Gettysburg: More than a Battlefield

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.