Gettysburg isn’t just a battlefield filled with cannons and monuments. It’s a town that breathes history—and, surprisingly, plenty of ghost stories. Whether you’re a Civil War history buff, a family looking for engaging stories, or an adventurous spirit seeking paranormal thrills, Gettysburg offers a range of tours and things to do that bring its past vividly to life.
I personally enjoy the unique Ghost Tours, especially the Spirits of Jennie Wade Ghost Night Tour, which combines history with chilling tales of the only civilian killed during the battle.
For a more active experience, the Horse-Drawn Carriage Battlefield Tour offers a scenic, relaxed way to absorb the battlefield’s gravity.
And for those interested in modern ghost-hunting, the Fright Night Investigation allows brave travelers to use real paranormal equipment in the dark. Gettysburg’s diverse options promise memorable moments, whether you’re after history, chills, or both.
- 1. Echoes of War All Ages Ghost Tour
- 2. Gettysburg: Horse-Drawn Carriage Battlefield Tour
- 3. Gettysburg: Private Tour with Licensed Battlefield Guide
- 4. Spirits of Jennie Wade Ghost Night Tour in Gettysburg
- 5. Haunted Orphanage Ghostly Encounter Tour in Gettysburg
- 6. Gettysburg Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
- 7. Civil War Ghosts of Gettysburg Tour by US Ghost Adventures
- 8. Evening Investigation – Small Group Gettysburg
- 9. Gettysburg: Ghost Hunt Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment
- 10. Blood on the Battlefield Ages 16+
- 11. Ghost Tour: History and Haunts – Family Friendly – Best in Gettysburg
- 12. Gettysburg One-Hour Walking Tour: The Civilian Experience
- 13. Civil War Ghosts: Echoes of the Fallen Gettysburg Ghost Tour
- 14. Skip the Line: Gettysburg Heritage Center and Museum Admission Ticket
- 15. Fright Night Investigation – Small Group Gettysburg
- How to Choose the Perfect Gettysburg Tour
- Final Thoughts
1. Echoes of War All Ages Ghost Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Echoes of War All Ages Ghost Tour offers an accessible, fun introduction to Gettysburg’s haunted side. For just $24.99, this 1.5-hour walking tour covers the major sites of the town, with stories about soldiers and civilians whose spirits are said to linger.
What sets this tour apart is its suitability for all ages, making it perfect for families, curious kids, or history lovers who appreciate a spooky twist.
The guide takes you from the Lincoln statue at Wills House to tales of Tillie Pierce, a brave 15-year-old girl who witnessed the battle firsthand.
The reviews highlight its engaging storytelling, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and the mix of history and ghost stories.
The tour’s brevity and affordability make it an easy option for a relaxed evening in Gettysburg. Bottom line: A well-rounded, family-friendly ghost tour that makes history lively and a little spooky.
2. Gettysburg: Horse-Drawn Carriage Battlefield Tour
Number 2 is the Gettysburg: Horse-Drawn Carriage Battlefield Tour. For around $74 per person, this 2-hour ride combines history with relaxation. Riding in an open-top carriage, you feel the wind and hear your guide unfold the story of the Civil War’s pivotal battle. This tour is unique because it offers an immersive, scenic experience without the need for walking.
Your guide’s expertise helps bring the battlefield to life from the comfort of your seat, making it a good choice for those with mobility considerations or families wanting a gentle overview. Guests love the personal attention from guides and the chance to see key sites in a memorable, historic setting.
The comfort of the carriage allows you to focus on the stories and views, making it a meaningful way to experience Gettysburg. Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a relaxed, scenic overview of the battlefield.
3. Gettysburg: Private Tour with Licensed Battlefield Guide
Number 3 is the Gettysburg: Private Tour with Licensed Battlefield Guide, which offers a tailored and in-depth experience for $95 per group (up to six people). This tour allows you to explore the battlefield at your own pace with a certified guide’s expertise.
Unlike larger group tours, a private guide can focus on specific areas of interest or answer detailed questions. This is perfect for history enthusiasts who want a comprehensive visit without the crowds.
Guests note the guide’s knowledge, and many enjoy the flexibility that comes with having your own vehicle and itinerary. If you’re after a more personalized, educational experience, this tour delivers excellent value.
The private setup means fewer distractions, more tailored stories, and the chance to explore lesser-known spots. Bottom line: Best for couples or small groups seeking a custom, in-depth battlefield exploration.
4. Spirits of Jennie Wade Ghost Night Tour in Gettysburg
Number 4 on our list, the Spirits of Jennie Wade Ghost Night Tour, combines history and paranormal activity in one of Gettysburg’s most haunted homes. For $16, you’ll spend 1.5 hours exploring Jennie Wade’s house, where the Civil War’s only civilian victim was killed. The tour continues outside, walking around East Cemetery Hill, a hotbed of ghostly tales.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on haunted stories, with accounts of resident spirits, ghostly soldiers, and paranormal activity.
Guests consistently praise the guide’s storytelling and the immersive experience, especially the historic house that has featured on Travel Channel. The intimate group size enhances the spooky atmosphere.
This tour is perfect for those interested in ghost stories rooted in real history. Bottom line: A compelling mix of haunted house tales and battlefield ghost stories in an immersive setting.
5. Haunted Orphanage Ghostly Encounter Tour in Gettysburg
Ranking number 5, the Haunted Orphanage Ghostly Encounter Tour takes you back to the 1860s and the Civil War’s aftermath. For $18, this 1.5-hour walking tour is led by a ghost guide who shares haunting tales of East Cemetery Hill, the Soldiers Orphanage, and haunted houses. You’ll visit the orphanage where children lost their fathers and learn about spirits that supposedly cannot move on.
Highlights include the cellar and haunted houses, with an intimate group cap of 10 for a more personal experience. Reviewers rave about the engaging stories and the guide’s enthusiasm.
This tour is well-suited for those wanting a spooky night with a focus on Civil War legends and ghostly encounters. Bottom line: A darker, more immersive ghost experience that blends history and paranormal tales.
6. Gettysburg Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
Number 6 is the Gettysburg Battlefield Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour. For $14.99, you get a flexible, audio-guided experience that lasts 2 to 4 hours. This is perfect if you prefer to explore at your own pace and have your own car. The tour covers key sites like McPherson’s Ridge and the Railroad Cut, all narrated with detailed descriptions.
It’s suitable for independent travelers who want to learn about the battle without a guide. Patience pays off, as reviews mention that the instructions are clear and the information compelling.
It’s a cost-effective way to see the battlefield thoroughly, especially if you’re returning for multiple visits. Bottom line: Great for those who want control over their schedule and a comprehensive battlefield overview.
7. Civil War Ghosts of Gettysburg Tour by US Ghost Adventures
Number 7 features the Civil War Ghosts of Gettysburg Tour, which offers a 1-hour walk focused on paranormal activity around Gettysburg. For $32, you visit sites like the Unity Park and Farnsworth House Inn, known for ghost stories and supernatural tales. The guide shares accounts of ghostly soldiers and haunted landmarks, blending civil war history with spirits from beyond.
Guests love the haunted perspective and the chance to see Gettysburg’s dark side. The tour’s shorter length makes it ideal for those with limited time but still looking for a chilling experience.
It’s especially popular among history and ghost enthusiasts. Bottom line: A quick but atmospheric tour for those interested in paranormal history.
8. Evening Investigation – Small Group Gettysburg
Ranked number 8, the Evening Investigation takes you into Gettysburg’s haunted sites after dark. For $50, in a small group, you’ll visit two or three locations with paranormal gear to hunt spirits. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore haunted bridges and wooded areas, trying to uncover ghostly activity firsthand.
Guests consistently praise the guide’s storytelling and the chance to use equipment like spirit boxes and EMF meters, making this a favorite for serious paranormal enthusiasts. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intense experience.
If you’re intrigued by ghost hunting and want to explore the supernatural side of Gettysburg, this tour hits the mark. Bottom line: Best for adventurous travelers craving an authentic ghost-hunting experience.
9. Gettysburg: Ghost Hunt Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment
Number 9 is the Gettysburg: Ghost Hunt Tour with Ghost Hunting Equipment. For $28.95, you’ll explore Gettysburg after dark, armed with ghost-hunting gear. The 1.5-hour tour combines a brief Civil War history overview with an interactive hunt for spirits in key haunted locations. Guests enjoy using equipment to communicate with spirits, making this tour highly engaging.
Reviewers mention feeling the paranormal activity and appreciating the blend of history with hands-on ghost investigation.
This tour is a good pick for those who want a fun, interactive night of ghost hunting that’s not too long or complicated. Bottom line: An engaging, gear-assisted ghost tour for adventure-seekers.
10. Blood on the Battlefield Ages 16+
Number 10 offers the Blood on the Battlefield tour, ideal for travelers aged 16 and up. For $34.99, it combines haunting stories with visits to sites like the Gettysburg Hotel and Jennie Wade House, all with an emphasis on the ghostly legends tied to the battle.
The tour emphasizes the spectral activities and the tragic stories of those who fought and died here. Reviewers mention the engaging storytelling, and many find the tour offers a meaningful, chilling experience.
It’s suited for older teens and adults interested in both ghost stories and Civil War history. Bottom line: A compelling nighttime ghost walk focusing on the darker side of Gettysburg’s past.
11. Ghost Tour: History and Haunts – Family Friendly – Best in Gettysburg
Number 11 is the Ghost Tour: History and Haunts, a 1-hour 15-minute family-friendly walk costing $23.95. It’s perfect for teens and adults who want a guided journey through Gettysburg’s most haunted landmarks, like the Farnsworth House Inn and the Witness Tree.
The guide shares spooky stories and historic facts that bring the town’s past to life without being overly scary. Reviewers love the guide’s storytelling style and the balance between history and paranormal tales.
It’s a good option when you want an engaging experience without late-night scares. Bottom line: A lively, accessible ghost tour ideal for families and light-hearted ghost enthusiasts.
12. Gettysburg One-Hour Walking Tour: The Civilian Experience
Number 12 is a brief, one-hour exploration of the Civilian Experience in Gettysburg. For $25, this tour focuses on the lives of non-military residents during the battle, including stories of civilians who felt the chaos firsthand. Guided by a licensed town guide, you’ll visit key sites and hear about their stories. Guests praise the knowledgeable guide and the intimate feel of this tour.
It’s a good choice for those interested in the personal side of the war and looking for a concise, meaningful visit. Bottom line: Compact yet insightful, ideal for a quick cultural dose of Gettysburg.
13. Civil War Ghosts: Echoes of the Fallen Gettysburg Ghost Tour
Number 13 takes you on a Civil War Ghosts tour lasting about an hour at $24 per person. This walk focuses on haunted landmarks like the Brickhouse Inn and the Farnsworth House Inn, with stories of ghostly soldiers and paranormal phenomena.
Guests appreciate the spooky stories intertwined with detailed historical anecdotes. It’s suited for those who want a short, atmospheric experience with plenty of ghostly atmosphere.
The tour’s emphasis on first-hand ghost tales makes it a memorable haunted history walk. Bottom line: A concise ghost tour that brings Gettysburg’s haunted past alive.
14. Skip the Line: Gettysburg Heritage Center and Museum Admission Ticket
Number 14 is a visit to the Gettysburg Heritage Center, offering an interactive, visual experience about the battle and town. For just $10, you can explore artifacts, documents, and 3-D displays that provide context to Gettysburg’s story. It’s a great way to complement any battlefield visit or ghost tour, providing deeper insight into the battle’s impact on civilians.
Many reviews mention the engaging displays and the educational value. The center is perfect for families or those wanting a flexible, indoor activity.
Bottom line: An informative and visually stimulating experience that deepens your understanding of Gettysburg’s history.
15. Fright Night Investigation – Small Group Gettysburg
Finally, the Fright Night Investigation offers a full 3-hour paranormal quest for $70 per person. Led by expert guides, you’ll explore haunted locations like covered bridges and wooded areas after dark, using advanced ghost-hunting equipment. This tour is for serious paranormal enthusiasts hungry for authentic supernatural encounters.
Reviewers describe it as “so much fun” and “creepy,” with many feeling they actually communicated with spirits. Because of the limited group size, the experience remains personal and intense.
If you’re comfortable with an all-in night of ghost hunting, this tour is the top choice. Bottom line: An immersive, gear-filled paranormal adventure for those ready to hunt spirits in Gettysburg’s shadows.
How to Choose the Perfect Gettysburg Tour
When deciding which tour suits your interests, consider your budget, time, and what excites you most. History lovers may enjoy the Private Battlefield Tour or the Self-Guided Auto Tour for flexibility and depth. Families or newcomers might prefer the Family-Friendly Ghost Tour or the Ghost and Haunts Tour.
Paranormal enthusiasts should look at the Ghost Hunt Tours or Fright Night Investigation for a hands-on experience. Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to ensure availability.
Think about how active you want your experience—walking, driving, or investigating—and pick a tour that matches your comfort level and curiosity.
Many tours, like the Heritage Center visit or the Ghost Night Tour, complement each other for a full Gettysburg experience.
Final Thoughts
Gettysburg offers a surprising variety of tours and things to do beyond the iconic battlefield. From haunted houses and ghost hunts to scenic carriage rides and private guides, there’s something for every traveler. If you’re interested in history with a ghostly twist, tours like the Spirits of Jennie Wade or Civil War Ghosts offer memorable stories rooted in real sites.
For a more relaxed experience, the Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour provides scenic views and gentle narration. And for true paranormal thrill-seekers, the Fright Night Investigation promises an adrenaline rush.
No matter your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these unique experiences. Gettysburg’s stories—whether haunted or historical—are waiting to be discovered.