PA Museums

Exploring the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center

This collage features four images from the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center. The first image shows the stone-clad exterior with the center's signage. The second image provides an overview of the extensive battlefield diorama with visitors observing the scene. The third image is a close-up of the diorama, depicting a battle with miniature soldiers. The fourth image displays a life-size exhibit with a mannequin soldier in Union uniform standing beside a horse, enclosed by a white picket fence. Together, these images capture the educational and immersive experience offered by the center.

If you’re looking for information about visiting the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center, you’re in the right place!

The lobby area of the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center, featuring a life-sized model of a black horse in full harness, standing next to a wooden bench. In the foreground is a large poster showcasing an image of the diorama and boasting a TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice award for 2023. The cozy lobby is warmly lit, with rustic wooden architecture and a visible staircase leading to an upper level, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. — Lobby of the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center.

The Gettysburg Diorama & History Center recreates the famous Civil War battle using one of the largest military dioramas in the United States.

Visitors at the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center are engrossed in viewing an extensive diorama depicting the Battle of Gettysburg. The diorama, protected by glass panes and wooden railings, features a detailed representation of the terrain with over twenty thousand hand-painted soldiers. A sign reminding visitors not to touch the diorama is displayed prominently. The exhibit space is well-lit, with framed artwork and flags decorating the walls, creating an educational atmosphere for those exploring this pivotal moment in American history. — This is one of the largest military dioramas in the United States.

Combined with a light and sound show, along with day-by-day narration, the result is an immersive journey through one of the most pivotal moments in American history.

In the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center, an illuminated projection of General Meade is displayed on a wall above a detailed diorama of the town and battlefield of Gettysburg. The diorama is lit under a dimmed ambient light, allowing visitors to focus on the illuminated historical images and the miniature scene below, which features buildings, roads, and tiny military figures. Framed artwork and a Confederate flag are also visible on the walls surrounding the projection. — The 30 minute diorama presentation features lights, sounds, narration, and film clips.

Directions | Hours | Admission Fees

The Gettysburg Diorama & History Center is located at 241 Steinwehr Avenue, Gettysburg, PA 17325.

The hours vary seasonally – check the Gettysburg Diorama’s OFFICIAL WEBSITE for the most up-to-date information.

The front exterior of the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center located on Steinwehr Avenue. The building features a stone facade with a large, vertical banner that reads "Gettysburg Diorama & History Center," accompanied by two signs advertising the history center and gift shop. The entrance displays American flags and a cutout figure of a Civil War soldier, inviting visitors into the museum. The street is quiet, lined with lamp posts and a park bench under a clear blue sky. — The diorama is located along Steinwehr Avenue, close to Cemetery Ridge.

Admission fees are as follows: Adult: $9.50 | Senior 65+: $6.50 | Children 6-12: $6.50 | Children 5 and under: FREE.

The interior entrance of the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center, featuring a life-sized cutout of a Union soldier in uniform, standing beside open glass doors. Beyond the entrance is the gift shop, visible with an array of merchandise including t-shirts, souvenirs, and educational materials. The rustic wooden interior and warm lighting invite visitors to explore the offerings related to the historic Battle of Gettysburg. — Diorama tickets are purchased in the gift shop.

What You’ll See at the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center

As you enter the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center, you are immediately transported back to July 1863, when the Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point in the American Civil War, unfolded.

A life-size exhibit at the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center featuring a mannequin dressed in a Union cavalry uniform, standing beside a horse. The figure is inside a white picket fence enclosure, with a sign reminding visitors not to touch the display. In the background, the center's interior includes framed historical pictures on the walls and a visitor observing other exhibits. — Union cavalry display.

The centerpiece of the center is the impressive Gettysburg Diorama itself.

A comprehensive view of the Gettysburg battlefield diorama at the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center, showcasing detailed terrain with miniature trees, roads, buildings, and hundreds of tiny soldier figures engaged in battle. The diorama is observed by visitors from a surrounding walkway and bleachers, with framed artwork and flags adorning the walls above. The exhibit captures the vastness and complexity of the historic Battle of Gettysburg. — The diorama covers nearly 800 square feet.

This meticulously crafted layout, covering over 800 square feet, is one of the largest military dioramas in the United States.

A close-up of the Gettysburg Diorama at the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center, showing a detailed section of Seminary Ridge. The miniature landscape includes replicas of historic buildings, roads, and meticulously painted soldier figurines representing Union and Confederate troops in formation. The scene captures the strategic positioning and environment of the area during the Battle of Gettysburg. — Scale model version of Seminary Ridge.

The diorama’s level of detail is extraordinary, featuring over 20,000 hand-painted soldiers, horses, artillery pieces, and buildings, positioned precisely to represent the battle’s movements and strategies.

A detailed close-up of a Civil War battle scene diorama at the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center, depicting hand-painted miniature soldier figures in combat. Union soldiers in blue are engaged with Confederate soldiers in grey, amidst a backdrop of lush terrain and trees. A prominently displayed American flag is held aloft by a Union figure in the midst of the chaotic battlefield. — Thousands of hand-painted soldiers are incorporated into the diorama.

The experience is enhanced by a narrated light and sound show that vividly recounts the events of the three day battle, bringing the static scene to life.

A wide-angle view of the expansive Gettysburg battlefield diorama at the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center. The diorama is displayed within a large room and is surrounded by protective railings. Above it, the walls are adorned with framed paintings of Civil War scenes. The exhibit is well-lit from ceiling track lights, highlighting the intricate details of the miniature landscape, which includes fields, buildings, and numerous soldier figures. The vantage point suggests the photo was taken from an elevated position, offering a comprehensive view of the historical representation. — View of the diorama from the stadium seating around it.

As the narration unfolds, different parts of the diorama light up, focusing your attention on key moments and tactics of the conflict.

An image from the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center showing the diorama illuminated during a presentation. The miniature landscape, depicting the Battle of Gettysburg, is detailed with small figures, buildings, and terrain under spotlight. Above, framed historical pictures are mounted on the wall, and the subdued lighting in the room enhances the focus on the diorama. — Different areas on the diorama are illuminated as the three-day battle story is told.

Beyond the diorama, the History Center offers a range of exhibits that delve deeper into the Civil War era.

A Civil War exhibit at the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center featuring a variety of artifacts. In the foreground stands a mannequin dressed in a Union soldier's uniform, next to a large leather satchel marked "1 ST. PA. C CO." Behind glass, a collection of rifles is mounted on the wall, alongside other period weapons and equipment. A miniature cannon, round cannonballs, and a pair of boots are displayed on the lower shelf, set against a green felt background. — Civil War artifacts on display.

Artifacts, photographs, and documents are on display, offering a tangible connection to the past.

An exhibit at the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center displaying Civil War memorabilia. A glass case contains items like a long rifle, framed historical prints, a miniature cannon model, and a collection of old, hardcover books lined up at the bottom shelf. — Gettysburg memorabilia.

These exhibits provide context and background, offering insights into the political, social, and military aspects of the time.

A life-sized mannequin of General Dan Sickles seated in a period-appropriate wicker wheelchair at the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center. The figure is dressed in a Union officer's uniform, gazing thoughtfully into the distance. Next to him, on the white wall, is a framed photo and informational plaque about General Sickles, providing context for visitors about his role in the Civil War and the Battle of Gettysburg. — A life-sized mannequin of General Dan Sickles seated in a period-appropriate wicker wheelchair.

Final Thoughts

The Gettysburg Diorama and History Center offers a unique blend of education, visual spectacle, and storytelling that brings the history of the Battle of Gettysburg to life in a way that is both engaging and informative.

A detailed scene from the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center depicting the Railroad Cut incident. Miniature figures of Confederate and Union soldiers are shown in close quarters combat, with some Union soldiers in the foreground aiming their rifles towards Confederates who are positioned within the cut. The authenticity of the uniforms, weapons, and the natural terrain highlight the diorama's meticulous attention to historical accuracy. — Miniature depiction of Confederate soldiers being captured in the unfinished railroad cut northwest of Gettysburg.

Whether you’re a history buff, a student, or just curious about this critical moment in American history, the diorama provides an exceptional overview of this famous battle.

An image of the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center showing the conclusion of Pickett's Charge. A large projection screen displays a historical painting of cavalry in battle above a detailed diorama that depicts the Gettysburg battlefield. The miniature landscape is carefully illuminated, with small figures of soldiers and terrain features. To the right, a Confederate flag is displayed, contributing to the historical ambiance of the exhibit. — A dejected General Lee depicted at “Pickett’s Charge” fails.

Nearby Attractions

The Jennie Wade House is a historic landmark and museum 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.

The Seminary Ridge Museum interprets the history of the Battle of Gettysburg from the museum’s setting inside a building which served as both an observation post and a hospital during and after that battle.

Exploring the Seminary Ridge Museum in Gettysburg PA — Scenes from the Seminary Ridge Museum.

The Shriver House Museum depicts the remarkable story of one Gettysburg family’s life that was forever altered by the Battle of Gettysburg and the Civil War.

A photo collage from the Shriver House Museum in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, showcasing various aspects of the museum. The top left image displays the museum's exterior: a two-story, red-brick house with green shutters and patriotic bunting. The top right shows an interior room with a fireplace, elegant furniture, and historical decorations. The bottom left reveals an attic scene with a rifle and period artifacts, and the bottom right features the museum's name along with historical family portraits, providing insight into the civilian life during the time of the Civil War. — Scenes from the Shriver House Museum.

12 Must-See Attractions in Gettysburg is your guide to even more great things to see and do near the Gettysburg Diorama and History Center.

10 of the best things to see and do in Gettysburg Pennsylvania. — Some of the must-see attractions around Gettysburg.

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