Ever since moving to the east coast we have loved exploring everywhere we can. While there are countless places to visit one of the places we go back to over and over again is Gettysburg.
There is so much to see and learn about in Gettysburg that you can visit multiple times and enjoy it each time.
We love exploring all over in Gettysburg but the national battlefield is where we spend most of our time when we visiting Gettysburg National Battlefield and the town.
10 Things to Know Before Visiting Gettysburg
After visiting Gettysburg multiple times over the last 10+ years and taking visitors here are the things to know before you visit Gettysburg.
1. The Battlefield Free
Exploring the battlefield and national cemetery is free as are the ranger programs.
Start your tour at the visitor center and museum to get information about ranger programs, a map, and more.
Going to the visitor center is free but there is a charge to tour the museum and see the film.
There are tons to see and learn about touring the battlefield for free.
Here are some of the places that you really don’t want to miss seeing on your battlefield tour.
2. Buy the Gettysburg Auto Tour
One of the best things we did before visiting Gettysburg was to purchase the Auto Tour.
We don’t use the Auto Tour every time we visit, but we use it frequently.
The auto tour gives you a lot of information and details about the places you visit in Gettysburg.
Along with an audio tour, you also get a guide book with photos, maps, and more to help you as you explore.
Get the Gettysburg Auto Tour on Amazon.
3. There are a Lot of Trails
There are tons of hiking and walking trails throughout the battlefield.
That being said make sure you wear good shoes so you can comfortably explore and enjoy the beautiful area.
A few of the trails you might want to take are:
- The Billy Yank Trail
- Big Round Top
- Culps Hill
- Gettysburg Trail
Related Post: Tips for Visiting Gettysburg
4. The Battlefield is Huge
If you haven’t been to Gettysburg before you might not have any idea what you’re getting into.
The Gettysburg battlefield area is almost 18 square miles.
Now that’s a lot of ground to cover and it’s all filled with historical information, plus that doesn’t even include the town and all there is to do there.
5. Attend Ranger Programs
If a ranger program or two can fit into your schedule it’s a great way to learn more about Gettysburg.
You will often learn random fun facts from these volunteers who love sharing about the history of the area.
6. Don’t Miss the Living History Programs
Before planning your trip to Gettysburg be sure to check the schedule for the Living History Programs. These are an awesome opportunity to see the battlefield brought to life.
You can see living historians demonstrate the tools, tactics, and firepower of the two armies on the now hallowed battlefield.
7. Visit President Eisenhower’s House
Visit the Eisenhower Historic site where President Dwight D. Eisenhower is the only home he ever owned.
As president, he visited the farm for weekend retreats and it was also a meeting place for world leaders.
Find out more about touring this home and farm here.
8. It can get Busy
With between 2-6 million visitors each year Gettysburg can get busy at times.
Since there is a lot to do at the battlefield and throughout Gettysburg luckily you can usually find a place that doesn’t feel to crowded.
The busiest time to visit is during the summer months of June, July and August.
While there are a lot of local events during the summer if you plan to visit then be sue to get accommodations early and be prepared for crowds at popular attractions.
The best time to visit for beautiful weather and lighter crowds would be March through May (but you might encounter a field trip or two) and September through November.
9. Gettysburg is More than Just a Battlefield
While the Gettysburg National Battlefield is the reason most people visit there is more to Gettysburg than just the Battlefield.
Other places to visit:
- Land of Little Horses
- The Outlet Shoppes
- Historic buildings, restaurants, and inns
- Explore downtown shops
- Find a Covered Bridge
10. You Can’t See it all in A Day
There is just too much to see and do in just one day at Gettysburg.
So while a visit makes a great day trip if you live close don’t plan on seeing it all in just one trip.
Even if you spend a few days exploring you still won’t get to it all.
It takes multiple visits to see everything and each time you go back there is something new to learn.
Have you visited Gettysburg before? What did you wish you knew before your visit?
Other Places to Visit In Pennsylvania:
- Tips for Visiting Valley Forge
- 50+ Things To Do in Pennsylvania
- Knoebels Free Admission Amusement Park
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Thank you for the heads up on the auto tour! So, so, so worth it!
Even though we went back a second day, I need to revisit the park, there is so much to see and learn about. Even though it was off season we met a ranger who was super nice and really taught us even more beyond the auto tour. I definitely want to attend some of the ranger programs and had no idea that Eisenhower’s home was here as well.