Gettysburg Battlefield Self Guided Audio Driving Tour

Highlights

Inclusions

Itinerary

1. The Visitor Center offers a rich introduction to the Battle of Gettysburg. Visitors can explore the museum exhibits, featuring artifacts, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations on the Civil War and the battle's significance. The Cyclorama, a massive 360-degree painting, immerses guests in Pickett's Charge. A film narrated by Morgan Freeman, A New Birth of Freedom, provides historical context. Rangers lead talks, tours, and educational programs. The bookstore offers souvenirs and resources, while the refreshment saloon provides meals in a period-inspired setting.

   1 h

2. McPherson Ridge at Gettysburg National Military Park marks the site of the opening clash of the Battle of Gettysburg on July 1, 1863. Visitors can explore historic landscapes, including woodlots and open fields, where Union and Confederate forces first engaged. Key landmarks include the McPherson Barn, used as a field hospital, and monuments honoring regiments and leaders such as General John Reynolds. Wayside exhibits provide detailed insights into the events of the battle. The ridge offers panoramic views of the battlefield and its surroundings.

   10 min

3. This monument features a bronze relief portrait of Doubleday mounted on a granite base. It commemorates his leadership in commanding the Union’s First Corps after the death of Major General John Reynolds. Though Doubleday is often linked to the myth of inventing baseball, his true legacy lies in his service during the Civil War.

   10 min

4. The Eternal Light Peace Memorial at Gettysburg National Military Park commemorates unity between the North and South. Erected in 1938 for the battle's 75th anniversary, it features a granite and Alabama limestone tower crowned by a perpetually burning gas flame symbolizing peace. The site offers stunning views of the battlefield's northern sector, including Oak Hill and the fields where the first day’s fighting unfolded. Surrounding the memorial are monuments and markers honoring units from both Union and Confederate forces. The tranquil setting invites reflection on the sacrifices made during the Civil War and the enduring hope for reconciliation.

   10 min

5. The Oak Ridge Observation Tower offers breathtaking views of the first day’s battlefield, including key areas like McPherson Ridge, Eternal Light Peace Memorial, and the fields of the Union defense line. From the tower, visitors can trace the movements of Union and Confederate forces during the pivotal opening day of the battle. Nearby are significant monuments, such as the 11th Pennsylvania Infantry Monument, featuring the famous war dog Sallie, and markers honoring Union and Confederate units.

   10 min

6. The 11th Pennsylvania Monument honors the regiment's service during the battle. It features a bronze statue of the regiment's mascot, Sallie, a loyal war dog who stayed with the wounded and fallen. Surrounding the monument are battle markers detailing the regiment's position during the first and second days of fighting.

   10 min

7. The General Lee Headquarters site preserves the historic stone house used by Confederate General Robert E. Lee during the battle. Visitors can explore the restored Mary Thompson House, which served as Lee's headquarters and a field hospital. The area features interpretive signs detailing the battle’s events and Lee’s strategic decisions. Nearby, visitors can see artillery emplacements and monuments commemorating Confederate units. The location offers views of Seminary Ridge and the surrounding battlefield, providing insight into the Confederate command’s vantage point. The site also includes a small garden area, perfect for reflection on this historic setting.

   1 h

8. Seminary Ridge, a key Confederate position during the Battle of Gettysburg, offers a wealth of historic and scenic features. Visitors can explore the Lutheran Theological Seminary, including its cupola, used as an observation point by Union General Buford. The Seminary Ridge Museum provides exhibits on the battle and the Civil War's broader context. Numerous monuments and markers honor Confederate units and leaders, and the ridge offers panoramic views of Pickett’s Charge.

   1 h

9. The North Carolina Monument at Gettysburg honors the valor of North Carolina troops during the battle. Designed by Gutzon Borglum, it depicts five Confederate soldiers advancing into battle. Located on Seminary Ridge, it offers a view of Pickett’s Charge, symbolizing the courage and sacrifice of North Carolinians in the Civil War.

   10 min

10. The Virginia Monument at Gettysburg features a bronze statue of General Robert E. Lee atop his horse, Traveller, leading his troops. Surrounded by Confederate soldiers in relief, it commemorates Virginia’s contributions to the battle. Located on Seminary Ridge, it marks the starting point of the famous Pickett’s Charge.

    10 min

11. The Warfield Ridge Observation Tower offers panoramic views of Gettysburg's southern battlefield, including key sites like Little Round Top, Devil’s Den, and the Peach Orchard. It highlights the Confederate approach on July 2, 1863. Nearby markers and monuments honor the actions of Confederate divisions during their assault on Union positions

    30 min

12. The Big Round Top Trail is a short but moderately challenging hike leading to the highest elevation on the battlefield. Surrounded by dense forest, the trail winds past scattered boulders and remnants of Civil War history. While the wooded summit doesn't offer expansive views, it provides a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. Interpretive markers along the trail highlight the historical importance of this area, making it a rewarding stop for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.

    1 h

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

Ratings come from 35 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

How it compares in Gettysburg

• Its from-price is 50% below the median of the 64 experiences we list in Gettysburg.
• It is longer than most of them.
• By number of reviews it ranks 28 of 64.
• The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Gettysburg

Gettysburg is a small Pennsylvania town beside the battlefield where the Union army defeated Lee's army in July 1863, with museums, monuments and orchards.

Gettysburg is a small town in south-central Pennsylvania, surrounded by farmland and low ridges. The Battle of Gettysburg was fought here over three days in July 1863, the largest battle of the American Civil War, and the Union victory is seen as a turning point. The battlefield is now a national military park, covering miles of fields and ridges with hundreds of monuments, cannon and markers.

Top-ranked sights in Gettysburg: Gettysburg National Military Park, Little Round Top, Jennie Wade House.

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