Virginia Memorial Gettysburg
A monumental tribute to Virginia's soldiers, featuring General Lee overlooking the historic battlefield.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Virginia Memorial Gettysburg
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental tribute to Virginia's soldiers, featuring General Lee overlooking the historic battlefield.
"A quiet but moving stop that’s definitely worth your time if you’re visiting the battlefield."
Download the Park App
Enhance your visit with the National Park app for auto tours and historical context. :iphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast battlefield. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Virginia Memorial
Gettysburg Battlefield
A powerful tribute featuring General Lee on horseback, overlooking the field of Pickett's Charge.
Pickett's Charge Site
Adjacent to Virginia Memorial
Stand where one of the Civil War's most famous and tragic assaults unfolded.
Battlefield Monuments
Throughout the Gettysburg Battlefield
Explore numerous state and regimental monuments, each telling a unique story of sacrifice.
Visible Battle Damage
Various buildings in Gettysburg town
See remnants of the battle etched into buildings, a tangible reminder of the conflict.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Understanding the Battlefield's Scale
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Download the Park App
Enhance your visit with the National Park app for auto tours and historical context. :iphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast battlefield. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Monuments
These are solemn tributes; admire their craftsmanship and historical significance. :pray:
Consider a Guided Tour
For deeper historical insights, join a guided tour led by knowledgeable historians.
Tips
from all over the internet
Download the Park App
Enhance your visit with the National Park app for auto tours and historical context. :iphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast battlefield. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Monuments
These are solemn tributes; admire their craftsmanship and historical significance. :pray:
Consider a Guided Tour
For deeper historical insights, join a guided tour led by knowledgeable historians.
Look for Rock Carvings
Discover hidden historical carvings scattered across the battlefield. :mag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Virginia Memorial as an iconic and powerful tribute, highlighting the impressive craftsmanship of General Lee's statue and its commanding position overlooking Pickett's Charge. Many find it a moving and essential stop on the battlefield, offering a tangible connection to history. Some note that with so many monuments, individual preferences may vary, and the lack of restrooms directly at the site is a minor inconvenience.
"The Virginia Monument was a great site to see. Glad we were able to stop in and take in this impressive statue. It’s a powerful tribute to the soldiers of Virginia and a key part of the Gettysburg battlefield. The detail in the monument is striking, especially the statue of General Lee on his horse overlooking the field. It really gives you a sense of the history and the scale of what took place there. A quiet but moving stop that’s definitely worth your time if you’re visiting the battlefield."
Chris R
"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Iconic and Unforgettable – A Must-See at Gettysburg
The Virginia Monument is one of the most iconic and powerful sights on the Gettysburg battlefield. Located right at the edge of Pickett’s Charge, it features a towering statue of General Robert E. Lee on his horse, looking out over the field with solemn resolve. The bronze soldiers below him represent the grit, struggle, and sacrifice of the everyday men who fought here.
Standing in front of this monument, you can feel the weight of history. It’s not just a statue—it’s a moment frozen in time. The craftsmanship is incredible, and the setting adds to the drama. You get a clear view across the field toward Cemetery Ridge, making it easier to grasp the scale of the charge and the cost of the battle.
Whether you’re a history lover or just passing through, the Virginia Monument is a must-visit. It’s not about sides—it’s about remembering. 🇺🇸🕊️📜"
Eddie F.
"Wow what an amazing statue! This monument is massive! Love how Robert e Lee is displayed with Travellers! Great craftsmanship!"
Missy Arnold
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Virginia Memorial is located on the Gettysburg Battlefield. The best way to access it is by driving your own vehicle or taking a guided tour. Many visitors use the National Park app for self-guided auto tours, which will direct you to various points of interest, including the Virginia Memorial. Parking is available nearby, though it can be limited during peak times.
Public transportation directly to the Gettysburg Battlefield is limited. Most visitors arrive by car. If you are coming from a major city like Washington D.C., consider driving or arranging a private tour.
While it's possible to walk, the Gettysburg Battlefield is quite expansive. The Virginia Memorial is a significant distance from the town center, and walking the entire battlefield can be time-consuming and strenuous. It's recommended to use a vehicle or a guided tour to reach specific monuments like the Virginia Memorial.
Many visitors find the National Park Service app to be invaluable for navigating the battlefield. It offers auto tours with detailed information about each stop, including the Virginia Memorial. Alternatively, licensed battlefield guides can provide in-depth historical context and lead you to key locations.
The Gettysburg Battlefield itself is part of the National Military Park and is generally free to enter and explore. However, there are fees for the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center, as well as for special programs or tours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need tickets to visit the Virginia Memorial or most of the Gettysburg Battlefield. These are part of the National Military Park and are accessible to the public.
The Gettysburg Battlefield is generally open year-round from dawn to dusk. However, specific visitor centers or museums may have different operating hours. It's always a good idea to check the official National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information.
While the museum offers extensive historical context, many visitors find that exploring the battlefield itself, with the help of the park app or a guide, provides a profound experience. If your priority is the physical landscape and monuments like the Virginia Memorial, you can focus your visit on the battlefield grounds.
Visitors are asked to be respectful of the monuments and the historical significance of the battlefield. Please refrain from climbing on monuments or leaving litter. Some areas might have specific access restrictions for preservation purposes.
Yes, many guided tours of the Gettysburg Battlefield will include a stop at the Virginia Memorial. Look for tours that focus on Pickett's Charge or Confederate positions for a more in-depth experience of this area.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Virginia Memorial is a tribute to the soldiers from Virginia who fought at Gettysburg. It features a prominent statue of General Robert E. Lee on horseback, overlooking the battlefield, symbolizing the Confederate efforts during the battle.
You'll see a large bronze statue of General Lee and his horse, surrounded by figures representing Confederate soldiers. The monument is situated at a key location, offering views of the terrain where Pickett's Charge occurred.
Restroom facilities are not typically located directly at the Virginia Memorial itself. You may find them at the main Visitor Center or at designated rest stops along the auto tour route.
Yes, the Virginia Memorial is a very photogenic spot, especially with the statue of General Lee and the expansive battlefield views. The lighting can be particularly beautiful during sunrise or sunset.
The entire Gettysburg Battlefield is known for its paranormal lore, and the Virginia Memorial is no exception. Some believe lingering spirits can be felt or seen in the area. +2
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photographing the Virginia Memorial. The 'golden hour' before sunset can create dramatic shadows and a warm glow on the bronze statues.
You can capture wide shots of the monument with the battlefield in the background, close-ups of the detailed sculptures, and portraits with the iconic statue. Consider different angles to showcase the scale and artistry.
Drone usage is restricted in National Parks, including Gettysburg Battlefield, to protect the historical integrity and visitor experience. Always check the latest National Park Service regulations before flying a drone.
The area around Pickett's Charge is very photogenic, as are other monuments on the battlefield. The rolling hills and open fields provide a dramatic backdrop for any historical photography. +1
Yes, many buildings in Gettysburg town still bear visible battle damage. These offer unique photographic opportunities to see the tangible impact of the Civil War.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs
🚶 Solo Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Virginia Memorial
The monument's design aims to capture the spirit and sacrifice of the Virginian soldiers. The figures surrounding Lee represent the common men who fought bravely, enduring immense hardship. The monument's location is particularly significant, situated near the high-water mark of the Confederacy and the epicenter of Pickett's Charge. Standing here allows visitors to visualize the intense fighting and the strategic decisions made during those critical days in July 1863.
Beyond its historical representation, the Virginia Memorial is a place of reflection. It serves as a reminder of the human cost of conflict and the enduring legacy of the Civil War. Visitors often describe a profound sense of history and solemnity when standing before it, making it a must-see stop for anyone touring the Gettysburg Battlefield.
Exploring the Gettysburg Battlefield
Beyond the major monuments, keep an eye out for smaller, often overlooked historical markers and even rock carvings left by soldiers.
Many visitors also report seeing battle damage still visible on buildings within the town of Gettysburg itself, a stark reminder of the conflict's impact beyond the battlefield lines.
Gettysburg's Paranormal Reputation
Specific areas on the battlefield, such as Devil's Den, The Wheatfield, and Neill Avenue (also known as The Lost Avenue), are frequently cited as hotspots for paranormal activity.
While the existence of ghosts is a matter of belief, the pervasive atmosphere of history and the sheer scale of the human tragedy at Gettysburg contribute to its enduring reputation as a haunted site. Many tours and local businesses capitalize on this aspect, offering ghost walks and paranormal investigations for those interested in the spectral side of Gettysburg's history.
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