The park offers an immersive educational experience, blending history and interactive programs that make the Civil War era come alive for students. With a range of programs designed for grades 4 through 12, students can explore Gettysburg’s significance by visiting iconic battlefield sites with guides and participating in place-based activities that deepen their understanding of history. A highlight of these visits is the “History Labs,” which include activities such as signal flag communication exercises, role-playing as Civil War soldiers, and sketching the battlefield, all designed to foster engagement and critical thinking about wartime experiences and innovations.
The area also offers a structured “Best Field Trip Ever!” planner to help teachers customize their experience. This resource includes everything from scheduling tips to activity guides tailored to students’ age groups and learning goals. Many groups begin at the Museum and Visitor Center, where they watch A New Birth of Freedom, narrated by Morgan Freeman, and view the Gettysburg Cyclorama, a massive 360-degree depiction of Pickett’s Charge. Students are also introduced to the world of Civil War soldiers and the daily challenges they faced, adding depth to the visual and hands-on learning experience.
Additionally, the Children of Gettysburg 1863 museum offers younger visitors interactive exhibits focusing on the lives of children and young adults in Gettysburg during the 1863 battle, making history relatable on a personal level. For older students, programs like Docs and Rocks at Devil’s Den combine science with history, examining geology alongside Civil War-era medical practices. Together, these experiences make Gettysburg an ideal site for educators seeking to enrich students’ knowledge of U.S. history, civics, and social studies.
