Things to Do in Gettysburg: The Complete Visitor's Guide

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is one of America's most visited small towns, and for good reason. The site of the Civil War's turning point in July 1863, Gettysburg offers a depth of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm that few destinations can match.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a corporate retreat, Gettysburg has something for everyone. Here's a complete guide to the best things to do in and around town.

Start at the Gettysburg National Military Park

Every visit to Gettysburg should begin at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center. Here you'll find the Cyclorama, a 360-degree painting that immerses you in Pickett's Charge, along with exhibits that walk you through the three days of battle.

The visitor center is also where you can book a licensed battlefield guide, pick up maps for self-guided auto tours, and check the schedule for ranger-led programs. The National Park Service offers free ranger walks, talks, and living-history demonstrations throughout the year, with expanded programming in summer and fall.

Tour the Battlefield

The battlefield itself spans more than 6,000 acres and includes over 1,300 monuments. There are several ways to experience it:

• Licensed Battlefield Guide — A certified guide rides in your car for a personalized two-hour tour. Book through the Gettysburg Foundation.
• Bus Tour — A guided bus tour covers the major landmarks in about two hours.
• Self-Guided Auto Tour — Pick up a map at the visitor center and drive the marked route at your own pace.
• Horseback Tours — Several outfitters offer guided rides across the battlefield.

Explore Gettysburg's Museums

Beyond the national park, Gettysburg has several excellent museums:

The Gettysburg Heritage Center tells the story of the battle from the perspectives of both civilians and soldiers. The Gettysburg Museum of History houses over 4,000 artifacts, including the Major Dick Winters collection from Band of Brothers fame.

For a deeper dive, the Seminary Ridge Museum occupies a building that served as a field hospital during the battle and offers exhibits on the soldiers who were treated there.

Visit the Eisenhower National Historic Site

Just outside downtown, the Eisenhower National Historic Site preserves the farm that President Dwight D. Eisenhower and his wife Mamie used as a retreat during his presidency. The home and grounds offer a fascinating contrast to Gettysburg's Civil War story.

Tours begin at the visitor center, where a shuttle bus takes you to the farm. Allow about 90 minutes for the full experience.

Walk Through Historic Downtown Gettysburg

Gettysburg's downtown is compact, walkable, and full of charm. Lincoln Square sits at the center, where you'll find shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.

Stroll along Baltimore Street and Steinwehr Avenue for the densest concentration of shops, galleries, and eateries. Many buildings predate the battle and still show bullet holes from the fighting.

The Destination Gettysburg website maintains a helpful calendar of events, from farmers markets to outdoor concerts.

Take a Ghost Tour

Gettysburg is widely considered one of the most haunted towns in America. Evening ghost tours are a popular way to experience the historic district after dark, with guides sharing stories of sightings, unexplained events, and local legends.

Tours typically last 60-90 minutes and cover the most storied blocks of downtown. Book in advance during peak season.

Go Hiking

Gettysburg and the surrounding area offer excellent hiking opportunities. Within the battlefield, the Billy Yank Trail is a 10-mile hike through key battlefield sites, while the shorter Johnny Reb Trail covers about four miles.

For trails beyond the battlefield, AllTrails lists several popular routes, including Big Round Top and the Gettysburg Trail. Nearby Codorus State Park offers 20+ miles of multi-use trails around Lake Marburg.

Explore Outdoor Recreation

Beyond hiking, the Gettysburg area offers golf, fishing, kayaking, and more. Destination Gettysburg's outdoor recreation page provides a full directory of outdoor activities, from scenic drives to farm visits.

In summer, the fields and orchards around Gettysburg open for fruit picking, and several family-friendly farms offer activities for kids.

Attend a Special Event

Gettysburg hosts events year-round. The Gettysburg Foundation's events page lists special programs at the museum and battlefield, including living-history demonstrations, lectures, and anniversary events.

The town also hosts an annual Christmas parade, summer concert series, and battlefield reenactments. Check the Destination Gettysburg events calendar before your visit to see what's happening.

Plan Your Stay at The Baladerry Inn

After a full day of exploring, The Baladerry Inn offers an elegant retreat just minutes from downtown Gettysburg. With comfortable accommodations and a setting that balances historic charm with modern amenities, it's the ideal home base for your Gettysburg adventure.

Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway, a corporate retreat, or a family vacation, The Baladerry Inn puts you close to everything Gettysburg has to offer while giving you a quiet, refined place to unwind.

Plan Your Gettysburg Trip

The best Gettysburg itineraries mix history with outdoor time, good food, and a comfortable place to stay. Start with the battlefield, add a museum or two, leave time to explore downtown, and don't forget the evening ghost tour.

Gettysburg rewards visitors who take their time. Spend a few days, walk the streets, talk to the locals, and let the history sink in. You'll leave with a deeper appreciation for this remarkable American town.