Summer is always a special time in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Colorful wildflowers blanket the rolling hills and the sun shines down on the region’s magnificent orchards, vineyards and farms. All the while, guests from across the country return to experience its incomparable history and charm, recreational fun, thriving agriculture, and tempting food and beverage attractions.

Adams County, home to historic Gettysburg, offers breathtaking scenic landscapes, wide-ranging outdoor activities, adventurous dining and an unparalleled look back at this country’s dramatic and inspiring past.

Breathe in the fresh air of surrounding Adams County with a hike through beautiful state parks and a thriving nature preserve just a short drive from town. As an added bonus, the winding trails are dog-friendly and perfect for those traveling with a furry companion.

No trip to Gettysburg is complete without a firsthand appreciation of its rich backstory. Tour the hallowed battlefield and feel the full weight of its solemn significance. See it as the soldiers did, with a horseback tour led by a Licensed Battlefield Guide or on a double-decker bus tour and hear the tale of the famous battle with the wind in your hair. Pause for a moment of inspiration in the Soldiers’ National Cemetery where President Abraham Lincoln delivered his stirring “Gettysburg Address”. Explore the story beyond the battlefield with a variety of museums that explain 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.

Lincoln Square

Be sure to take a leisurely stroll through the historically preserved downtown area encircling Lincoln Square. Gain insight into our nation’s gripping legacy at interactive museums and state-of-the-art education centers. Test your wits at a period-authentic escape room. Find the perfect gift at quaint shops filled with one-of-a-kind antiques, handmade treasures and authentic Civil War artifacts. If the spirit is willing, snuggle close together when darkness falls for an eerie evening ghost tour of famous haunts.

Discover 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 among the hillsides of her country home.

Featuring local farm-to-table cuisine in a wide variety of styles, your visit to Gettysburg will bring unique and contemporary meals prepared by award-winning chefs. The tastes are only part of the fun, as you will experience period-specific food that’s brought to you in a landmark setting. 

Things to do in Gettysburg

Craft beers, wines, ciders, mead, and spirits produced in Adams County can be found 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 tastes, Gettysburg has you covered and then some.

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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.Choose from cozy bed & breakfasts, rustic cabins, luxurious inns, your go-to hotel with all the amenities, or a guest house for the entire family.

There’s no other town in America quite like Gettysburg –– and summer makes for a beautiful visit. We are so excited for your arrival, that we decided to make your next getaway even easier to plan! New this year is our Gettysburg Go! Discovery Pass, where you can experience Gettysburg through a hand-picked collection of attractions and tours. Simply visit our website to get started and plan your getaway today!