Gettysburg isn’t just a place to stand on historic battlefields; it’s a vibrant town packed with stories, spirits, and surprises. Whether you’re a history lover, a ghost enthusiast, or just looking for a fun way to explore, Gettysburg offers a range of tours and experiences that bring the past to life. We especially like the Gettysburg: 1863 Historic Downtown Walking Tour for its engaging storytelling about local civilians, and the Ghost Hunt Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment for its spine-tingling paranormal activities. These tours go beyond the usual, providing authentic insights and memorable moments. If you’re planning your trip, check out the options below to find a Gettysburg experience that matches your interests and curiosity.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of guided walking tours, ghost hunts, and even a diorama museum, designed to suit different tastes and schedules. From the Gettysburg: Civil War Ghosts Walking Tour, which combines history with ghostly tales, to the Farnsworth House Haunted Walking Tours for spooky stories, there’s something for all. We’ve included tours that focus on civilian life, ghost stories, battlefield action, and historic taverns. Keep reading for detailed insights on each experience, so you can pick the perfect way to explore Gettysburg.
1. Gettysburg: 1863 Historic Downtown Walking Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Gettysburg: 1863 Historic Downtown Walking Tour offers a compelling look into everyday life during the Civil War. Led by a knowledgeable town historian, this 2-hour walk explores the impact of the battle on local residents and uncovers untold stories behind the fighting. The tour’s lively storytelling and focus on civilian experiences make it stand out. Reviewers praise guides like Ken for their depth of knowledge and storytelling skills, with many noting how they felt immersed in Gettysburg’s past. The $25 price tag is very reasonable, especially given the detailed historical context provided. This tour is ideal for those interested in urban history, Civil War stories beyond the battlefield, and local flavor. Be prepared for a walk through downtown Gettysburg, with plenty of stops to ask questions.
Bottom Line: If you want an engaging, personable intro to Gettysburg’s civilian side, this tour is hard to beat.
2. Gettysburg: Civil War Ghosts Walking Tour
Number 2 is the Gettysburg: Civil War Ghosts Walking Tour, which walks the line between history and supernatural. For just $24, this 1-hour evening tour invites you to “mingle with spirits” as guides share little-known Civil War facts and paranormal tales. You’ll peer through 150-year-old bullet holes, hear first-hand accounts of ghostly soldiers, and even try to capture Jennie Wade’s spirit on camera. The tour’s reviews highlight how well the guide manages storytelling within a manageable walking distance, making it accessible for most. The mix of history and hauntings offers a fun, spooky experience that’s perfect for families or groups wanting a different perspective on Gettysburg.
Bottom Line: If you’re intrigued by ghost stories and want a spooky, atmospheric stroll, this tour delivers compelling tales and ghostly encounters.
3. Gettysburg: Ghost Hunt Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment
Number 3 on our list is the Ghost Hunt Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment. For $29 and lasting about 1.5 hours, this tour is a hands-on paranormal adventure. Led by an experienced ghost hunter, participants use special ghost hunting gear to detect spectral activity at some of Gettysburg’s most haunted sites. The highlight is the opportunity to operate equipment like EMF meters, and perhaps even experience some “ghost whispering.” Reviews mention how guides make the experience fun and informative, with some guests capturing evidence of spirits. This tour is perfect for adventurers eager to experience the supernatural firsthand. It’s also suited for those curious about paranormal science or looking for an active, interactive outing.
Bottom Line: For thrill-seekers and ghost enthusiasts, this tour offers a memorable, immersive peek into Gettysburg’s haunted side.
4. Gettysburg: The Civilian Experience Guided Walking Tour
Number 4, the Gettysburg: Civilian Experience Guided Walking Tour, takes you on a 1-hour journey through the town’s historic sites. Costing $25, the tour highlights the lives of civilians during the battle, along with landmarks related to the bloodiest clash of the Civil War. The guide’s storytelling makes history lively, with reviews praising the detailed, engaging narration and the ability to make the Civil War’s impact on ordinary people come alive. The tour is ideal for travelers who want a shorter, more focused experience or those with limited time. It’s a great way to appreciate Gettysburg beyond the battlefield, understanding how residents coped with war’s upheaval.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in civilian stories and want a meaningful, 1-hour walking experience, this tour is a good choice.
5. Gettysburg: Reluctant Witness Guided Walking Tour
Number 5 offers the Reluctant Witness Guided Walking Tour, a 2-hour journey through Gettysburg’s High Street and Unity Park for $25. Led by Ken Rich, the tour focuses on first-hand battle accounts, historic buildings, and the significance of music during the war. Guests love Ken’s knowledgeable and engaging style, with reviews praising how he makes history relatable by sharing stories about families and townspeople. The tour’s strength lies in its rich storytelling, making it suitable for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Visitors should be prepared for a leisurely walk with plenty of storytelling stops to absorb Gettysburg’s past.
Bottom Line: For a detailed, personal account of Gettysburg’s battle and civilian life, this guided walk is a standout.
6. Gettysburg: “History and Haunts” Family Friendly Ghost Tour
Number 6 is the Family Friendly Ghost Tour, designed for kids and adults alike. For $25, this 75-minute experience visits haunted sites around town, with stories suitable for all ages. It’s especially recommended if you want a fun, spooky outing with a touch of history, and the reviews highlight how guides like Ken and Tom make the stories engaging and appropriate for children. The tour balances paranormal tales with historical context, making it a good choice for families wanting a lighter ghost experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re traveling with kids or prefer a shorter, family-oriented ghost walk, this tour is perfect.
7. Gettysburg: Family-Friendly Guided Ghost Tour
Number 7 offers a longer, 1.5-hour Family-Friendly Guided Ghost Tour. Price at $25, it focuses on the stories of people affected by the battle, including where Lincoln penned most of The Gettysburg Address. Guides like Major Finn make history accessible and fun, with reviews praising their engaging storytelling. This tour is well-suited for families who want to learn about Gettysburg’s spirits and history in a relaxed, friendly environment. It’s a great way to combine ghost stories with Civil War history in one outing.
Bottom Line: For families seeking an entertaining, educational ghost walk, this tour hits the right notes.
8. President Lincoln Visits Gettysburg: Evening Walking Tour
At number 8, President Lincoln Visits Gettysburg is a 1-hour tour for $25 that walks you through Lincoln’s 25-hour stay in Gettysburg. Led by knowledgeable guides like Terry, it brings to life Lincoln’s visit and the civilians’ reactions. Guests find it a rich storytelling experience, with many appreciating the chance to see Lincoln’s influence on the town. The tour is perfect for history buffs wanting a focused exploration of Lincoln’s connection to Gettysburg, especially the significance of his famous speech.
Bottom Line: If you want to walk in Lincoln’s footsteps and understand his impact, this short, focused tour is ideal.
9. Evening One-Hour Walking Tour: Battle In the Streets
Number 9 is the Battle In the Streets tour, a 1-hour walk that explores Gettysburg’s streets where fighting raged. For $25, it offers a compact, engaging look at the urban fighting and hospital sites. Guides like Jerry are praised for their knowledgeable, personable style, making history accessible and vivid within a short time frame. It’s suitable for visitors who want a quick but meaningful overview of the town’s street fighting, especially in the evening.
Bottom Line: If you’re short on time but want a lively walk through Gettysburg’s street battles, this tour delivers.
10. Gettysburg: Mystery Evening Walking Tour
Number 10 offers the Mystery Evening Walking Tour, a 1-hour exploration of Gettysburg’s unsolved mysteries. For $25, it features stories of secret meetings, strange burials, and local legends. The single review highlights a “great guide”, indicating a focus on storytelling and atmosphere. Perfect for those interested in unsolved stories and local legends, it’s a fun, less serious alternative to the ghost tours.
Bottom Line: For a light, intriguing walk that mixes history with mystery, this tour offers an enjoyable evening outing.
11. Civil War Tails Diorama Museum Entry Ticket
Number 11 is the quirky and charming Civil War Tails Diorama Museum, featuring hand-sculpted miniature cats portraying Civil War battles with incredible detail. At just $7, the 30-day ticket offers a very affordable, whimsical experience. It’s a fun break from walking tours, especially for families or cat lovers, and the dioramas provide a unique visual perspective on historic scenes that’s both entertaining and educational.
Bottom Line: For something different and charming, this miniature cat diorama museum is worth a visit.
12. Gettysburg: Historic Taverns Evening Walking Tour
Number 12 is the Historic Taverns Evening Walking Tour, a 1-hour exploration of Gettysburg’s lively tavern history. At $25, it reveals stories of notorious, uproarious, and fascinating taverns where locals and soldiers mingled. The review calls it an “incredibly informative and educational” experience, perfect for those interested in social history and local gossip.
Bottom Line: If you’re curious about Gettysburg’s social life and want a lively, engaging walk, this tour fits the bill.
13. Farnsworth House Haunted Walking Tours
Number 13 offers the Farnsworth House Haunted Walking Tours, a 1 to 1.5-hour spooky adventure. Costing only $17, it explores Gettysburg’s most haunted locations and eerie tales. The reviews mention the “most haunted town” label and the bone-chilling stories, making it a top pick for ghost enthusiasts looking for a more haunted experience.
Bottom Line: If you love ghost stories and haunted locations, this tour gives you a spooky, atmospheric experience at an affordable price.
14. Danger & Courage— A Guided Walking Tour
Finally, Danger & Courage is a 1-hour walk focusing on the fighting in the southern part of Gettysburg and civilian resilience. At $25, it features small groups and experienced guides who tell stories that highlight both combat and civilian bravery, making it suitable for those interested in the lesser-known aspects of the battle.
Bottom Line: For a focused, well-told story of the southern fighting and civilian courage, this tour offers a concise and engaging experience.
How to Choose the Right Gettysburg Tour
Choosing the perfect tour depends on your interests, schedule, and energy level. If you’re interested in civilian stories and local life, the Gettysburg: 1863 Historic Downtown Walking Tour is highly recommended. For ghost lovers, the Ghost Hunt with Ghost Hunting Equipment offers an interactive paranormal experience, while families with kids might prefer the Family Friendly Ghost Tour.
Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the Civil War Tails Diorama Museum, offering a fun, inexpensive break from walking. Those wanting a focused look at Lincoln’s visit or the street battles should consider the Lincoln walk or the Battle in the Streets tour. Book early for popular evening and ghost tours, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Gettysburg’s tours span a wide spectrum—from immersive history and lively storytelling to spooky ghost hunts and whimsical dioramas. For a classic experience, the Downtown Walking Tour provides a solid introduction, while ghost tours like Ghost Hunt with Ghost Hunting Equipment or Farnsworth House Haunted Tours satisfy those craving paranormal thrills. Families, history nerds, and curious travelers will all find something memorable here.
No matter which tour you choose, doing a bit of homework before you arrive helps tailor your Gettysburg visit to your interests. These experiences are best booked early—Gettysburg’s popularity means spots fill quickly. Now, grab your walking shoes, prepare for some stories, and enjoy exploring this fascinating town’s many layers of history.
Happy touring, and remember: history is best experienced hands-on, whether through stories, spirits, or miniature cats.