stories about this extraordinary man.

There is one thing you definitely want to know before visiting. However, parking at this attraction is minimal. In fact, it’s so limited that a paid shuttle bus runs from the Gettysburg visitor center to the historic site. From what I gather, the shuttle is the only way to guarantee you get to see the house on weekends and during special events. That said, we went on a regular weekday in the summer and had no problem finding a parking spot.

Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum & Candy Emporium

Looking for something fun to do that doesn’t have anything at all to do with history? Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum & Candy Emporium is one good pick. This is really just a gigantic candy and souvenir shop, but it is tons of fun to visit.

From giant elephants and a whimsical garden outside of the store to a collection of 12,000 elephant figurines inside, there is something unique around every corner of this attraction. To top it all off, many of the candies and treats are made fresh in-house, something you won’t want to miss!

Perrydell Farm and Dairy

Okay, so this one is actually about 45 minutes from Gettysburg, but it was worth the drive. Perrydell Farm is a working dairy farm where visitors are invited to get up close and personal with the cows.

You can pet the baby cows, milk a fake cow, and even watch the actual milking process if you arrive at the right time. All of these activities are free, so all you have to pay for is your delicious ice cream, which is made right there at the dairy.

This was super fun and educational stop that the kids loved!

Land of Little Horses

Another great attraction for those looking for a bit of history-free fun, Land of Little Horses is a “performing animal theme park” that features adorable miniature horses. These horses performed a fantastic show in a wonderful, air-conditioned indoor arena.

After the show, be sure to check out the pig races, mini horse grooming experience, unicorn pictures, gem mining, and other fun family activities.

Utz Factory Tour

Yet another educational spot you’ll want to check out is the Utz Factory. This chip factory offers free self-guided tours to anybody who is curious about the chip-making process.

The tour was very interesting. We could look down through windows at what the employees and machinery were doing and actually watch the chip-making process in real time. There was signage explaining what was going on, and even the kids in our group made a point of slowing down to read.

At the end of the tour, everyone got a free mini bag of potato chips. We also made sure to visit the factory outlet to get some awesome deals on even more snack foods.

Gettysburg Guided Tours

Besides the many museums and historic homes throughout the town, Gettysburg has a super cool downtown area that is well worth exploring. There are signs throughout the area explaining the history of certain buildings, and the whole downtown is just adorable.

One of the best ways to explore downtown Gettysburg is on a tour. Ghost Tours, Food Tours, Segway Tours, and Walking Tours are all available, and no matter which one you choose, you’re sure to have an awesome time.

Tour the Battlefield in a Horse Drawn Carriage Tour the battlefield at a slow and relaxing pace

Guided Battlefield Horseback Ride Tour Great for family with kids older than 8 years old, this tour lasts for 2 hours.

Ghosts of Civil War Walking Tour Learn little known facts on this 1.5 hour tour.

Historic Downtown Walking Tour Hear untold stories of the battle.

Downtown Food Tour Check out 6 of the most popular food destinations in Gettysburg

Self Guided Audio Walking Tour Experience a large selection of historic Gettysburg including the Gettysburg Museum of History, Adams County Courthouse, Gettysburg Heritage Center, and the Witness Tree.

What to Eat in Gettysburg

Of course, you will want to have some good grub while you’re visiting. We tried a few different spots during our two weeks in Gettysburg, and these were our top picks.

Gettysburger

Are you looking for a super-filling meal? Like your burger with a unique twist? Then the delightfully named Gettysburger is your spot. The burgers here are large—my husband and I could have shared one, no problem—and they come with unique toppings like apples or pulled pork.

Best of all, the staff here were super friendly and welcoming, something we all loved after a long day of sightseeing.

Lincoln Diner

For an inexpensive meal, head to Lincoln Diner. We went to this one with friends and had a lovely time.

The kids all enjoyed pancakes, the adults got various types of dinner foods, and everyone was happy. My salad was delicious! To top it all off, the eatery was within walking distance of the downtown attractions, and our bill wasn’t much more than we would have paid at McDonald’s!

Where to Stay in Gettysburg

Having a place to rest up between days of exploring is essential. Are you wondering what sorts of lodging options are available in Gettysburg? Fortunately, there are plenty.

Campground Island

A beautiful and peaceful campground is located just 17 miles from Gettysburg, Campground Island is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Both full-hookup and partial-hookup RV sites are available, as are tent camping sites. Amenities include a playground, an outdoor theater, spots for fishing and hiking, and more.

Best Western Gettysburg

Prefer a hotel over a campground? Best Western Gettysburg is a favorite in the area for a reason. This lovely hotel is located just a mile from Gettysburg National Military Park and close to all the other fun attractions the town offers. Guests will enjoy a swimming pool, free parking, and beautiful, clean rooms.

Hilton Garden Inn Gettysburg

Located just minutes from all the historic landmarks of Gettysburg. This hotel is great for families.

Vacation Rental

Cushing Cottage at Brierfield

Some people need room to spread out while they vacation. If you fall into this category, you might prefer this beautiful little Cushing Cottage at Brierfield. Set on 17 acres of lovely property just outside of town, this adorable cottage has a screened porch, a fully stocked kitchen, and everything else you need for a comfortable stay.

Beautiful Farmhouse

This historic farmhouse contains 40 acres and sits right on the battlefield. Perfect for large families, this house sleeps 8-10 people. Enjoy the catch-and-release pond right on site.

Four-Day Gettysburg Itinerary

Last but not least, we wanted to share our 4-day Gettysburg itinerary with you. No, this doesn’t include all of the attractions listed above, but it has many of them, and following this itinerary will ensure you get the most out of a short amount of time in the area.

Day 1: Visitor Center and Battlefield

Use the first day of your Gettysburg trip to get acquainted with the history of the place in the national military park museum. If you have time, see the film and cyclorama painting as well. Grab a battlefield map and Junior Ranger book before you leave!

Once you have a map and Junior Ranger book, head to the battlefield. Use your audio tour (mentioned above) to learn about each stop as you make your way through the battlefield, and make sure to snap some photos and work on that Junior Ranger book along the way.

Day 2: Historic Houses

Day two is spent visiting some of the historic homes in the town. Shriver House is the first stop, as it gives you an opportunity to look at the battle and the aftermath from a different point of view than you viewed the events on the first day.

Next, head to the Jennie Wade house. Learn another personal story and better understand just how tragic this battle and the Civil War actually was for everyone involved, even civilians.

Finish the day at the David Wills House, where you learn the story of Abraham Lincoln’s visit to Gettysburg following the battle. See where Lincoln slept and try to imagine walking in his shoes back in 1863.

Day 3: More History Lessons

Day three involves a stop for the adults and teens in your group, as well as an attraction for the little ones. This first stop, the Seminary Ridge Museum, is for the older people in the travel party. It gives them an opportunity to understand the details of what happened during the first day of battle.

Stop two is all about the kids. This is a children’s museum unlike any other. It focuses specifically on the children of Gettysburg in 1863, giving kids a chance to connect with kids from the past.

Day 4: Eisenhower National Historic Site

On your last day in Gettysburg, take a minute to focus on something other than the Civil War and head to the Eisenhower National Historic Site. Take a tour of the Eisenhower home and admire the decorating skills of Mamie while listening to fascinating stories about the Eisenhowers.

Finally, celebrate a successful and educational visit to Gettysburg by watching the chip-making process and treating yourself to some delicious potato chips!

More Amazing Activities in Gettysburg

Lincoln Train Museum This amazing family-friendly destination includes a wonderful movie about historic train rides

History and Haunts Family Fun Ghost Tour This guided walking tour lasts for 75 minutes and explores the spooky side of this historic town.

Beer, Wine and History Guided Tour Experience some of Gettysburg’s most popular distilleries, wineries, and cideries.

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