PA Historic Places

Exploring the Battlefield at the Gettysburg National Military Park

The collage features four photos taken on the battlefield at Gettysburg National Military Park. The top left image shows a statue of a Union officer on Little Round Top during a peaceful sunset, overlooking the expansive battlefield. The top right image captures a monument dedicated to the 78th and 102nd New York Infantry, depicting a soldier crouched behind rocks, set against a backdrop of colorful autumn foliage. The bottom left image displays a statue of a cavalry officer on horseback, surrounded by vibrant fall trees, highlighting the dynamic and detailed sculpture. The bottom right image features cannons and a monument at sunset, with the sky painted in warm hues and silhouettes of trees and statues in the background, creating a reflective and serene atmosphere.

If you’re looking for information about touring the battlefield at the Gettysburg National Military Park, you’re in the right place!

The statue "Winged Victory" on top of the Pennsylvania monument dome was created from melted down Civil War cannons and stands roughly 100 feet above the ground. — The statue “Winged Victory” on top of the Pennsylvania monument dome was created from melted down Civil War cannons and stands roughly 100 feet above the ground.

The Gettysburg National Military Park preserves a large portion of the ground on which the Battle of Gettysburg took place, one of the defining events in our nation’s history.

Pennsylvania historical marker near the site where the first shots of the Battle of Gettysburg were fired.

The battle, fought July 1-3, 1863, pitted the roughly 70,000-strong Confederate Army of Northern Virginia (commanded by General Robert E. Lee) against the roughly 94,000-strong Union Army of the Potomac (commanded by Major General George G. Meade).

Informational signage about Major General George Meade on the Gettysburg battlefield. — Informational signage about Major General George Meade.

Gettysburg was the bloodiest battle of the Civil War, with combined losses between the two opposing armies of (roughly) 8,000 soldiers killed in action and another 40,000 wounded, captured, or missing in action.

The graves of unknown Union soldiers with the New York Monument in the background. — The graves of unknown Union soldiers at the Soldiers National Cemetery in Gettysburg.

Although the Union victory here did not end the Civil War, it essentially forced General Lee and his Confederate army into a defensive war of attrition, eventually leading to his surrender in April, 1865.

Statue of General Lee on top of the Virginia Monument on the Gettysburg battlefield.

Recognizing the significance of the Battle of Gettysburg, private citizens began purchasing parts of the battlefield to preserve it as early as September 1863, just two months after the battle.

The photo shows a row of historic cannons along Confederate Avenue in Gettysburg National Military Park. The scene is set during autumn, with trees displaying a vibrant mix of orange, red, and yellow foliage. Fallen leaves cover the ground around the cannons and a stone wall runs parallel to the line of cannons. The clear blue sky and the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees create a picturesque and serene atmosphere, highlighting the historic significance and natural beauty of the battlefield. — Artillery along Confederate Avenue.

Eventually veterans groups and then the the Federal Government became involved, and through a combination of land purchases, land donations, and eminent domain, the Gettysburg National Military Park was born.

Sign near the entrance to the Gettysburg National Military Park Visitor Center.

Today the park encompasses nearly 6,000 acres, including large portions of the original battlefield and the Soldiers’ National Cemetery as well.

One of the many monuments at the Gettysburg National Cemetery. — One of the many monuments at the Soldiers’ National Cemetery in Gettysburg.

At a ceremony dedicating this cemetery created for the more than 3,500 Union soldiers killed in action there, President Lincoln gave what would become known as the Gettysburg Address, one of the most famous speeches in American history.

Lincoln Address Memorial at the Gettysburg National Cemetery.

Touring the Gettysburg Battlefield

My advice to first-time visitors to the Gettysburg battlefield is to explore the Visitor Center at the Gettysburg National Military Park before you do anything else.

The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center.

Through a combination of short films, interpretive exhibits, and relics, the museum and visitor center will help you better understand the cast of characters, the critical events, and the geographic features of the Gettysburg battlefield that helped shape the 3-day battle’s outcome.

Exhibit inside the Gettysburg Museum of the American Civil War at the battlefield visitor center.

That way, when you step onto the battlefield, you’ll have a general idea of what you’re looking at, as opposed to trying to blindly decipher the importance of the roughly 1,400 monuments, tablets, plaques, and markers on the grounds!

The photo shows a monument and cannons near Devil's Den in Gettysburg National Military Park. The monument features a statue of an artilleryman holding a cannon rammer, standing on a stone pedestal inscribed with commemorative details. The scene is framed by two cannons on either side of the monument. The background includes a lush green landscape with trees and rocky terrain under a dramatic, cloud-filled sky illuminated by the early morning light. The setting evokes a sense of historical significance and serene beauty at this notable battlefield location. — The monument to the 4th New York Independent Battery near Devil’s Den, with Little Round Top in the background.

How to Tour the Battlefield

There are a myriad of ways to tour the Gettysburg battlefield, each with pros and cons as far as expense, flexibility, and personal attention.

There are numerous ways to tour the Gettysburg battlefield, each with advantages and disadvantages.

If you want to tour it on the cheap and at your own pace, you can simply pick up a free self-guided driving tour map at the visitor center and strike out on you own – there is NO FEE to drive around the Gettysburg battlefield.

Fall foliage around the General James Longstreet Monument along West Confederate Avenue at Gettysburg.

If you’d rather have someone else do the driving while an expert narrates, you can book passage on a guided bus tour.

The monument to the 42nd New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment featuring the Delaware Indian Chief Tammany, symbol for the New York City's Tammany Hall political organization. — The monument to the 42nd New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment featuring the Delaware Indian Chief Tammany, symbol for New York City’s Tammany Hall political organization.

If you want the ultimate combination of expertise and personalized attention, you can hire a Licensed Battlefield Guide to take you on a private tour, where you can tweak the tour to your own specific interests (that’s what I did on my most recent visit).

The Eternal Light Peace Memorial at the Gettysburg National Military Park. — The Eternal Light Peace Memorial on the battlefield.

When deciding how you want to tour it, keep in mind that the Gettysburg National Military Park covers 6,000 acres and has more than 40 miles of roads (many one-way) running through it.

A map showing the size and location of the Gettysburg National Military Park in relation to the town of Gettysburg.

So if you really want to get the most out of your visit, my advice is to take some form of guided tour first, and then go back and revisit anything you wanted to examine more closely on your own, once you have a better grasp of the layout of the park.

There are approximately 400 cannons on display at the Gettysburg National Military Park.

Highlights of the Gettysburg Battlefield Tour

Every single person that tours the expansive Gettysburg battlefield will take something different away from the experience, but here are 10 of the locations, monuments, and experiences I find to be the most powerful when visiting.

The photo features a monument on Cemetery Ridge in Gettysburg National Military Park, depicting a Union soldier in a dynamic pose, readying his rifle. The statue stands on a tall stone pedestal inscribed with details of the 2nd Division. The scene is set against a clear blue sky with vibrant autumn foliage, including a tree with red and orange leaves. Additional monuments can be seen in the background, along with a glimpse of the battlefield's expansive grassy area. The image captures the historical significance and natural beauty of the site. — Cemetery Ridge in mid-October.

1. Sunrise over the Gettysburg Battlefield

For a place that witnessed so much death and destruction, the tranquility of watching the sunrise over the battlefield is worth waking up early for.

A beautiful predawn sky over the Gettysburg battlefield in March 2023.

Visitors are permitted on the battlefield from a half-hour before sunrise until a half-hour after sunset.

Sunrise over the monument to the 1st Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry Regiment on the Gettysburg battlefield.

Cemetery Ridge is a spectacular spot to watch the sunrise over the battlefield.

The photo showcases the equestrian statue of General George Meade at Gettysburg National Military Park during a stunning sunrise. The statue, depicting General Meade on horseback, stands atop a large stone pedestal with inscriptions. The sky behind the statue is filled with vibrant colors, ranging from deep oranges and yellows near the horizon to purples and blues higher up, with scattered clouds adding depth to the scene. The silhouette of the statue against the colorful dawn sky creates a powerful and dramatic image, emphasizing the historical significance and solemn beauty of this landmark. — Sunset over the Gettysburg battlefield with the 11th New York Infantry monument in the foreground.

East Cemetery Hill is another good sunrise location.

The photo captures a dramatic sunrise over East Cemetery Ridge in Gettysburg National Military Park. A historic cannon is prominently featured in the foreground, pointing towards the rolling fields and distant trees. The sky is ablaze with vibrant colors, ranging from deep oranges and reds near the horizon to softer blues and purples higher up, with clouds adding texture to the scene. The lush greenery and expansive landscape create a serene and reflective atmosphere, emphasizing the historical significance of this iconic battlefield.

Little Round Top is also a terrific spot for catching dramatic skies at first light.

The photo captures the Warren Monument at sunrise on Little Round Top in Gettysburg National Military Park. The statue of General Gouverneur K. Warren stands atop a large rock, overlooking the battlefield. The statue shows Warren holding binoculars and gazing into the distance, symbolizing his role in the battle. Surrounding the monument are additional large boulders and lush green trees. The sky is filled with dramatic clouds illuminated by the rising sun, casting a warm glow over the landscape. The scene reflects the historical significance and natural beauty of this iconic location. — Gouverneur Kemble Warren monument at first light on Little Round Top.

2. Little Round Top

Reopened in 2024 after being closed a few years for repairs/renovations, Little Round Top is one of the most famous spots on the Gettysburg Battlefield.

The photo depicts a statue of Union General Warren standing on a rocky outcrop at Little Round Top in Gettysburg National Military Park. The statue overlooks a vast, verdant landscape with rolling hills and dense forests under a vibrant blue sky scattered with fluffy clouds. The officer appears to be gazing out over the battlefield, evoking a sense of reflection and reverence for the historic events that took place in this location. The early morning light enhances the peaceful yet solemn atmosphere of the scene. — The commanding western view from Little Round Top.

On July 2, 1863, during the second day of the Battle of Gettysburg, Confederate forces launched an unsuccessful attack on the Union’s left flank at this location.

The photo shows the monument to the 155th Pennsylvania Volunteers on Little Round Top in Gettysburg National Military Park. The statue depicts a Union soldier standing at ease with a rifle, atop a stone pedestal inscribed with details of the regiment. The monument is set on a rocky outcrop surrounded by grass and trees, with a dramatic sky filled with scattered clouds illuminated by the rising sun in the background. The scene captures the tranquil and reflective atmosphere of the historic battlefield. — Monument to the 155th Pennsylvania Volunteers on Little Round Top.

Troops from Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, and Maine defended the Union position here.

The photo shows the 44th New York Infantry Monument, a small castle-like structure, situated on Little Round Top in Gettysburg National Military Park. The monument is made of stone and features a rounded turret with an arched entrance. The structure is perched atop a rocky hill, with a rugged stone path leading up to it. The surrounding area is lush with greenery, and the sky above is partly cloudy, capturing the serene yet solemn atmosphere of the historic battlefield at sunrise. — 44th New York Monument on Little Round Top.

The 20th Maine Volunteer Infantry Regiment, led by Colonel Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, became renowned for their heroic actions at this site, which included a dramatic downhill bayonet charge.

The photo shows the monument dedicated to the 20th Maine Volunteer Infantry Regiment at Gettysburg National Military Park. The monument is a simple, rectangular stone structure with inscriptions honoring the regiment's contributions and sacrifices. It is situated on a large rock surrounded by a wooded area, with lush green foliage and trees providing a serene and reflective backdrop. The setting highlights the historical significance and natural beauty of this iconic location on the battlefield. — Monument to the 20th Maine on Little Round Top.

Little Round Top is also one of the finest spots to take in a spectacular sunset on the battlefield.

The photo shows a statue of General Warren standing on Little Round Top in Gettysburg National Military Park during sunset. The statue is positioned on a large rock, overlooking the expansive battlefield below. The officer holds a sword and gazes towards the horizon, where the sun is setting behind distant hills, casting a warm orange glow across the sky. The landscape below is filled with lush greenery and rolling fields, creating a serene and reflective atmosphere. The scene captures the historical significance and natural beauty of this iconic location at a poignant moment. — Sunset as viewed from Little Round Top, with the Gouverneur Kemble Warren monument in the foreground.

3. The John Burns Monument

John Burns was a Gettysburg local in his seventies who joined in the fight against the Confederates on the first day of the battle, survived despite being wounded 3 times, and became a folk hero after the battle.

The John Burns monument on the Gettysburg battlefield emmulates the Minuteman statue in Lexington Massachusetts. — The John Burns monument on the Gettysburg battlefield emulates the Minuteman statue in Lexington, Massachusetts.

4. Sallie the Dog

Sallie was an American Pitbull and canine mascot of the 11th Pennsylvania Infantry, accompanying the soldiers into battle where she would bark furiously at the enemy.

Sallie the Dog on the 11th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Regiment monument at the Gettysburg National Military Park. — Sallie is one of two dogs depicted on monuments at Gettysburg and the only one representing a dog who was actually in the battle.

Sallie was separated from her regiment during the chaos of the Battle of Gettysburg, but survived and was reunited with the survivors of the the 11th Pennsylvania Infantry after the Confederates retreated; today she stands eternal watch at the foot of the regimental monument on the battlefield.

Monument to the 11th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry at the Gettysburg National Military Park.

5. The Devil’s Den

There is perhaps no Pennsylvania rock formation more famous than the Devil’s Den.

The photo shows the rocky formation known as Devil's Den in Gettysburg National Military Park. The large, weathered boulders create an imposing and rugged landscape. In the foreground, a sign labeled "Devil's Den" is placed on a grassy area, marking the historic site. The sunlight casts warm tones on the rocks and grass, highlighting the natural beauty and historical significance of this location on the battlefield. Trees and additional rock formations can be seen in the background under a clear blue sky. — Devil’s Den on the Gettysburg battlefield.

This jumbled mass of large volcanic boulders at the foot of Little Round Top became the scene of intense and bloody infantry fighting on the second day of the battle.

The photo shows the rocky terrain of Devil's Den in Gettysburg National Military Park. Large boulders are piled together, creating a rugged and imposing landscape. The sky is partly cloudy, with sunlight filtering through, casting shadows on the rocks. Surrounding the boulders is a mix of green foliage and grass, adding a natural contrast to the stone. The scene evokes the historical significance and natural beauty of this notable battlefield location. — Looking east towards Little Round Top from Devil’s Den on the Gettysburg battlefield.

One of the most famous photos of the aftermath of the Battle of Gettysburg was taken at the Devil’s Den.

An informational sign about Civil Was photography featuring the image of a deceased Confederate sharpshooter at Devil's Den on the Gettysburg battlefield. — An informational sign about Civil War photography featuring the image of a deceased Confederate sharpshooter at Devil’s Den on the Gettysburg battlefield.

Today the scene at that exact spot is eerily similar.

The photo shows the sniper's nest at Devil's Den in Gettysburg National Military Park. Large, weathered boulders form a natural enclosure, with a small stone wall built between them. The ground is dirt and scattered with smaller rocks, and a few green plants grow in the crevices. The sky is partly cloudy, allowing sunlight to filter through and illuminate the scene. This historical location is both somber and captivating, highlighting the rugged terrain where significant events took place during the Battle of Gettysburg. — The spot at Devil’s Den where one of the most famous photos taken after the Battle of Gettysburg was created.

6. The Opening Gun of the Battle of Gettysburg

Although it may be just 1 of the 400-plus cannons on display at the Gettysburg National Military Park, this particular cannon, manufactured in Phoenixville PA, fired the first Union artillery shot of the battle.

The opening cannon of the Battle of Gettysburg was a 3-inch ordnance rifle manufactured in 1862 at the Phoenix Iron Company in Phoenixville, PA.

You’ll find it at the base of the monument dedicated to Union Brigadier General John Buford along U.S. 30, just west of Gettysburg.

The monument to Union Brigadier General John Buford along U.S. 30 just west of Gettysburg.

7. Rickett’s Battery Monument

Although today his name is synonymous with Pennsylvania’s most famous waterfall hike and the state park named for him, Captain Robert B. Ricketts served with distinction as an artillery officer at Gettysburg, and was promoted to Colonel by the end of the war.

Rickett's Battery monument on East Cemetery Hill on the Gettysburg battlefield. — Rickett’s Battery monument on East Cemetery Hill on the Gettysburg battlefield.

Located on East Cemetery Hill, this is a picturesque spot to catch the sunrise as well.

The photo captures the Ricketts Battery monument at East Cemetery Hill in Gettysburg National Military Park during sunrise. The monument features a detailed bas-relief sculpture of two soldiers standing beside a cannon wheel, carved into a large stone. In the background, a historic cannon points towards the expansive battlefield, framed by lush greenery and distant trees. The sky is painted with the warm hues of the rising sun, with dramatic clouds adding depth to the scene. The peaceful and reflective atmosphere underscores the historical significance of this location.

8. The High Water Mark of the Rebellion Monument

This bronze book flanked by cannons marks the spot where the famed Confederate assault known as “Pickett’s Charge” came to a disastrous end in the face of Union artillery and infantry fire on the final day of the Battle of Gettysburg; this is considered by many historians to be the turning point in the Civil War.

Monument marking the "High Water Mark of the Rebellion" on the Gettysburg battlefield. — Monument marking the “High Water Mark of the Rebellion” on the Gettysburg battlefield.

The Copse of Trees behind the monument was used as the target landmark for Pickett’s Charge.

The photo captures the High Water Mark of the Confederacy monument at Gettysburg National Military Park, surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage. The monument consists of two large plaques mounted on a stone base, flanked by historic cannons on either side. The trees in the background display brilliant red and orange leaves, creating a striking contrast with the monument's stone and metal elements. The scene is set against a backdrop of open fields and distant hills under a clear sky, highlighting the historical importance and natural beauty of this significant location. — The Copse of Trees behind the High Water Mark of the Rebellion Monument.

9. The Pennsylvania Monument

The Pennsylvania Monument is the largest monument on the Gettysburg battlefield, reaching a height of 110 feet at the tip of Winged Victory’s sword.

Sunset illuminating the Pennsylvania monument on the Gettysburg battlefield.

A spiral staircase takes visitors up into the base of the dome, which offers a panoramic view of the battlefield.

The photo shows a panoramic view of the Gettysburg battlefield, taken from the top of the Pennsylvania Monument. In the foreground, there is a tall column topped with a statue of a Union soldier, along with additional smaller monuments and statues scattered across the fields. The landscape is characterized by lush green grass, split-rail fences, and autumn trees with colorful foliage. The distant rolling hills and clear blue sky complete the scenic and historic view of this significant Civil War site. — Looking west over the Gettysburg battlefield from the top of the Pennsylvania monument.

10. The Maryland Monument

Perhaps no monument on the battlefield better illustrates the “brother against brother” undercurrent of the Civil War more poignantly than this one, which depicts two wounded Marylanders, one Union and one Confederate, helping each other on the battlefield.

The Maryland monument on the Gettysburg battlefield depicts two wounded Marylanders, one Union and one Confederate, helping each other on the battlefield.

More than 3,000 Marylanders served on both sides of the conflict at the Battle of Gettysburg.

Why Tour the Gettysburg Battlefield

A question some will ask is “why would anyone want to tour a place where so much death and misery occurred?”

Fall foliage at Soldiers' National Cemetery at Gettysburg — Soldiers’ National Cemetery at the Gettysburg National Military Park.

And my answer is that while it’s true the Battle of Gettysburg was one of one of the darkest three-day periods in America’s history, the Gettysburg National Military Park itself serves as a symbol of remembrance, reunion, and renewal.

Informational signage on the Getysburg battlefield depicting one of the reunions between Union and Confederate veterans of the battle. — Informational signage on the Gettysburg battlefield depicting a reunion between Union and Confederate veterans of the battle.

The park does not glorify the Civil War; it humanizes the costs of the Civil War on this its bloodiest battlefield.

Monument to the 116th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Regiment at the Gettysburg National Military Park. — Monument to the 116th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry Regiment depicting a fallen soldier.

The park is also a testament to the healing of the battlefield itself.

The photo captures a pair of historic cannons flanking a stone monument on the Gettysburg battlefield at sunrise. The cannons, with their blue-painted barrels, stand on lush green grass next to a split-rail fence. The monument features detailed engravings commemorating the artillery unit. The sky above is filled with dramatic clouds, painted with the warm colors of the rising sun, creating a stunning backdrop. The peaceful and reflective scene highlights the historical significance and natural beauty of this iconic location. — Worm fences were popular in Gettysburg at the time of the Civil War, as they did don require post holes to be dug in the rocky soil.

That these farms and fields ravaged by war are peaceful and pastoral once more is both a symbolic and ecological victory, well worth honoring and preserving.

The photo shows a picturesque farm scene on the Gettysburg battlefield. In the foreground, a field of golden crops stretches across the landscape, bordered by split-rail fences. Beyond the field, a traditional red barn and smaller red outbuilding stand against a backdrop of lush green grass and trees with autumn foliage. A white farmhouse and picket fence are also visible, adding to the idyllic rural setting. The clear blue sky and distant rolling hills complete the serene and historic atmosphere of this well-preserved battlefield location. — One of the many farms on the battlefield at the Gettysburg National Military Park.

In short, few historic sites in Pennsylvania will have a larger “in-person” impact on you that the Gettysburg National Military Park.

Silence and respect marker at Gettysburg National Cemetery.

However you choose to tour it, you’ll likely come away from your visit to Gettysburg with a renewed sense of respect for those who fought and died on this hallowed ground in 1863.

Sunset over The Angle on Cemetery Ridge at the Gettysburg National Military Park.

15 Must-See Attractions in Gettysburg is you guide to more of the best things to see and do in Gettysburg.

Some of the best things to see and do in Gettysburg Pennsylvania. — Some of the best things to see and do in Gettysburg.

The Jennie Wade House is a historic landmark that memorializes the life and untimely death of Jennie Wade, the only civilian killed during the Battle of Gettysburg.

A photo collage from the Jennie Wade House in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Top left is the house's exterior with the statue of Jennie Wade. Top right shows a tour guide in period attire inside the house. Bottom left depicts a bedroom with a bed and a quilt. Bottom right is the establishment sign of the Jennie Wade House from 1901. — Scenes from the Jennie Wade House.

The Gettysburg Museum of History is home to thousands of unusual artifacts and atypical antiquities from American history, and admission is FREE!

A photo collage from the Gettysburg Museum of History in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Top left shows the museum's street sign featuring an eagle and proclaiming 'FREE MUSEUM'. Top right depicts an exhibit with Civil War artifacts, including portraits and a chair. Bottom left is an interior view with various memorabilia and a large presidential seal. Bottom right presents military uniforms and World War memorabilia. Each image displays a part of the rich historical collection of the museum. — Scenes from the Gettysburg Museum of History.

Sachs Covered Bridge was crossed by both Union AND Confederate troops during the Battle of Gettysburg, and was designated “Pennsylvania’s most historic covered bridge” in 1938 by the PA Department of Highways.

Exploring Sachs Covered Bridge in Adams County Pennsylvania. — Scenes from Sachs Covered Bridge.

October 2023 marked the 30th anniversary of the release of the motion picture Gettysburg, and I was fortunate enough to be a guest at a star-studded event IN Gettysburg celebrating the occasion!

Gettysburg the Movie 30th Anniversary Celebration recap. — Scenes from the Gettysburg the Movie | 30th Anniversary Celebration.

The historic Round Barn near Gettysburg is one of the most interesting and beautiful barns in Pennsylvania!

Exploring the Historic Round Barn near Gettysburg Pennsylvania — Scenes from the Round Barn near Gettysburg.

Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium near Gettysburg just may be the best elephant-themed roadside attraction in Pennsylvania!

An elephant-themed water garden in front of Mister Ed's Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium. — Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium near Gettysburg.

Exploring the Best National Park Sites in Pennsylvania is your guide to even more Keystone State attractions managed by or affiliated with the National Park Service.

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