PA Museums

Exploring the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg

A collage of four photos taken at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, showcases various exhibits. The top left image features an M18 Hellcat tank destroyer with historical photographs and a display case containing a uniform and medals. The top right image displays a "Follow Me" Jeep painted in yellow and black checkers, surrounded by other military vehicles and artifacts with American and Japanese flags in the background. The bottom left image highlights the 10th Mountain Division exhibit, featuring a mannequin dressed in winter uniform and detailed informational panels. The bottom right image shows an outdoor sign announcing the museum's opening, with an image of the museum building and a clear, sunny sky in the background. These images collectively emphasize the museum's dedication to educating the public about American sacrifices during WWII and honoring those who served.

If you’re looking for information about visiting the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, you’re in the right place!

An exhibit at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, features a detailed display of a tank and a military truck used during the war. The tank, with its large cannon and distinctive armor, is positioned alongside an army truck marked with a white star. The display includes informational panels and artifacts, such as uniforms, ammunition boxes, and photographs, providing historical context and highlighting the vehicles' roles in combat. A mannequin dressed in a military uniform stands next to the truck, and additional memorabilia are showcased, emphasizing the contributions and sacrifices of American soldiers during WWII.

The WWII American Experience Museum is dedicated to educating the public about the sacrifices made by Americans during the largest conflict of the 20th century, both on the battlefield and the homefront.

An exhibit at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, features a large Army tow truck and accompanying equipment. The military tow truck, marked with a white star and identification numbers, is equipped with a crane and various tools for vehicle recovery and repair. Next to the truck is a smaller utility trailer filled with supplies and gear. The background includes other wartime vehicles and exhibits, with an American flag and a Japanese rising sun flag displayed prominently. This exhibit highlights the essential support and logistical roles played by military vehicles and personnel in maintaining operational efficiency during WWII.

The museum honors the dedication and bravery of those who fought to win the war and preserve freedom, offering a comprehensive look at the era’s military and civilian experiences.

An exhibit at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, displays a collection of aviator helmets, flight jackets, and related memorabilia from the United States Army Air Forces. The display case contains helmets with oxygen masks, goggles, and communication gear, as well as photographs and personal stories of the aviators who wore them. Two prominently featured flight jackets showcase custom artwork, one labeled "Wolf Patrol" and the other "Dry Run," symbolizing the individual crews and missions. The exhibit emphasizes the bravery and contributions of the airmen during WWII, providing insight into their equipment and experiences.

Directions | Hours | Admission Fees

The WWII American Experience Museum is located at 845 Crooked Creek Road, Gettysburg, PA 17325.

The museum is open April-December on the following days: Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday: 10am-5pm and Sunday 12pm-4pm.

The museum is closed for regular hours in January, and open February-March on the following days: Friday & Saturday 10am-5pm and Sunday 12pm-4pm.

An exhibit at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, displays a large howitzer, with its massive barrel and heavy-duty tires. Behind the howitzer, other military vehicles, including a tank and armored personnel carrier, are also on display. Informational plaques provide historical context about the artillery and its role during WWII. The spacious exhibit hall features additional displays of military equipment and memorabilia, illustrating the significant firepower and technological advancements used by American forces during the war. The setting emphasizes the strategic importance of artillery in achieving battlefield success and the overall effort to win the war.

Admission fees as of 2024 are as follows: General Admission $15 plus tax | Seniors & Veterans $12 plus tax | Student Admission Grades K-12 $10 plus tax | Children 5 and under FREE | Active Duty Military FREE with ID.

A photo of the gift shop at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, showcasing a variety of merchandise. The central display features T-shirts, hats, mugs, glasses, and other memorabilia adorned with WWII-themed logos and designs. Books about WWII history and aircraft design are displayed on shelves, along with DVDs and models of military vehicles and aircraft. The background includes additional shelves filled with souvenirs, historical replicas, and educational materials, providing visitors with a wide selection of items to commemorate their visit and honor the sacrifices made during the war.

What You’ll See at the WWII American Experience Museum

Upon entering the museum, visitors will encounter a diverse array of authentic WWII vehicles, uniforms, and artifacts displayed in realistic dioramas and exhibits that depict both the battlefield and the home front.

An exhibit at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, features a USN Jeep marked "USS Hancock" in the foreground. The blue Jeep, used by the United States Navy, is adorned with insignias and awards. Surrounding the Jeep are various military vehicles, including an ambulance, tow trucks, and motorcycles, showcasing the diverse range of transportation and logistical support used during the war. Informational displays and historical photographs provide context about the vehicles and their roles in different military operations. In the background, large posters and additional exhibits highlight significant events such as the D-Day invasion of Normandy in 1944. The setting emphasizes the comprehensive efforts and coordination required to support wartime activities and honor the sacrifices of those who served.

One eye-catching exhibit features a “Follow Me” Jeep (used to lead planes to their designated hanger), painted in distinctive yellow and black checkers, surrounded by other military vehicles and artifacts, with large American and Japanese flags as a backdrop.

The main exhibit hall at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, features a "Follow Me" Jeep painted in distinctive yellow and black checkers in the foreground. The hall includes a diverse range of exhibits, such as a large American flag and a Japanese rising sun flag displayed prominently. Surrounding the Jeep are other military vehicles and artifacts, including an ambulance and a tow truck. The background showcases banners dedicated to the United States Army Air Forces and the War in the Pacific, 1945, along with display cases filled with memorabilia and historical artifacts. The setting emphasizes the extensive efforts and coordination required during WWII and honors the sacrifices made by American servicemen and women.

Another impressive display includes an M4 Sherman tank named “Eagle,” showcasing the formidable firepower and engineering of American armored units.

An exhibit at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, features an M4 Sherman tank named "Eagle." The tank is displayed with a mounted .50 caliber machine gun and marked with white stars and identification numbers. Surrounding the tank are informational panels and display cases with ammunition boxes and artifacts. A mannequin dressed in a WWII-era uniform stands nearby, adding context to the exhibit. The display provides historical information about the tank's role and significance during the war, highlighting the contributions and sacrifices of American soldiers who operated such vehicles.

Nearby, a quad .50 caliber anti-aircraft machine gun emphasizes the technological advancements and strategic importance of anti-aircraft defenses during the war.

An exhibit at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, features a quad .50 caliber anti-aircraft machine gun. The detailed close-up showcases the gun's barrels and mechanical components, highlighting its formidable firepower. In the background, a large American flag hangs prominently, accompanied by historical banners and other military vehicles and equipment. The exhibit includes a banner commemorating the crossing of the Rhine at Remagen in March 1945, underscoring a significant event in the European theater of WWII. This display honors the technological advancements and the crucial roles played by such weaponry in achieving victory.

The US Army Air Forces exhibit includes a fuel tanker truck and accompanying artifacts, highlighting the logistical efforts required to maintain air operations.

An exhibit at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, features a US Army Air Forces fuel tanker truck. The truck, marked with a white star, is accompanied by display cases containing uniforms, equipment, and artifacts related to the Army Air Forces. Informational panels and memorabilia provide historical context about the vehicle's role in refueling aircraft during the war. The background includes large banners showcasing images of the United States Army Air Forces and other WWII exhibits. This display highlights the logistical efforts and support roles crucial to maintaining air operations during WWII, honoring the dedication and sacrifices of those who served in these capacities.

A tracked landing vehicle on simulated rocky terrain emphasizes the amphibious operations that were crucial in the Pacific theater.

An exhibit at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, features a tracked landing vehicle (also known as an amphibious tractor or Amtrac) displayed on a simulated rocky terrain. The vehicle is painted olive drab with a white star and is loaded with various supplies, including ammunition crates and gear. Behind the Amtrac, an American flag and a Japanese rising sun flag are prominently displayed, symbolizing the Pacific theater of WWII. The surrounding area includes other military vehicles, informational panels, and photographs, providing context about amphibious operations and their significance during the war. The exhibit honors the bravery and sacrifices of those who participated in these critical missions.

The museum also features an extensive collection of WWII military uniforms, each adorned with distinct patches, insignias, and rank markings, illustrating the diversity of roles and units.

A display at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, showcases a collection of WWII military uniforms. The exhibit features rows of meticulously arranged uniforms from various branches of the U.S. military, each adorned with distinct patches, insignias, and rank markings. The uniforms are enclosed in glass cases, preserving their condition and allowing visitors to appreciate the details. A large photograph of a soldier in uniform is positioned between the display cases, adding a personal touch to the exhibit. This display honors the service and sacrifices of American soldiers during WWII, highlighting the diverse roles and units that contributed to the war effort.

The 10th Mountain Division exhibit features a mannequin dressed in a winter uniform, detailed informational panels, and photographs highlighting the division’s pivotal role in WWII.

A display at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, features an exhibit dedicated to the 10th Mountain Division. The exhibit includes a mannequin dressed in a complete winter uniform with a helmet, goggles, and gear. Informational panels provide historical context, detailing the division's formation, training, and combat experiences in Italy during February 1945, where they played a crucial role in breaking through the German Gothic Line. The exhibit also highlights individual stories, including that of Robert J. Monahan, who trained at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and later served in the Rockies. The background features historical photos of soldiers and significant moments from the division's history.

The homefront experience is vividly depicted in various exhibits, including a replica of a typical American kitchen from the WWII era, complete with period-appropriate items, appliances, and decorations, providing insight into the everyday lives of families supporting the war effort.

A display at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, depicts a typical American kitchen from the WWII era. The kitchen is furnished with period-appropriate items, including a wooden cabinet stocked with canned goods and kitchenware, a vintage stove with various pots and utensils, and a refrigerator. A woven rug lies on the checkered floor, and a patriotic banner hangs from the cabinet, symbolizing support for the war effort. The exhibit provides a glimpse into homefront life during WWII, highlighting the everyday experiences and sacrifices of American families who contributed to the war effort from their homes.

A comprehensive display of “Remember Pearl Harbor” posters and memorabilia serves as a poignant reminder of the unifying impact of the Pearl Harbor attack on the American public.

A display at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, showcases a collection of "Remember Pearl Harbor" posters and memorabilia. The display includes various patriotic posters with slogans such as "We Won't Forget," "Avenge Pearl Harbor," and "Remember Pearl Harbor." Each poster features striking imagery, including eagles, military personnel, and scenes of the attack. The display emphasizes the unifying effect of the Pearl Harbor attack on the United States and the rallying cry it provided for the war effort. The artifacts highlight the nation's collective resolve to remember the sacrifices made and to pursue victory in WWII.

Final Thoughts

A visit to the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, offers an immersive and informative journey through one of the most significant periods in American history.

An exhibit at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, showcases an M18 Hellcat tank destroyer. The vehicle is equipped with a .50 caliber machine gun and various supplies secured to its exterior. In front of the tank destroyer, a display case contains a WWII-era uniform, medals, and personal artifacts, providing a personal connection to the soldiers who served. Nearby informational panels feature historical photographs and details about the 899th Tank Destroyer Battalion. The exhibit is set against a backdrop of other military vehicles and artifacts, with an American flag and banners commemorating significant WWII events, highlighting the bravery and sacrifices of those who fought in the war.

Visitors leave with a profound appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who served and a better understanding of the collective effort required to achieve victory in WWII.

An exhibit at the WWII American Experience Museum in Gettysburg, PA, features a military tracked vehicle used for troop transport. The vehicle, marked with a white star and identification numbers, is displayed alongside a mannequin dressed in a WWII-era uniform. Informational panels and display cases provide historical context and artifacts, including photographs, personal stories, and ammunition crates. A large artillery piece is positioned next to the transport vehicle, emphasizing the range of military equipment used during the war. The exhibit honors the contributions and sacrifices of American soldiers, highlighting the importance of logistics and support roles in achieving victory.

The Stuart Tank Museum in Columbia County is dedicated to telling the story of Berwick’s pivotal role in World War 2, when over 15,000 Stuart tanks were built in the town between 1941-1944.

A collage of five photos showcasing the Stuart Tank Museum in Berwick, Pennsylvania, featuring an interior view with a Stuart tank and military mannequins, the museum's exterior with an 'OPEN' flag, a historical marker detailing the factory's production during WWII, and additional displays including a black and white photo of a Stuart tank and a variety of military memorabilia. — Scenes from the Stuart Tank Museum in Columbia County.

The museum is a treasure trove of history, especially for those intrigued by military history and Pennsylvania’s contributions to American freedom.

An exhibit at the Stuart Tank Museum in Berwick, Pennsylvania, showcasing a front view of an M3 Stuart Light Tank marked with "H-2," displayed with military gear, an American flag backdrop, and museum artifacts including a rifle, helmet, and informational posters. — M3 Stuart Light Tank on display at the museum.

The Pennsylvania Military Museum in Centre County honors the service of Pennsylvanians in all branches of the military, from colonial times to the present day.

The Pennsylvania Military Museum in Boalsburg, PA. — The Pennsylvania Military Museum in Boalsburg.

The 18,000 square-foot museum houses an impressive collection of weapons, uniforms, vehicles, and photographs of Pennsylvania’s citizen-soldiers answering the call of duty in all of America’s major armed conflicts.

Tank display inside the Pennsylvania Military Museum. — Tank display at the Pennsylvania Military Museum.

Nearby Attractions

15 Must-See Attractions in Gettysburg is your guide to the best things to see and do near the WWII American Experience Museum.

10 must-see attractions in Gettysburg Pennsylvania. — Scenes from various attractions around Gettysburg.

18 Must-See Attractions in Adams County is your guide to more great destinations in the area, featuring everything from museums and historic sites to farmers markets and one-of-a-kind shopping experiences.

A collage of 5 photos from Adams County Pennsylvania. — Scenes from Adams County.

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