Gettysburg isn’t just about Civil War battlefields and historic landmarks. For those who love good food and local flavors, the town offers some memorable ways to combine sightseeing with tasting.
The Gettysburg Historic Downtown Food Tour by Junket stands out because it mixes history with a curated sampling of Amish treats, Philadelphia-inspired flavors, and local favorites—all within the charming streets of downtown Gettysburg.
Meanwhile, the Gettysburg: Historic Downtown Food Tour offers a broader exploration of multicultural foods and historic sites, making it ideal for travelers eager to try a diverse range of bites while soaking in the area’s Civil War atmosphere. Both tours provide a welcoming, personal experience, but each has its own flavor and focus worth considering.
Whether you’re after a small-group intimate experience or a more comprehensive dive into Gettysburg’s culinary scene, there’s a food tour here to suit your style.
These experiences pair well with exploring Gettysburg’s battlefields, museums, and historic sites—you can even enjoy a famous apple handpie at the bakery or debate battle strategies over a craft beer. Read on to find the best fit for your taste buds and travel plans.
1. Gettysburg Historic Downtown Food Tour By Junket
At number 1, the Gettysburg Historic Downtown Food Tour by Junket combines history and gastronomy with a focus on local favorites and Civil War-era stories. Priced at $70.50 per person, this 2-hour walking tour takes you through the heart of Gettysburg’s historic streets, visiting well-loved eateries and breweries.
It’s perfect if you want a small-group experience—reviews highlight how personal and engaging the guide was, with guests noting that the food was “delicious” and that they discovered hidden gems they wouldn’t have found on their own.
The tour includes stops at Sweeet! THE Candy Store, where you can indulge in over 1,500 varieties of sweets, including their signature “Battlefield Brittle.” Next, you’ll visit the Blue & Gray Bar & Grill, a Civil War-themed spot famous for the Chamberlain Burger topped with smoked bacon and cheddar, paired with local craft beers.
The experience continues at Gettysburg Baking Co., known for its fresh-baked breads and pastries, making for a cozy, flavorful break.
The guide’s local insights and the chance to try things like Amish treats and Philadelphia-inspired flavors make this tour a standout for those wanting a personalized, tasty journey through Gettysburg’s past and present.
Bottom line: This tour blends history with food in a relaxed setting, offering good value for its price with highly positive reviews. It’s best suited for visitors who enjoy a small-group setting and want to explore the local scene with expert commentary.
2. Gettysburg: Historic Downtown Food Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Gettysburg: Historic Downtown Food Tour, which costs $105 per person and lasts for 2 hours. This guided walking tour emphasizes multicultural foods and includes visits to three historic sites linked with Gettysburg’s Civil War past.
It’s a good pick if you want to combine food tasting with a bit of history, such as learning about Gettysburg’s role in the war while sampling gourmet sweets and experimenting with wild mushrooms at Food 101.
Guests enjoy cozy moments like biting into a warm Apple Handpie at Gettysburg Baking Co. or exploring the history of Hershey, as they sample gourmet candies and confections. The guide’s knowledge about both the culinary scene and local history makes this a well-rounded experience, especially for those curious about cultural influences and historic anecdotes.
The tour’s broader scope, including diverse food styles and historic site visits, makes it appealing for visitors who want an immersive experience, though some may find it slightly pricier than other options.
Bottom line: This tour provides a mix of multicultural tastes and historic stories, making it ideal for travelers interested in a comprehensive experience. The price reflects the inclusion of multiple food stops and historic site insights, suitable for those who want to explore both the palate and the past.
How to Choose the Right Gettysburg Food Tour
Choosing between these options depends on your budget, interests, and how much history or variety you want in your tasting adventure.
If you prefer a smaller, more personal tour focused on local and Civil War-related flavors with an engaging guide, the Gettysburg Historic Downtown Food Tour by Junket offers excellent value at $70.50. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a relaxed pace and local insider tips.
On the other hand, if you want a broader exploration of foods from different cultures while also visiting historic sites, the Gettysburg: Historic Downtown Food Tour at $105 might be the better fit. This tour suits travelers with a keen interest in learning about both food and history in depth.
Consider your budget and time constraints: both tours last about 2 hours, but the first offers a more intimate experience at a lower price, while the second provides a wider variety of tastes. Book early, especially during the busy summer months, as tickets can sell out quickly.
Gettysburg’s food scene, combined with its historical significance, makes for a lively and memorable culinary experience. For a gentle introduction, the Junket tour offers a cozy, personal taste of local favorites.
If you’re after something more eclectic and comprehensive, the second tour will fill your stomach and your mind with stories and flavors from across the world and history. Whichever you choose, you’ll leave with a full belly and a deeper appreciation for this fascinating town.