10 Must-Dos on Your First Visit to Gettysburg | Destination Gettysburg (2024)

So you’re planning your first trip to Gettysburg, where do you start? With the variety of experiences available in Adams County – from history, recreation, shopping and agritourism – it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. We’ve got your back – here’s a list of 10 things every first-timer should experience in the Gettysburg area.

It’s a good idea to check out the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center to get a solid overview of the Battle of Gettysburg before venturing off to the battlefield. The Visitor Center features a variety of exhibits for visitors to orient themselves including a 12-gallery museum; “A New Birth of Freedom,” a 30-minute movie narrated by Morgan Freeman; and the Cyclorama, the largest painting in North America which brings to life Pickett’s Charge on the third day of the Battle of Gettysburg.

Gettysburg National Military Park is one of the biggest draws to the area and there are many ways for visitors to experience it. There are a few self-guided options like the auto-tour where visitors follow road markers and a map as well as an interactive iPad tour. Visitors can also book a Licensed Battlefield Guide for an in-depth, intimate tour of the battlefield. Other options include bus tours, horseback tours and bicycle tours, many of which include guides. There’s no wrong way to see the battlefield but there are a lot of options so visitors can find the right way for them.

The history doesn’t end on the battlefield, there are many historic buildings and sites throughout Gettysburg. Check out the David Wills House and see where Abraham Lincoln put the final touches on his Gettysburg Address, visit the Shriver House and learn about the civilian experience of the Battle of Gettysburg, go to the Seminary Ridge Museum and experience the first day of the battle or tour the Jennie Wade House and hear the story of the only civilian killed in the three-day battle at Gettysburg. Adams County is dedicated to preserving these pieces of history so their stories can continue to be told for years to come.

Gettysburg is about as rich in culture as it is in history. Visitors can find a variety of shops, boutiques, cafes and restaurants lining the streets of downtown, leading right up to historic Lincoln Square. Whether you’re looking for clothing, fine arts, collectibles or home décor, you’ll find it in downtown Gettysburg. Once in the square, don’t pass up the opportunity to get a presidential selfie with the statue of Abraham Lincoln outside the David Wills House.

Gettysburg is becoming known as a foodie hotspot. On your first trip to Gettysburg, be sure to try out period dining. Establishments such as theDobbin House and the Farnsworth House offer Civil War era dishes that will truly immerse visitors in the Gettysburg experience. If you’re looking for something else, Gettysburg has an array of casual, upscale and even farm-to-table dining options. If you don’t know where to start, try a food tour. Visitors can discover Gettysburg with their pallets and go on a tour foodies can only dream of.

The growing craft beverage industry in Gettysburg and Adams County is definitely something to experience during your first visit. There are a number of breweries, distilleries and wineries across Adams County that offer a variety of local brews and spirits. So stop in after a day on the battlefield, tour the facility and relax with a local brew, wine or cider.

To some people, Gettysburg and ghosts go hand-in-hand. Walk with the paranormal at one of the many ghost tours offered in Gettysburg nightly. Some are more involved than others, so if going out in the night with energy reading gear is your thing, there’s a tour for you. Visit the haunted spots through town and learn a history tidbit or two along the way. And who knows, you might spot a ghost!

While in Gettysburg for the first time, visitors should immerse themselves in the history, and there’s no better way to do that than living history presentations. Throughout the year, history comes to life in Gettysburg when living historians dressed in period wear host presentations and encampments. It can be fun to learn about the battle from a famous general or common civilian who was “actually there.”

While there’s a lot to see and do in the town of Gettysburg, it’s just as important to venture out and see the surrounding Adams County countryside. Drive past the orchards and vineyards, be immersed in the farmlands and the rolling hills. While out and about, be sure to see Sachs Bridge – one of several covered bridges in the county. There’s no better way to start, or end, the day than a sunrise/sunset out in the Adams County countryside.

While out enjoying the scenery that Adams County has to offer, be sure to stop at one of the countryside farm markets. It’s one thing to see the orchards and the fields, but to be able to taste the literal fruits of the farmers’ labor is a fun and delicious experience. Markets offer many family friendly activities and when in season, pick your own fruit experiences.

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