A 2-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit to Gettysburg

Day 1:

• Arrive in Gettysburg and check into your accommodation.
  

• Visit the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center. Here, you can watch the film "A New Birth of Freedom" and see the Cyclorama painting depicting Pickett's Charge, both of which offer excellent overviews of the Battle of Gettysburg. Hours: 08:00 - 5:00 pm, Tickets $18.75 for Adult, Children 6-12 $13.75. Tickets include Film, Cyclorama, and Museum. Allow 45 minutes for Film, and Cyclorama and additional 2 hours for the museum. Purchase tickets at: https://www.gettysburgfoundation.org/museum-visitor-center
  

• Take a guided battlefield tour. You can choose from a variety of options, such as self-guided audio tours, bus tours, or even a guided walking tour. This will provide you with a detailed understanding of the battlefield and the events that took place.

I recommend a guided tour through the Battlefield. The guide can ride with you or you can take separate cars. The price for 1 - 6 people is $63 for a 2 hour tour. It is $31.50 for each additional hour. We chose the 2 hour tour, but it felt very rushed. I highly recommend planning for a minimum of a 3 hour tour. Reservations should be made at least 3-5 days in advance. These are the same guides you can get at the Visitor Center, however you will pay more going through the Visitors Center. Their website is gettysburgtourguides.org

• Visit the Gettysburg National Cemetery, Conclude your day at the Gettysburg National Cemetery where President Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address. The Lincoln Address Memorial inside the cemetery commemorates the speech. Take some time to quietly reflect on those who have given–and are willing to give–“the last full measure of devotion.” From Memorial Day through Labor Day, time your visit to arrive at the cemetery for the solemn and moving playing of taps at 7 p.m. Plan 45 minutes.

• Head to the Dobbin House for dinner. It is a perfect blend of history and culinary excellence. Housed within a charming, historic building that dates back to the late 18th century, the Dobbin House exudes an inviting ambiance that transports diners back in time. The menu at Dobbin House is a true testament to the culinary expertise and dedication of its chefs. The servers are not only attentive but also well-versed in the historical significance of the building, providing fascinating anecdotes that enrich your dining experience.

The New York Irish Brigade monument with a friend who was a perfect model!

Day 2: 

• Start your day early with a visit to the Eisenhower National Historic Site, the home and farm of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Take a guided tour to learn about the life of the 34th President and his time in Gettysburg. Open Sunrise to Sunset. Home Tours Every hour 10:30 - 3:30pm. Allow 1 hour

• Visit the Jennie Wade House, the only civilian killed during the Battle of Gettysburg, and learn about her tragic story.

• Explore the David Wills House, where Lincoln put the final touches on his Gettysburg Address before delivering it at the cemetery.

• Take a ghost tour of Gettysburg. This unique experience will give you a different perspective on the town's history and the many reported paranormal encounters.

The Gettysburg Battlefield with my Brother and Sister

Note:  This itinerary is just a guideline, and you can adjust it based on your interests and preferences. Also, make sure to check the opening hours and availability of tours or attractions in advance, as they may vary depending on the season and other factors.

Enjoy your trip to Gettysburg!