Gettysburg is a must-visit for anyone interested in American history. Its sprawling battlefields, preserved landmarks, and stories of bravery and tragedy make it a perfect destination for history lovers. But what makes Gettysburg stand out is the way its stories are alive, whether through ghost tours, interactive museums, or battlefield excursions. We particularly enjoy the Ghost Tour: History and Haunts because it combines dramatic storytelling with a spooky after-dark atmosphere—imagine walking through the battlegrounds after sunset and hearing tales of spectral activity that still lingers. This tour offers a fresh perspective on the Battle of Gettysburg, blending history with ghost stories that appeal to both adults and teenagers. For a family-friendly experience that captures the town’s haunted side, this tour is hard to beat.
Gettysburg also offers a broad range of experiences beyond ghost stories—like visiting the Gettysburg Heritage Center for a deep dive into artifacts, interactive displays, and local stories. From immersive museums to historic walking tours, Gettysburg’s tours are designed to satisfy different interests and ages. Whether you want a quick battlefield bus tour or a detailed museum experience, Gettysburg’s history is accessible and engaging. The key is picking the right tour to match your curiosity, budget, and available time.
Quick Overview
Gettysburg’s top-rated tours span a variety of formats—guided ghost walks, battlefield bus tours, interactive museums, and food adventures. You can explore the dark side of history with family-friendly ghost tours like Ghost Tour: History and Haunts, or dive into the tangible artifacts at the Gettysburg Heritage Center. For battlefield aficionados, the bus tour offers a rundown of the key sites, while food and drink tours like the Gettysburg Beer, Wine, and History Guided Walking Tour combine history with local flavors. Each experience offers a different way to connect with Gettysburg’s past.
Below, you’ll find detailed reviews of each of these tours, helping you decide which best fits your interests and schedule.
1. Ghost Tour: History and Haunts – Family Friendly – Best in Gettysburg
Starting with a spooky favorite, the Ghost Tour: History and Haunts offers an engaging 1-hour 15-minute walk through Gettysburg’s key sights after sunset. This tour is perfect if you’re interested in ghost stories blended with Civil War history. The guide shares tales of spectral activity and historical events that still resonate, especially in buildings that vibrate with memories of the aftermath of the Battle of Gettysburg. It’s rated 4.5/5 from over 330 reviews, emphasizing its popularity.
What makes this tour stand out is its family-friendly approach and its focus on both spooky and historical tales. The stops include Gettysburg’s landmarks where ghostly legends live on. Tour guide Ken, for example, is praised for sharing detailed stories and photos, making the past come alive in a way that’s both entertaining and informative. While it’s spooky enough for teens and adults, it maintains a tone suitable for the whole family. The meeting point at Unity Park is easy to find, and reviews highlight how well the storytelling and local lore are delivered.
Bottom Line: If you want an evening adventure that combines history with ghost stories, this tour offers a balanced, family-friendly experience at a reasonable price—just enough spooky to make the past memorable.
2. Skip the Line: Gettysburg Heritage Center and Museum Admission Ticket
For those who love interactive museums, the Gettysburg Heritage Center provides a comprehensive self-guided experience. Priced at just $10, this ticket grants quick access to a museum that combines artifacts, documents, and 3-D displays illustrating Gettysburg’s history before, during, and after the battle. It’s rated 4.5/5 with many visitors praising its engaging, visual approach.
The museum’s key strength is its ability to show multiple perspectives—covering both battlefield strategy and civilian experiences. You’ll see artifacts and documents that reveal how the town and its people responded during this pivotal moment. Highlights include interactive displays and films that bring the story to life. Visitors often mention John, the guide, as being especially knowledgeable and fun, which enhances the experience. It’s well-suited for families and history buffs alike who want a visual, hands-on learning experience.
Bottom Line: If you prefer an independent, educational visit with plenty of visual aids, this museum provides a worthwhile overview without the time commitment of a guided tour.
3. Gettysburg: “History and Haunts” Family Friendly Ghost Tour
Another family-friendly ghost experience, Gettysburg: “History and Haunts” lasts 75 minutes and is rated 4.4/5 from 136 reviews. It takes visitors to some of Gettysburg’s most haunted locations while sharing stories of paranormal activity. This tour emphasizes the spooky side of Gettysburg but keeps it appropriate for kids and adults alike.
The tour highlights include visiting haunted sites and hearing tales of ghostly encounters from local legends. The guide’s storytelling makes history accessible without overwhelming younger visitors with too much detail. It’s a shorter tour, ideal for those with limited time or families seeking a lighter, fun experience. The route and stories are carefully curated to balance fright and historical curiosity.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you’re interested in Gettysburg’s haunted history but want a family-friendly, shorter outing that still delivers chills and stories.
4. The Historic Welty House Ghost Hunt with Equipment
For a truly hands-on ghost-hunting experience, the Welty House Ghost Hunt offers an immersive 2-hour session. Rated 4.5/5, this tour combines history with modern paranormal equipment, allowing participants to work side-by-side with investigators. It’s a rare chance to actually use ghost-hunting tools like EMF meters and spirit boxes in one of Gettysburg’s historic homes.
The Welty House is rich with history, and during the tour, you’ll witness eerie sights and experience encounters that leave a lasting impression. It’s especially suited for those fascinated by the supernatural and willing to get a little spooky. Past participants rave about the professionalism and fun of the experience, noting the use of paranormal gear as a highlight.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in ghost hunting with equipment and want to combine history with supernatural phenomena, this tour offers a memorable, interactive experience.
5. Historic Jennie Wade Birthplace Ghost Hunt w/ Equipment
A unique chance to explore one of Gettysburg’s most haunted sites, the Jennie Wade Ghost Hunt takes you to her childhood home, where paranormal activity is believed to occur. Rated perfect 5.0/5 from three reviews, the two-hour tour involves working with paranormal investigators using specialized equipment.
Jennie Wade, the only civilian killed during the battle, symbolizes the town’s tragic past. The house’s haunted reputation is well-documented, and participants often report strange sensations and activity. This tour is ideal for serious ghost enthusiasts or history buffs with a supernatural streak.
Bottom Line: For a personalized ghost-hunting experience at an iconic site, this tour offers a deep dive into both Jennie Wade’s story and Gettysburg’s ghostly mysteries.
6. Gettysburg: Beer, Wine, and History Guided Walking Tour
Mixing history with local drinks, the Beer, Wine, and History Tour is perfect for those who want to combine civil war history with tasting. For $98, you’ll spend 1.5 hours strolling through Gettysburg’s historic streets, stopping at five different breweries, wineries, and pubs.
Highlights include sampling craft beers at the Tattered Flag Taproom, enjoying a famous burger at Blue & Gray, and learning about the town’s brewing history. The tour is rated 4.1/5, with many reviewers noting how enjoyable and informative it is—especially for those who appreciate a good drink paired with civil war stories. It’s best suited for those with a moderate budget who enjoy social outings and local flavors.
Bottom Line: If you like your history with a side of local brews and want a relaxed, social experience, this tour hits the spot.
7. Gettysburg Historic Downtown Food Tour By Junket
For foodies who want to combine dining with history, this Downtown Food Tour is a tasty way to explore Gettysburg’s culinary scene. Over two hours, you’ll visit spots like Sweeet! Candy, Gettysburg Baking Co., and local eateries, sampling everything from Civil War-era candies to Amish treats and gourmet sweets.
Rated 4.0/5, reviewers love the personal touch of guides and the chance to try foods they might not pick on their own. It’s perfect for travelers interested in local flavors and hidden food spots, with the added bonus of seeing historic sites along the way. This tour is best for smaller groups and food lovers wanting an intimate tasting experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re eager to combine civil war history with local cuisine, this tour offers a delicious, personal exploration of Gettysburg’s culinary history.
8. 2-Hour Gettysburg Battlefield Guided History Bus Tour
The Battlefield Bus Tour is ideal for those who want an overview of Gettysburg’s key sites without walking miles. For $41, you’ll ride in an air-conditioned bus, visiting landmarks like Devil’s Den, Little Round Top, and Pickett’s Charge. Your guide shares detailed stories of each location, making sense of the complex three-day battle.
The tour rates 4.5/5 with many reviewers noting how well it condenses the battle’s crucial moments. It’s especially good for visitors with limited time or those preferring a comfortable, guided experience. The tour provides a solid introduction, making it easier to explore the battlefield on your own afterward.
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive, guided overview of Gettysburg’s battlefields in a short time, this bus tour delivers.
$41.00 per person
9. Gettysburg: Historic Downtown Food Tour
Similar to the Junket tour but with a different route and stops, this Historic Downtown Food Tour offers a two-hour journey into Gettysburg’s culinary scene. You’ll sample flavors from gourmet sweets to multicultural bites while learning about local history. Many reviews mention the friendly guide and the delicious food.
This experience suits those who want to add a gourmet touch to their visit and explore downtown Gettysburg’s best eateries. It’s rated 3.6/5, with some noting it’s a smaller scale experience but still meaningful for food lovers.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy food tours and want to discover Gettysburg’s diverse flavors, this tour offers a flavorful look at the town’s culinary scene.
$105 per person
10. Gettysburg’s Historic Taverns: An Evening Walking Tour
Finally, for a taste of Gettysburg’s liquor history, the Historic Taverns Tour explores legendary watering holes and their stories. For about an hour, you’ll walk through historic streets, hearing tales of Presidents, fires, and civil war activities. While no food or drink are consumed during the tour, it offers a charming peek into the town’s social history.
Rated 4.0/5, it’s a relaxed, storytelling-focused experience suited for those interested in local legends and historic taverns. The tour includes stops at iconic places like the Globe Inn and the Eagle Hotel, providing a lively sense of Gettysburg’s social life in the past.
Bottom Line: For a light, engaging evening narrative about Gettysburg’s tavern culture and stories, this tour offers a fun, historical walk.
How to Choose the Best Gettysburg Tour for You
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and how you enjoy exploring history. If you love ghost stories and a spooky atmosphere, the family-friendly Ghost Tour: History and Haunts is perfect. For a comprehensive battlefield overview, the 2-hour Guided History Bus Tour offers a quick yet detailed experience. If you’re a food lover, the Downtown Food Tour or the Beer, Wine, and History Walk are excellent options. And for those fascinated by paranormal investigations, tours involving ghost equipment like the Welty House Ghost Hunt deliver an interactive experience.
Budget, time, and personal interests should guide your choice. For a full day of history, combining a museum visit with a battlefield tour works well. For a shorter visit, a ghost walk or tavern tour offers a taste of Gettysburg’s stories. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Gettysburg offers a wide variety of ways to experience its history—whether through walking ghost tours, immersive museums, battlefield bus excursions, or culinary adventures. Options like the Ghost Tour: History and Haunts and the Battlefield Bus Tour provide different ways to connect with the past, suitable for different interests and energy levels. Meanwhile, food and drink tours add a flavorful dimension to your understanding of Gettysburg’s local culture.
No matter your preference, Gettysburg’s tours promise a rich, engaging experience. If you want to make the most of your trip, consider booking your preferred tour early—Gettysburg’s history is waiting for you to explore, question, and remember.