Civil War Battlefields

October 3-7, 2027
Tour Operator: Orbridge
Price per person begins at $2,995*

*Reserve your spot by May 29, 2026 to unlock an exclusive $375 per person ($750 per couple) discount. Use Incentive Code: FirstLookPRNC

Overview

Join us on an immersive journey as we visit iconic sites of the American Civil War, each providing opportunity to remember and reflect upon our nation's history. Learn how Harpers Ferry inflamed sectional tensions. Discover why Antietam changed the course of the conflict and allowed Abraham Lincoln to issue the Emancipation Proclamation. And walk through Gettysburg Battlefield, gaining insight into why it's considered the most important engagement of the American Civil War.

You’ll travel in good company with fellow learners, Principia trip scholar Richard Waller (C’76), and a dedicated Principia host guiding your journey.

Highlights

• Gain valuable insights from local historians, licensed battlefield experts, and Principia Lifelong Learning Trip Scholar Richard Waller.
• Tour the state-of-the-art Gettysburg National Military Park Visitors Center and Museum.
• View the acclaimed "Battle of Gettysburg" Cyclorama painting for a sense of what occurred at the battle.
• See key sites of Antietam: Dunker Church, Sunken Road and Burnsides Bridge.
• Explore Harpers Ferry National Historic Park.
• Travel back in time with a guide in period attire at the meticulously restored 1860 Shriver House.

Activity Level: Relaxed

Tour days typically flow at a relaxed pace. Some activities last longer than others. Expect standing and walking for moderate periods of time on occasionally uneven terrain, including cobblestones or unpaved pathways. Guests should be able to walk up or down slight slopes as elevators are not always available at stops and accommodations. There also may be variations in altitude and/or temperature. Guests should be able to board transportation and climb a few flights of stairs, occasionally without handrails or assistance.

Many of the parks and battlefields have dirt trails or grassy areas, but they are usually fairly smooth for walking. Some have paved pathways or boardwalks.

Trip Includes

• 4 nights accommodations at Hotel Gettysburg (or similar)
• 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners plus special welcome and farewell receptions
• Full guiding services of an Orbridge Travel Director as well as local guides
• Academic insight from a Principia Lifelong Learning trip scholar 
• Attentive support from a Principia Lifelong Learning host
• Admission and fees throughout
• All activities as described in the 5-day itinerary, unless noted otherwise
• Private motor coach with air conditioning and comfortable seating for all excursions
• Luggage porterage
• Gratuities to Orbridge Travel Director, local guides, drivers and porters
• Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times