Traveling to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is like taking a trip back in time to simpler days. From quiet country roads with scenic views to homes and properties that have been carefully managed to preserve the historic feel of yesteryear.
Beyond the Battlefield
Many travelers visit Gettysburg for the namesake battlefield that marked the turning point in the Civil War. As you drive along the roads in the parks and view the peaceful open spaces, it’s hard to believe that this was once the site of such a brutal battle, the evidence remains in the monuments and markers that recognize those lost in this battle. But Gettysburg is more than a battlefield. The history of the area, great food, and the varied outdoor recreation offerings make this an ideal location for road trippers. Plus, Gettysburg happens to be an easy six-hour drive from my home in North Central Ohio and less from Pittsburgh, New York City or Washington DC.
A Growing Culinary Scene
Gettysburg is emerging as a culinary destination and has a number of great restaurants to choose from. You’ll find food options that range from family style dining to historic and period fare to farm-to-table meals and craft beverages that include spirits, hard cider, and wine to treats to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Outdoor Activities
You’ll find plenty of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, plenty of shopping and antiquing, as well as camping and skiing in season. Gettysburg is also the #4 producer of apples in the country. During harvest season, you’re welcome to visit an apple orchard to pick your own apples. Visit the wineries during the summer or early fall to see the grapes as they ripen on the vine. Don’t forget to pack your camera, photographers will find much to photograph- like the Sachs Covered Bridge or Jacks Mountain Bridge, the only covered bridge in Adams County that is still used by motor vehicle traffic.
Of Special Historical Interest
Visit Gettysburg. Take a bus tour of the military park which provides a great overview of the area, plus it takes you to some of the lesser known attractions in the park. Stand where President Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address. Tour the Eisenhower National Historic Site, the location of the only home President & Mamie Eisenhower ever owned. Learn about the Studebaker family, famous for the car, who made wagons in Gettysburg through the 1830’s. Tour the Jennie Wade House, where the only civilian casualty of the Civil War occurred. Take an evening ghost tour through the dark alleys of Gettysburg by candlelight as an experienced guide and storyteller takes you on a creepy, but fun-filled walk in search of those that are said to haunt Gettysburg.
Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with the family or as a solo traveler, you’ll find plenty to see and do in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Visit Destination Gettysburg for more information about the area. You can also follow them on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.
Have you visited Gettysburg. Pennsylvania before? What did you love about your visit? Are you planning a trip to Gettysburg? What would you like to do most?
”
”
This post is sponsored by Destination Gettysburg. Photos provided by the sponsor.
© 2016, Tonya Prater. All rights reserved.
Sara says
I visited Gettysburg as a child and it was a great experience. I really need to take my own kids here, it is not that far away from me.
Roger Wellington (www.wetnoseescapades.com) says
A fascinating post. I would love to visit Gettysburg one of these days!
Mark at NWRoadtrips says
As a guy who stops at pretty much any historical site he drives by, I’m totally jealous of your Gettysburg experience. I’ll get there one day. Great info and photos!
SindhuMurthy says
It is interesting how time changes things. Who would believe that such a lush green location bustling with life was once a battlefield. Thanks for sharing details of an interesting destination.
Kirsten says
We have not been to Gettysburg, but drove not to far from it while we were in Hershey over Thanksgiving. Such a beautiful part of the country. Would love to take the kids for a visit. So much history, but obviously so many other things to do too!
Maria says
Being from Europe I just know Gettysburg from the movies and TV shows, and looks like people go out in the countryside and visit the battle field. Your post showed that is much more to it and looks like a nice place to go for a weekend.
Ali says
We took a trip to Gettysburg when I was a child. I have to admit I didn’t enjoy it much but you’ve made me think differently about it as an adult. We’ll need to add this back to our list of places to visit.
CourtneyLynne says
I have been to Gettysburg. Really neat place to visit especially if you’re a history buff like myself