As you walk through the Pennsylvania fields and farmlands, you’ll feel the scope of history in every step.
It’s not surprising that many of the most famous things to do in Gettysburg involve its past; after all, it was one of the key battle sites in the Civil War, widely considered to be a turning point in the conflict.
And it was also where President Abraham Lincoln delivered his iconic Gettysburg Address, a sobering reflection on the toll of the war.
But the town and surrounding area also have some more present-day delights to offer, from ghost tours and escape rooms to cider tastings and food tours.
And it even played a role in another war… one that might surprise you!
So brush off your textbooks and your sense of adventure, and see what the area has to offer!
1 – Get the history lesson started right at Gettysburg National Military Park
Of course, no trip to the area would be complete without exploring the conflict’s history in-depth, and Gettysburg National Military Park is the perfect place to start.
This cultural space encompasses the entire battlefield, and offers visitors a full glimpse into the three days of bloodshed, which ultimately prevented the Confederate Army’s attempted Northern invasion.
With a remarkable mix of cultural presentations and well-preserved sites, it conveys the story of conflict and bloodshed in a poignant, powerful fashion.
You could easily spend a whole trip just walking through the monumental space, following the paths of soldiers in the field and taking in the lush scenery.
But there are some specific spots in the park that are well worth checking out.
Stop by the ornate State of Pennsylvania Monument, whose granite dome and Winged Victory statue pay tribute to the fallen soldiers of the Union Army.
Then walk through the Gettysburg Battlefield itself, retracing the paths of the clashing armies, and learning all about the brutal conflict in detail.
And don’t miss Devil’s Den, a hill covered in rock formations that served as a strategic outpost for sharpshooters and other soldiers in the midst of the fighting.
If you’re looking for even more insight, join one of the many excellent civil war tours in Gettysburg!
2 – Retrace the conflict at Little Round Top
Another significant piece of wartime geography, this hilly area was one of the major clashing points between the Confederate and Union armies.
On the second day of the skirmish, the Confederates attempted to take the hill and advance their territory, but they were held off by the Union forces.
While the exact historical significance of the moment is still debated, it is widely acknowledged as one of the most intense and violent moments of the entire battle.
When you visit today, you can explore the paths and retrace the back-and-forth action of the opposing forces, all while admiring the unique beauty of the gorgeous hillside and its Triassic-era geology.
3 – Stop by the David Wills House
While the battleground is (understandably) the main attraction, there are plenty of other buildings in town that played a role in the clash of forces – and, maybe more importantly, in its aftermath.
The David Wills House is a remarkable museum devoted to the strange post-conflict transitional period, when the locals had to pick up the pieces and figure out how to move forward from the violent event.
David Wills, a local attorney, was instrumental in the rebuilding process after the conflict, and he also hosted President Lincoln while the Commander-in-Chief was working on his famous speech.
As you tour the space, be sure to check out the room where Lincoln stayed, as well as Wills’ personal office; both rooms are perfectly preserved exactly as they looked in 1863!
4 – Go ghoul-hunting on a ghost tour
With such a storied legacy – and so many casualties in town -, it’s little wonder that ghost tours are such a popular activity!
Join your ethereally engaged guide and wander through the streets and battlefields, learning some of the more prevalent tales of supernatural presences.
The spirits of deceased soldiers and former townsfolk are said to still roam the area, and the historic buildings often come with their own resident specter.
From hotel hauntings to bizarre cemetery encounters, the level of supposed paranormal activity is just what you’d expect from a place that saw so much tragedy and death.
And if you’re traveling with younger visitors, never fear – there are family-friendly options that provide all the intrigue and amazing stories, with a little less intensity.
Bring your sense of adventure and curiosity… you never know what you’ll encounter!
5 – Explore the Shriver House Museum
Located right in the middle of town, Shriver House Museum is another splendid monument to the everyday citizens who were deeply impacted by the conflict.
When the Shriver family opened their ten-pin alley and saloon – with living quarters attached – in 1860, they could never have guessed how much life would change in a short period of time.
When the fighting came to town three years later, their residence was right in the thick of the action, serving as a hospital for wounded soldiers.
The attic was even repurposed as a perch for sharpshooters!
After the war, the house was eventually abandoned and fell into disrepair, before being restored in the 1990s as a showcase for civilian life in the midst of the fighting.
Stop by to see the perfectly preserved rooms and furnishings, which depict life exactly as it was during the turmoil of the Civil War.
You’ll also be able to learn more about the Shrivers themselves, and how their experiences showcase the strange reality of the civilian experience.
6 – Meet the racing pigs and counting ponies at Land of Little Horses Performing Animal Theme Park
And now, for something completely different…. And family-friendly!
At Land of Little Horses Performing Animal Theme Park, you can come face to face with ponies, miniature donkeys, camels, draft horses, and a multitude of other friendly critters.
The complex got its start in the 1970s as the first Falabella miniature horse farm in the U.S., and eventually expanded its offerings to include a petting zoo,a replicated old Western town, and raceway for pigs – yes, you read that correctly!
The park is also known for its live entertainment, including some remarkable circus-style performances and the renowned “Horse With A Human Brain” act, where particularly intelligent ponies solve mathematical equations!
This is the perfect place for the young and young at heart to unwind and meet some new animal friends!
7 – Sample the offerings at Reid’s Winery Tasting Room and Cider House
When it’s time to unwind, head over to Reid’s Orchard and Winery for a taste of the region’s famously delicious drinks!
The orchards and vineyards of Pennsylvania are renowned for cultivating great crops, and the delicious results are well worth sampling.
Along with a wine-tasting room where you can sip everything from full-bodied reds and crisp whites to fruity variants and sweet options, there’s a constant rotating selection of ciders on tap, often featuring berries and apples grown directly next door!
Stop by for some delicious samples, and enjoy the frequent sounds of live music… and maybe buy a bottle or two for later!
8 – Take the spookiness to the next level with a Paranormal investigation tour
It’s not just ghosts that are rumored to roam the land; there are plenty of other unexplained phenomena in and around Gettysburg for the curious traveler to explore.
And with the many paranormal investigation tours in the region, you can see the cool, creepy side of town in full force.
Join some experts in the field, and use top-of-the-line equipment to try to communicate with figures from the world beyond.
Best of all, there’s a whole range of excursions available, depending on your level of familiarity with the subject.
If you’re totally new to the process, you can join a beginner’s tour, where you’ll hear some fascinating stories and get a crash course in the tools of the trade.
And if you’re more experienced, you can embark on the advanced tour, with even more sophisticated equipment and top-of-the-line ghost hunting methods.
Whether you’re a believer or not, it’s one of the most interesting things to do in Gettysburg – and a unique way to explore some of the area’s past!
9 – Soak up the stories of Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center
For nearly 200 years, Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center has been a home of learning – first as a school, and now as a place where the past comes to life!
The original building, the Lutheran Seminary, was a prominent place of learning in town for decades before the war.
Once the bloodshed began, the space was turned into a field hospital, with scores of wounded soldiers passing through its doors.
After the war, the institution remained committed to teaching visitors about the battle and all of its complexities, with a wonderful mix of informative exhibits and lesson plans curated by expert museum staff.
As both a repository of knowledge and a cultural artifact in its own right, it’s well worth a visit.
10 – Taste the best of town with a food tour
Need a little bit of a break from the heavy stuff? Treat yourself (literally) to a food tour!
Wander through the streets of downtown Gettysburg and sample some of the best sweets, beers, pretzels, and even a bit of Philly Cheesesteak!
As you stroll from one venue to the next, you’ll get a great crash course in some of the famous, well-preserved architecture, as well as the different parts of the battle that took place all over town.
It’s great fuel for both the brain and the belly!
11 – Delve into Cold War stories at Eisenhower National Historic Site
While Lincoln was the president most famously associated with Gettysburg, he wasn’t the only one that spent time in the region!
Dwight D. Eisenhower, who was commander-in-chief for most of the 1950s, owned a farm just outside of town, and spent many happy hours there with his family during his time in office.
But it was more than just a weekend hangout; as the Cold War ramped up in intensity, the farm was a frequent meeting place for world leaders to discuss the shifting politics of the era.
As you enjoy the lovely scenery and explore the rooms full of family keepsakes, you can see a more modern side of the town’s past – and its ongoing role in the country’s politics!
12 – Embark on a self-guided driving tour
If you really want to enjoy the scenery at your own pace, self-guided driving tours are a terrific option.
Use the curated guides, a map, and your set of wheels to explore, passing around the town, the battlefields, and the farmlands beyond.
Given the tremendous size of the area – the skirmish took place over 6,000 acres! – this is an excellent way to cover more ground than you might be able to manage on foot.
And if you’re feeling brave, there’s also a ghost-themed option, where you can cruise by haunted hotspots and keep an eye out for unusual figures.
Take your time, and take it all in!
13 – Pay your respects at Gettysburg National Cemetery
One of the most somber and moving spots in town, Gettysburg National Cemetery is the perfect place to reflect on the toll of the battle, which caused more deaths than any other part of the war: roughly 10,000 in all.
Located inside Gettysburg National Military Park, it holds the remains of more than 3,500 of those soldiers, as well as several thousand other veterans and victims of various conflicts.
It was also the site of the Gettysburg Address, which President Lincoln delivered during the dedication ceremony.
While a visit here can be emotional, it’s well worth taking some time to linger at the graves, and to feel the true impact of the lives lost.
14 – Enjoy the two-wheeled perspective with a bike tour
If you get tired of walking, why not snag a set of wheels?
Getttysbike Tours offers some great routes through the countryside, with the opportunity to see more sites and cover further distances than your average tour.
You’ll also get a sense for the long, distinguished history of the area, from precolonial times all the way up to the present day
And along with plenty of fresh air, you’ll be able to help the environment and do some in-depth learning… all at once!
It’s worth noting that the usual season for tours lasts from late April to late October, but you can email them to request excursions at other times of year.
Grab a helmet and see what’s out there!
15 – Gain some new insights at Gettysburg Battlefield: Lee’s Headquarters
The Union army tends to get a lot of attention in Gettysburg, but of course, it was a significant spot for the Confederates as well.
And no visit to the battlefield is complete without a stop at Lee’s Headquarters, where General Robert E. Lee planned his army’s ultimately unsuccessful attacks.
The mountainside cabin atop Seminary Ridge was the main hub of activity for the Confederate Army, as they attempted to take more ground and make their way into the Northern territories.
Inside the perfectly preserved space, there are some great details about Lee and his planning process; outside, you’ll get an eyeful of the beautiful countryside, and learn all about the different points of engagement.
It’s a wonderful way to gain a fuller perspective of the incident, and the intense strategizing that was undertaken on both sides.
16 – Enjoy the scenery with some horse riding
If you really want to adhere to tradition while visiting, try out some horseback riding tours!
You’ll be able to traverse the battlefields in the same way that the actual soldiers did, following well-trod pathways and exploring both the secluded and open spaces that played such vital roles in the conflict.
It’s also a great way to appreciate an aspect of the area that sometimes goes unnoticed in the larger conversation: the beautiful natural surroundings.
While these hills, fields, and wooded areas served important strategic purposes, they are also worth appreciating in their own right, especially as peaceful places for reflection.
As you and your horse explore, you’ll also get to enjoy the gorgeous forests and open fields – a tranquil setting for a gruesome era.
17 – Keep learning at Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center
Before you head out into the field, swing by Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center to gain even more context.
There are tons of excellent infographics and exhibits to give you the basics on the battle, and help you orient yourself before heading out to the various sites.
You can also stop by for one of the ranger presentations, or the acclaimed Living History Programs, where historical reenactors bring the area to life.
Whether you’re touring a reconstructed army camp or listening to the bracing boom of cannons, it’s a wonderful way to feel like you’re really in the thick of the action!
18 – Browse through the works at Gallery 30
From fine jewelry to unique works of art, Gallery 30 offers local creatives a chance to shine – and visitors an opportunity to scoop up something nice!
Owned and operated entirely by women, this fantastic space provides something for everyone, selling gorgeous craftwork, books, and even home decor.
The gallery also prides itself on supporting artists in the community, as well as carrying a whole range of American-made products.
You couldn’t ask for a better place to do your souvenir shopping!
19 – See the big picture on a smaller scale at the Gettysburg Diorama
For a truly unique way to see how the war unfolded, take a stroll around the Gettysburg Diorama!
Located in the Gettysburg History Center, this impressive display depicts the entirety of the battlefield and its participants – all in miniature form!
Take your time walking around the display; with over 20,000 depictions of weapons, structures, people, and animals populating the scene, there are infinite tiny details to take in!
And don’t miss the multimedia presentations, where sound effects, dramatic lighting, and narration to dramatically portray the entire skirmish, start to finish.
It’s one of the most fascinating things to do in Gettysburg!
20 – Get a kid’s-eye view at Children of Gettysburg 1863
When you’re exploring the stories of the war, it’s well worth remembering the impact it had on local youngsters – especially if you’re traveling with kids of your own!
Children of Gettysburg 1863 is a fascinating interactive experience that exposes visitors of all ages to the perspectives of kids and teens in the center of the conflict.
Located in the Historic Rupp House – where the Rupp family (including six kids!) lived throughout the war -, the museum is packed with firsthand accounts, educational scavenger hunts, and immersive exhibits that bring the stories to life in a visceral, multisensory fashion.
Whether your little ones are reading letters from actual Civil War-era children, testing the weight of military packs, or trying to fill the shoes of Lincoln on the speaker’s podium, they’ll feel history come alive in a whole new way – and it’s pretty cool for grown-ups, too!
21 – See the war in 360 degrees at Gettysburg Cyclorama
After seeing the conflict in miniature, it’s time to see it in panoramic form!
The Gettysburg Cyclorama isn’t just a remarkable perspective on the battle; it’s also a showcase of past historical entertainment, when epic stories had to be told through more traditional art forms.
Long before modern media existed, these massive, circular portraits offered visitors the chance to immerse themselves in a vividly recreated world.
This particular canvas – over four stories high, and longer than a football field – portrays Pickett’s Charge and the visceral moments of war in stunning detail, providing a distinctive vantage point that feels almost as real as being there.
Although it was created in 1884, the piece still represents an incredible melding of art, technical skills, and history, and provides an unforgettable framework for learning about the conflict.
22 – Celebrate various eras at the Gettysburg Museum of History
While the Gettysburg Museum of History naturally has a lot of Civil War coverage, it also offers some great insights into the area’s growth and culture in the century and a half since.
There’s a general focus on war, its impacts, and its participants; along with the most famous clash, there are some wonderful artifacts from Vietnam and both World Wars, including uniforms, weapons, knick knacks salvaged from training camps, and even one of Hitler’s footstools!
But there’s also an amazing assortment of items related to various U.S. Presidents, from John F. Kennedy’s suit to locks of hair from George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.
And if you prefer funky pop cultural items, they’ve got you covered; take a gander at Elvis’ credit card, Evel Knievel’s jacket, and Marilyn Monroe’s bra!
23 – Get an old-fashioned keepsake at the Victorian Photography Studio
If you want a souvenir that will convince everyone that you’ve done some time traveling, head over to the Victorian Photography Studio for some fun photo ops!
With a wide variety of authentic period costumes and creative sets, it’s the perfect spot to stage your own shots, whether you’re looking for a family photo, baby pictures, or a classy headshot.
If you really want to get authentic, you can even commission a photo using the “wet plate” process, a fascinating photographic method that was commonly used for portraits in the 1800s.
And if you’re traveling with some furry friends, you’re in luck – the studio welcomes pets to be part of the fun!
24 – Roam around the George Spangler Farm & Field Hospital
Like many local residents, George Spangler and his family saw their lives change drastically when the battle started.
Their farm was quickly turned into a field hospital, with soldiers from both sides brought there to recuperate.
Perhaps their most notable patient was Confederate General Lewis A. Armistead, who took his last breaths in the family’s kitchen.
The buildings are still wonderfully preserved, so you can easily see what daily life was like for farmers at that time – and how, in the face of war, those spaces were often abruptly repurposed.
And if you’re visiting town during the summer, it’s another great place to see some historical reenactments!
25 – Dive into the offerings at the Gettysburg Heritage Center
If you want to continue soaking up history, but also score some cool souvenirs, don’t miss Gettysburg Heritage Center!
Located right in the thick of the action, it features great exhibits, interesting historical tidbits, and plenty of amazing books and keepsakes to take home.
Between the 3D displays, authentic documents, and extensive gift shop, it’s a wonderful bit of education and retail therapy, all rolled into one!
And if you don’t feel like waiting, you can book your tickets in advance!
26 – Visit the Eternal Light Peace Memorial
While it’s somewhat on the sedate and symbolic side, the Eternal Light Peace Memorial is well worth a visit.
This beautiful obelisk, capped with a perpetually burning gas flame, pays silent and steady tribute to the lives lost on the battlefield.
Since its construction in 1938, it has stood vigil in the park, and it offers a chance to take a breather and contemplate the scale of the conflict.
While the idea for the monument was proposed shortly after the war ended, it would take several decades to come to life, eventually being unveiled for the 75th anniversary of the battle.
Its opening ceremony had some powerful symbolism as well, with one veteran each from the Union and the Confederacy taking part in the process.
To this day, it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made on both sides, and the country’s efforts to reunify going forward.
27 – Stroll along the Sachs Covered Bridge
Covered bridges tend to be more associated with New England, but there’s an excellent specimen right here in Pennsylvania!
Sachs Covered Bridge arches over Marsh Creek, and along with its beautiful red exterior and gorgeous scenery, it was a vital pathway during the war, with soldiers from both sides using it for transit.
It was also deemed the “most historic bridge” in the state in 1980 – a pretty excellent distinction!
Snap some photos and enjoy a leisurely stroll back and forth – it’s a true scenic gem!
28 – Celebrate the steam-powered items at the Lincoln Train Museum
Railroad buffs looking for cool things to do in Gettysburg will be thrilled by the Lincoln Train Museum, which focuses on the many connections between the legendary man and these iconic machines.
Locomotives were relatively new technology during Lincoln’s time, and they played significant roles in his presidency.
It was a train that carried him to Gettysburg for his address, and two years later, it was a funeral train that would take his body around the country for people to pay their respects before he was interred.
Step aboard a recreation of his private car, and retrace its poignant route from Washington D.C. back to his burial site in Illinois.
Then explore more of the train exhibits on display, as well as other impressive artifacts of history and culture.
From model railroads to Elvis statues, there’s no shortage of treasures to be found here, and they all reflect the town’s deep love for Americana!
29 – Learn more about war of all kinds at the Battlefield Military Museum
Another wide-ranging cultural institution, the Battlefield Military Museum covers conflicts all the way through the 20th century.
From World War I helmets to swords from the Spanish-American War, there’s a whole impressive range of artifacts to explore.
And with a timeline that stretches from the Civil War all the way through to the war in Iraq, it offers a wide array of knowledge for avid scholars and newcomers alike to enjoy.
Come by and dive into the rich, fascinating world of military history!
30 – Eat, drink, and be merry at Dobbin House Tavern
If you like a healthy dose of history with your meal, Dobbin House Tavern is the perfect place to grab a bite!
This charming stone building dates all the way back to 1776, and features a cozy, casual dining room that’s perfect for tucking into some hearty American fare.
If you want a more upscale experience, head to one of the six Alexander Dobbin Dining Rooms – a set of perfectly preserved spaces that showcase the life of the house’s colonial-era inhabitants.
Be sure to stop by the Country Curiosity Store before you leave to snag some truly funky items!
And if you really take a shine to the area, you can even book a stay at the neighboring Gettystown Inn, a lovely traditional bed-and-breakfast.
31 – Learn about the tragedy of the Jennie Wade House
One of the more poignant stories of civilians in town during the battle is that of Jennie Wade, a local woman who was killed by a stray rifle bullet in her own kitchen.
When you visit the Jennie Wade House, you’ll be able to learn all the details of her life and untimely death, and explore every inch of the house, which is perfectly preserved just as it looked in 1863.
Each of the rooms tells a story of their own, and they all reflect the ways in which normal life quickly shifted in the course of three short days.
While she may not figure prominently in the history books, Jennie – and others like her – were as much a part of the narrative as the soldiers and generals, and her story is well worth exploring.
32 – Treat yourself at The Outlet Shoppes at Gettysburg
In between all of the educational excursions, squeeze in some retail therapy at The Outlet Shoppes at Gettysburg!
With a massive variety of stores, it’s the perfect option for a new outfit, refreshing beauty product, or some cool gear for your kids.
And if you get hungry while you’re there, they offer everything from soft pretzels and sandwiches to barbeque, beef jerky shops, and cider houses.
There are also frequent live events in the area, especially during the holiday season.
From luxury brands to lowkey options, this complex has something for even the pickiest shopper!
33 – Enjoy a cooking class at Hollabaugh Bros
With their picturesque farm and delicious fresh produce, Hollabaugh Bros, Inc. has been a beloved part of the agricultural community for more than 65 years.
And you can get in on the fun with a cooking class, where you’ll use many of their products to create scrumptious, healthy meals.
The classes are open to everyone, and families are especially encouraged to join – it’s a great way to start introducing kids to nutritious recipes!
And best of all, this is one of the awesome things to do in Gettysburg with a lasting impact, because you can keep on making these meals at home!
34 – Visit downtown Gettysburg
After all of that time out in the field, take some time to enjoy everything that the downtown area has to offer!
There are some excellent, self-guided tours through the neighborhood, where you can download an audio guide and explore the many museums, historic homes, and battlefield sites at your own pace – without missing any interesting information!
Even if you’re also visiting some of the individual stops mentioned in the guide, this is a great way to get a primer on the significant places and faces, while catching a glimpse of some of the more understated spots around town.
Be sure to check out some of the other excellent walking tours in Gettysburg as well!
35 – Swing by Round Barn & Farm Market
Combining unique architecture and some great agricultural offerings, The Historic Round Barn & Farm Market is well worth a jaunt!
Naturally, the lovely, circular barn stands out; while its style was somewhat more common when it was built back in 1914, it’s one of the last surviving structures of its kind today.
And in addition to being a wonderfully well-preserved building, the surrounding area is a working farm, meaning that you can stop by for delicious goodies and handpicked fruit – don’t miss the apples and peaches!
It’s one day out in the countryside that you won’t soon forget!
36 – Try the selections at Mason Dixon Distillery
For a drink with a great story behind it (and a bit of a punch), take a trip to Mason Dixon Distillery!
Housed in a former furniture factory, the company is run by a local father-son team, who sought to combine years of restaurant work and distilling knowledge to create a communal atmosphere with world-class beverages.
The space specializes in expertly crafted moonshine and spirits, all of which are brewed on-site, and often include some fresh, local ingredients in the mix!
They also offer some delicious, internationally-inspired dishes to go with your drinks, all of which are served in a lively, beer-garden style atmosphere.
Pull up a seat, chat with your neighbors, and try some of the potent goods on offer – it’s a real drinking experience!
37 – Put your puzzle skills to the test at 1863 Escape Room
Ok, you’ve seen some of the historical reenactments and the immersive exhibits… now it’s time to try out a Civil War experience for yourself!
At 1863 Escape Room – which is owned and created entirely by locals -, the puzzles and challenges vary; but they’re all based around the conflict, and they all offer you a chance to be part of the action!
You and your group will be tasked with solving the mysteries within the room, which is decked out in authentic period style.
Whether you’re stealing Confederate battle plans, keeping gold out of enemy hands, or helping a veteran’s family find his last will, you’ll be able to explore this tumultuous era like a true adventurer!
And if you really enjoy your first adventure, you can delve into some of the other offerings; two of them – “Rebel Recon” and “Gettysburg Gold: Train Escape” – take place in the same timeline!
Lose yourself in the immersive world and the engaging challenges, but just remember… you have an hour to succeed!
38 – Check out the kooky collections at the Museum of Haunted Objects
If you’re looking for more spooky things to do in Gettysburg, the Museum of Haunted Objects will offer plenty of spine-tingling intrigue!
With a collection of items from all over the globe, it offers a unique, suitably spooky glimpse into the stranger side of life.
Ouija boards, cursed typewriters, mysterious dolls that may or may not be possessed… it’s like a trip through the world’s creepiest attic!
And along with getting to see these truly weird specimens up close, you’ll get to learn a little more about their fascinating, and often gruesome, backstories.
From unnerving objects surrendered by their owners to seats that were present in the theater where President Lincoln was shot, the inventory in this place is far different than what you’d see on an average day out at the museum.
Admission is free with purchase of many of the ghost tours in town, and it’s well worth stopping by to get a little scared… in a good way!
39 – Enjoy a show (or several) at Majestic Theater
No matter who you are or what you enjoy, there’s something magical about the moment when a movie or play starts.
And at Majestic Theater, the physical location is part of the experience!
From the day it opened in 1925, the space has been a haven for cinema and the performing arts, with gorgeous decor helping to usher audiences into the experience.
Over the years, it’s hosted quite a few famous faces, including President and First Lady Eisenhower, and has even held some movie premieres!
And today, you can still enjoy a wonderful live performance or a fascinating film screening, just as visitors and locals have done for almost a century.
40 – Take in a Gettysburg Civil War Reenactment
There’s no shortage of immersive and educational things to do in Gettysburg, but Civil War reenactments are arguably the cream of the crop!
You may have heard about the dramatic recreations of battles featuring performers in accurate costumes, but until you experience one of these lively, powerful events for yourself, you’ll never understand how impactful they can be!
All of the participants are passionate about the subject and its nuances, so these events are more than mere performances; they’re historically accurate presentations of every aspect of the war, from the mighty to the mundane.
The Gettysburg Battlefield Preservation Association is the main source in town for these events, running regular productions at Daniel Lady Farm.
Of course, it wasn’t just soldiers on the field; you’ll get to see plenty of cooks, craftspeople, and medical personnel depicted, and as you interact with them or watch them go through their rituals, you’ll get an even fuller picture of what life was really like in the midst of the war.
It’s the closest you can get to the real thing without a time machine – and a lot less violent!
Where to stay in Gettysburg?
The Inn at White Oak is conveniently located just a few miles from the main attractions in and around town, but with its spa, billiard room, heated pool, and gorgeous, stroll-worthy grounds, you’ll be tempted to spend the whole trip holed up on-site!
And at Wyndham Gettysburg, you can work out at the gym or enjoy a bite at the 1863 Restaurant, then head out to conveniently close hotspots like the Adams County Winery or the American Civil War Museum.
Days Inn Gettysburg provides easy access to the battlefield and the Eisenhower National Historic Site, along with a lovely business center and a pool to take a dip in.
Meanwhile, Country Inn & Suites is another great option for combining comfort and convenience, with free breakfast, a gym, and Gettysburg National Military Park a short drive away.
And if you stay at 1863 Inn of Gettysburg, you’ll be right in the thick of the action; step outside and head straight to the Gettysburg National Cemetery or the Jennie Wade House, or pop over to the Gettysburg Bus Tour Center to start your next adventure!
Where to go next?
With varied terrain and unique, dynamic towns, you could easily spend a whole trip just exploring Pennsylvania!
History nerds should continue east to Philadelphia, where you can lose yourself in Revolutionary War sites or see where the Constitution was signed, and also enjoy some great food and unique pieces of art.
And to the west, you have Pittsburgh , a lively and revitalized industrial city packed with professional sports, eclectic museums, and gorgeous natural and manmade scenery galore.
And if you venture out of the state, you have even more of the country’s coolest cities at your disposal.
Heading south, you can swing through Baltimore, where the only things better than the seafood and historical landmarks are the fabulous cultural institutions (Giant libraries! Unique museums!) and the lively public festivals.
Or go just a bit further and explore Washington DC, the nation’s capital, where political attractions, world-class cultural institutions, and fascinating creative works combine with lively markets and a great food scene for an equally educational and adventurous experience.
And if you’re heading north from Gettysburg, it’s well worth visiting New York City, arguably the cultural capital of the U.S., with some of the best theater, art, and pop cultural icons in the country – not to mention fascinating neighborhoods and plenty of diverse entertainment options!
Final thoughts
While most of the famous things to do in Gettysburg revolve around the massive battle, the town has so many more dimensions to it than that!
If you want to explore the story of this most famous moment more in-depth, you could easily spend a whole trip just poking around the historic houses, bridges, and other bits of infrastructure that played their own role in the conflict.
But with great food, homegrown breweries, and some wonderfully weird paranormal excursions, it offers plenty of other entertainment options for travelers of all types.
It’s well worth checking out a little bit of everything on offer here, and there’s no better time to start the planning process for your visit than right now!
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