Gettysburg is a must-visit for anyone interested in American history, especially the Civil War. But beyond the well-known battlefields and Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, the town offers a wealth of unique tour experiences that bring history and ghost stories to life. We love some of the more immersive options, like the Echoes of War All Ages Ghost Tour, which combines family-friendly ghost stories with key historic sites, and the Evening Investigation – Small Group Gettysburg, where you can explore haunted locations with paranormal gear. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a ghost hunter, Gettysburg’s diverse tours promise memorable moments.
Quick Overview
Gettysburg offers a variety of tour styles for different interests and travel styles. You can choose from ghost walks, like the Spirits of Jennie Wade Ghost Night Tour, which combine haunted house visits and outdoor ghosting, or opt for battlefield explorations such as the Horse-Drawn Carriage Battlefield Tour, which offers a scenic, relaxed look at the historic sites. For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the Self-Guided Audio Tour provides flexibility and in-depth narration. Private guided options and night investigations are also available for a more personalized or spooky experience.
1. Echoes of War All Ages Ghost Tour
At number 1, this family-friendly ghost tour offers an engaging way to learn about the Battle of Gettysburg while exploring haunted sites around town. The tour lasts about an hour and a half and covers key landmarks like the Lincoln Statue, David Wills House, and Tillie Pierce House Inn, each with stories of soldiers, civilians, and supernatural encounters. What makes this tour stand out is its balance—it’s spooky enough to thrill kids and adults alike, but not overly frightening. The guide’s storytelling prowess makes history accessible and entertaining, especially with reviews praising the guide’s knowledge and engaging style.
Guests love the mix of history and ghost stories in a walking format, making it perfect for families or first-time visitors wanting a lively, memorable overview. The tour’s price ($24.99) offers good value considering its rich content and duration. If you want an introduction to Gettysburg’s haunted history with a relaxed pace, this tour is a top choice. Bottom line: A lively, family-friendly ghost walk that blends history with fun stories in under two hours.
2. Gettysburg: Horse-Drawn Carriage Battlefield Tour
For those seeking a relaxed, scenic way to explore Gettysburg’s battlefield, this horse-drawn carriage tour is ideal. Lasting around two hours, it takes you through the most significant sites of the Civil War, with an expert guide providing detailed narration. Sitting in an open-top carriage, you’ll enjoy the wind and the sights—seeing the terrain that shaped the battle with less walking than a typical tour.
What makes this experience special is its slow pace and personal attention from your guide. Guests emphasize how fun and immersive it is, with some noting it’s a memorable way to understand Gettysburg’s scope. The $74 price reflects the intimate, historic ride—more than a walking tour, but worth it for the comfort and scenery. Ideal for visitors who want a visual and tactile connection to the battlefield without the effort of a full-day hike. Bottom line: A charming, scenic way to absorb Gettysburg’s history from a horse-drawn coach.
3. Gettysburg: Private Tour with Licensed Battlefield Guide
Number 3 is the ultimate personalized experience. For $95 per group (up to six people), you get a private, two-hour tour with an official, licensed battlefield guide. This tour is perfect if you prefer exploring in your own vehicle or want a tailored itinerary. Your guide can focus on specific topics—like lesser-known battles, troop movements, or personal stories—that interest you most.
Guests praise the comfort and flexibility of this private format, which allows for a more in-depth understanding than group tours. The guide’s expertise can reveal details often missed in larger groups, providing a customized, in-depth experience. It’s ideal for families, couples, or small groups with a specific interest in Gettysburg’s civil war stories. The cost is reasonable considering the personalized attention, making it a good value. Bottom line: The best choice for visitors who want a private, flexible, and comprehensive battlefield experience.
4. Spirits of Jennie Wade Ghost Night Tour in Gettysburg
At number 4, this popular ghost tour takes you into the haunted house where Jennie Wade was shot, making it one of Gettysburg’s most eerie and memorable experiences. For about an hour and a half, you’ll visit the Jennie Wade House and nearby haunted sites, hearing stories of spirits, ghostly soldiers, and tragic history. What sets this tour apart is its focus on Jennie Wade—the only civilian killed during the battle—and the house’s reputation for paranormal activity.
Guests love the rich storytelling and the chance to see Jennie Wade’s home firsthand, with many reporting ghostly encounters and emotional reactions. At only $16 per person, it provides excellent value for a hauntingly good time. This tour is ideal if you’re interested in haunted houses and ghost stories that bring history to life with a supernatural twist. Bottom line: A captivating ghost tour that combines haunted history with personal stories in Gettysburg.
5. Haunted Orphanage Ghostly Encounter Tour in Gettysburg
Number 5 offers a spirited journey back to the 1860s, focusing on tales of the Soldiers’ Orphanage and haunted houses. Led by a ghost guide, this tour features visits to East Cemetery Hill and the orphanage, where children lost to war are said to linger. The tour lasts about 90 minutes and is limited to ten people for an intimate experience.
Guests appreciate the detailed storytelling and the interactive element of being led by a ghost guide. The group size and immersive approach make it engaging for those who enjoy supernatural history. For $18, it’s a reasonably priced, atmospheric adventure suitable for history lovers and ghost enthusiasts alike. If you’re fascinated by stories of tormented spirits and wartime tragedy, this tour is a compelling choice. Bottom line: An immersive, small-group ghost walk that highlights Gettysburg’s haunted past.
6. Gettysburg Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
Number 6 is perfect for the independent traveler. The self-guided driving tour allows you to explore Gettysburg’s key sites at your own pace with an audio narration and GPS map. For $14.99, you get access to a comprehensive tour lasting 2 to 4 hours, covering battlefield landmarks, monuments, and troop movements.
Guests praise its ease of use and depth of information. It’s especially good for visitors who like to avoid strict schedules and prefer a flexible, educational experience. The tour’s price makes it a budget-friendly option for families or groups wanting to make the most of their time. The only potential drawback is that it requires some attention to device navigation. Bottom line: An affordable, flexible way to learn Gettysburg’s history in your own vehicle.
7. Civil War Ghosts of Gettysburg Tour by US Ghost Adventures
Number 7’s paranormal walking tour blends ghost stories with Civil War history. Covering key sites like Unity Park and the Farnsworth House Inn, this one-hour tour explores the haunted side of Gettysburg. The guide shares accounts of ghostly encounters and battlefield spirits, making it a favorite among ghost hunters.
Guests love the mix of history and paranormal accounts, with some noting the guide’s engaging storytelling. It’s priced at $32, offering a good balance between content and duration. Ideal for those interested in ghostly legends and Civil War stories alike. If you’re short on time but want a spooky taste of Gettysburg, this tour delivers. Bottom line: A short but engaging ghost walk for history buffs and paranormal enthusiasts.
8. Evening Investigation – Small Group Gettysburg
Number 8 is for those ready to investigate paranormal activity firsthand. This small-group tour combines history with ghost hunting, lasting about three hours. You’ll visit haunted locations with special equipment like spirit boxes and EMF meters, guided by an expert.
Guests rave about the personal attention and the opportunity to use ghost-hunting gear. Many mention the thrill of capturing evidence and the engaging stories provided by the guide. For $50, it’s an excellent value for serious ghost enthusiasts eager for an interactive experience. It’s not recommended for very young children due to the equipment and dark locations but perfect for adults and teens interested in supernatural investigation. Bottom line: An immersive, hands-on ghost hunt for dedicated paranormal explorers.
9. Gettysburg: Ghost Hunt Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment
At number 9, this evening ghost hunt combines history and paranormal investigation. Over 90 minutes, you’ll explore Gettysburg’s haunted sites with ghost-hunting gear and learn about the town’s spectral legacies. The tour is suitable for older teens and adults who want a thrilling spooky experience.
Guests report a sense of connection with spirits and enjoy the interactive element of ghost hunting. Priced at $28.95, it’s a reasonable way to experience Gettysburg after dark. It’s perfect if you’re curious about ghostly activity and want an active, investigative experience. Bottom line: An engaging, equipment-based ghost tour for those looking to combine history with supernatural fun.
How to Choose Your Gettysburg Tour
When selecting your ideal Gettysburg tour, consider your interests and comfort level. If you’re after a family-friendly introduction, the Echoes of War All Ages Ghost Tour provides a balanced mix of history and fun stories. For history buffs who want a deep dive, the Private Guided Tour offers personalized insights, while the Self-Guided Audio Tour gives flexibility for independent exploration.
Ghost enthusiasts should look at the Spirits of Jennie Wade Ghost Night Tour or the Fright Night Investigation if they want an active paranormal hunt. Nighttime tours like the Ghost Hunt and Small Group Investigation are best for those comfortable with darker, spooky settings and using ghost-hunting gear.
Practical tips include booking early during peak seasons, especially for private and small-group experiences, and matching the tour length and price to your schedule and curiosity level.
Final Thoughts
Gettysburg offers a broad selection of tours tailored to different interests—whether you want to walk the historic streets, ride through the battlefield, or investigate ghostly phenomena. For a comprehensive experience, the private guided tours provide in-depth knowledge, while the ghost-focused options add an extra layer of excitement. Budget travelers will appreciate the self-guided audio tour, while thrill-seekers should consider the ghost investigations with paranormal gear.
No matter what you choose, booking early is wise, especially during peak travel times. Gettysburg’s mix of history and haunted tales ensures that your visit will be memorable—so pick your adventure and enjoy uncovering the secrets of this remarkable town.