Gettysburg Outdoor Activities: Top 5 Things to Do

You know, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania is more than just a history lesson. It’s a spot where you can pretty much feel the pulse of the past, mixed with all kinds of options to get outside and enjoy some fresh air, almost in the very same spots where significant events went down. I mean, seriously, this little town really packs a punch for outdoor enthusiasts! So, whether you’re, like, super into history or just after a nice day out in nature, Gettysburg has got something for everyone. I am sure that, after your visit, you’ll leave with more stories than you arrived with after reading this guide on exploring historical spots.

1. Exploring Gettysburg National Military Park

Alright, so Gettysburg National Military Park is really, really vast – it’s more than just a battlefield; it’s pretty much an outdoor museum. You could almost spend days here and not see everything! One of the best ways, that, to see it is just by taking a self-guided driving tour. Pick up a map at the visitor center, that, and then just follow the marked routes that take you past places like Little Round Top, that Peach Orchard, and also, of course, Cemetery Ridge. It’s so fascinating. Just, to stand there and think about what happened on that very ground, you know? Or, very, if you’re into walking, there are miles and miles of trails too, like those leading from historical sites to self-guided tour spots.

There’s also the option of biking that’s usually super popular, and you’ll often see families pedaling around. Just, a heads up, some of the roads can be a bit hilly, but trust me, the views, yet, are totally worth it. And the park service? Very, they offer all sorts of guided tours, too, including ranger programs and living history demonstrations. It’s like, the past really comes alive. Don’t miss the chance to climb the observation towers, that too, like the one at Little Round Top, for a killer view of the entire battlefield. The park’s super informative. Make sure, just, to spend time at the visitor center where you’ll get some background.

2. Hiking and Nature Walks on the Battlefield

Alright, you might be surprised to know, that, that Gettysburg has plenty of nice trails. If you’re looking to, kind of, stretch your legs. These trails are basically scattered all over the battlefield and they often lead to some of the less visited, you know, but equally significant monuments and markers. A pretty good example is the loop around the battlefield monuments, very, you just need to check if that is what you are searching for. Some paths can be steep or rugged, you know, so definitely wear comfy shoes and carry some water, but I’d say, by and large, these walks are doable for anyone.

The Spangler’s Spring area is lovely, very quiet, and perfect if you’re keen to, sort of, spot wildlife. So many birds there, I swear! Plus, it’s also significant because it served as a water source during the battle, both, for Union and Confederate troops. In short, really makes you think. Or the woods, and open fields, for example? They are ideal, and some might find they can be more meditative.

3. Horseback Riding Through History

Now, this is cool – you know, you can actually experience Gettysburg kinda how soldiers would have. Several local stables offer guided horseback riding tours that take you right through the battlefield. Very exciting for families. Now, a thing to consider, is you don’t need any experience riding to join in – basically the guides will give you all the basics. What it’s almost like. In addition to all the tours that happen everyday you’ll feel so free as you are guided by horse. All I would mention is that the animals, that they do need consideration. Always consider it. All in all, these tours are suitable for nearly anyone who’s fit, just keep in mind if there is something physical you can’t do before scheduling to go, is that right?

Cantering across these places it really feels, sometimes, a bit surreal, when you know you are walking through what soldiers might have went through. And very different. Not only does riding horses make the events easier to imagine but it could also possibly turn that boring history you went over back in school a touch more interesting. These rides vary a bit, the pace is determined usually by whoever’s the least able on the group, or something, right? Usually. Anyhow, wear some closed-toe boots for your ride.

4. Eisenhower National Historic Site

Alright, a super interesting spot to see that is just a little outside Gettysburg is the Eisenhower National Historic Site. Or pretty much visit the home of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. See the only one. Now, why’s this place count as outdoor? Very cool question. Okay so what’s great about going on this visit is it allows to see not only the house and grounds where the president walked but just outside the place where Eisenhower spent a lot of his retirement years it has super nice fields that were mostly used by his cattle. What a view! This farm provides something for you as well if you just wanted something where you don’t explore President Eisenhower’s farm.

You can see his show barn, his putting green and lots of outdoor features. So you know, I think anyone could easily wander around there for, say, a good couple of hours. Make certain you check out when their guided walking tours are occurring for something extra insightful and I’m telling ya, their programs are good. It’s important too when going, usually that there isn’t actually any public vehicle admittance right on the property unless something else. So consider taking that bus to the property they provide for that very purpose. If you ask me to describe it, really it makes a nice detour for some fresh air after being near lots of Gettysburg history that occurred just before and could be refreshing to almost everyone.

5. Exploring Local Orchards and Farms

If the Eisenhower farm wasn’t enough now you can try getting into orchards and different farming, that. Because Gettysburg is in apple country. Gettysburg region is renowned and quite appealing with, more or less, plenty to visit at different family-run farms where almost anyone is picking whatever fresh apples and peaches that happen to be within their seasons and the things they are. So try seeing the farmers market if it looks alright to you, for the freshest of everything or some other markets there. All of these family type things are what makes life have more appeal right?

Fall harvest period provides so many colorful foliage. Really great opportunity to maybe grab a cup of some cider drink! Try one! Oh what I wish is if I were eating that slice of hot apple pie that just so happens to be locally-made just because, what’s almost something that can be as awesome as all of those different outdoor kinds experiences if it seems alright to anyone at this point? And because these experiences differ quite a bit just consider checking schedules for a trip somewhere or, in some respects, somewhere a touch closer perhaps?