Gettysburg Battlefield Travel Guide

Plan Your Trip

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is a small college town of roughly 2,400 residents in 1863 that became the site of the largest battle ever fought on American soil. Set among rolling farmland, orchards, and rocky ridgelines in south-central Pennsylvania, Gettysburg sat at the hub of ten roads, which is precisely why two massive armies 75,000 Confederates and 97,000 Union troops collided here almost by accident on July 1, 1863. Over three days, more than 51,000 men were killed, wounded, or captured, and four months later Abraham Lincoln stood on this ground to deliver the Gettysburg Address, one of the most quoted speeches in American history.

Today, Gettysburg National Military Park preserves more than 1,200 acres of that battlefield, along with dozens of monuments, observation towers, and the Soldiers' National Cemetery. What makes Gettysburg battlefield tours so compelling is the sheer density of stories packed into a few square miles a 69-year-old civilian who grabbed a musket and fought alongside the Union Army, a general who lost a leg and later visited it in a museum, and a regimental dog who guarded wounded soldiers for three days. Whether you're a Civil War buff, a family road-tripping through Pennsylvania, or simply curious about the notable battles that shaped the nation, Gettysburg rewards visitors who take their time and get out of the car.

Top Things to Do

Gettysburg battlefield tours reward visitors who mix driving with stops on foot, since the real story of Gettysburg only comes alive when you stand where the soldiers stood. Here are the destinations that anchor any visit to Gettysburg National Military Park.

Little Round Top – This 650-foot hill is the single most famous site on the battlefield, where Colonel Joshua Chamberlain and the 20th Maine held the extreme left flank of the Union Army against repeated Confederate assaults on July 2nd. Union engineer Gouverneur Warren spotted the undefended hill just minutes before Confederate troops moved to seize it, and reinforcements arrived barely in time. Standing at the summit today, you get sweeping views across Devil's Den, the Wheatfield, and the Peach Orchard.

Devil's Den – A jumble of massive granite boulders where some of the most brutal close-quarters fighting of July 2nd took place, as Confederate forces from Texas, Georgia, and Alabama pushed through the rocks in waves. Photographer Alexander Gardner captured one of the Civil War's most iconic images here just days after the battle. It's also one of the most talked-about "haunted" spots in Gettysburg, with visitors reporting cameras failing and mysterious figures among the rocks.

The Wheatfield – Nineteen acres of farmland that changed hands six times in a single afternoon, swallowing thousands of men from both armies in relentless, grinding combat. The Irish Brigade famously knelt here for general absolution before marching into the fighting, and nearby Plum Run earned the nickname "Valley of Death".

The High Water Mark and The Angle – The exact spot where Pickett's Charge broke against the Union line on July 3rd, considered by many historians the turning point of the entire war. General Lewis Armistead led roughly 200 men over the stone wall before being mortally wounded, and the cannon he touched still stands there today.

Culp's Hill Observation Tower – Climb the sixty-foot steel tower for a single-glance view of the entire Union right flank, where General George Sears Greene's men held earthworks against nearly five thousand Confederate attackers for four hours in the dark.

Soldiers' National Cemetery – Walk the curved rows where more than 3,500 Union soldiers are buried, near the spot where Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address in November 1863. Visit at dusk for a quieter, more reflective experience of Gettysburg's most solemn site.

Seminary Ridge and the Virginia Memorial – Trace the Confederate command line where Robert E. Lee ran the battle from horseback, and see the 41-foot monument topped with Lee on his warhorse Traveller, gazing east toward the field his men crossed.

Longstreet Observation Tower – Climb 121 steps for arguably the best unobstructed panorama on the battlefield, spanning the Peach Orchard, the Round Tops, and Eisenhower's farm to the west.

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Our Self Guided Tour

Download the best Self Guided Driving Tour of the Gettysburg Battle. This GPS-aware audio driving tour covers the entire Gettysburg battlefield in sequence, starting at the Gettysburg National Military Park Visitor Center on Baltimore Pike and winding through more than 50 stops across Culp's Hill, Seminary Ridge, the Round Tops, the Wheatfield, and the High Water Mark. It's built for history buffs, road trippers, and families alike the narration is timed to a specific driving speed, so stories play automatically as you approach each site, and you never have to touch your phone. Along the way, "Dig Deeper" segments let you pause for extended stories if you want the full context behind a stop, or skip ahead if you're short on time.

What sets this tour apart is its focus on the human stories behind the monuments: the guide narrates the battle not as a list of markers, but as a chain of individual decisions and sacrifices that determined the outcome. It's an ideal companion for anyone visiting Gettysburg who wants a comprehensive understanding of the three-day battle without needing to book a live guide.

Highlights include:

The story of John Burns, a 69-year-old civilian who fought alongside the Iron Brigade and later walked beside Lincoln at the cemetery dedication
General Dan Sickles' amputated leg, preserved and displayed in the Army Medical Museum
Sallie Ann, the regimental dog who guarded wounded soldiers on Oak Ridge for three days
Chamberlain's bayonet charge at Little Round Top and the defense of the Union left flank
The Railroad Cut ambush that captured hundreds of Mississippi soldiers in under ten minutes
Pickett's Charge and the High Water Mark of the Confederacy at the Angle
The Irish Brigade's general absolution before marching into the Wheatfield
Lincoln's Gettysburg Address at the Soldiers' National Cemetery

Why Take a Self-Guided Tour?

Start anytime no reservations or fixed departure times
No set schedule explore Gettysburg on your own timeline
Go at your own pace through each stop on the battlefield
Stop whenever you like to take photos or walk a trail
Avoid crowds that gather around live guided tours
Listen on your own device, right from your car
Perfect for independent travelers who want depth without a group

Free Things to Do

Gettysburg offers plenty of free or low-cost experiences, since entry to Gettysburg National Military Park itself costs nothing.

Drive the battlefield park roads – The entire loop through Gettysburg National Military Park, including Little Round Top, Devil's Den, and Seminary Ridge, is free to enter and open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Visit the Soldiers' National Cemetery – Walking the cemetery grounds where Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address costs nothing and is especially moving at dusk.

Climb the observation towers – Culp's Hill, Oak Ridge, and Longstreet towers are all free and offer sweeping views of the battlefield's geography.

Explore Devil's Den and the Wheatfield on foot – Both sites have free parking and walking paths through the boulders and open fields.

Walk the Farnsworth and Bushman Trail – A quiet, often-overlooked path near Big Round Top with no admission fee.

Browse the Visitor Center exhibits – Entry to the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center building is free, even though the film, Cyclorama, and museum exhibits require tickets.

Stroll Lincoln Square and downtown Gettysburg – The historic town square and Chambersburg Street are free to explore and lined with Civil War-era architecture.

Read the monument symbols – Understanding the sphere, trefoil, diamond, and crescent moon corps symbols on monuments turns a free drive into a self-taught history lesson.

Food!

Gettysburg's dining scene blends historic taverns with casual comfort food, making it easy to refuel between stops on your Gettysburg battlefield tour. The town centers much of its dining around Steinwehr Avenue and the historic downtown square, where visitors can find everything from quick diner breakfasts to candlelit colonial-era taverns.

For a classic taste of old Gettysburg, the Dobbin House Tavern is the town's oldest building, serving hearty colonial-style fare in a candlelit, historic setting that suits history-minded travelers and special occasions.

The Lincoln Diner is a beloved breakfast institution downtown, ideal for budget-conscious visitors and families wanting a quick start before a day on the battlefield.

Garryowen Irish Pub brings lively pub fare and drinks, a good fit for groups and casual evening dinners.

Tommy's Pizza is a longtime local favorite for casual, affordable meals.

For dessert, Mr. G's Ice Cream is a Gettysburg staple that families and kids especially love.

Foodies looking for something less expected might try Thai Elephant Walk, a well-regarded international option tucked away from the main tourist strip.

Where to Stay

Gettysburg has lodging to fit every budget, from restored historic inns near downtown to standard chain hotels close to the battlefield.

Luxury / Historic Hotels

The Federal Pointe Inn – A restored 1868 schoolhouse turned boutique hotel close to downtown Gettysburg, prized for its historic architecture and upscale rooms. Typical rates run around $250–$400 per night.
Wyndham Gettysburg Hotel & Conference Center – A full-service, upscale property near the Gettysburg battlefield with spacious rooms and on-site amenities. Expect roughly $200–$320 per night.
The Inn at White Oak – An upscale countryside retreat near Gettysburg known for its scenic setting and boutique-style comfort. Rates typically run $280–$450 per night.

Mid-Range Hotels

Hotel Gettysburg – A centrally located hotel right on Lincoln Square in downtown Gettysburg, convenient to shops, restaurants, and the battlefield loop. Expect around $130–$220 per night.
Brickhouse Inn Bed & Breakfast – A charming, well-reviewed B&B close to Gettysburg's historic district with individually decorated rooms. Rates generally run $150–$230 per night.
Inn at Cemetery Hill – Set near the National Cemetery and battlefield, this inn offers a comfortable, moderately priced stay with a strong historic atmosphere. Expect roughly $150–$250 per night.

Budget Hotels

Days Inn by Wyndham Gettysburg – A reliable, no-frills chain option close to the Gettysburg battlefield, good for road trippers watching their budget. Rates typically run $80–$130 per night.
Comfort Suites Near Gettysburg Battlefield – A budget-friendly suite option with straightforward amenities, well located for battlefield access. Expect around $90–$150 per night.
America's Best Value Inn Gettysburg – A simple, affordable option a short drive from downtown Gettysburg and the park entrance. Rates generally run $65–$110 per night.

1 Day Itinerary

Most travelers should plan at least one full day for Gettysburg battlefield tours, though two days lets you slow down and walk more of the trails without rushing.

One Day Gettysburg Itinerary

Morning
Start at the Gettysburg National Military Park Visitor Center on Baltimore Pike, use the restrooms, grab water, and spend 30 minutes in the museum before setting out.
Begin the driving tour loop, stopping first at Culp's Hill and its observation tower for a full view of the Union right flank.
Visit Spangler's Spring and General Lee's Headquarters on Seminary Ridge.

Afternoon
Drive through downtown Gettysburg and Lincoln Square, then continue to the Railroad Cut and the John Burns Monument.
Climb Little Round Top and walk down to Devil's Den, then continue to the Wheatfield.
Stop at the Virginia Memorial and Longstreet Observation Tower for sweeping battlefield views.

Evening
End at the High Water Mark, the Angle, and the Soldiers' National Cemetery, ideally arriving before sunset.
Grab dinner at a historic tavern like Dobbin House or a casual spot like Garryowen Irish Pub.
If time allows, take an evening stroll around downtown Gettysburg's Lincoln Square.

Two Day Gettysburg Itinerary

Day 1
Morning: Visitor Center, museum, and the northern battlefield stops (Culp's Hill, Seminary Ridge, Railroad Cut).
Afternoon: Downtown Gettysburg, Lincoln Square, and the Eternal Light Peace Memorial.
Evening: Dinner downtown and an early night to prepare for a full second day.

Day 2
Morning: Little Round Top, Devil's Den, and Big Round Top hiking trails.
Afternoon: The Wheatfield, Trostle Farm, the Pennsylvania Monument, and the High Water Mark.
Evening: Soldiers' National Cemetery at dusk, followed by dinner at Dobbin House or another historic tavern.

Day 3+: Extend your stay with the Eisenhower National Historic Site, additional hiking on Big Round Top, or day trips to nearby Civil War sites in south-central Pennsylvania.

The best time to visit Gettysburg is spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and crowds are thinner than the peak summer season around the July anniversary of the battle.

FAQ's

What are the top things to do in Gettysburg?
The top things to do in Gettysburg include climbing Little Round Top, walking through Devil's Den, visiting the High Water Mark and the Angle, touring Seminary Ridge, and taking a self-guided Gettysburg battlefield tour that covers all the major stops in sequence.

How many days do you need in Gettysburg?
One full day is enough to see the highlights of Gettysburg National Military Park, but two days lets you walk more trails, climb more observation towers, and take in the Soldiers' National Cemetery at a relaxed pace.

What is the best time to visit Gettysburg?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and lighter crowds for exploring Gettysburg, while summer brings warmer temperatures and larger crowds, especially around the anniversary of the battle in early July.

Do you need a car in Gettysburg?
Yes, a car is essential for Gettysburg battlefield tours, since the park roads span several miles and most of the key stops, from Culp's Hill to the Round Tops to Seminary Ridge, are spread across the battlefield.

Is Gettysburg walkable and safe?
Downtown Gettysburg is compact and walkable, with Lincoln Square and Steinwehr Avenue easy to explore on foot, while the battlefield itself is generally safe for driving and walking during daylight hours.

What are some notable battles to know in Gettysburg before visiting?
Understanding the fighting at Little Round Top, the Wheatfield, Devil's Den, Culp's Hill, and Pickett's Charge at the High Water Mark will make any visit to Gettysburg far more meaningful, since these engagements shaped the outcome of the entire three-day battle.

Can you tour Gettysburg on your own?
Yes, you can absolutely tour Gettysburg on your own by following the signed auto-tour route, stopping at key sites like Culp’s Hill, Little Round Top, Devil’s Den, Seminary Ridge, and the Soldiers’ National Cemetery, and using a self-guided audio tour or map to keep the story in sequence.

Are guided or audio tours of Gettysburg worth it?
Guided and GPS-based audio tours are worth it because they connect scattered monuments and ridges into one continuous narrative, explaining why each stop matters and pointing out details you might otherwise drive right past.

Is there a recommended route for a first-time Gettysburg visit?
For a first visit, start at the Visitor Center and Cyclorama, then follow the main battlefield loop: Culp’s Hill, Seminary Ridge, McPherson Ridge and the Railroad Cut, Little Round Top, Devil’s Den, the Wheatfield and Peach Orchard, the High Water Mark and the Angle, and finish at the Soldiers’ National Cemetery.

Can families and kids enjoy a Gettysburg battlefield tour?
Yes, families and kids can enjoy a Gettysburg tour, especially if you focus on short walks, observation towers, and memorable stories—like the old man with a musket, regimental mascots, and the dramatic charge at the Angle—to keep younger visitors engaged.

Recommended Tours

Battle of Gettysburg Driving Tour A comprehensive, GPS-aware audio driving tour covering more than 50 stops across the entire Gettysburg battlefield, ideal for anyone wanting a self-paced, story-driven way to understand the three-day battle without hiring a live guide.

Gettysburg Battlefield Travel Guide