Best things to do in Gettysburg

Located on the site of one of the bloodiest episodes in American history, Gettysburg National Military Park preserves the landscape of the historic 1863 battle between the Union and Confederate forces. Though the battle resulted in the largest number of casualties in the entire American Civil War, it became the turning point of the dramatic conflict when the Union army turned back the Confederate attempt to invade the North. The military park contains most of the original battlefield, as well as many support areas, including the supply and hospital locations. Start your exploration at the park's museum and visitor center, where you can see over 40,000 war artifacts and an enormous cyclorama painting of the battle by French artist Paul Philippoteaux.

President Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address at the dedication of Gettysburg National Cemetery on November 19, 1863. Some 3,500 Union soldiers were laid to rest here following the Battle of Gettysburg in June 1863, considered a significant Union victory. Originally buried on the battlefield where they lay for fear of disease, the soldiers’ remains were exhumed from their shallow graves and reinterred in this cemetery. Together with the battlefield on which the Confederate attack took place, the cemetery forms the Gettysburg National Military Park, which seeks to preserve the history of the battle and its lasting legacy. Start off at the visitor center, where you can learn more about the battle in the museum or choose to take a guided tour of the cemetery.

Get a sense of Americana from the broad, diverse collection at Gettysburg Museum of History, housing artifacts from the Civil War and World Wars I and II, as well as items associated with U.S. presidents and pop icons. Made famous by the popular television show "American Pickers," the museum is owned and curated by passionate collector Erik L. Dorr. See Civil War memorabilia, such as a frock coat and carbine rifle, as well as some rather bizarre relics, including a lock of Marilyn Monroe's hair and a portion of a car seat stained with JFK's blood.

Hear the story of Mary Virginia "Jennie" Wade, the only civilian to be killed during the Battle of Gettysburg, at Jennie Wade House. Here, you can take a guided tour of the house where Wade was shot by a stray bullet during the three-day battle. On July 1, 1863, 20-year old Wade was visiting her sister when one of the more than 150 bullets that hit the home shot through the door and pierced her heart. The home is decorated with artifacts from the day Wade died, and guides in period clothing retell the story of her death. The guides also describe life in Gettysburg during the battle. During the tour, your guide will point out various bullet holes in the walls, including the one through which the fateful bullet entered. Notice the floorboard where Wade stood--still marked with her blood.

Marking a pivotal moment in the American history, Little Round Top is a must-stop for history buffs. Offering sweeping views of the "Valley of Death," this small mound was the most important site of the second day of the Battle of Gettysburg. Pay attention to the 20th Maine Volunteer Infantry Regiment monument--the most popular monument in the entire military park. Consider stopping by the visitor center before going to the actual sites to get a better understanding of the historic events.

At Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, you'll see the center of 19th century industry. The park features many small museums and exhibits, battlefields, uninhabited hillside houses, and picturesque streets. Take a guided tour with a ranger and hear about the town's history, which began 8,000 years ago. See galleries such as the wax museum, the blacksmith shop, and the clocks and jewelry exhibit, or visit the bookshop, tavern, and the dry goods store. Plan your visit in advance in order to get the most out of this attraction.

Eisenhower National Historic Site is the former home of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. As you drive toward the house, notice the 50 spruce trees that line the road to represent the 50 states. Inside, you'll see furniture and decor that was present when the Eisenhowers still lived here, as well as artifacts that honor the president's legacy. A successful cattle operation is managed on the farmland, and a tour of the working ranch is included in the admission price. A shuttle bus from the nearby Gettysburg National Military Park Visitor Center is included in your admission fee.

Visit Shriver House Museum to learn the story of the Civil War's Battle of Gettysburg through the lives of the Shriver family. The home has been restored to its 1860's appearance. You'll get an authentic look at how the battle affected the lives of the civilians of Gettysburg. Hettie Shriver, fearing for the safety of her young daughters, went to stay at the family's farm out of town, where some of the worst fighting took place. Guides in period clothing recount how Confederate soldiers quickly seized the empty house to set up a sharpshooter's nest. Notice the civil war bullets, some of which were still live when found in the attic in 1996.