Eisenhower National Historic Site Gettysburg
Former home and farm of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, offering a peaceful retreat and intimate glimpse into his life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vintage Christmas tours
Eisenhower National Historic Site Gettysburg
Best Time
Vintage Christmas tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Former home and farm of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, offering a peaceful retreat and intimate glimpse into his life.
"A must-see when you are planning your Gettysburg visit. The grounds are beautifully kept. It is peaceful and serene."
Book House Tours Early
Tours fill up fast! Secure your spot online in advance to guarantee your visit.
Explore the Peaceful Grounds
Take time to stroll the farm; it's a serene escape and a key part of the Eisenhower experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Eisenhower Home Tour
The Eisenhower Residence
Step back in time to see the original furnishings and personal belongings of President and Mamie Eisenhower.
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The Farm Grounds
Eisenhower National Historic Site
Wander through the beautifully maintained pastures and enjoy the serene landscape that President Eisenhower cherished.
Living History Events
Various locations on site
Experience historical reenactments and special events that bring the past to life, often featuring WWII veterans.
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Junior Ranger Program
Visitor Center
A fun and educational activity for kids to learn about President Eisenhower and earn a badge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Allow Ample Time for the Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book House Tours Early
Tours fill up fast! Secure your spot online in advance to guarantee your visit.
Explore the Peaceful Grounds
Take time to stroll the farm; it's a serene escape and a key part of the Eisenhower experience.
Check for Special Events
Living history weekends and holiday decorations offer unique perspectives.
Junior Ranger Fun for Kids
Engage children with the Junior Ranger program for an interactive learning experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book House Tours Early
Tours fill up fast! Secure your spot online in advance to guarantee your visit.
Explore the Peaceful Grounds
Take time to stroll the farm; it's a serene escape and a key part of the Eisenhower experience.
Check for Special Events
Living history weekends and holiday decorations offer unique perspectives.
Junior Ranger Fun for Kids
Engage children with the Junior Ranger program for an interactive learning experience.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and inside the house.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Eisenhower National Historic Site for its beautifully preserved home and serene grounds, offering an intimate look into the lives of President and Mamie Eisenhower. Many highlight the engaging tours and the peaceful atmosphere as major draws, making it a highly recommended stop for history enthusiasts and families alike. Some note that advance booking for house tours is essential.
"This was a beautiful place to visit and learn about our former President and his wife. I learned a lot about them. It is amazing to see the very simplistic life they lived.
It is a must-see when you are planning your Gettysburg visit. The grounds are beautifully kept. It is peaceful and serene"
Amy Hall
"If you enjoy the history of past Presidents, the Eisenhower home is worth a visit. Both my husband’s father as well as my own were WWII veterans so Eisenhower is a prominent and large figure in history. Last year we visited the Library and Museum which was remarkable. Since we were visiting Gettysburg, we couldn’t miss his home as well.
What a time in history and leadership that we cannot seem to match today. It was very enjoyable taking an intimate look at his home and grounds of this farm."
D Atch
"Beautiful home of the Eisenhower family that show cases their original furnishings. The home serves as a venue for the NPS and Dwight D. Eisenhower Society events and hosts visitors who come to the Gettysburg Battlefield. During a recent WWII event, the farm was the perfect backdrop for this annual gathering of reenactment groupe and WWII veterans. Volunteers and NPS staff do a remarkable presentation giving visitors a glimpse into the President's life and why Gettysburg was the only place he and Mamie truly felt at home. A gorgeous private setting full of history and a national treasure generously gifted by the Eisenhowers. A must see opportunity for visitors to the area."
Theresa Clarke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Eisenhower National Historic Site is located just west of the Gettysburg Battlefield. You can drive directly to the site, and parking is available. Many visitors combine a trip here with the Gettysburg National Military Park.
Public transportation options directly to the site are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving.
While close in proximity, walking directly from the main Gettysburg Battlefield visitor center to Eisenhower National Historic Site is a significant distance. It's recommended to drive or use a shuttle if available.
From the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center, take Taneytown Road (US-30 West) to Reynolds Avenue. Turn right onto Reynolds Avenue, then left onto Sickles Avenue. Follow signs for Eisenhower National Historic Site.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the Eisenhower National Historic Site for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds is free. However, tours of the Eisenhower home require a ticket, and it's highly recommended to book these in advance online, especially during peak season.
Ticket prices for the Eisenhower home tour can vary. Check the official National Park Service (NPS) website for the most current pricing information.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. The grounds are generally open daily, but house tours have specific schedules. Always check the NPS website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Yes, you can explore the grounds and exterior of the property without taking a guided house tour. However, the house tour offers the most in-depth experience.
Information on discounts or passes, such as the America the Beautiful Pass, should be checked on the official NPS website.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can take a guided tour of the Eisenhower home, explore the historic farm grounds, attend living history events, and participate in the Junior Ranger program.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours to comfortably tour the house and explore the grounds. If attending a special event, you may want to allocate more time.
Yes, children often enjoy the Junior Ranger program and exploring the farm. The historical context might be more engaging for older children.
Service animals are permitted. For other pets, check the NPS pet policy for Eisenhower National Historic Site, as restrictions may apply to certain areas.
This site preserves the home and farm of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, offering insights into his post-presidency life, his role in the Cold War, and his personal retreat.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies inside historic homes can vary. Generally, personal photography without flash is often permitted, but always check for posted signs or ask a ranger for clarification.
The exterior of the home, the surrounding pastures with views of the mountains, and the historic barns offer excellent photographic opportunities.
While general photography is usually allowed, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always adhere to NPS guidelines.
Visitors often capture landscape shots of the farm, architectural details of the home, and photos during special events like Christmas decorations or reenactments.
Drone operations are typically restricted in National Parks and Historic Sites for safety and privacy reasons. Check the NPS website for specific drone regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The open farm grounds are also great for kids to explore and burn off energy in a safe environment. While the house tour focuses on historical details, many children find the personal aspects of the home and the stories of the Eisenhowers captivating. Consider visiting during a special event like a living history weekend, which can be particularly exciting for younger visitors. The site is generally accessible, making it easier for families with strollers. Remember to check the NPS website for any specific family-friendly programming or events during your planned visit.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond the house, the farm's agricultural history and the site's role in hosting significant historical events and figures add further depth. Exploring the grounds and understanding the context of the Cold War era, during which Eisenhower played a crucial role, makes for a rich and educational visit.
+1🌿 Nature Lovers & Peace Seekers
This site is ideal for those who appreciate historical landscapes and the connection between a person and their environment. It’s a chance to step away from the bustle of the battlefield and enjoy a moment of calm while still being immersed in history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Eisenhower Home: A Presidential Retreat
+1Visitors can tour the home, which remarkably retains about 98% of its original furnishings and personal items. This provides an intimate glimpse into the lives of the Eisenhowers, showcasing their taste and the era. From the living room where they hosted world leaders to the more private spaces, the house offers a tangible connection to a pivotal period in American history. The guided tours are often praised for being informative and engaging, with guides sharing anecdotes that bring the history to life.
During the holiday season, the home is often decorated with vintage Christmas items, reflecting the style of the 1950s and 60s, offering a unique and festive experience for visitors.
This attention to historical detail and the preservation of the home as it was during the Eisenhowers' time makes it a national treasure and a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Exploring the Historic Farm
Walking the grounds offers a sense of the peaceful rural setting that the Eisenhowers found so appealing. You can see the barns, pastures, and the general landscape that provided a respite from the demands of public life. This serene environment was crucial for President Eisenhower's well-being and his ability to reflect and strategize. The site's preservation ensures that this aspect of his life and legacy is accessible to the public.
Special events, such as World War I or World War II weekends, often utilize the farm's open spaces for reenactments and demonstrations, bringing history to life in a dynamic way. These events provide a unique opportunity to see the grounds utilized as they might have been during historical periods.
+1Living History and Special Events
+1These events provide a unique educational opportunity, allowing visitors to engage with history in a tangible way. For instance, during WWII weekends, you might see military vehicles, hear period music, and learn about the daily lives of soldiers and civilians during that era. The farm setting provides an authentic backdrop for these historical interpretations.
Beyond military history, the site also hosts events related to the Eisenhowers' personal lives, such as Christmas tours showcasing vintage decorations. These special occasions add another layer to the visitor experience, offering different perspectives on the site and its historical significance throughout the year.
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