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By Austin Poulson
While Gettysburg is best known for its Civil War history, families quickly discover there’s much more to explore. From interactive museums and wildlife encounters to mini golf and hands-on learning experiences, Gettysburg offers plenty of opportunities for kids to stay engaged while parents enjoy a memorable summer getaway.
School is out and Summer is the perfect time to make unforgettable memories with your kids. While you may not think of Gettysburg as a “Summer Getaway”, this small Pennsylvania town might surprise you. From hands-on museums to outdoor adventures, Gettysburg makes it easy to keep the whole family entertained.
Gettysburg makes it easy to combine fun and learning in one trip. Families can explore interactive museums, discover stories from the past through engaging exhibits, meet animals from around the world, and enjoy classic summer activities like mini golf and sweet treats downtown.
The town’s walkable downtown, welcoming attractions, and variety of experiences make Gettysburg an easy destination for a family day trip or weekend getaway.
Museums aren’t just for adults and history buffs. Many of Gettysburg’s museums are designed to help younger visitors connect with the past in meaningful and engaging ways.
One museum that families with young children especially enjoy is Children of Gettysburg, 1863. More than a typical children’s museum, this experience shares the stories of the children, teens, and young adults who lived in Gettysburg during and after the Battle of Gettysburg. Through hands-on exhibits and immersive displays, young visitors can see history through the eyes of people their own age.
Another favorite for families is the Gettysburg Heritage Center, where interactive exhibits help visitors of all ages understand how residents experienced the battle. While known for its award-winning animated map, visitors can browse artifacts and child-friendly displays that help history feel accessible and engaging.
Gettysburg’s award-winning, Beyond the Battle Museum, tells the story of Gettysburg and its residents before, during, and after the Civil War. Through twelve interactive exhibit galleries, including the popular exhibit, Caught in the Crossfire, families can explore rare artifacts and learn how the region evolved from prehistoric times to the present day.
Families looking for an interactive experience should also consider the Seminary Ridge Museum and Education Center. Children can participate in free scavenger hunts that encourage them to explore the galleries while searching for artifacts and images throughout the museum. Families can also climb to the historic Cupola, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Gettysburg from one of the most iconic vantage points in town.
No trip to Gettysburg is complete without a stop to the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center. Here, children can experience the famous Gettysburg Cyclorama, one of only two surviving cycloramas in the United States, and participate in Junior Ranger programs.
Take a walk on the wild side this summer! Just thirty minutes away, Catoctin Wildlife Preserve offers a fun-filled day for animal lovers of all ages.
Located in Thurmont, Maryland, the preserve sits on approximately 100 acres and is home to over 800 animals from around the world. Families can take part in interactive experiences including the petting zoo, tortoise feeding encounters, sloth encounters, and educational keeper talks.
One of the preserve’s most unique attractions is the Global Wildlife Safari Ride, the area’s only guided safari experience. During this one-hour adventure, guests can encounter animals representing six continents, including zebras, camels, bison, and many more.
With shaded walking paths and numerous hands-on experiences, Catoctin Wildlife Preserve makes an excellent summer outing for families visiting Gettysburg.
No summer vacation feels complete without a round of mini golf, and Gettysburg offers two great options for families.
Granite Hill Adventure Golf, located at Granite Hill Camping Resort, features a beautifully landscaped course complete with waterfalls, creative obstacles, and challenges suitable for all ages. It’s a great way to spend an evening after a day of sightseeing.
In the heart of Gettysburg, Lincoln Links offers a convenient and family-friendly mini golf experience along Steinwehr Avenue. Its location makes it easy to pair a round of golf with dinner, shopping, ice cream, or an evening stroll through town.
Whether you’re keeping score or simply having fun, mini golf remains one of the easiest ways for families to spend quality time together during a summer getaway.
A little rain doesn’t have to put a damper on your Gettysburg getaway. Families will find plenty of indoor activities to keep everyone entertained while staying dry.
The Outlet Shoppes at Gettysburg offer everything from brand-name clothing and toys to specialty stores and sweet treats, making it easy to spend a few hours browsing and shopping together.
Families looking for a challenge can test their teamwork at Escape Gettysburg, where themed escape rooms encourage problem-solving, communication, and plenty of laughs along the way.
For those interested in the arts, the Gettysburg Community Theatre offers year-round performances, educational programming, and opportunities to see talented local youth performers take the stage. It’s a great way to enjoy live entertainment while supporting local arts.
Families looking for a hands-on creative experience can also visit Under The Horizon, where visitors can participate in pottery and clay classes that allow children and adults alike to create something memorable to take home.
Whether you’re shopping, solving puzzles, enjoying a live performance, or creating art together, Gettysburg offers plenty of ways to keep the fun going when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
After a day of exploring, families can cool off with ice cream, enjoy homemade fudge, or discover other sweet treats throughout downtown Gettysburg. Local bakeries, candy shops, and ice cream parlors offer plenty of kid-approved options and provide the perfect way to end a summer day.
Most people do not realize how easy it is to mix education with family fun in Gettysburg. Whether your children are fascinated by history, excited to meet animals, or eager for a little friendly competition, Gettysburg offers experiences that bring families together.
This summer, discover why Gettysburg is more than a history destination. It’s a family destination, too.
Check out our Getaway Guide online or have us send you one. Have an immediate question? Call us at 1.800.337.5015
Get the Guide
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