Planning the perfect weekend getaway or the best summer vacation is tricky. Luckily, the Adams County Historical Society (ACHS) has put together a travel guide to help you plan your perfect day in Gettysburg. Whether you’re spending just one day in our historic town or you’re planning a few days here, this guide can help you organize your trip! For a more detailed guide, watch this video.
Breakfast: Cottage Creperie
33 Steinwehr Avenue
If you’re looking for a restaurant with options that every person will love—even the picky eaters—look no further than the Cottage Creperie. Featuring a large variety of sweet and savory crepes with vegan and vegetarian options, we can think of no better way to start your day than at the Creperie. Feeling extra sweet? The Cottage Creperie also serves homemade ice cream all day.
1st Stop: Beyond the Battle Museum
625 Biglerville Road
Centuries of history are on display at ACHS’s Beyond the Battle Museum, which makes it the perfect place to get oriented with the area. Start in prehistoric times with real dinosaur footprints and meteorite shards, and then travel through time while learning about Indigenous and frontier life. Be sure to check out the immersive Caught in the Crossfire exhibit, which simulates what a family living in town may have experienced during the Battle of Gettysburg. Then, explore the aftermath of the battle and Gettysburg’s more recent past, including the apple industry and President Eisenhower’s retirement to the area.
2nd Stop: The Shriver House Museum
307 Baltimore Street
After visiting Beyond the Battle, get a more in-depth look at civilian life in Gettysburg at The Shriver House Museum. The Shriver House is a beautifully restored 1860s-era home which tells the story of one family as they navigate a life disrupted by the Civil War. Featuring guided tours with living-history docents, this is a piece of Gettysburg history you won’t want to miss. The Shriver House Museum is located in the heart of downtown Gettysburg.
Lunch: Sign of the Buck
29 Chambersburg Street
For the perfect lunch, visit Sign of the Buck, located along historic Chambersburg Street. This stylish restaurant offers an inviting atmosphere, combining elegance with approachable, delicious cuisine. With two distinct dining areas designed for comfort and plenty of vegetarian options, Sign of the Buck’s menu has something for everyone to enjoy.
3rd Stop: Gettysburg National Military Park Visitor Center
1195 Baltimore Pike
The GNMP Visitor Center is home to some of the most iconic Gettysburg attractions, including the Cyclorama, an incredibly detailed 360-degree hand-painted painting on canvas. Then, view the museum housed within the Visitor Center, which explores the Civil War and features hundreds of incredible artifacts. Plus, don’t miss A New Birth of Freedom, an introductory film that follows the Civil War from the war’s first shots through Abraham Lincoln’s landmark speech.
4th Stop: Gettysburg National Military Park
Now that you’ve learned about the the Battle of Gettysburg and the civilian experience, its time to check out the battlefield. Whether you choose to tour the battlefield at your own pace with the audio tour, decide to hire a Licensed Battlefield Guide, tour the land on horseback, or even ride a Segway, touring the battlefield is always an incredible experience. Be sure to stop by the most iconic spots, including the Wheatfield, Devil’s Den, Little Round Top, and more.
Dinner: The Dobbin House
89 Steinwehr Avenue
What better place to eat dinner in Gettysburg than the historic Dobbin House? With a robust menu and plenty of drink options, the Dobbin House is the perfect dining location for any history buff looking for a filling meal. From entrees to desserts, the Dobbin House has an incredible menu that is always changing to include seasonal goodies. Sit in their upstairs dining area or enjoy the ambiance of their basement tavern. Plus, explore their gift shop, which is conveniently located on the first floor.
Drinks: The Farnsworth House
401 Baltimore Street
Enjoy a nightcap at the Farnsworth House’s Sweney Tavern, featuring a thematic drink menu, including the “Confederate Sharpshooter” and “The Bullet Hole.” Dine indoors and admire the countless Gettysburg movie props on display, or enjoy the weather outside in the beer garden. The Farnsworth House is a stone’s throw away from downtown, which makes it a convenient stop on your trip!
Gettysburg has dozens of great attractions, restaurants, and shops to explore. Fitting them all into one list is nearly impossible! For a complete list of all Gettysburg has to offer, click here.
