We know that vacations can get expensive. After adding up all the costs, something that is supposed to be relaxing can turn into a stressor. The good news is, you don’t have to break your budget to vacation in Gettysburg. From history to the paranormal and family-friendly attractions to a trail of adult beverages, we’ve compiled a list of things to do for under $20 (per person) in Gettysburg!
We have museums for all ages and interests here in Gettysburg – and the good news is that they won’t break the bank! Many people like to begin their trip with a visit to the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center Film, Cyclorama and Museum Experience. For under $20 you can explore the artifacts found in the museum, watch an overview of the battle on the big screen and admire a 360-degree painting with a light and sound show.
If you’re looking for a unique take on the battle, Civil War Tails is for you. There you’ll find several battle scenes portrayed as dioramas with cat soldiers!
Perhaps, your interests lie beyond Civil War history. The National Apple Museum may be a good fit for you, where you’ll learn about the history of the fruit industry in Adams County – the largest apple producing county in Pennsylvania.
Other museums with admission fees under $20 include:
Gettysburg Heritage Center Museum
With a bloody history like Gettysburg’s, it’s no surprise that there are countless accounts of ghost sightings and paranormal experiences. Whether you’re a believer or not, a ghost tour is a fascinating way to get to know the town. Most of Gettysburg’s ghost tour companies offer budget-friendly tours. Check out the following:
In Gettysburg, we know a lot about preservation and restoration. There are so many beautiful homes and landmarks that are kept historically accurate so that visitors can learn about the incredible history and see first-hand what it must have been like to live here during the time of the Civil War.
Visit the place where the only civilian died during the Battle of Gettysburg – the Jennie Wade House Museum. The bullet hole from the fatal shot can still be seen in this historic home.
If you want to learn about Gettysburg’s history beyond the Civil War, plan a stop to the Eisenhower National Historic Site. See President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s retirement home decorated just as First Lady, Mamie Eisenhower, had it when they lived there.
Other historic homes under $20 include:
The town of Gettysburg and the battlefield carry so much history, it can be difficult to know where to start. The Gettysburg Driving Tour allows you to learn about the famous battle at your own pace in the comfort of your own car, and for under $20.
Gettysburg Licensed Town Historians offers several guided tours for under $20. Go back in time as stories from the Civil War are brought to life.
It’s important that our youth understand Gettysburg’s history, and many of the experiences mentioned above are perfect ways for children to get hands-on in Gettysburg. However, if your child wants a break from history, Gettysburg has plenty of budget-friendly, family-friendly activities.
Take them to Land of Little Horses, a 100-acre farm with animals of all kinds. They’ll see horses and donkeys, pigs and goats, even emus! And don’t miss their special animal show programming throughout the day.
At Under the Horizon, kids and adults can create and take home their own pottery creations for under $20. Handmade souvenirs are often the best ones!
Other kid-friendly activities for under $20 include:
Granite Hill Adventure Golf
Dig into our countryside and earn fun prizes as you explore multiple stops along the Adams County Crop Hop. With experiences like a hedge maze, pick your own fruit and flowers, farm tours, cooking classes, fresh meats, hands-on experiences, entertainment and more there are plenty of offerings for under $20. Download your free passport and start making memories today!
And for our adults that need to get away from the stresses of everyday life, the Adams County Pour Tour was created for you. Get your free passport and trail map at any participating location and taste your way through Gettysburg and Adams County. Most stops along the trail offer free or low-priced tastings, free live music and great company.