Civil War for Kids in Gettysburg
(and Other Fun Things to Do!)

Here’s my list of the best historical sites in Gettysburg about the Civil War for kids. Children can also take a break from living history to enjoy other area amusements. It all adds up to family fun and spending quality time together.

Historical Attractions Related to the Civil War for Kids

• Gettysburg National Military Park has a special program where children can become a Junior Ranger. Ask for the Activity Guide for Junior Ranger Candidates at the park visitor center, then complete three activities. Return the booklet to the information desk for review by a park ranger and receive a patch and certificate!
• Check the schedule of events for Civil War for kids living history events. There’s something every weekend throughout the summer at the American Civil War Museum.
• You can take a scenic train ride or at least imagine one from inside the Train Museum.
• The Artillery Ridge Campground Resort has a miniature Battlefield Diorama of the way the town looked in 1863. See the town as children of the Civil War era saw it.
• The Explore & More children’s museum has an 1863 room where kids can play with the same types of toys that Civil War children enjoyed.

Other Fun Places for Kids

• The Land of Little Horses is a great place to take children. They have lots of miniature horses and some other animals. There are shows where the horses count and harness racing. I have fond memories of going there with my grandparents when I was little.
• Boyds Bear Country is a must see if you like teddy bears and stuffed animals. When I was there, I saw a stuffed penguin almost as big as I am! It’s a great place for kids of all ages.
• The Eisenhower Farm has a special program where children ages 7 to 12 can train as Junior Secret Service agents. All visitors in this age range receive a manual of activities they follow and fill out to earn a badge and certificate.
• Miniature golf courses are available at several of the area campgrounds.
• Go bowling! Gilly’s Bowl and Grille has specials for families and kids (and senior citizens). They have tenpin and duckpin.

If you’re willing to take a day trip away from Gettysburg, you can also visit Hershey Park or Dutch Wonderland amusement parks. The nearest zoo is about 20 minutes away at Cotoctin State Park in Maryland.

Every family vacation can be kid-friendly and fun! For some great family vacation ideas see the Kid-Friendly Family Vacations Guide chronicling the adventures of a family of 6.

What’s your favorite family activity in Gettysburg? Let me know, and I’ll share the best ideas here!