2024 News

The Gettysburg Foundation is pleased to welcome Adams County residents back to the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center and invite them to a special Adams County Day on Columbus Day, Monday, Oct. 14, 2024. Residents of Adams County, Pennsylvania, can enjoy free admission to the Film, Cyclorama & Museum Experience in the Museum & Visitor Center thanks to a generous sponsorship of the free admission by Barley Snyder Attorneys at Law.

Adams County residents begin with A New Birth of Freedom film, followed by the sound and light show of the Gettysburg Cyclorama. Guests can explore at leisure galleries of rare artifacts and interactive exhibits in the Gettysburg Museum of the American Civil War. These exclusive resources and experiences introduce guests to Civil War and Battle of Gettysburg events and provide insights into the history, stories and lessons of the era.

Local residents visiting on Adams County Day can find exclusive Adams County treasures, history and highlights. In addition to a welcome from and a unique photo opportunity with the iconic Lincoln sculpture situated in front of the building, numerous artifacts directly related to Adams County in the museum will be highlighted. Gettysburg National Military Park and the Gettysburg Foundation will provide Adams County adult complimentary ticket holders with a gallery guide featuring Adams County artifacts and a battlefield spotlight location guests can visit on the Gettysburg battlefield.

Adams County adult complimentary ticket holders can also enter a drawing, offered by the Gettysburg Foundation, to win a Battlefield Car Tour, a personalized two-hour experience (for up to six visitors) with a Licensed Battlefield Guide. A winner will be drawn Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024, and notified shortly thereafter.

Guests can learn about our 34th President Dwight D. Eisenhower, with the Eisenhower Exhibit Spotlight, made possible thanks to the generosity of the Pritzker Military Foundation on behalf of the Pritzker Military Museum & Library. Inspired by the life and career of General and President Eisenhower, the Exhibit Spotlight introduces you to Eisenhower’s Gettysburg farm—Eisenhower National Historic Site. The spotlight explores the history of Eisenhower’s life as a Soldier, General, President and Citizen, as well as a nod to Eisenhower’s leadership. The spotlight features historical information and photos, several artifacts and a panel including a historical photo background of Eisenhower on the Gettysburg battlefield that provides visitors with a unique photo opportunity.

Guests are invited to visit Eisenhower National Historic Site, 250 Eisenhower Farm Road, Gettysburg, for a self-guided tour of the grounds, open sunrise to sunset. President Dwight and First Lady Mamie Eisenhower gifted their home and farm to the National Park Service for all to enjoy. A self-guided tour of the grounds includes the charming home and historic barn’s exterior, gardens, teahouse, skeet range, putting green and Angus cattle barns. On-site parking is available.

Local residents shopping in the Gettysburg Museum Book Store will find books written by Adams County authors and numerous Civil War and Gettysburg titles for all ages, souvenirs, gifts and merchandise. Guests dining at the on-site eatery, Battlegrounds Café & Grille, will find a lunch special and local favorite beverages and treats.

Area residents are invited to visit the Friends Desk in the Museum & Visitor Center to learn about the Friends of Gettysburg, member support and benefits. The Friends of Gettysburg help support the Gettysburg Foundation’s preservation and education mission in partnership with the National Parks at Gettysburg.

Located at 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center is currently open 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., with the last Film and Cyclorama show beginning at 4:15 p.m. Present proof of Adams County residence, e.g., a driver’s license, at the Ticket Counter to obtain free admission tickets.