Explore the hallowed grounds and pivotal moments of the Battle of Gettysburg through expertly guided tours and immersive museum experiences.
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is more than just a historical site; it's a place where the echoes of a nation's defining struggle still resonate. The Battle of Gettysburg, fought over three sweltering days in July 1863, marked a critical turning point in the American Civil War. Today, visitors can walk the very fields where over 165,000 soldiers clashed, a profound experience that offers a tangible connection to the past. Gettysburg Museum & Park Experiences tours are designed to bring this monumental event to life, moving beyond dry facts to illuminate the human stories, strategic decisions, and immense sacrifices that transpired here. These guided explorations cater to a range of interests, from in-depth historical analysis to broader overviews suitable for families. They often begin with the award-winning Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center, a starting point that provides essential context and stunning artifacts. From there, tours venture out onto the battlefield, with knowledgeable guides sharing narratives that reveal the significance of landmarks like Little Round Top, Devil's Den, the Wheatfield, and the iconic Soldiers' National Monument. Whether you prefer a comfortable coach tour, an intimate walking tour, or a specialized focus on specific aspects of the battle, these experiences offer a comprehensive and moving encounter with American history.
Discover our top picks for gettysburg museum & park experiences in Gettysburg

This narrated, self-guided tour of the Battle of Gettysburg brings to life 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 tour lets you explore Gettysburg’s history with flexibility, safety, and value. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Explore all of Gettysburg’s historic battlefield! From the famous battle at Little Roundtop to the final stand against Pickett’s Charge to President Lincoln’s stirring Gettysburg Address, see everything that makes this ground hallowed. This Ultimate Gettysburg Combo tour includes our 5-star Gettysburg Battlefield Driving Tour (a best seller), the spooky Ghosts of the Battlefield Driving Tour, & two brand-new walking tours of the battlefield’s famous Devil’s Den & Seminary Ridge battle sites. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

Gettysburg is one of the most haunted locations in the United States, plagued by nearly 150 years of intense paranormal activity. The hauntings in Gettysburg are legendary and widely known across the country. This small town was the site of the bloodiest and arguably most significant battle in the Civil War, which shifted the tide toward Union forces. However, both sides suffered massive losses, with an estimated 46,000 to 51,000 men wounded, killed, or missing during the three-day battle. These are the true stories of eerie encounters at the battlefield. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months

Step back into one of the most defining chapters of American history on this full-day trip from Washington DC to Gettysburg. Visit Gettysburg National Military Park, where the turning point of the Civil War unfolded, with admission included and time to explore the battlefield’s most significant sites. After the park visit, enjoy free time in historic downtown Gettysburg, known for its preserved architecture, museums, and local shops. With comfortable transportation and a carefully planned itinerary, this tour offers a meaningful and immersive Gettysburg experience.

Start at your lodging point in Washington, Gettysburg, or points in between for a Gettysburg Battlefield Tour conducted by a twenty-year military veteran. Visit the cupola at the Lutheran Seminary to get General Buford’s bird’s eye view of the battle. Experience key points of the three-day battle including Little Round Top, the Devil’s Den, the Peach Orchard, the Angle, and General Armisted’s farthest advance during Pickett’s charge. Perfect for the first-time visitor or those who have conducted seasoned study.

Let us transport you in a luxury vehicle to a turning point in the Civil War. You will be escorted by a Battlefield guide that will tell an in depth narrative of those three fateful days in July 1863 This tour gives you an in depth narrative of the events of Gettysburg battle by showing you artifacts, cinematic perspective and actual battlefield settings from a licensed professional battlefield guide. Once you arrive at Gettysburg National Park, you will go to the Visitor Center where they will be expecting you. You will see an introductory film, the Cyclorama and their museum. Grab a quick bite before your tour. A guide will accompany you in the vehicle you arrived in and take you on a two hour tour around the Battlefield, 16 stops all together. You will have the opportunity to step out at many of these stops along the way. The driving portion of the tour is two hours.
Gain deep insights from guides with specialized knowledge of the battle and its historical context. They bring the events of 1863 to vivid life.
Tours cover the most significant locations on the battlefield, often including areas that are challenging to navigate independently.
Go beyond memorizing dates and names; understand the strategic nuances and the personal stories of those who fought here.
Capture the dramatic landscapes and iconic monuments that serve as poignant reminders of the battle's scale and importance.
Tours often incorporate visits to the Museum & Visitor Center, providing a solid foundation before exploring the actual battlefield.
Choose from different styles, including bus tours, private tours, and walking tours, to suit your pace and preferences.
These popular tours offer a comprehensive overview of the Gettysburg battlefield from the comfort of a climate-controlled bus. Guides provide narrative commentary as you travel between key points of interest.
For a more intimate and in-depth exploration, walking tours focus on specific areas of the battlefield, allowing for closer examination of terrain and monuments. Small group sizes ensure a more personalized experience.
Many tours begin or include dedicated time at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center. Here, visitors can view extensive exhibits, artifacts, and the famed 'Cyclorama' painting.
For a truly tailored experience, private tours offer the flexibility to focus on specific interests, adjust the itinerary, and enjoy the undivided attention of a guide. These are ideal for families or those with niche historical interests.
Tours typically range from 2 to 5 hours, depending on the type of experience chosen. Bus tours are often around 2-3 hours, while in-depth walking or private tours can extend longer.
Gettysburg experiences all four seasons. Be prepared for potential heat and humidity in summer, cold and wind in winter, and rain at any time. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear are essential.
Group sizes vary greatly. Bus tours can accommodate many people, while walking tours might be limited to 15-25 participants. Private tours are exclusive to your booking.
Generally includes a knowledgeable guide and transportation for bus tours. Many tours offer optional add-ons or discounts for museum admission. Always check individual tour details for specifics.
Most tours convene at or near the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center, 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325. Some private tours may offer alternative pickup locations.
While tour prices vary, factor in potential extra costs for souvenirs, personal purchases, and food. Museum admission and the 'Cyclorama' painting may be included or separate, depending on the tour package.
Book in advance, especially during peak season (summer and fall), to secure your preferred date and time. Gettysburg is a popular destination.
Wear comfortable walking shoes. Even bus tours involve some walking to key viewpoints and monuments.
Bring water and snacks, particularly for longer tours or during warmer months. Staying hydrated is important.
Consider purchasing a guidebook or map to supplement your tour. This can help you identify landmarks and recall details later.
If you have a specific interest, like artillery, cavalry, or a particular day of the battle, look for specialized tours that cater to those themes.
Listen actively to your guide. Their insights and storytelling are what make these experiences truly valuable.
Allow ample time for the Museum & Visitor Center, even if your tour focuses on the battlefield. The exhibits and Cyclorama are significant.
Check the weather forecast before you go and dress in layers. Conditions can change rapidly.
A: The best way depends on your preference. Bus tours offer a broad overview, while walking tours allow for deeper exploration of specific areas. Many visitors find starting with the Museum & Visitor Center provides essential context before heading to the field.
A: Many tours are family-friendly, especially the bus tours. However, the historical nature can be intense. It's advisable to research specific tour descriptions or opt for shorter, more generalized tours for younger children.
A: Walking tours naturally involve significant walking. Bus tours typically include several stops where you'll walk short distances to view monuments and key terrain features. Always wear comfortable shoes.
A: Absolutely. The Museum & Visitor Center is open to the public and is an excellent starting point for understanding the battle. Many tours include admission or begin here.
A: The Gettysburg Cyclorama is a massive, 360-degree oil painting created in the late 19th century depicting the climax of the Battle of Gettysburg, Pickett's Charge. It's a stunning piece of art and a powerful historical representation.
A: Yes, it's highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons like summer and fall. Popular tours can sell out, and booking ahead ensures you get your desired date and time.
A: Park Ranger programs are often free and offer excellent historical insights, but have set schedules and group sizes. Private guides offer more flexibility, personalized attention, and can cater to specific interests, often at a higher cost.
Walk the hallowed grounds where American history unfolded during the Civil War.
Experience the profound stories of courage and sacrifice at Gettysburg National Military Park.
Gain a deeper understanding of pivotal moments that shaped the United States.
Connect with the enduring legacy of the Battle of Gettysburg firsthand.
Explore charming downtown Gettysburg and its unique Civil War-era atmosphere.
Witness a living history lesson that continues to resonate today.
Gettysburg experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid with occasional thunderstorms, while winters are cold with a chance of snow. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor exploration.
Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) are often considered the best months to visit Gettysburg due to mild weather perfect for touring the battlefield and fewer crowds than summer.
The peak season typically runs from June through August, coinciding with summer vacation. Expect warm to hot temperatures, larger crowds at major attractions, and potentially higher accommodation prices.
The off-season spans from November to March, bringing colder weather and a quieter atmosphere. While some outdoor activities are limited, you'll encounter fewer tourists and potentially better deals on lodging.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Immerse yourself in the pivotal moments of the Civil War with expert-led walking tours of historic Gettysburg.
Discover the pivotal moments of the Civil War with expert-led tours of the hallowed grounds of Gettysburg.
Explore Gettysburg's rich history and vibrant local food scene on curated culinary and pub crawl tours.
Uncover the pivotal moments of the American Civil War with expert-led tours of the Gettysburg battlefield and its significant historical landmarks.
Uncover the chilling tales and spectral encounters that linger in America's most haunted town with expert-led ghost tours.
Getting around Gettysburg is most convenient with a personal vehicle for flexibility on the expansive battlefield. The Gettysburg National Military Park is vast, and driving allows you to stop at various points of interest at your own pace. Guided bus tours are an excellent alternative, offering expert narration and eliminating parking hassles. Within the town of Gettysburg itself, many attractions are within walking distance. Bicycle rentals are also popular for a more intimate exploration of the park, though be prepared for some inclines. Ride-sharing services can be found, but coverage might be less frequent outside the immediate town.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Find the perfect accommodation for your Gettysburg adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.