Welcome to the Downtown Gettysburg Walking Tour
Think you know the whole story of Gettysburg? Think again! This Self-Guided Downtown Gettysburg Walking Tour brings to life the civilians swept up in the chaos of the Civil War’s deadliest battle. Discover stories of hardship and heroism as ordinary people were caught in extraordinary times.
Please make sure to use headphones while on the tour to cancel outside noise.
Know the town’s history
Your Gettysburg walking tour begins at the Gettysburg Heritage Center. From there, you’ll head north toward the National Cemetery, where Abraham Lincoln delivered the stirring Gettysburg Address.
Next, you’ll see the Jenny Wade House, home to the only civilian casualty of the battle. Then it’s on to the Children of Gettysburg museum, full of exhibits about those oft-forgotten witnesses to all the bloodshed.
You’ll arrive next at a Witness Tree, which Lincoln’s carriage passed on his way to deliver his famous speech. Then you’ll pass the home of Hettie Shriver, who inadvertently fled out of the frying pan and into the fire in her attempts to escape the fighting!
Next to that is the Pierce House Inn, once home to a young girl who became an unlikely combat medic during and after the battle! You’ll then see the Gettysburg Museum of history, a private collection of over 4,000 war-related artifacts, and learn about modern-day grave robbers.
The next landmark you’ll pass is a peculiar one—the remnants of an old cannon! Then there’s the Adams County Courthouse, which became an impromptu hospital for wounded soldiers as the fighting raged on.
Afterward, you’ll pass the site where Congressman Thaddeus Stevens once had an office. His name might not be as well-remembered as Lincoln’s, but he’s definitely a hero worth knowing! Then, past a life-size Lincoln statue perfect for photo ops, you’ll find the David Wills House, where the real Abraham Lincoln put the finishing touches on his Gettysburg Address.
Up next, you’ll pass the Gettysburg Hotel, rumored to be one of the most haunted places in town! Finally, after hearing about the battle’s devastating aftermath, you’ll arrive at the train station, which became an emergency medical station after the fighting ended. Your tour concludes here.
Upgrade and Save:
Upgrade to one of the below bundles and get the best value for your money!
- Gettysburg Tours: Embark on the ultimate self-guided drive for $24.99 per person and save 40%.
- Civil War Tours Bundle: Drive through 6 self-guided battlefield tours for $39.99 per person and save 43%.
Looking to expand your tour?
- Valley Forge Tour: By visiting both sites, you can visualize the continuity and evolution of the fight for freedom, spanning the Revolutionary War and the Civil War.
Want all of our tours? Upgrade to Action+:
- An annual $99.99/year subscription offers access to over 160+ tours.
- Unlimited use throughout the year.
- Includes free access to new tours as they are released.
Gettysburg Downtown Map
Where To Start?
Starting Point Address: Gettysburg Heritage Center Parking Lot at 1 Culp Street. Culp St Gettysburg, PA 17325
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
What You'll See
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Welcome to Gettysburg Heritage Center
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Jennie Wade House
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Witness Tree
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Shriver House Museum
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Tillie Pierce House Inn
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Gettysburg Museum of History
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Adams County Court House
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Lincoln Statue
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David Wills House
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Gettysburg Hotel
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Gettysburg National Cemetery
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GAR Building
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
The tour begins at the Gettysburg Heritage Center.
Yes, it’s a self-guided tour. It’s recommended to use headphones during the tour to cancel outside noise for a better experience.
The tour brings to life the experiences of civilians during the Civil War’s deadliest battle, sharing stories of hardship and heroism.
The tour begins at the Gettysburg Heritage Center. You can check for its location and operating hours in advance.
The tour takes you to the National Cemetery, where Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address.
Yes, the tour includes stops at the Jenny Wade House, Children of Gettysburg museum, and the Gettysburg Museum of history, among others.
The tour’s duration may vary based on your pace and the time you spend at each site, but it generally takes a few hours.
The tour provides information about the sites, but it’s advisable to check if there are any admission fees for specific attractions.
The tour covers downtown areas, and many sites are accessible. However, it’s recommended to check for specific accessibility information for each location
The tour is likely available year-round, but it’s always a good idea to consider the weather and dress accordingly, especially during extreme seasons.
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically by GPS. Hands-free. Get HELP all day: Call, Chat, or Email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Full itinerary, travel tips, professionally narrated videos, text, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations to any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
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