(This article by writer and historian Lt. Col. Patrick J. Chiasson, USA (Ret), originally appeared in the June 2022 issue of Military Officer, a magazine available to all MOAA Premium and Life members. Learn more about the magazine here; learn more about joining MOAA here.)

You won’t travel far in Pennsylvania without discovering the big things that happened in the Keystone State. Philadelphia, home to the iconic Liberty Bell, calls itself the birthplace of American independence. Decades later, the iron ore mined near Scranton and steel produced in Pittsburgh helped transform our nation into an industrial powerhouse.

Military history is on display here: Pennsylvania played a critical role in the Revolutionary War, with Valley Forge and Washington’s Crossing of the Delaware two of its best-known historic sites.

History came to Gettysburg, above, in south-central Pennsylvania, during the Civil War when thousands of soldiers marched here to fight a decisive battle. Today, this crossroads town’s out-of-time charm draws folks ready to explore, relax, and reflect.

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A stop at the National Military Park visitor center introduces you to Gettysburg’s main attraction, its 6,000-acre battlefield. Get a tour map and schedule of free ranger talks at the National Park Service information desk. An introductory film and museum (fees apply) help describe the momentous events that occurred there.

The visitor center is also where you can meet a licensed battlefield guide such as Col. Fred Wieners, USAF (Ret), past president of MOAA’s Greater Rome-Utica Chapter. According to Wieners, hiring a guide is the fastest way to understand what happened at Gettysburg.

“Guides help bring the battlefield to life,” he said, “and can tailor a two- to three-hour tour to the guest’s interests and background.”

You can see the park by joining a bus tour or taking the 24-mile driving route by motor vehicle, bicycle, or scooter. Horse rentals are also available.

Be sure to wander Gettysburg’s historic downtown area for its antique stores, gift shops, and art galleries. Don’t forget to check out a farmers market for fresh fruit and produce in season.

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You could share the patio at O’Rorke’s Family Eatery with off-duty Civil War reenactors who might even serenade you with 19th century camp songs. For a town so steeped in history, this somehow all seems normal — even paranormal. Ghost walks are popular nighttime activities.

Lodging choices include local campgrounds, RV parks, namebrand hotels, boutique guesthouses, and historic B&Bs. The family-friendly 1863 Inn of Gettysburg sits yards from the Soldiers National Cemetery where Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous Gettysburg Address.

Consider stopping by the nearby Eisenhower National Historic Site, which preserves the country farm of Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th U.S. president.  

One of Pennsylvania’s biggest attractions, Gettysburg welcomes active visitors eager to discover its unique blend of history, adventure, fine food, and shopping. You won’t see all 1,300 monuments on your first trip here, but that shouldn’t discourage you from trying. 

PENNSYLVANIA FOODIE FACT: Gettysburg’s restaurants should please every palette. The Dobbin House Tavern, built in 1776, offers both fine and casual dining in the town’s oldest home. Beer aficionados will enjoy a pint and bar food at the Appalachian Brewing Co. After dinner, try a homemade gelato at Cone Sweet Cone.