Skip the Line: Gettysburg Heritage Center and Museum Admission Ticket
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
How did the Battle of Gettysburg affect the small bustling town, & the people who called it home? As you travel through the Heritage Center, discover what life was like before, during and after the battle. This story of courage & turmoil is told through engaging 3-D videos, interactive displays, text panels containing excerpts from letters & diaries, artifacts & memorabilia. The popular, "Cellar Experience," is included in the tour. Experience what it was like for the townspeople who were confined to their basements, listening as the battle was fought around them. The tour concludes with the Award-Winning movie, "Gettysburg: Animated Map," which was produced by the Civil War Trust. The movie, which covers the three days of fighting, is a good orientation & overview on the battle. Bordering the Gettysburg National Military Park battlefield, the Heritage Center is an educational & entertaining experience for families and groups of all ages. Allow 1-2 hours.
Available options
Skip the Line: Gettysburg Heritage Center and Museum Admission Ticket
What's included
Watch the award-winning orientation movie, Gettysburg Animated Map
Self-Guided Tour of the Gettysburg Heritage Center and Museum
Discover the visual and interactive experience from both the town and battle perspectives
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Gettysburg Heritage Center Museum offers a new and unique look at the Battle of Gettysburg. The two-part self guided tour provides a VISUAL & INTERACTIVE experience from both the town and battle perspectives. Utilizing artifacts, historical documents, interactive displays, and 3-D productions, visitors will gain a better understanding of the events that took place in Gettysburg before, during and after the battle. How would you react if you were found in this situation? What the people of the town do during this battle and invasion – freeze, flee or fight? Hear their stories! They were ordinary people doing extraordinary things in a time when their home was in turmoil.
Located in the lobby of the Heritage Center is one of Gettysburg’s finest gift shops, offering an extensive selection of quality gifts:
Books - Collectibles - Apparel - Souvenirs - Educational Materials - Replica Weapons - Art - Home Decor - Toys & Games
What's not included
Transportation to/from attractions
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.1
55 reviews
5★
35
4★
7
3★
4
2★
2
1★
7
Tripadvisor
4.6
147 reviews
5★
119
4★
17
3★
2
2★
3
1★
6
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Last entrance into the museum is 1 hour prior to closing
Important notes
This tickets provides direct entry into the attraction
About Gettysburg
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is renowned for its pivotal role in American history, particularly the Battle of Gettysburg during the Civil War. The town offers a blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and a charming small-town atmosphere. Visitors can explore the iconic battlefields, museums, and local attractions that tell the story of this critical moment in U.S. history.
Top Attractions
Gettysburg National Military Park
This park preserves the site of one of the most significant battles of the American Civil War. Visitors can explore the battlefield, museums, and monuments that tell the story of the battle and its impact on the nation.
Historical
Half day to full day
Moderate
Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center
This state-of-the-art museum offers a comprehensive overview of the Battle of Gettysburg through exhibits, artifacts, and a 20-minute film. It's the starting point for most visits to the national military park.
Museum
1-2 hours
Moderate
Eisenhower National Historic Site
This site was the home and farm of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Visitors can tour the house, farm, and museum to learn about Eisenhower's life and presidency.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate
Sachs Covered Bridge
This historic covered bridge was built in 1852 and is one of the few remaining covered bridges in Pennsylvania. It played a role in the Battle of Gettysburg and is a popular spot for photos and picnics.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Gettysburg Heritage Center
This museum offers a different perspective on the Battle of Gettysburg, focusing on the personal stories of those who lived through the battle. It features exhibits, artifacts, and a 10-minute film.
Museum
1 hour
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gettysburg Pie
A delicious pie made with chocolate and marshmallows, named after the town of Gettysburg
Dessert
Contains gluten, dairy, and chocolate
Fried Chicken
A Southern favorite, often served with mashed potatoes and gravy
Main Course
Contains gluten and dairy
Apple Cider
A local favorite, often served hot or cold
Drink
Non-alcoholic, gluten-free
Popular Activities
Hiking
Biking
Horseback riding
Picnicking
Wine tasting
Shopping
Museum visits
Historic tours
Best Time to Visit
May to October
This period offers pleasant weather and is ideal for outdoor activities and historical tours. The summer months are particularly popular for reenactments and special events.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, German
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (UTC-5)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Gettysburg is generally safe for visitors, with low crime rates and a welcoming community. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
Getting there
By air
- Harrisburg International Airport • 35 miles
- Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport • 90 miles
By train
MARC Train (Brunswick Line)
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station in Harrisburg
Getting around
Public transport
Public bus service is available but not extensive. Buses run on a schedule and may not be frequent.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown Gettysburg
Battlefield Area
Eisenhower Farm
Day trips
Antietam National Battlefield
40 miles • Half day to full day
This national battlefield preserves the site of the Battle of Antietam, the bloodiest single-day battle in American history. Visitors can explore the battlefield, museums, and monuments that tell the story of the battle and its impact on the nation.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
60 miles • Full day
This national historical park preserves the historic town of Harpers Ferry, which played a significant role in the Civil War. Visitors can explore the town, museums, and scenic trails that offer stunning views of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers.
Shenandoah National Park
80 miles • Full day to overnight
This national park offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore the park's scenic drives, waterfalls, and historic sites.
Festivals
Gettysburg Battle Reenactment • Early July
Gettysburg Festival of Lights • November to December
Gettysburg Bluegrass Festival • August
Pro tips
- Visit the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center first to get an overview of the battle and plan your visit
- Consider renting a car for exploring the battlefield and nearby attractions
- Try Gettysburg Pie, a local specialty
- Explore downtown Gettysburg for shopping, dining, and historic sites
- Check for special events and programs, such as reenactments and festivals
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
