Gettysburg Historic Downtown Food Tour By Junket

A quick overview of what to expect

This 2-hour food tour in downtown Gettysburg offers a tasty escape from the typical battlefield sightseeing. For $70.50 per person, you’ll walk through historic streets with a small group, visiting local eateries and sampling a curated selection of savory and sweet treats. Led by an engaging guide, the experience combines history and gastronomy, revealing how Gettysburg’s past influences its present-day flavors.

What we love about this tour is its focus on authentic local spots—from Amish bakeries to Civil War-themed pubs—and the intimate size, which makes for a more personal experience. The stops include a charming candy shop, a historic hotel restaurant, and a modern bistro, each offering a unique taste of Gettysburg’s culinary heritage. However, a potential consideration is that the stops are fairly close together, which might limit the variety of scenery or broader town exploration.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate history with their food or those seeking a relaxed, engaging way to discover Gettysburg beyond the battlefield. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a mix of cultural insight and delicious bites.

Key Points

• Authentic local flavors: The tour highlights Gettysburg’s favorite eateries, from Amish baking to Civil War-themed taverns.
• Small-group intimacy: With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and more meaningful conversations.
• Historic sights included: Several stops are tied to Gettysburg’s past, like the Hotel Gettysburg, which dates back to 1797.
• Delicious sampling: Tastes range from homemade fudge to modern farm-to-table dishes.
• Great value: For around $70, you get a guided experience, multiple tastings, and insightful historical commentary.
• Potential limitation: The stops are concentrated within a small radius, so it’s more about the food and stories than extensive sightseeing.

A detailed look at the tour experience

Starting at Sweeet! THE Candy Store

The tour kicks off at this nostalgic candy shop on Baltimore Street, where the air is filled with sweet aromas of fudge and caramel. With over 1,500 varieties, you might find candies dating back to Civil War times or modern confections crafted today. The signature “Battlefield Brittle,” a crunchy, nutty treat, offers a playful nod to Gettysburg’s bloodied past.

Guests typically spend about 20 minutes here. As one reviewer, Nicole D., noted, “Our guide was the best! She knew all the best places and the food was delicious! We will absolutely do this again when we visit next time. My kids said it was their favorite tour we did on our Gettysburg trip!” This stop sets a friendly tone, blending history and sweets in a way that appeals to all ages.

Blue & Gray Bar & Grill

Next, you’ll visit this Civil War-themed eatery, which does a great job of combining history with casual dining. The menu features hearty burgers named after Union and Confederate generals—an amusing way to connect food with history. Their award-winning “Chamberlain Burger,” topped with smoked bacon and cheddar, is a crowd favorite. You can wash it down with a craft beer while pondering the big battles that shaped the town’s past.

This stop provides about 20 minutes. As one guest shared, “The food was great and our guide was engaging. The food we got to try out was delicious and things we might not have picked out for ourselves.” It’s a good reminder that food can be a gateway to understanding the stories behind Gettysburg’s history.

Gettysburg Baking Co.

At this cozy bakery, you’ll find a selection of freshly baked bread and pastries. The Civil War Soldiers Biscuit—an inventive take on the classic hardtack—serves as a tasty nod to the soldiers who endured long, hard days during the war. Flaky croissants and sourdough bread fill the space with warm aromas, making it a perfect spot to refuel.

After about 20 minutes here, you’ll get a taste of Gettysburg’s baking traditions. Many visitors appreciate how this stop embodies the town’s heritage through simple, honest food.

Hotel Gettysburg

Built in 1797, this historic hotel has welcomed everyone from presidents to travelers. The restaurant, One Lincoln, offers hearty American classics like the Lincoln Pot Roast, slow-braised and tender. The atmosphere is steeped in history, with vintage photos and battlefield memorabilia adorning the walls.

Guests spend around 20 minutes here, often noting the fun fact that “a spectral guest in 19th-century attire still lingers near the dining room,” adding a ghostly twist to the experience. For many, this is a highlight—combining classic comfort food with a tangible sense of the past.

101 Bistro

This modern eatery brings a fresh, farm-to-table approach to Gettysburg’s culinary scene. The shrimp and grits combine Southern traditions with Pennsylvania ingredients, while the duck confit fries offer a rich, indulgent snack. The atmosphere encourages conversation and reflection on Gettysburg’s history while enjoying contemporary flavors.

In about 20 minutes, you’ll savor dishes that showcase the town’s evolving food scene. Reviewers often appreciate this stop for its innovative approach, making it a highlight for those seeking a more upscale taste of Gettysburg.

Gettysburg Chocolate Market

The tour winds down at this artisanal chocolate shop, where handcrafted truffles and gourmet hot chocolate are served with a side of history. Their “Battlefield Bark,” dark chocolate with caramel and sea salt, pays homage to the town’s tumultuous past. Whiskey-infused bonbons are also a hit, offering a boozy, decadent finish.

Guests typically spend 20 minutes here. One reviewer raved, “The chocolate was amazing and the hot cocoa was perfect on a cool day,” emphasizing how this stop is a sweet way to end the tour.

What’s included and what’s not

Included are a knowledgeable guide, pre-selected food samples at each stop, and well-researched historical commentary. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed pace.

Not included are transportation between stops and tips for the guide, so plan accordingly. The meeting point is at Sweeet! THE Candy Store, and the tour begins promptly at 11:00 am. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking within the historic downtown core.

Practical considerations

The tour is designed for most travelers; it’s accessible for those with moderate mobility. Parking can be tricky—avoid the Brickhouse Inn parking lot, which is reserved for overnight guests, but plenty of street parking is available nearby. The tour is booked about three weeks in advance on average, so planning ahead is wise.

Authentic traveler perspectives

Some rave about the guide’s knowledge and the quality of food, with one guest calling it “fantastic,” and “our guide was engaging.” Others have experienced disappointment due to last-minute cancellations, which highlights the importance of confirming your booking and being flexible.

Most reviews praise the delicious food and the personal recommendations received, especially from solo travelers who appreciated the chance to get tailored suggestions for other places to explore in Gettysburg.

Final thoughts: who should consider this tour?

This Gettysburg food tour is best suited for those who want to combine history with culinary discovery. It’s ideal if you’re interested in tasting local favorites, like Amish baked goods or hearty American fare, while also learning about Gettysburg’s past. If you prefer a wide-ranging sightseeing experience, or want to explore beyond a small radius, this might feel limited, but for food lovers and history buffs, it hits the mark.

Travelers who value small-group intimacy, engaging guides, and thoughtfully curated tastings** will likely find this tour a memorable part of their Gettysburg visit. It offers a relaxed, flavorful way to experience a town famous for its past—and its present-day culinary delights.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, with six stops spread out over a small downtown area.

What is the price?
The tour costs $70.50 per person, which includes all food samples and the guide’s commentary.

Are reservations required?
Yes, booking is recommended as the tour is popular and typically booked 22 days in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are best, as the tour involves walking between stops. Dress for the weather, as most of the tour is outdoors in historic downtown.

Is parking available?
Yes, but avoid the Brickhouse Inn lot—there are plenty of street parking options nearby.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and kids often enjoy the sweet treats and engaging stories.

Are tips included?
Tips for the guide are not included and are appreciated if you enjoyed the experience.

Can I cancel?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours before the tour.

Is this tour accessible?
Most travelers with moderate mobility can participate, but check with the provider if you have specific needs.

What if the tour gets canceled?
While rare, cancellations involve a full refund, and the company will notify you in advance.

In the end, if you’re looking for a delicious, informative snapshot of Gettysburg’s local culture, this food tour offers a delightful blend of history, flavor, and friendly conversation. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or both, it’s a chance to see a different side of this historic town—one bite at a time.