Ten Things You Need to Know About Gettysburg Before Visiting the Battlefield

If you’re planning a trip to Gettysburg, you probably want to make the most of your visit. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about this pivotal battle, knowing what to expect can help you have a more meaningful experience. So, what do you need to know about Gettysburg before visiting the battlefield?

Gettysburg is more than just a battlefield—it’s a vast, 6,000-acre historic site with over 1,300 monuments, key landmarks like Little Round Top and Devil’s Den, a world-class visitor center, and multiple ways to explore, from self-guided tours to licensed battlefield guides.

But there’s more to it than just the basics. To truly appreciate Gettysburg, you need to understand what to see, when to visit, and how to experience it in a way that brings history to life.

 1 – How Can You Explore the Gettysburg Battlefield?

There’s no single “right” way to explore Gettysburg—it all depends on how deep you want to go and how much time you have. The battlefield is massive, covering roughly 6,000 acres, so planning ahead is key.

One of the best ways to experience Gettysburg is with a Licensed Battlefield Guide. These experts provide in-depth, engaging tours tailored to your interests, whether you’re looking for an overview or a deep dive into a specific aspect of the battle. You can book a private car tour where the guide drives your vehicle, take a group bus tour, or even hop on a horseback tour for a unique perspective.

If you prefer to explore at your own pace, there are self-guided options. The official Auto Tour follows a 24-mile route with stops at all the major landmarks. You can use a guidebook, an audio tour, or apps that provide narration as you drive. Walking and biking the battlefield are also great ways to take in the scenery and get a closer look at key sites like the Peach Orchard, the Wheatfield, and Pickett’s Charge.

2 – When Is the Best Time to Visit Gettysburg?

Gettysburg is a year-round destination, but the experience varies depending on the season. The most popular time to visit is from late spring through early fall, with peak crowds in June and July around the battle’s anniversary (July 1-3). If you don’t mind the crowds, this is when you’ll find the most ranger programs, reenactments, and special events.

For a quieter visit, consider coming in the spring or fall. The weather is mild, the foliage adds a stunning backdrop, and you’ll have more space to explore at your own pace. Autumn, in particular, offers breathtaking views of the battlefield with vibrant fall colors.

Winter visits can be peaceful, with fewer tourists and a stark beauty that makes the battlefield feel even more solemn. While some roads may close due to snow, the visitor center remains open, and you can still explore many key sites.

3 – What Should You See First at Gettysburg?

If it’s your first time at Gettysburg, start at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center. Here, you’ll get essential background information through the film A New Birth of Freedom, the massive Cyclorama painting, and the museum’s extensive exhibits. This context will help you appreciate what you’ll see on the battlefield.

From there, head to Cemetery Hill, where the Union army made its stand on July 1, and then visit Little Round Top, a critical defensive position that saw intense fighting. Devil’s Den, the Peach Orchard, and the Wheatfield are must-sees for understanding the chaos of the battle’s second day.

Finally, no visit is complete without standing at the site of Pickett’s Charge, where the Confederate assault on July 3 was repulsed, sealing the Union victory. Walking the ground where thousands of soldiers clashed brings history to life in a powerful way.

4 – How Long Should You Spend at Gettysburg?

The amount of time you need at Gettysburg depends on how in-depth you want to explore. If you only have a few hours, you can get a good overview by visiting the museum, seeing the Cyclorama, and driving the Auto Tour. However, this will only scratch the surface.

A full day allows you to take a guided tour, visit key battlefield sites like Little Round Top and Pickett’s Charge, and spend time in the visitor center’s exhibits. If you’re a serious history enthusiast, consider staying for two or more days to walk lesser-known parts of the battlefield, attend ranger programs, and explore places like the David Wills House and the Eisenhower National Historic Site.

For those who want a deeper experience, multi-day visits offer opportunities to hike battlefield trails, visit the Soldiers’ National Cemetery, and even attend special events like living history weekends and anniversary programs.

5 – Is Gettysburg Haunted?

Gettysburg’s history is full of tragedy, and many visitors claim to have had paranormal experiences on the battlefield. Stories of ghostly sightings, eerie sounds, and unexplained phenomena are common, especially in places like Devil’s Den, Sachs Covered Bridge, and the Jennie Wade House.

Whether you believe in ghosts or not, there’s no denying that Gettysburg has an atmosphere unlike any other. Nighttime ghost tours are a popular way to explore the town’s haunted history, with guides sharing firsthand accounts and legends passed down over the years.

Even without the paranormal aspect, visiting the battlefield at dusk or dawn can be a moving experience. The quiet, combined with the weight of history, makes it easy to understand why so many people feel a strong presence here.

6 – What Else Is There to Do in Gettysburg Besides the Battlefield?

While the battlefield is the main attraction, Gettysburg offers plenty of other things to see and do. The town itself is filled with historic buildings, museums, and local shops that provide a deeper look into both Civil War and small-town American history.

The Gettysburg Heritage Center, the Seminary Ridge Museum, and the Shriver House Museum all offer unique perspectives on the battle’s impact. You can also visit the David Wills House, where Abraham Lincoln stayed before delivering the Gettysburg Address.

Beyond history, Gettysburg has a thriving food and craft beverage scene, with local wineries, breweries, and restaurants serving up great options. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby hiking trails, including those at the Michaux State Forest, or take a scenic drive through the rolling countryside.

7 – What Should You Bring When Visiting Gettysburg?

Visiting Gettysburg can involve a lot of walking and time outdoors, so dressing appropriately can make a big difference in your experience. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the battlefield terrain includes dirt paths, rocky areas, and grassy fields. If you’re visiting in the summer, bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as some areas offer little shade.

A good battlefield map or guidebook can help you navigate, especially if you’re doing a self-guided tour. If you’re a history enthusiast, consider bringing binoculars to get a closer look at distant monuments or even a notebook to jot down interesting details from your visit.

Weather can change quickly, so packing a light rain jacket or umbrella is always a good idea. And don’t forget your camera—there are countless scenic and historic photo opportunities, from the iconic view atop Little Round Top to the solemn beauty of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery.

8 – Can You Visit Gettysburg on a Budget?

Yes! While there are some costs associated with visiting Gettysburg, you can still have a great experience without spending much. The Gettysburg National Military Park, including the battlefield itself, is free to visit. You can drive the Auto Tour route at no cost, and many of the key landmarks, such as Little Round Top and Pickett’s Charge, are accessible without a ticket.

The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center does have an admission fee for the museum, film, and Cyclorama, but if you’re on a budget, you can still explore the free exhibits in the lobby and visit the bookstore. Ranger-led programs, which provide valuable historical insights, are also free and available seasonally.

For affordable lodging, consider staying in one of the budget-friendly hotels outside the downtown area or looking into nearby campgrounds. Dining in Gettysburg ranges from sit-down restaurants to inexpensive local diners and cafés, making it easy to find meals that fit your budget.

9 – What Are Some Lesser-Known Spots to Visit in Gettysburg?

While the major battlefield sites get most of the attention, Gettysburg is full of hidden gems worth exploring. Culp’s Hill is one of the most overlooked yet crucial parts of the battlefield, offering well-preserved earthworks and a more secluded atmosphere compared to other sites.

The Eisenhower National Historic Site, located just outside the battlefield, gives visitors a glimpse into the home and farm of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who used it as a retreat and diplomatic meeting place. It’s a fascinating side trip for those interested in more modern history.

For a quieter, off-the-beaten-path experience, Sachs Covered Bridge is a scenic and historic site with rumored paranormal activity. Spangler’s Spring, another lesser-known spot, played a unique role in the battle and is a peaceful area to reflect on the history surrounding you.

10 – Take a Bus Tour

Taking a bus tour with Gettysburg Battlefield Tours is one of the best ways to experience the battlefield, especially if you want expert insight without having to navigate on your own. Here’s why you should consider it and what to expect:

Why Take a Bus Tour?

Expert Guides: Licensed Battlefield Guides narrate the tour, providing in-depth historical context, stories, and strategic insights that bring the battle to life.

Comfort & Convenience: Instead of driving and following a map, you can relax in an air-conditioned or open-air bus (seasonal), making it an easy way to see the battlefield.

Comprehensive Coverage: The tour follows a well-planned route that includes key sites like Little Round Top, Devil’s Den, and Pickett’s Charge, ensuring you don’t miss important landmarks.

What to Expect

Tour Duration: Most tours last about two hours and cover the major battle events and locations.

Engaging Narration: Guides use a mix of storytelling, historical facts, and battlefield perspectives to help you visualize what happened.

Multiple Tour Options: Choose from standard bus tours, open-air double-decker tours (weather permitting), or even themed specialty tours depending on your interests.

A Gettysburg bus tour is a fantastic way to get an immersive and educational battlefield experience without the hassle of navigating on your own.

When visiting Gettysburg, one of the best things you can do is plan your visit with a clear itinerary. Decide how much time you’ll spend, which sites you want to prioritize, and whether you’ll take a guided tour or explore on your own. With a little preparation, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the history, significance, and stories that make Gettysburg such a powerful place to experience.

Visit Gettysburg in Person

Plan your next excursion with us! Our bus tours of the historic Gettysburg Battlefield are active and ready to show you the sites of the historical battleground. Reservations can be made by calling our toll-free number at 877-680-8687. You can also purchase bus tour tickets online.  Tours depart from the Gettysburg Tour Center located at 777 Baltimore St., Suite 100.