Welcome to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania : Story ideas

American History

Gettysburg played one of the most significant roles in American history. People in Gettysburg have taken great care of preserving the past for future generations. Visitors have great opportunities to learn about the most famous American Civil War battle, and the town itself – before, during and after the war. Enjoy a walk on the battlefield or take a horseback tour. Battlefield guides and bus tours are available to take you through all three days of battle.

Lincoln

As America gears up for the Lincoln Bicentennial in 2009, Gettysburg will play a significant role in remembering one of America’s most beloved presidents. Visitors in Gettysburg can tour the train station where Lincoln arrived to deliver the Gettysburg Address on Nov. 19, 1863 or stop by the David Wills House and see the place where Lincoln stayed and put the finishing touches on his speech. Take a walk in Lincoln’s footsteps and walk up to the Soldiers’ National Cemetery where America’s 16th president delivered what has become one of the most famous speeches in history.

Downtown Gettysburg

A walk through downtown Gettysburg will make you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. With its quaint little shops and hometown charm, visitors can easily find enough to keep them busy. Grab a bite to eat in one of the many downtown restaurants or catch a show at the newly renovated Majestic Theater performing arts center on Carlisle Street. Several walking tours are available to showcase the history of Gettysburg from the residents’ point of view. Downtown Gettysburg also hosts several events throughout the year.

Haunted Gettysburg

The ghost business is booming in Gettysburg. The town is not only a favorite destination for history buffs and family vacations, it’s also a popular stop for ghost hunters. Made popular by local historian and ghost hunter Mark Nesbitt, the paranormal in Gettysburg have been grabbing a lot of headlines lately. Come explore the “night life” in Gettysburg by taking a Ghost Walk, Haunted Trolley Ride or hop aboard the Ghost Train.

President Eisenhower

The president loved Gettysburg while stationed there during his military training days at Camp Colt, so much in fact he purchased a home here. His farm has been preserved and is now under ownership of the National Park Service. Tours run daily to his home, where visitors can walk the grounds and see the house. One of Eisenhower’s favorite places in Gettysburg was the Majestic Theater, recently renovated to its early 20th century appearance. Eisenhower and his wife, Mamie, would regularly attend performances, often in the company of world leaders.

Adams County

Sitting at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rural Adams County has an abundance of cultural, recreational and culinary opportunities. Take a short drive to Carroll Valley in the winter and you’ll find yourself at Liberty Mountain Ski Resort. During the warmer months, stop by Willow Pond herb farm, Hickory Bridge Farm or Adams County Winery. Swing up to northern Adams County through Apple Country and down to New Oxford, where antique markets line the streets among the charming shops and inns. Or grab your clubs and head out to one of Adams County’s many golf courses.

Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center

Opening its doors in April 2008, the new Museum and Visitor Center brought a new experience to Gettysburg. The $103-million facility includes 12 museum galleries, an educational film, classrooms, visitor information center, refreshment saloon and houses the Cyclorama painting, to open on Sept. 26, 2008. The Visitor Center is a starting point for Gettysburg visitors before they trek out to the battlefields or to Downtown Gettysburg.