From mid-June to mid-August, the national park rangers of the Gettysburg Battlefield offer visitors a variety of guided tours. You can hike across the battlefield, take a crash course in medical practices of the Civil War or learn about the men who fought and died at Gettysburg by visiting the graves in the Soldiers National Cemetery (dedicated by Abraham Lincoln, and the place where he delivered his Gettysburg Address). Contact the Visitors Center for a schedule of programs; to avoid disappointment, make your reservation early.
Gettysburg National Military Park
1195 Baltimore Pike, Suite 100
Gettysburg, PA 17325-2804
(717) 334-1124, extension 8023
www.nps.gov/gett/index.htm
Begun in 1915, the Licensed Battlefield Guides of Gettysburg is the oldest professional organization of trained historical guides in the United States. Guides must pass a rigorous examination about the Battle of Gettysburg and the history of the town and surrounding region before they are licensed by the federal government to serve as official tour guides in Gettysburg. Guides are available for on-the-spot hire at the Gettysburg National Military Park Visitor Center. If you would like a customized tour of the battlefield or the town of Gettysburg, it is best to call in advance with your request. Licensed guides can lead you and your family on a walking tour or a bicycle tour, or you can tour the area in your car.
Licensed Battlefield Guides
97 Taneytown Road
Gettysburg, PA 17325-2804
(717) 337-1709
www.gettysburgtourguides.org/
A staple of Gettysburg after dark, there are many tour operators who lead visitors, often by candlelight, through the streets and alleys of this historic town to locations that are said to be haunted. For information on ghost tours, conduct an online search for "ghost tours of Gettysburg," or contact the Gettysburg Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Gettysburg Convention & Visitors Bureau
8 Lincoln Square
Gettysburg, PA
(800) 337-5015
http://www.gettysburg.travel/
