Haunted Orphanage Ghostly Encounter Tour in Gettysburg

The Haunted Orphanage Ghostly Encounter Tour in Gettysburg offers a captivating blend of history and the supernatural for just $18 per person. This 1 hour 30-minute walking experience takes place at dusk, starting from 778 Baltimore St and immerses visitors in stories from the 1860s Civil War era, led by a literal spirit guide. The tour is renowned for its intimate group size of no more than 10, allowing for a more personal and detailed encounter with the haunted sites and spectral tales. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 202 reviews and 96% recommending it, this tour clearly appeals to those curious about ghost stories rooted in history and looking for an engaging, small-group experience.

While it’s primarily focused on storytelling and paranormal encounters, the tour also offers a well-paced exploration of significant Gettysburg locations, including the East Cemetery Hill and the National Soldiers Orphanage. It’s an experience suited for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, and anyone interested in a slightly eerie night adventure. The fact that it’s accessible and near public transportation adds to its convenience, making it a popular choice booked on average 29 days in advance.

Key Points

• Affordable and engaging: At $18, this tour provides a detailed ghostly experience in Gettysburg, lasting approximately 90 minutes.
• Led by a ghostly guide: The tour’s unique feature is the spirit guide who shares chilling tales as you walk among haunted sites.
• Intimate groups: With a maximum of 10 participants, expect a more personal and interactive experience.
• Visit key locations: The tour highlights include East Cemetery Hill and the National Soldiers Orphanage—both sites with rich histories and rumored paranormal activity.
• Highly rated by visitors: Consistently praised for entertaining guides, especially Chris, Mike, and Tom, who bring stories to life.
• Includes eerie basement visits: The cellar of the orphanage is noted as a particularly spooky highlight, with some guests capturing activity on camera.

The Starting Point and Tour Schedule in Gettysburg

The haunting adventure begins at 778 Baltimore St in Gettysburg, where the guide will orient visitors to the area. The 7:00 pm start time sets the perfect tone for an evening of ghostly tales. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point, ensuring ease for participants. The group size of up to 10 ensures that each guest can engage closely with the guide and ask questions throughout the walk.

The mobile ticket system allows for quick access, and confirmation is received immediately upon booking, with some flexibility if booked within two days of travel. Service animals are permitted, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility concerns, as it involves walking through historic sites.

Visiting Gettysburg’s Haunted Sites: East Cemetery Hill

East Cemetery Hill is central to the tour’s narrative, as it was a fierce battleground during the Civil War. The guide explains the significance of this site and shares stories related to the heavy fighting that occurred there. Guests learn about the spirits believed to linger in this area and the emotional energy tied to the historic battlefield. The storytelling emphasizes the area’s haunted reputation, setting the mood for the night.

The guide’s vivid descriptions and historical context help visitors appreciate both the battle’s brutality and the ghostly legends that still surround the site today. The walk around East Cemetery Hill combines visual interest with haunting stories, making it a highlight of the experience.

Exploring the National Soldiers Orphanage and Its Haunted Past

The National Soldiers Orphanage is a key stop on this tour, with its layered history adding depth to the ghost stories. Originally used as General O.O. Howard’s headquarters and a hospital during the battle, the building was later transformed into an orphanage for children who lost their fathers in the war. This history provides a poignant backdrop for the paranormal tales shared during the tour.

Guests will visit the homestead of the orphanage, where the guide recounts stories of spirits that may still be present, especially in the cellar. Descriptions of the basement’s eerie atmosphere, along with reports of capturing orbs and being touched, make it a compelling and chilling part of the experience. The guide’s acting and storytelling skills, especially during the cellar visit, draw vivid images of long-ago events and spectral activity.

The Unique Role of the Ghostly Guide

The tour’s standout feature is the ghost guide, who is not just a storyteller but an active participant in creating an atmospheric experience. Many guests praise Chris, Mike, and Tom for their engaging narration, humor, and ability to bring stories to life. Their performances include acting as if they are speaking with spirits, which heightens the authenticity of the paranormal tales.

Some guides incorporate humor and dramatic flair, making the stories both chilling and entertaining. The guide’s expert storytelling keeps the group captivated, even in moments when no supernatural activity is visibly occurring. Their ability to evoke emotion and curiosity is a defining characteristic of the tour.

The Basement Experience and Paranormal Encounters

The cellar of the orphanage is consistently highlighted as the most eerie and memorable part of the tour. Guests describe feeling the long-ago atmosphere, with some capturing orbs on camera and reporting being touched on the neck multiple times. The guide acts as a storyteller, pretending to converse with ghosts, which adds to the suspense and fun.

This part of the tour is also where some guests report the most activity, making it a favorite among those interested in paranormal phenomena. The basement’s dark, confined setting heightens the creepy feeling, and the guide’s acting style enhances the experience.

Pacing, Atmosphere, and Group Dynamics

The tour maintains a well-paced flow, with a balance of walking, storytelling, and interactive moments. The small group size allows for a more intimate atmosphere, where guests feel comfortable asking questions and sharing reactions. The evening start time contributes to the spooky ambiance, especially as darkness sets in at the historic sites.

Guests find the narrative style engaging, with guides often bringing historical facts and ghost stories together seamlessly. The balance of education and entertainment appeals to a wide audience, including families, history lovers, and ghost enthusiasts. The overall pacing is described as just right for covering the sites without feeling rushed.

Accessibility and Practical Details

The tour is conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible for most visitors. It is suitable for most travelers, including service animals, and the confirmation process occurs promptly upon booking. Since the activity involves walking outdoors, some physical considerations should be taken into account, but overall, it is designed to accommodate a broad range of participants.

The free cancellation policy allows for flexibility, with full refunds available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. This makes it a low-risk option for those who might need to adjust their plans.

Who Will Enjoy This Haunted Gettysburg Tour?

This tour best suits history buffs interested in Civil War sites with a paranormal twist, as well as guests seeking an entertaining and spooky experience. The small group size and interactive storytelling create a more personal vibe, perfect for those who like their ghost stories with historical context.

It’s especially popular among families with older children and adults who appreciate a mix of humor and horror. The cellar visit and haunted locations provide enough chills without being overly intense, making it suitable for most audiences interested in ghostly tales.

The Sum Up: A Night of History and Haunting in Gettysburg

The Haunted Orphanage Ghostly Encounter Tour delivers a well-rounded paranormal experience rooted in Gettysburg’s history. Its affordable price, engaging guides, and small-group intimacy make it a compelling choice for those curious about ghost stories linked to the Civil War. The combination of spectral tales, historic sites, and eerie basement visits ensures a night filled with both learning and chills.

While some guests might expect more supernatural activity, the vivid storytelling and atmospheric stops make this tour worthwhile for a wide range of visitors. It’s a memorable way to explore Gettysburg’s haunted legacies, especially for those eager to combine history with ghostly legends.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the Haunted Orphanage Ghostly Encounter Tour cost?
The tour costs $18 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 778 Baltimore St, Gettysburg.

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 7:00 pm.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, including families with older children. The content is spooky but not overly frightening.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 10 participants for a more personal experience.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the tour is located near public transit options.

What makes this tour different from other ghost tours?
This tour is led by a literal spirit guide, offering a more immersive storytelling experience in an intimate group setting.