Well, we finally did it. We went to one of Denis’s Bucket List destinations: Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.
My husband, Denis, is a major history buff, especially when it comes to the Civil War. He’s read books about it, watched movies about it, and can even give you an in-depth history lesson on each battle, but the one thing he was never able to do was go to Gettysburg and walk the battlefields for himself – until now.
At the end of May, we took a little road trip to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania (and some other East Coast destinations) and I quickly realized that this is an underrated vacation spot. Gettysburg is a borough rich in American history and yet I never really heard much about it outside of History class. But I quickly realized that Gettysburg was one of the most laid-back places we could go and definitely not a location to be missed. Because it’s so underrated, I wanted to give you some tips for visiting this destination – just a few things that I wish someone would have told me before we went – so you can make the most of your time if you decide to go to Gettysburg.
Go in late May to early June
The weather in Pennsylvania was absolutely divine at this time of year. The temps stayed between the 60s and 70s and a soft, gentle breeze was constantly blowing (heavenly for a Louisiana girl like me who’s used to 100 degree heat and humidity). But even though the weather was mild and cool, we were still able to wear shorts and stay comfortable. One of the things that surprised me the most about the battlefields was that many of the locals use the national park as a place for exercise. We saw countless people of all ages walking, jogging, and bike riding throughout the park.
Make time to visit the National Military Park multiple times
There are approximately 1,328 monuments, markers and memorials at Gettysburg National Military Park, so there’s a really good chance you won’t see them all your first day there. We made sure to drive through the park a few times and even Googled specific monuments we really wanted to see so we could drive straight to them. There’s plenty of places to park so you can get out, take pictures, and read about each location.
Get to the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center Early (And I Mean Early)
One mistake we made was trying to go to the Museum and Visitor Center late in the afternoon on our first day there. That was a bad choice because all the good parking spots were taken. If you really want to see the Museum you have to get there early. The Museum is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but I suggest getting there between 7:00 – 7:30 in the morning to get a decent parking spot. We did that on our second day and were able to beat the tour buses full of middle school and high school students. Also, by getting there early, we had plenty of time to take pictures with a statue of Abraham Lincoln without a crowd waiting to do the same thing.
Save Your Souvenir Money for the Gift Shops on Steinwehr Avenue
While it may be tempting to pick up some souvenirs at the Museum and Visitor Center, I suggest waiting and hitting Steinwehr Avenue. This particular avenue is full of little shops, restaurants, and cafes that are run by Pennsylvania locals. The souvenir shops located here offer most of the same products and books that you’ll find at the Museum and Visitor Center Gift Shop but at half the price.
Definitely Get a Crepe from the Cottage Creperie
Located at 33 Steinwehr Avenue, this little gem is full of delicious treats. From savory to sweet, the Cottage Creperie offers a great selection of crepes and homemade ice cream that will satisfy your cravings. It’s open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM. I highly recommend trying the Reese’s Blast – it was one of the most delicious things I’ve ever eaten. Seriously, I’m still thinking about that crepe.
Thoughts on the Battle of Gettysburg from Denis
- Books and movies do not capture just how big and spread out the Battle of Gettysburg actually was.
- Don’t let the beautiful scenery distract you from the hallowedness of the battlefields. Many, many American soldiers sacrificed their lives on this land.
- There are also several lookout points that you can climb up to get an aerial view of the battlefields.
- The Battle of Gettysburg determined if the United States would survive and stay united.
- This is one place that should be kept sacred for future Americans to see and learn about.
Have you ever been to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania? Does it look like a place you would like to visit?
Verse of the Day: Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. – Joshua 1:9
