Legacy Battlefield Ride, Bus Trip to Antietam

Our Battlefield Ride is designed to bring history to life while highlighting leadership, decision-making, courage, and the human experience of war. Through guided exploration, storytelling, and discussion, attendees will gain insight into the Battle of Antietam and its lasting lessons for today’s civic, military, and community leaders.

• April 28: Travel day, welcome gathering, orientation, and program overview
• April 29: Full battlefield program day
  A detailed schedule, including times, meeting locations, and transportation details, will be sent closer to the event.

Final transportation logistics will be shared in your confirmation email. Typically:

• Participants will be expected to arrange their own transportation to and from Carlisle.
• Most participants will drive themselves to the welcome and orientation session the evening of Tuesday, April 28 at 6:00 pm at the historic and newly restored Mount Tabor Church. Transportation assistance can be coordinated by request.
• Most participants will drive themselves to the Army Heritage and Education Center at 950 Soldiers Drive, Carlisle, PA at 7:30 am on the morning of Wednesday, April 29.
• Once on-site, movement between battlefield stops will be coordinated via chartered bus as a group, departing Carlisle strictly at 8:30 am and returning to Carlisle around 7:00 pm.
• If you need mobility accommodations, please let us know in advance.

Expect a mix of light walking and short periods of standing outdoors. Terrain may include grass, gravel, or uneven ground.

If you have mobility concerns, let us know so we can plan accommodations.

Dress comfortably and for the outdoors:

• Layers – spring weather can be cool in the morning and warm in the afternoon
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hat, sunscreen, and outer layer such as a jacket
• Rain gear if the forecast suggests it

The program will continue in light rain or cool temperatures. Severe weather plans will be communicated if needed.

Details will be shared prior to the ride, but attendees can expect:

• Catered opening reception on Tuesday, April 28
• Continental breakfast and coffee the morning of Wednesday, April 29
• Bottled water (though bringing a refillable bottle is encouraged) and snacks on the bus
• Boxed lunches during the ride
• Catered closing reception

Participants will:

• Visit key sites across the Antietam battlefield
• Hear guided interpretation and historical context
• Participate in reflection and leadership discussion segments
• Engage in conversation connecting history to modern life, service, and decision-making

This is not a passive tour; it is an immersive learning experience.

Yes. The program is designed to be accessible and meaningful for:

• Veterans and military family members
• Students and ROTC cadets
• Executive leaders
• Entrepreneurs
• Teachers and professors
• Civic leaders, educators, donors, and community members

No prior military knowledge is required.

Yes—photos are welcome and encouraged. We ask that participants remain respectful at memorial sites and follow guidance from facilitators.

We recommend:

• Refillable water bottle
• Weather-appropriate layers
• Sunscreen / hat
• Notebook if you enjoy capturing thoughts or reflections
• Any personal medications
• Phone / tablet chargers
• Medications

Antietam is a battlefield and burial ground where thousands fought and died. We ask for:

• Respectful behavior
• Quiet attention during discussion moments
• Sensitivity when photographing memorials

Absolutely. The program encourages thoughtful conversation, questions, and reflection.

Please notify us as soon as possible so we can adjust planning and waitlists accordingly.

You will receive a primary point-of-contact email and phone number in your registration confirmation. If you need assistance before then, please reach out to your event organizer.