Gettysburg National Cemetery
Gettysburg, PA
Gettysburg National Cemetery is the final resting place for over 3,500 Union soldiers who died in the Civil War's pivotal battle. Visitors come here to honor these fallen heroes, see the historic landscape, and reflect on the significance of the Battle of Gettysburg. This southern Pennsylvania site includes the Soldier’s National Monument and a memorial to Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address.
The basics
Explore the Gettysburg National Cemetery through self-guided walks with the help of interpretive signs, as well as via guided tours that offer more detailed insight into its history. Seasonal programs and ranger talks provide an even deeper look into the site. Many travelers combine a visit to the Gettysburg Battlefield with the cemetery for a comprehensive experience. Bus tours of the Gettysburg National Military Park, which includes the cemetery, are available from the visitor center, and day trips from Washington DC are another good option.
Things to know before you go
- The cemetery features walking paths over uneven terrain, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- As this is a solemn site, remember to remain quiet, avoid stepping on graves, and follow posted guidelines.
- The cemetery is open from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.
How to get there
Visitors traveling by car can reach the Gettysburg National Cemetery easily via US Route 15, with well-marked exits leading to the Gettysburg National Military Park. Free parking is available near the cemetery. Public transportation options are limited, so most visitors drive or join organized tours. You can also walk to the cemetery from nearby areas within the Gettysburg Battlefield and Visitor Center.
When to get there
The best time to visit the Gettysburg National Cemetery is during the spring and autumn seasons—fall’s colorful foliage serves as a pretty backdrop, while spring’s temperatures are pleasant and mild. Early mornings and late afternoons provide quieter, less crowded experiences. Memorial Day and Remembrance Day in November also feature ceremonies commemorating those who served.
Gettysburg National Military Park
Overseen by the National Park Service, the Gettysburg National Military Park preserves the site of the Battle of Gettysburg, which was fought in July 1863, and honors the lives lost. It features monuments such as the cemetery, battlefields, and historic structures. The visitor center also houses the impressive Battle of Gettysburg cyclorama painting by French artist Paul Philippoteaux.
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