Haunted Orphanage Ghostly Encounter Tour in Gettysburg

Haunted Orphanage Ghostly Encounter Tour in Gettysburg

If you’re visiting Gettysburg and are curious about its darker side, this Haunted Orphanage Ghostly Encounter Tour offers a unique way to connect with the town’s ghostly legends. For just $18 per person, you’ll spend about 90 minutes walking through historic sites like East Cemetery Hill and the National Soldiers Orphanage, all while hearing eerie tales from a lively and engaging guide. Led by a storyteller who’s as spirited as the spirits they speak of, this tour offers an intriguing mix of history and haunting lore that appeals to both ghost enthusiasts and history buffs.

We really appreciate how the guide’s energy and storytelling style make the experience both fun and genuine. The small group size of just 10 people provides an intimate setting, perfect for getting close-up stories and possibly even catching some paranormal activity on your camera — as some reviews suggest. One of the big draws is the authenticity of the stories, which blend historical facts with ghostly legends, giving you a sense of walking through Gettysburg’s long, haunted past.

However, if you’re expecting a full-blown supernatural spectacle with dramatic special effects, this tour leans more toward storytelling and atmosphere than spooky theatrics. It’s a guided experience rooted in history and local lore, which might be a con if you’re after a high-adrenaline ghost hunt. Still, if you’re interested in a balanced, entertaining, and educational ghost tour, this one hits the mark.

This tour is best suited for history lovers, ghost enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates engaging storytelling combined with a touch of the supernatural. It’s especially popular among those who enjoy a personal, less crowded experience and are open to hearing some chilling tales from a charismatic guide.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from a lively guide makes the experience engaging.
• Historic sites like East Cemetery Hill and the orphanage are central to the ghostly tales.
• Small group size (max 10) offers a more intimate and personalized encounter.
• Cost-effective at just $18, providing good value for a 1.5-hour guided walk.
• Potential for paranormal activity, with some guests capturing unexplained phenomena.
• Ideal for those interested in both history and ghost stories with a balanced approach.

A Deep Dive into the Gettysburg Haunted Experience

The Setting and Locations

This tour begins at 778 Baltimore St, a convenient starting point in downtown Gettysburg. From there, your guide will lead you through the East Cemetery Hill, a key site of heavy fighting during the Battle of Gettysburg. This location isn’t just a battleground; it’s a place where the echoes of the past seem to linger. The guide will give you context about the fighting and why this hill is considered haunted.

The most intriguing part of the tour is the visit to the National Soldiers Orphanage, a building that has seen a lot. During the Civil War, it served as General O.O. Howard’s headquarters and was used as a hospital. After the war, it became an orphanage for children who lost fathers in battle. Now, it’s reputed to be haunted by the spirits of those children, with stories that make your skin crawl.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s itinerary is deliberately designed to blend history with ghostly tales. Starting with a brief orientation, your guide will explain the significance of East Cemetery Hill, setting a tone of reverence mixed with curiosity.

Next, you’ll visit the Homestead of the Soldiers Orphanage, where the stories of past residents are brought to life (or death). The guide, often praised for their character and energy, will share tales of spirits that roam the halls and basement, where some guests have reported unusual sensations and even captured orbs on camera.

The basement area is a highlight, described as “the most interesting part” by past visitors. Its eerie atmosphere and the stories told there leave a lasting impression. One guest recounted capturing an orb and feeling touches on the back of her neck, adding a sense of reality to the ghostly tales.

The Guide’s Role and Storytelling Style

Several reviews emphasize the guide’s engaging and energetic narration. Guides like Chris and Tom are noted for their ability to capture attention and blend humor with history, making the experience accessible and memorable. One review mentions that the stories are told in a way that feels like a conversation with ghosts, which enhances the immersive quality.

Guides also include props and acting at times, such as pretending to talk with other ghosts, which adds a theatrical element without overshadowing the historical facts. The portrayal of characters like Miss Rosa, the orphanage’s sinister head mistress, helps bring the stories to life.

Paranormal Activity and Guest Reactions

While some guests came away with unexplainable photos and sensations, others experienced the stories mainly as compelling history. An interesting note from reviews is that some guests caught paranormal activity on camera, like orbs or unexplained touches, which adds an exciting dimension for those interested in ghost hunting.

Most visitors find the experience educational and entertaining, with many saying they would return. The small group setting allows for more interaction and opportunity to ask questions or share personal experiences, which enhances the overall value.

The Atmosphere and Experience

Expect a dark, atmospheric walk through historic Gettysburg. With only about 90 minutes, the tour is compact but packed with stories that deepen your appreciation for the town’s haunted reputation. The ** basement of the orphanage** is particularly chilling, and many describe it as “eerie” and “the most interesting area”. The setting, combined with vivid storytelling, makes for a memorable ghostly encounter.

The Value for the Price

At $18, this tour offers great value—especially considering it’s led by a passionate guide and is limited to just 10 participants. This intimate size makes it more than just a generic ghost walk; it feels personalized and engaging. Compared to larger tours, you get more attention, more stories, and the chance to experience some genuine spooky moments.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates history but enjoys a good ghost story, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s perfect for adults and kids alike (most travelers can participate), especially those who want a more personal and less crowded experience. It’s also ideal if you’re keen on capturing paranormal phenomena on camera or simply want to hear some chilling tales from a charismatic guide.

Final Thoughts

The Haunted Orphanage Ghostly Encounter Tour in Gettysburg offers an intriguing blend of history, storytelling, and ghostly legends. It’s a well-paced experience that respects the town’s serious Civil War past while adding a layer of supernatural fascination. The small group size and enthusiastic guides make it stand out, providing a more intimate and engaging journey into Gettysburg’s haunted corners.

For travelers interested in a balance of history and ghost stories, and who enjoy a personalized experience, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s accessible, affordable, and backed by consistently positive reviews. Whether you’re a believer or just a curious visitor, you’re likely to come away with a new appreciation for Gettysburg — and perhaps a few ghostly encounters to share.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the stories are engaging for both adults and younger audiences. It’s a good choice if your kids enjoy ghost stories and history.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity without being overly long.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows for more interaction.

Is there any opportunity for paranormal activity?
Some guests have reported capturing orbs on camera and feeling touches or sensations, especially in the basement. While not guaranteed, some find the atmosphere quite active.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 778 Baltimore St, Gettysburg, and ends back at the same meeting point.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $18 per person, which is very reasonable considering the length and the quality of storytelling.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost-hunting enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable evening in Gettysburg, this tour delivers a captivating mix of stories and spookiness. Its focus on authentic history combined with lively storytelling makes it a standout choice for a night out that’s both educational and entertaining.