2025 News

The Gettysburg Foundation invites Adams County residents to celebrate Adams County Day on Columbus Day, Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, with free admission to the Film, Cyclorama & Museum Experience at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center, thanks to sponsorship from Barley Snyder Attorneys at Law.

Guests will begin their visit with A New Birth of Freedom, the introductory film that sets the stage for understanding the Battle of Gettysburg, followed by the dramatic Gettysburg Cyclorama—a 377-foot, 360-degree painting of Pickett’s Charge—and the Gettysburg Museum of the American Civil War, featuring 12 engaging galleries and the special exhibit A Rough Coarse Life: The World of the Civil War Soldier. These immersive experiences bring the Battle of Gettysburg to life—offering historical insight, powerful storytelling and a personal connection to the soldiers who fought here more than 162 years ago and the civilians who were affected by the battle and helped through the aftermath.

“Adams County is at the heart of Gettysburg’s story,” said Jackie Spainhour, President & CEO of the Gettysburg Foundation. “This day is our way of saying thank you to the community that preserves and lives alongside this history every day. We’re proud to open our doors and share the experience with our neighbors.”

Special Highlights for Adams County Guests

In addition to complimentary admission, Adams County guests will enjoy exclusive experiences throughout the Museum & Visitor Center, including:

• Spotlight on Local Artifacts: View rare items connected to Adams County, highlighting the community’s role in the story of Gettysburg.
• Lincoln Sculpture: A beloved photo spot, the bronze Abraham Lincoln sculpture welcomes guests and symbolizes Gettysburg’s legacy in preserving democracy.
• Eisenhower Exhibit Spotlight: Supported by the Pritzker Military Foundation, this exhibit explores Dwight D. Eisenhower’s life, leadership and Gettysburg home with First Lady Mamie Eisenhower.
• Gettysburg Museum Book Store: Featuring titles by local authors, Civil War literature for all ages and unique Adams County-inspired keepsakes.
• Battlegrounds Café & Grille: Savor an Adams County-themed lunch, seasonal beverage and local favorites.
• Friends of Gettysburg Desk: Learn about the Gettysburg Foundation’s preservation and education mission, in partnership with the National Parks at Gettysburg, and opportunities with a Friends of Gettysburg membership.

Extend Your Visit

Just a short drive away, guests can explore Eisenhower National Historic Site, the property of President Dwight D. and First Lady Mamie Eisenhower. Guests are invited to stroll the grounds—including the gardens, exterior of the teahouse, skeet range, putting green and exterior of the Angus cattle barns—open daily from sunrise to sunset. While the Eisenhower home is currently closed for tours, guests can learn more about the site by visiting nps.gov/eise/learn.