Pennsylvania Military Museum
Explore U.S. military history with regional focus, featuring outdoor vehicles, indoor exhibits, and scenic memorial trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Living historians & family fun
Pennsylvania Military Museum
Best Time
Living historians & family fun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore U.S. military history with regional focus, featuring outdoor vehicles, indoor exhibits, and scenic memorial trails.
"A lovely little museum with cool exhibits and beautiful grounds, great for a quick historical stop."
🎯 Plan for a Quick Visit
The museum is small; expect to spend 20-30 minutes inside, plus time outdoors .
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Outdoor Trails
Beautiful grounds with memorials and nature, great for walks .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Outdoor Vehicle Displays
Exterior grounds
See a collection of armored and unarmored vehicles and weapons from major wars.
Vietnam War Collection
Indoor exhibits
Explore artifacts and stories from the Vietnam War, including personal collections.
WWII Homefront Exhibits
Indoor exhibits
Discover the role of Pennsylvania during WWII, including the Farm Show Complex conversion.
Memorial Walking Trails
Exterior grounds
Stroll through peaceful trails dotted with memorials and natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Fuller Experience
This adds a dynamic layer beyond the static exhibits, making it a richer experience for all ages.Explore Beyond the Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan for a Quick Visit
The museum is small; expect to spend 20-30 minutes inside, plus time outdoors.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Outdoor Trails
Beautiful grounds with memorials and nature, great for walks.
📚 Browse the Book Sale
Gift shop often has interesting books at great prices.
📅 Check for Special Events
Living history events and activities enhance the experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan for a Quick Visit
The museum is small; expect to spend 20-30 minutes inside, plus time outdoors.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Outdoor Trails
Beautiful grounds with memorials and nature, great for walks.
📚 Browse the Book Sale
Gift shop often has interesting books at great prices.
📅 Check for Special Events
Living history events and activities enhance the experience.
🚗 Ample Parking Available
Easy access and parking for visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Pennsylvania Military Museum to be a charming and educational stop, particularly appreciating the outdoor vehicle displays and peaceful walking trails. While some note its small size, the historical exhibits, especially those on WWII and Vietnam, are well-regarded, and special events add significant value. The friendly staff and the book sale are also frequently mentioned positives.
"Lovely little museum. A handful of tanks outside, and some cool exhibits inside. I also liked the book sale in their gift shop, I picked up a handful of interesting books for really cheap. Only downside is that the museum is really small. Aside from the 20 minute video you can watch, you might be in and out in less than 20-30 minutes if you look at all the exhibits and see everything inside."
Lucas Schaffer
"While we did not go inside, I wanted to review this location and let others know about an annual event. A Walk to Remember our Fallen takes place on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. This 5k is an opportunity to support a local Centre County organization that provides care packages for deployed service members. We participated in the second annual walk, you can register online or come the day up and sign up. There are local and state military organizations for Veterans and survivor’s families in attendance.
It is a deeply moving occasion that should not be missed. The grounds of the Museum provide for a beautiful back drop."
Nicole M
"Lots of cool facts to learn in this museum! They're are amazing examples of both armored and unarmored vehicles and weapons from all of the major wars.
There are plenty of memorials along the walking trails outside and beautiful nature along these trails, in general it is just a beautiful environment. My only complaint would be that some of the information boards outside are unreadable because of how worn they are, but other than that the place is nice and well kept. The staff are also very nice and helpful."
ComradVibes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pennsylvania Military Museum is located in Boalsburg, PA. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available for visitors. While public transport options are limited in Boalsburg, driving is the most convenient way to reach the museum.
No, the Pennsylvania Military Museum is not located in Gettysburg. It's in Boalsburg, which is a separate location from Gettysburg, though both are significant historical sites in Pennsylvania.
Yes, Pennsylvania has several military museums, including those in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, as well as the Soldiers National Museum in Gettysburg [^SEO keyword: military museums in pa].
The most common way to reach Boalsburg is by car. It's accessible via major roadways in central Pennsylvania. Consider using GPS for the most direct route.
Yes, the museum is generally well-marked and easy to locate in Boalsburg. Follow local signage once you are in the town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum's hours can vary seasonally. It's always best to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information on operating hours, especially for the 'boalsburg military museum hours' [^SEO keyword: boalsburg military museum hours].
Admission fees are typically modest. Check the museum's official website for current pricing and any potential discounts. The book sale in the gift shop also offers great deals.
For general admission, advance booking is usually not required. However, for special events or group visits, it's advisable to inquire about reservation policies.
Many military museums offer discounts. It's recommended to check the museum's admission page or contact them directly to inquire about any available military or veteran discounts.
The outdoor exhibits and walking trails are often accessible even when the indoor museum may be closed, especially the memorial trails. However, confirm this with the museum directly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features indoor exhibits on various wars, including WWII and the Vietnam War, with artifacts, vehicles, and personal stories. Outdoors, you'll find tanks, memorials, and walking trails.
Most visitors find that the indoor portion can be explored in about 20-30 minutes. Including the outdoor exhibits and trails, you might spend an hour or more.
Yes, children often enjoy the outdoor vehicles and the historical context. Special events like living history days can be particularly engaging for families.
Information on guided tours is not widely advertised. It's best to contact the museum directly to inquire about the availability of guided tours or if they offer any special programs.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside museums, but flash photography might be restricted to protect artifacts. Always check for posted signage or ask staff.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself typically does not have a full-service restaurant. However, they may offer snacks or have a small gift shop. Special events might include food trucks.
Boalsburg and the surrounding areas offer various dining options, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants. You can find local eateries for a meal before or after your visit.
Picnic areas might be available on the grounds, especially near the walking trails. It's best to confirm their policy on outside food and beverages.
Boalsburg offers a range of American cuisine. On Tuesdays, the farmers market provides local produce, artisanal meats, cheeses, and breads.
Yes, Boalsburg has local cafes where you can grab a coffee and a light snack.
📸 📸 Photography
The outdoor vehicle displays, the memorial walking trails, and the historical buildings offer great photographic opportunities. Special events with reenactors also make for dynamic shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and museums to ensure safety and preserve the atmosphere. It's essential to check the museum's specific drone policy before flying.
While personal photography is usually permitted, flash photography might be prohibited inside to protect exhibits. Always look for signage or ask staff for clarification.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is good for both indoor exhibits and outdoor vehicles. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of the grounds and memorials.
The scenic grounds and historical backdrops can make for unique portrait sessions, especially during events or with the outdoor exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the indoor exhibits are informative, the museum's compact size means it's best suited for shorter visits with children to maintain their engagement. The walking trails offer a pleasant break and a chance for kids to explore the grounds. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as dining options on-site are limited, though food trucks may be present during events.
🚶♂️ History Buffs & Enthusiasts
The presence of original uniforms and artifacts, such as Lt. Col. Hornsby-Drake's uniform, adds significant historical value.While the museum is small, the curated displays and the outdoor vehicle collection offer a concentrated dose of military history. Visiting during special events with living historians can provide a more immersive experience, allowing for direct interaction and deeper understanding of historical periods. Don't overlook the book sale in the gift shop, which can be a treasure trove for finding niche historical texts.
🐶 Dog Walkers & Nature Lovers
While the primary focus is military history, the natural beauty of the area is a significant draw for many visitors. The open spaces and well-maintained paths provide a refreshing break. On Tuesdays, the farmers market adds another layer of local charm to the grounds, offering fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Outdoor Exhibits
Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to walk among these impressive machines, often finding them to be a highlight of their visit.
It's worth noting that some of the outdoor information boards may show signs of wear, but the overall presentation of the vehicles and memorials remains impactful. The outdoor area is also a popular spot for casual walks and even dog-friendly outings, making it a versatile space for different visitor needs.
WWII and Beyond: Thematic Collections
+1Visitors can expect to find detailed displays that explore the experiences of soldiers and civilians alike. The Vietnam War collection, for instance, features personal items and stories that offer a poignant glimpse into that era.
While the museum is relatively small, the curated exhibits are designed to be informative and engaging. The Myth & Reality: Military Art in the Age of Queen Victoria exhibit, for example, showcases both portraits and original uniforms, offering a unique perspective on military representation.
This thoughtful curation ensures that even a brief visit can be highly educational.Community Events and Activities
During these times, the museum transforms with the presence of living historians who bring the past to life through demonstrations and interactions. These events are designed to be family-friendly, often including food trucks and activities that appeal to all ages, making it a vibrant and immersive experience.Beyond major holidays, the museum grounds are also utilized for other community gatherings. The 'A Walk to Remember our Fallen' 5k on Memorial Day weekend is a prime example, supporting local organizations and fostering a sense of remembrance and community spirit.
Furthermore, the museum participates in local events like the PA Farm Show, where they share information about Pennsylvania's military history and its connection to the state's heritage.
This outreach demonstrates a commitment to educating the public beyond the museum's physical location and highlights the diverse ways history can be presented and experienced.
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