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Location
Visitor tip
Plan to visit with children ages 7+ and take advantage of the knowledgeable staff who are eager to answer questions and engage with young visitors - this museum excels at making history accessible for kids.
Visitor tip
Book a school field trip with guided exploration to maximize the interactive learning experience - the museum offers structured tours and interactive activities designed for educational groups.
Best time
Visit during summer hours starting May 3, 2026 with Sunday openings at 10:00 am through Labor Day if you prefer later morning starts - this gives more flexibility for weekend family visits.
About The National Civil War Museum
Historic center & Smithsonian affiliate. Smithsonian-affiliated museum with Civil War artifacts, lectures & re-enactment events.
Quick Facts
- Type
- History Museum
- Focus
- American Civil War history and legacy
- Highlights
- Interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, Women in War expansion, educational videos
- Admission
- $18 adults, $16 students, $68 family pass; free with EBT card
What visitors say
Took a trip to this super awesome museum this weekend with my wife and grandson. I loved ever about this place from the staff to the exhibits. Unbelievably beautiful beautiful presentation and amazing staff. Super helpful and always…
Absolutely wonderful ! Loads of research , presentations and audio and visual effects ! Well worth the visit .
A great experience but a bit pricey at $17 for seniors. Quality artifacts and well displayed information. Very cold (bring your sweater) and narratives can make it difficult to read. Highly recommend.
From 1,759 Google reviews Read all reviews
Did You Know?
- Smithsonian-affiliated museum in Harrisburg, PA with Smithsonian institutional accreditation, providing credibility and access to national scholarly resources
- Offers free admission through Museums for All program for visitors with valid EBT/Access/SNAP cards (1 adult + up to 3 students), plus free admission for Pennsylvania residents with state ID
- Features expanding 'Women in War' exhibit (scheduled expansion May 3, 2025) alongside primary exhibits on The Overland Campaign of 1864 and Pursuit of Freedom: The Abolition of Slavery
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