Winter is a very special time of year to visit Gettysburg. Guests from across the country return again and again to experience our incomparable history, enduring charm, endless recreational fun, and tantalizing foodie attractions.

Gettysburg, PA stands uniquely positioned as one of our nation’s premiere historic travel destinations. Nestled in idyllic Adams County, it offers breathtakingly scenic landscapes, wide-ranging outdoor activities, adventurous dining and – perhaps most famously – an unparalleled, firsthand look back at this country’s dramatic and inspiring past. No trip to Gettysburg is complete without experiencing its rich legacy. Take a wintry tour of the hallowed battlefield and feel the full weight of its solemn significance. Among the monuments and memorials, the enormous impact of our past truly resonates. Pause for a moment of inspiration at the Soldiers’ National Cemetery where President Abraham Lincoln delivered his stirring “Gettysburg Address.” Explore the story beyond the battlefield with a variety of venues that share the story of the local aftermath of the battle, enabling you to stand in the shoes of everyday civilians whose simple lives were upturned by three fierce days of fighting in the place they called home. 

For the outdoor lover, breathe in the crisp air of surrounding Adams County with a hike through beautiful state parks and a nature preserve just a short drive from town. The winding trails are dog-friendly and perfect for those traveling with a furry companion. Be sure to take a stroll through the historically preserved downtown area encircling Lincoln Square. Gain insight into our nation’s gripping backstory at interactive museums and education centers. Test your wits at a period-authentic escape room. Find the perfect gifts at charming shops filled with one-of-a-kind antiques, handmade treasures and Civil War artifacts. Visit nearby premium outlet shops, offering everything from the latest fashions to one-of-a-kind Christmas specialties. If the spirit is willing, snuggle close together when darkness falls for an eerie evening ghost tour of famous (and infamous) haunts. Discover local artists who draw inspiration from local history, agriculture, and nature. Meet a potter who also operates a family farm market stand supporting sustainable farming. Get to know a painter with a public art studio tucked amongst the hillsides of her country home. 

And, of course, the entire region is brimming with foodie-pleasing dining establishments, offering local farm-to-table cuisine in a wide variety of styles. Enjoy unique, contemporary meals prepared by award-winning chefs, experience period-specific foods prepared in a landmark setting, or grab a quick bite at a popular pizza joint. To take the chill off, enjoy craft beers, wines, ciders, mead, and spirits produced in Adams County all along the popular Pour Tour beverage trail – or visit working farms and orchards on the Adams County Crop Hop, the region’s new farm and market trail. Whatever your culinary tastes, Gettysburg has you covered and then some.

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Cozy bed & breakfasts, rustic cabins, luxurious inns, your go-to hotel with all the amenities, or that special guest house for the entire family (complete with a stone fireplace perfect for warming up after a full day of adventure) — you’ll find accommodations of every type in Gettysburg, whether you want to stay in walking distance to everything or simply escape to a quiet, secluded retreat.

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Make this winter a season to remember — right here in Gettysburg!

As we move forward and define what the “new normal” looks like together, Gettysburg remains fully committed to the safety of their guest travelers, residents and community as first priority. Don’t forget to check our ongoing online safety updates and, for now, remember to bring your masks. https://destinationgettysburg.com/safe-travel/