Forum Discussion

el_jefe1's avatar
el_jefe1
Explorer
Jun 26, 2019

Gettysburg with kids

We're on our way to Gettysburg today, I'd like to make it as engaging a trip as possibly for the kids (age range between 1-15). We will do the visitor center and cyclorama, just wondering for those of you who have brought kids to the battlefield - tour or no tour? Self paced or battlefield guide? Any other ideas or suggestions?
  • I don't think small children would get much out of Gettysburg. The older kids might find it moderately interesting. Most kids don't really get into history until they get older. I enjoyed the cyclorama just due to the fact that it is so old. Its like 100 year old 3d. We just did the tour ourselves. You can get an app for your phone, or if you have a vehicle, you can hire a driver for your vehicle that is a tour guide. The museum itself is interesting.
  • Keep it light even for the 15 year old with a good tour guide and a short presentation.
  • It has to be hard for young people to appreciate Gettysburg until they know and understand the importance of the battle and time. Perhaps the museum/visitor center will provide a good experience. Not sure the trip through the battle fields and all the state monuments will be of interest. Expect a lot of questions like Why?