The National Civil War Museum
Harrisburg, PA · 1 hour 19 minutes from Reading · $20 to $50 a person
Plan the day
The National Civil War Museum is a museum of the American Civil War in Reservoir Park in Harrisburg, PA, open since 2001 on the highest point in the city.
The galleries fill more than 25,000 square feet with about 850 artifacts on display, telling the whole war from both sides and from the home front, not one battle. Current exhibits cover women in the war, the Overland Campaign of 1864 and the abolition of slavery. Visits are self-guided, parking is free and the museum suggests two to four hours, which fits a Harrisburg afternoon.
Before you go
Free on-site parking in Reservoir Park (limited RV access, no overnight parking). The building is fully accessible, with elevators and seating in the galleries; service dogs welcome. Group tours need advance reservations.
Coming up
Community Free Day Honoring Veterans is Saturday, November 7, 10 am to 4 pm, with free admission for everyone; free Lessons in History talks are October 17, November 14 and December 5 at 11 am (regular admission applies to the galleries).
Checked October 8, 2026 on the official site. Hours, prices and seasons change, so confirm there before a long drive. The National Civil War Museum also has a listing on BerksConnect.
