Exploring Gettysburg With Kids: A Family Guide from Battlefield Bed & Breakfast
There's something magical about watching history come alive through a child's eyes. At Battlefield Bed & Breakfast, we believe that visiting Gettysburg can be a transformative experience for the whole family—one that combines education with adventure in a way that creates lasting memories.
Why Bring Your Kids to Gettysburg?
Gettysburg isn't just a battlefield—it's an immersive classroom where history leaps off the pages of textbooks. Children who might fidget through history lessons at school often become completely engaged when standing on the very ground where pivotal moments in American history unfolded. The tangible connection to the past sparks curiosity and understanding in ways that conventional learning simply can't match.
Planning Your Family Visit
Best Ages for Gettysburg
While visitors of all ages can appreciate Gettysburg, children ages 8 and up tend to grasp the historical significance more fully. That said, we've welcomed families with younger children who have created wonderful experiences tailored to their little ones' attention spans and interests.
Length of Stay
We recommend at least two full days to explore Gettysburg with kids. This allows you to balance historical sites with fun activities without overwhelming young visitors.
Kid-Friendly Historical Sites
Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center
Start your journey here with:
The film "A New Birth of Freedom" (narrated by Morgan Freeman)
The stunning Cyclorama painting that brings Pickett's Charge to life with light and sound effects
Interactive exhibits designed with young visitors in mind
Many children are fascinated by the life-sized dioramas and the opportunity to see authentic artifacts from the battle.
Battlefield Tours Designed for Families
Rather than attempting to cover the entire battlefield (which can test any child's patience), consider these kid-friendly options:
Battlefield Scavenger Hunt: Pick up a scavenger hunt sheet from the Visitor Center that turns exploration into a game.
Licensed Battlefield Guide: Many guides excel at engaging children with age-appropriate stories and fascinating details. (Ask us about booking a guide who specializes in family tours!)
Auto Tour with Strategic Stops: Focus on key locations like Little Round Top, Devil's Den (a natural playground of boulders), and the Pennsylvania Memorial (which you can climb for a panoramic view).
History Programs at Battlefield B&B
As our guests, your children can experience our signature morning history presentations that change daily. One day, your family might be transported back to 1863 through stories of the women and children who lived in Gettysburg during the battle, complete with personal accounts. The next morning, you could examine fascinating Civil War artifacts up close—from military weapons and equipment to everyday items that reveal the culture of the times. Later in your stay, you might witness an immersive presentation on a day in the life of a Civil War soldier, with authentic demonstrations that bring the past vividly to life. These intimate, interactive sessions create memorable learning experiences that history textbooks simply can't provide.
Beyond the Battlefield: Kid-Friendly Gettysburg Activities
Balance the historical sites with these family favorites:
Land of Little Horses
Just a short drive from our inn, this performing animal farm park delights younger children with miniature horse shows, petting areas, and playgrounds.
Gettysburg Heritage Center
Interactive exhibits including a 3D virtual reality experience of Pickett's Charge provide historical context in a format that captivates tech-savvy kids.
Gettysburg Lincoln Railroad Station™
Young train enthusiasts will love exploring this restored 1858 station where President Lincoln arrived before delivering the Gettysburg Address.
Seasonal Activities
Summer: Ghost tours (modified versions appropriate for children), ice cream at Mr. G's, and outdoor concerts
Fall: Apple picking at nearby orchards, corn mazes, and the National Apple Harvest Festival
Winter: Holiday events including The Gettysburg Christmas Festival and Holiday House Tour.
Spring: Strawberry picking and exploring the beautiful countryside as it blooms
Tips for a Successful Family Visit
Start Conversations Before Your Trip
Read age-appropriate books about Gettysburg or watch family-friendly documentaries to build excitement and background knowledge before arrival.
Pack Strategically
Comfortable walking shoes (you'll cover a lot of ground!)
Refillable water bottles
Snacks for battlefield exploration
Sunscreen and hats in summer
A simple camera for kids to document their experience
Balance History with Downtime
At Battlefield B&B, we offer:
Spacious grounds for children to run and play
Family-friendly accommodations
Common areas where kids can unwind with books and games
Hearty breakfasts to fuel your adventures
Create a Souvenir Strategy
Rather than accumulating trinkets, consider helping your child start a collection of:
Pressed pennies from various Gettysburg sites
Photos of monuments corresponding to your home state
Junior Ranger badges
Making History Meaningful
The most impactful family visits to Gettysburg happen when parents help children make connections between:
The events at Gettysburg and the broader context of American history
The courage shown by soldiers and the values we want to instill
The past and present-day issues of unity and democracy
At Battlefield Bed & Breakfast, we're passionate about helping families create meaningful experiences in Gettysburg. We'd be delighted to help you customize your family's visit to create memories that will last a lifetime—and perhaps inspire a lifelong love of history in your children.
Book your family getaway with us and discover why Gettysburg isn't just for history buffs—it's for curious minds of all ages.