Eternal Light Peace Memorial
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Eternal Light Peace Memorial

4.9
·1k reviews·Gettysburg, United States

A solemn stone tower with an eternal flame, symbolizing peace and unity on the historic Gettysburg Battlefield.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunset

Magical light & fireflies

CrowdLow
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Eternal Light Peace Memorial

Eternal Light Peace Memorial

Best Time

Sunset

Magical light & fireflies

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A solemn stone tower with an eternal flame, symbolizing peace and unity on the historic Gettysburg Battlefield.

4.9
(1k reviews)

"Absolutely beautiful and amazing! Don't miss this!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 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.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.9 · 1,404 reviews

Type

Monument

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Eternal Flame

Eternal Flame

Top of the stone tower

A constant flame in a bronze urn, symbolizing enduring peace and unity.

Panoramic Views

Panoramic Views

Terraced hill summit

Expansive vistas over the Gettysburg Battlefield, visible for miles.

Presidential Dedication Site

Presidential Dedication Site

Base of the memorial

Site where President Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicated the memorial in 1938.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit during the 'golden hours' around sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views and fewer crowds. Many visitors recommend experiencing the memorial as dusk settles, especially when fireflies appear.Instagram

Respectful Observation

This is a solemn memorial. While drone photography is possible,Instagram be mindful of the historical significance and the peaceful atmosphere. Consider visiting with a sense of reflection on the sacrifices made.

Best Times

When
Sunset
Why
Magical light & fireflies
Crowd
Low
When
Sunrise
Why
Peaceful start to the day
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Fireflies and serene atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

North Carolina monument on the Gettysburg Battlefield. #northcarolina #battleofgettysburg #pickettscharge #civilwar
@find.history.1776
12K likes • 130.8K views

🌅 Golden Hour Magic

Visit at sunrise or sunset for stunning light and fewer people. Fireflies often appear in summer evenings! Instagram+1

🚶‍♂️ Reflective Stroll

Take your time to absorb the peaceful atmosphere and the expansive battlefield views. Reddit

Gettysburg Beyond the Battle Museum opens April 15 📍625 Biglerville Rd. Gettysburg, PA #Gettysburg #CivilWar #History #museum
@destination.gettysburg
9.7K likes • 128.5K views
Excerpt from the 50th re-dedication of the Eternal Light Peace Memorial speech by Carl Sagan and Ann Druyan
carlsagandotcom
3.7K likes • 65.9K views

📸 Drone Photography

Drones can capture unique aerial shots, but always fly responsibly and respectfully. Instagram

📍 Oak Hill Location

Located northwest of Gettysburg on Oak Hill, offering great views. InstagramReddit

Eternal Light Peace Memorial 📍 Gettysburg, PA 🗺️ Mummasburg Road, Gettysburg PA #gettysburg #historywithautumnp #travel #history #battlefield #gettysburgbattlefield #civilwar #historytok #livinghistory #vlog #reenactments ➡️Make sure to follow me on Tiktok: @historywithautumnp
autumnpafel
13 likes • 773 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! Instagram+1

🚶‍♂️ Reflective Stroll

Take your time to absorb the peaceful atmosphere and the expansive battlefield views. Reddit

📸 Drone Photography

Drones can capture unique aerial shots, but always fly responsibly and respectfully. Instagram

📍 Oak Hill Location

Located northwest of Gettysburg on Oak Hill, offering great views. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(1k reviews)

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

Beautiful panoramic views
Symbolism of peace
Serene atmosphere at sunset

What People Dislike

Some visitors unaware of its existence

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Eternal Light Peace Memorial is located northwest of Gettysburg on Oak Hill, accessible via Mummasburg Road.Instagram It's a prominent landmark within the Gettysburg National Military Park, often visited after exploring other battlefield sites. Parking is available nearby.

Yes, the Eternal Light Peace Memorial is situated within the Gettysburg National Military Park, a key historical site managed by the National Park Service. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

The memorial offers expansive panoramic views of the Gettysburg Battlefield, with visibility potentially up to 20 miles on a clear day. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

🎫 📜 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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Some historical accounts suggest controversy surrounding its design or the specific narrative it represents, though its primary message is one of peace and reconciliation. Instagram

🎫 🚶‍♀️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

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