About the Organization
Preserves and interprets the Battle of Gettysburg and its significance. Features museum with extensive Civil War artifacts, Cyclorama painting, and vast battlefield with monuments and interpretive programs.
The Magnificent Gettysburg Cyclorama
The crown jewel of the museum is the Gettysburg Cyclorama, one of the largest free-standing paintings in North America. This immense work of art measures 42 feet high and 377 feet long, creating a stunning 360-degree panorama of Pickett's Charge. Painted in the 1880s by French artist Paul Philippoteaux and his team, the painting survived years of exhibition, vandalism, fire, and neglect before finding its permanent home in Gettysburg in 1913. After a multimillion-dollar restoration from 2004-2008, visitors can now experience this masterpiece with dramatic light and sound effects that bring the pivotal battle to life.
Museum Collections and Special Programs
The Museum of the American Civil War houses an extensive collection of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and short films that tell the stories of soldiers and civilians during the Battle of Gettysburg. A special temporary exhibit, "A Rough Coarse Life: The World of the Civil War Soldier," offers visitors a glimpse into the daily experiences of those who fought. The Foundation also operates the George Spangler Farm & Field Hospital, Children of Gettysburg 1863, and the Gettysburg Lincoln Railroad Station, providing diverse perspectives on this crucial moment in American history. The McKenna Foundation Resource Room helps guests explore Civil War ancestry and begin genealogical research with assistance from knowledgeable volunteers.
Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Experiences
For those seeking a deeper connection to history, the Foundation offers "An Evening with the Painting" on select Saturday evenings throughout the year. This intimate after-hours program, limited to just 40 participants per session, provides unprecedented close-up access to the restored Cyclorama painting with expert presentations combining history, art, and preservation techniques. The museum also features "Ticket to the Past—Unforgettable Journeys," a new cinematic virtual reality experience that transports visitors into immersive historical moments. Through the Museums for All program, families receiving SNAP benefits can enjoy free admission to the Film, Cyclorama & Museum Experience, ensuring this important history remains accessible to all.
Plan Your Visit
The Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center is located at 1195 Baltimore Pike, Gettysburg, PA 17325. Hours are 8 AM to 5 PM March through November, and 9 AM to 4 PM December through February. The facility is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve (early at 1 PM), Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. Free parking is available, with shuttles to battlefield tour starting points. For tickets to the Film, Cyclorama & Museum Experience, "An Evening with the Painting," and other programs, call (717) 334-2436 or visit gettysburgfoundation.org.
Getting Involved
The Gettysburg Foundation is the official nonprofit partner of Gettysburg National Military Park and Eisenhower National Historic Site. Support their mission by becoming a member, volunteering, or making a donation to preserve and interpret this pivotal chapter of American history for future generations.
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