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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
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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