One truly remarkable and memorable trip is to travel to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Located approximately 30 miles south of Harrisburg in Adams County, the national park offers many family-oriented activities (like horseback riding, cycling and camping) as does the immediately surrounding area (like train rides through the countryside, miniature golf, miniature horse rides, ski slopes and antiquing). Then, of course, there is the historic Civil War battlefield of Gettysburg, the eye-opening dedications to the three day stretch in 1863, where the Union and Confederate armies clashed and President Abraham Lincoln made his famous Gettysburg address in attempt to keep the nation together, eventually succeeding.
The National Military Park visitor’s center and museum is really the perfect place to begin an exploration of the area. They offer maps, tour buses and self-guided taped tours that one can play in their own vehicles. If you will be spending the night in the area there are a few unique historical places to eat at, like the oldest house in Gettysburg, built in 1776, The Dobbin House Tavern, or sleep, like at the Gettystown Bed and Breakfast, which is within walking distance to the Visitors Center. It’s the Visitor’s Center that should be contacted to find out when re-enactments of the battles and the living history demonstrations will occur. There are also specially-arranged ranger-guided programs. These types of events are seasonal and occur from spring through fall. The museum, the battlefield, the National Cemetery, the Eternal Light Peace Memorial and the site of the Gettysburg address are all highlights of Gettysburg that should not be missed. A visit here can enrich your life with history and strengthen an appreciation for not only U.S. veterans, but for all soldiers serving in war.
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