Eternal Light Peace Memorial
A solemn stone tower with an eternal flame, symbolizing peace and unity on the historic Gettysburg Battlefield.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light & fireflies
Eternal Light Peace Memorial
Best Time
Magical light & fireflies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn stone tower with an eternal flame, symbolizing peace and unity on the historic Gettysburg Battlefield.
"Absolutely beautiful and amazing! Don't miss this!"
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Visit at sunrise or sunset for stunning light and fewer people. Fireflies often appear in summer evenings!
🚶♂️ Reflective Stroll
Take your time to absorb the peaceful atmosphere and the expansive battlefield views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Eternal Flame
Top of the stone tower
A constant flame in a bronze urn, symbolizing enduring peace and unity.
Panoramic Views
Terraced hill summit
Expansive vistas over the Gettysburg Battlefield, visible for miles.
Presidential Dedication Site
Base of the memorial
Site where President Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicated the memorial in 1938.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respectful Observation
be mindful of the historical significance and the peaceful atmosphere. Consider visiting with a sense of reflection on the sacrifices made.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Visit at sunrise or sunset for stunning light and fewer people. Fireflies often appear in summer evenings!
🚶♂️ Reflective Stroll
Take your time to absorb the peaceful atmosphere and the expansive battlefield views.
📸 Drone Photography
Drones can capture unique aerial shots, but always fly responsibly and respectfully.
📍 Oak Hill Location
Located northwest of Gettysburg on Oak Hill, offering great views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Golden Hour Magic
Visit at sunrise or sunset for stunning light and fewer people. Fireflies often appear in summer evenings!
🚶♂️ Reflective Stroll
Take your time to absorb the peaceful atmosphere and the expansive battlefield views.
📸 Drone Photography
Drones can capture unique aerial shots, but always fly responsibly and respectfully.
📍 Oak Hill Location
Located northwest of Gettysburg on Oak Hill, offering great views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Eternal Light Peace Memorial to be a beautiful and deeply moving monument, offering stunning panoramic views of the Gettysburg Battlefield. Its symbolism of peace and unity resonates strongly, especially when experienced during the serene hours of sunset, often accompanied by fireflies. While some may not have known about it beforehand, it's consistently described as a must-see and a highlight of any Gettysburg visit.
"The Eternal Light Peace Memorial is a simple yet strikingly beautiful monument at Gettysburg National Military Park. Dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1938 on the 75th anniversary of the battle, it stands as a symbol of unity and healing between North and South. Overlooking the fields where some of the first fighting took place, this memorial is not only meaningful but also offers one of the most memorable views at Gettysburg — definitely worth a visit."
Dave Osen
"We arrived just after sunset (around 9pm) on a Saturday after a long day exploring the whole park and there was nobody else present at the memorial. It was very serene, and nobody else showed up for the 20 minutes we stayed. The fireflies came out in droves, and fireworks started way out in the mountains. It was a beautiful nod to the peace and light that this memorial represents."
Rachel W
"Didn't know this existed till I had watched a video on gettysburg. It was a must see and first on our list to visit. The eternal flame over looks a beautiful range. Absolutely beautiful and amazing! Don't miss this!"
Missy Arnold
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Eternal Light Peace Memorial is located northwest of Gettysburg on Oak Hill, accessible via Mummasburg Road.
Yes, the Eternal Light Peace Memorial is situated within the Gettysburg National Military Park, a key historical site managed by the National Park Service.
Yes, you can drive to the vicinity of the Eternal Light Peace Memorial. There is parking available, allowing for easy access to the memorial and its surrounding grounds.
Using a map of the Gettysburg National Military Park is recommended. The Eternal Light Peace Memorial is often a highlight for visitors seeking panoramic views of the battlefield.
Generally, access to the Eternal Light Peace Memorial is open. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Gettysburg National Military Park website for any temporary closures or advisories before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Eternal Light Peace Memorial and the Gettysburg National Military Park grounds is generally free. There are no admission fees for this specific monument.
The memorial is part of the Gettysburg National Military Park, which is typically open from dawn to dusk. The eternal flame itself is a permanent fixture.
While the park itself is free to enter, there may be fees for specific tours or attractions within the park, such as the museum or visitor center. The Eternal Light Peace Memorial does not have an associated fee.
The memorial is accessible during daylight hours, aligning with the park's general operating times. Visiting during sunrise or sunset offers particularly beautiful experiences.
Visitors are expected to be respectful of the memorial and its historical significance. Please stay on designated paths and do not disturb the monument or its surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for photography. Summer evenings are also popular due to the fireflies.
Drone usage is permitted in Gettysburg National Military Park, but subject to specific regulations. Always check the latest NPS guidelines for drone operation to ensure compliance.
The memorial offers expansive panoramic views of the Gettysburg Battlefield, with visibility potentially up to 20 miles on a clear day.
The summit of the terraced hill provides the most iconic views. The eternal flame itself is also a popular subject. Instagram Reels often showcase the sunset views.
The eternal flame provides a constant light source. While the memorial itself isn't heavily illuminated, the flame is visible, and the surrounding battlefield can be seen under moonlight or with ambient light.
🎫 📜 History & Significance
Dedicated on July 3, 1938, the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, it symbolizes peace and unity between the North and South. President Franklin D. Roosevelt officiated the dedication.
President Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicated the memorial. The flame was unveiled by one Union and one Confederate veteran, highlighting the memorial's theme of reconciliation.
The eternal flame, housed in a bronze urn, symbolizes the enduring peace and unity achieved after the Civil War, a stark contrast to the conflict that occurred on the battlefield.
The memorial features a 47 1/2 foot tall stone shaft topped with a one-ton bronze urn containing the eternal flame, situated on a stone pedestrian terrace.
Some historical accounts suggest controversy surrounding its design or the specific narrative it represents, though its primary message is one of peace and reconciliation.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can admire the eternal flame, take in the panoramic battlefield views, reflect on the history, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It's a great spot for quiet contemplation.
A visit can be as short as 30 minutes for a quick look and photos, or longer if you wish to sit and soak in the views and atmosphere. Many visitors spend about an hour.
Restroom facilities are typically available within Gettysburg National Military Park, though they may not be directly adjacent to the memorial itself. Check park maps for locations.
The memorial is situated on a terraced hill, and while there are paths, accessibility can vary. The main viewing areas are generally accessible, but it's advisable to check with the park service for specific details.
The atmosphere is generally serene and reflective, especially during off-peak hours. Visitors often describe it as peaceful and moving, particularly at sunset with fireflies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during daylight hours for better visibility and to discuss the memorial's purpose. The eternal flame itself is a fascinating element for younger visitors. Pack snacks and water, as amenities directly at the memorial are limited. It's a great opportunity to teach children about American history in a tangible way.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Don't miss the chance to capture the eternal flame itself, a powerful symbol. If visiting in the summer, be prepared for the enchanting spectacle of fireflies that often appear as dusk settles, adding a magical element to your shots. Remember to check drone regulations if you plan to capture aerial perspectives.
+1🤔 History Buffs
+1Take time to read any interpretive signage available and consider the broader context of the memorial's placement on Oak Hill, overlooking key areas of the battlefield. The memorial's symbolism of enduring peace is a powerful counterpoint to the conflict that defined this landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Symbolism of Peace and Unity
President Franklin D. Roosevelt, in his dedication speech, emphasized the shared responsibility of Americans to maintain this peace. The act of having both a Union and a Confederate veteran unveil the flame underscored the memorial's core message: that the sacrifices of the past should lead to a future of harmony. This sentiment is echoed by visitors who find the memorial deeply moving and a poignant reminder of the cost of war and the value of peace.
While the memorial's primary purpose is to commemorate peace, its location on the battlefield also serves as a stark reminder of the immense human cost of the Civil War. The expansive views from Oak Hill allow visitors to contemplate the scale of the conflict and appreciate the hard-won peace that followed. It's a place for reflection, not just on the past, but on the ongoing commitment required to maintain national unity.
Capturing the Memorial: Photography and Views
+1Many visitors recommend timing their visit for the 'golden hours' – sunrise and sunset. During these times, the light casts a warm glow over the Gettysburg Battlefield, creating dramatic shadows and vibrant colors that are ideal for photography. Instagram Reels frequently showcase these stunning sunset views, often accompanied by the magical appearance of fireflies in the summer months, adding an ethereal quality to the scene.
+1For those interested in aerial perspectives, drone photography can offer a unique way to capture the memorial in context with the vast battlefield. However, it's crucial to adhere to all National Park Service regulations regarding drone usage within the park. Regardless of your photographic approach, the Eternal Light Peace Memorial provides ample opportunities to capture memorable images that reflect its historical significance and natural beauty.
A Place of Reflection and Remembrance
The memorial's location on Oak Hill provides a commanding view of the surrounding battlefield, prompting contemplation on the immense sacrifices made during the Civil War. The eternal flame itself is a constant reminder of the enduring spirit of peace and unity that emerged from the conflict. Many find themselves moved by the quiet solemnity of the place, reflecting on the lives lost and the lessons learned.
Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a moment of quiet contemplation, the Eternal Light Peace Memorial offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past and appreciate the present. It’s a place where the echoes of history meet the promise of peace, making it a truly memorable stop on any visit to Gettysburg.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit