13 Essential US Historical Journeys for Every American

7. Gettysburg National Military Park Auto Tour

Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania provides a deeply moving opportunity to reflect on the costs and consequences of conflict. The site’s auto tour traces key moments of the 1863 Civil War battle, weaving through Little Round Top, Cemetery Ridge, and Pickett’s Charge—each a chapter in the fight to define the nation’s future. The route, approximately 24 miles long, follows a series of recommended stops with interpretive signs and self-guided audio options. The visitor center is a trove of artifacts and engaging exhibits, bringing to life the decisions, dilemmas, and sacrifices faced by soldiers on both sides. Preservation efforts ensure that present-day travelers can walk, drive, or bike past fields that bore witness to one of history’s great turning points. Reflection and remembrance are woven into every mile—ideal for families, students, and anyone seeking to understand the power of memory and reconciliation.