National Civil War Museum

National Civil War Museum, Pennsylvania

Kevin Burkett from Philadelphia, Pa., USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons; Image Size Adjusted

Two-level museum offering immersive exhibits, original artifacts, and multimedia presentations that explore the complexities and legacy of the American Civil War.

General Information

Hours:
Monday to Saturday: 10am to 5pm
Sunday: 12pm to 5pm
Closed on New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas
Fees:
Adults (18+): $16.00
Seniors (60+): $15.00
Students (6+): $14.00
Family Pass (2 adults + up to 3 students): $60.00
Pet Policy:
Pets are not allowed
Seasons:
All year
Location:
nationalcivilwarmuseum.org

Take I-83 South from Harrisburg, merge onto US-322 East, take the exit for Market Street, then follow signs to Reservoir Park and the museum entrance.

Overview

The National Civil War Museum offers a comprehensive and balanced portrayal of the American Civil War, presenting perspectives from both Union and Confederate sides. With over 25,000 square feet of exhibit space, the museum houses nearly 850 artifacts, immersive dioramas, and multimedia displays that bring to life the political, social, and military aspects of the war. Visitors can explore themes such as slavery, battlefield medicine, and the role of women, all within a thoughtfully curated environment that encourages reflection and learning.

Affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution, the museum is situated in scenic Reservoir Park and serves as a vital educational resource for students, scholars, and history enthusiasts. Special exhibits like “Women in War” and “The Overland Campaign of 1864” offer deeper insights into specific aspects of the conflict. Whether you're a Civil War buff or a curious traveler, the museum provides a powerful and enlightening experience that connects the past to the present.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the National Civil War Museum, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.

Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons; Image Size Adjusted