News Release
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Contact: Christopher Gwinn
Gettysburg, PA – For the first time ever, Gettysburg National Military Park and the Gettysburg Foundation will host a sensory friendly morning at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center on Saturday, February 4, from 9 am to 11 am.
“This will be an opportunity for visitors with auditory or sensory sensitivities and their friends and family members to enjoy all that the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center has to offer.” explained Steve Sims, Superintendent of Gettysburg National Military Park. “For those on the autism spectrum, those with PTSD, or for visitors who enjoy a more relaxed experience, this event will allow for a quieter and more inclusive museum visit at no cost.”
Between the hours of 9 am and 11 am visitors will have free access to the Cyclorama painting and the Museum galleries. The Cyclorama painting will be displayed fully lit, but with no narration, sound effects, or flashing lights, so visitors can spend an extended time with the painting. Where possible, loud sounds from audiovisual displays, interactives, and films will be reduced or turned off in the Gettysburg Museum of the American Civil War. “Hands On History” carts will be available throughout the Museum, allowing visitors to touch and feel reproduction objects from the parks collection. Additionally, friendly staff and volunteers will be on hand to answer questions and support your visit. Upon arrival, guests will receive a sensory bag with park maps, a trail guide, and more (while supplies last).
A quiet space will be available in the Ford Education Center for those visitors who need a break.
Complimentary tickets for the sensory friendly hours at the Museum and Visitor Center can be picked up day of at the ticketing desk in the main lobby. All sound, light, and audio-visual programming will return to normal beginning at 11 am. Visitors with sensory friendly tickets are encouraged to explore the Museum galleries and remain in the Visitor Center if they wish. Please note: During sensory friendly hours the park orientation film, A New Birth of Freedom, will not be available.
For more information on this and other programming at Gettysburg National Military Park, please visit: www.nps.gov/gett.
Last updated: January 10, 2023