Gettysburg: Beer, Wine, and History Guided Walking Tour

A Refreshing Spin on Gettysburg’s History: Beer, Wine, and Spirits Tour

If you’re heading to Gettysburg, chances are you’re eager to walk the hallowed grounds of the Civil War battlefield and soak in the history. But what if you could combine that with a taste of the local beverage scene? That’s exactly what the Gettysburg: Beer, Wine, and History Guided Walking Tour offers. For $98 per person, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours strolling through town, hopping into five different pubs and tasting a variety of drinks—all while learning about the area’s storied past.

What makes this tour worth considering? First, the knowledgeable guides, like Silver, who are praised for their friendly, informative style and ability to share vivid stories, making history come alive. Second, the genuine local flavor—this isn’t a sanitized, touristy experience but a real chance to relax in cozy taverns, enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at how drinks are made, and chat with locals. You’ll love pulling up a stool at a veteran-owned taproom or savoring a glass on a sunny patio.

However, one consideration is that the tour is only 1.5 hours, so if you’re a serious history buff or a dedicated wine connoisseur, you might find it a bit light on depth or variety. It’s designed more for casual enjoyment, making it ideal for visitors who want a fun, laid-back way to explore Gettysburg’s social scene alongside some fascinating Civil War stories.

This tour is perfect if you enjoy casual socializing, local craftsmanship, and engaging stories. It suits those who appreciate a relaxed pace, are interested in learning about the town’s drinking establishments, and want a lively, interactive experience rather than a formal museum visit.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines Civil War history with visits to local breweries, wineries, and taprooms.
• Guided Walk: About 1.5 hours exploring Gettysburg on foot with a knowledgeable guide.
• Multiple Stops: Five pubs, each offering a different drink and story.
• Alcohol Limit: One drink per stop, no hard liquor, but plenty of variety.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Visit veteran-owned establishments and historic taverns.
• Ideal for Casual Tourists: Suitable for those over 21 looking for light education and fun.

A Deep Dive into Gettysburg’s Boozy History Tour

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An Overview of the Experience

We began our tour in the backyard of The Brickhouse Inn Bed & Breakfast on Baltimore Street, where the tour guide greeted us warmly. From there, we set out on a leisurely stroll through Gettysburg’s historic streets, visiting five different drinking establishments. Each stop was carefully selected to showcase local flavors and stories, from classic pubs to more unique venues like the vintage Tattered Flag Taproom.

The tour’s main aim is to give visitors a taste of Gettysburg’s social fabric, intertwined with snippets of Civil War history. It’s a perfect marriage for history buffs who also enjoy a good drink, or for those visiting with friends who want a laid-back, social afternoon.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The guides’ knowledge and friendliness truly shine. Multiple reviews praise Silver for her engaging storytelling and ability to blend history with local flavor seamlessly. One traveler shared, “Silver was excellent,” and another noted, “She was very informative and willing to answer questions,” adding a personal touch that elevates the experience well beyond just sampling drinks.

The variety of stops is another highlight. You’ll visit a mix of historic pubs, cideries, and wineries, each with its own character. For example, the Ploughman Cider Taproom offers a peek into craft cider production, while Dawg Gone Bees introduces you to local honey spirits. These behind-the-scenes moments are particularly enjoyable for those interested in how regional beverages are crafted.

The Drinking Experience

Each location grants you one drink—ranging from craft beers and wines to apple whiskey or even chocolate cherry wine—paired with light bar snacks. While no hard liquor is served, the variety of drinks keeps the experience lively and interesting.

The atmosphere varies from sun-drenched patios to cozy, historic taverns. We loved the chance to sit outside at Fourscore Beer Co., soaking up the sunshine and enjoying fried foods, which added a relaxed vibe to the tour. One reviewer noted the pleasure of a personalized experience—“The tour was very personalized,” especially when just two guests joined.

The Itinerary in Detail

First stop: Fourscore Beer Co. — Known for its inviting patio, this stop is perfect for a quick bite and a refreshing IPA. The outdoor setting provides a great start with some sun and local camaraderie.

Next, you’ll visit the Tattered Flag Taproom, a vintage spot with only 16 stools. Here, you can enjoy a classic pub experience amid historic memorabilia, enjoying Gettysburg’s military past and local brewing scene.

Third, the tour visits J&P Winery, where you get to sample wine and learn about its production. The guide shares credible, well-researched insights that make this stop educational as well as tasty.

Fourth, you’ll stop at Blue & Gray Bar and Grill, which offers a diverse menu and a lively atmosphere—ideal for mingling with locals and fellow travelers.

Finally, the last stop varies but typically includes a visit to a haunted tavern or another historic pub, where stories of Civil War ghosts are shared—adding a spooky touch to the history-rich day.

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Why This Tour Works

The walk through the battlefield area is relatively brief but meaningful. You’ll hear stories of the Civil War, perhaps even snippets about the ghosts that haunt the area, as at the haunted tavern. Many reviews mention how the guide’s storytelling enhances the experience—one raved, “We were able to find really great places and a lot to drink,” with Silver’s storytelling making the history come alive.

Practical Details and Considerations

The meeting point is straightforward—just avoid parking in the Brickhouse Inn’s lot, as it’s reserved for guests. Public parking nearby is available on side streets. The tour operates rain or shine, so remember to dress comfortably and bring cash for tips or extra purchases.

While the tour is not suitable for under 21 or those with mobility issues, it’s a good fit for those who enjoy walking and socializing in a lively, friendly atmosphere. The small group size (sometimes just two people) can make for a highly personal experience.

The price point of $98 reflects the inclusion of five stops, credible storytelling, and the chance to taste a variety of local drinks. Considering the guided nature of the experience and behind-the-scenes access, it offers solid value for those interested in a relaxed, social approach to Gettysburg’s history.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts who appreciate a laid-back atmosphere, as well as beer and wine lovers wanting to explore local flavors. It’s perfect if you enjoy small group adventures and are looking for something more interactive than a museum visit. If you’re traveling with friends, especially those who prefer casual outings over structured tours, this will suit you well.

However, if your priority is intensive Civil War history or serious wine tasting, you might find the 1.5-hour format too brief or the drink selection too limited. It’s best viewed as an entertaining, social introduction to Gettysburg’s local scene wrapped in storytelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or teenagers?
No, the tour is only for those 21 and over due to alcohol consumption and legal requirements.

How much walking is involved?
It’s a guided walk through downtown Gettysburg, with stops at five different locations. Expect some walking between stops, but the pace is relaxed.

Are the drinks included in the price?
Yes, each stop provides one drink (no hard liquor) included in the tour fee. Additional drinks or food are extra.

Can the tour accommodate special needs or mobility issues?
Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments, as it involves walking and some stairs or uneven surfaces.

What if it rains?
The tour takes place rain or shine, so dress accordingly. Many stops have indoor options, so you’ll still enjoy the experience even in bad weather.

Are tips included?
Tips are not included in the ticket price. It’s customary to tip guides and staff based on your satisfaction.

How do I meet the guide?
Meet in the backyard of The Brickhouse Inn on Baltimore Street. Avoid parking in their lot, as it’s reserved.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing for flexible planning.

In The Sum Up

The Gettysburg: Beer, Wine, and History Guided Walking Tour offers a lively, authentic way to connect with both the past and the present of this historic town. It’s a smart choice for travelers who enjoy stories as much as they enjoy a good drink, especially if they’re interested in local breweries, wineries, and taverns with character. The guides’ knowledge and the cozy, social atmosphere make it a memorable addition to any Gettysburg itinerary.

If your idea of exploring history includes friendly conversation, tasting regional beverages, and discovering hidden local gems, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s casual, educational, and above all, fun—perfect for those seeking a relaxed but engaging way to spend an afternoon in Gettysburg.

Note: Always check current availability and operational details before booking, as schedules and offerings can change.

You can check availability for your dates here: