Gettysburg Historic Downtown Food Tour By Junket

If you’re exploring Gettysburg and want to combine history with local flavors, the Gettysburg Historic Downtown Food Tour by Junket offers an engaging way to do both. Priced at $70.50 per person and lasting about 2 hours, this tour takes you through Gettysburg’s historic downtown with a small group of up to 15 travelers. It departs daily at 11:00 am from Sweeet! THE Candy Store and ends at Gettysburg Chocolate Market, making it easy to plan around other sightseeing.

What makes this tour stand out is its blend of civil war heritage and culinary delights, giving visitors a taste of local favorites and Amish treats while exploring landmarks like the Hotel Gettysburg. While the tour’s pace and scope suit those with moderate mobility and curiosity about the town’s history, it’s not a comprehensive sightseeing trip—be prepared for a focused food experience in a compact area. Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making this an appealing choice for food lovers and history buffs alike.

Key Points

• Affordable and manageable: At $70.50, the tour offers a quick 2-hour taste of Gettysburg’s food scene, fitting easily into a day’s itinerary.
• Historic stops and tasty treats: The tour visits notable landmarks like Sweeet! Candy Store, Blue & Gray Bar & Grill, Gettysburg Baking Co., Hotel Gettysburg, 101, and Gettysburg Chocolate Market.
• Diverse culinary experiences: Expect a wide array of savory and sweet samples, including Amish treats, Philadelphia-inspired flavors, and chocolate goodies.
• Small group intimacy: The tour is limited to 15 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience and engaging conversations.
• Accessible and family-friendly: It’s suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and public transportation nearby.
• No included transportation or tips, so plan accordingly for any additional expenses.

Starting at Sweeet! THE Candy Store in Gettysburg

The tour begins at Sweeet! THE Candy Store, a charming shop filled with over 1,500 varieties of sweets. Here, nostalgic candies and Civil War-inspired confections like the signature Battlefield Brittle await customers. The 20-minute stop offers sweet, homemade fudge and caramel, setting a delightful tone for the tour. Entrance is free, so the focus is on sampling and exploring.

Tasting Civil War-Themed Cuisine at Blue & Gray Bar & Grill

Next, the group heads to the Blue & Gray Bar & Grill, a civil war-themed restaurant rich with historic memorabilia. The award-winning Chamberlain Burger, topped with smoked bacon and cheddar, is a highlight, embodying the local flavor. This 20-minute visit combines food and civil war stories in a casual, lively atmosphere, perfect for debate and discussion. The free stop emphasizes authentic local fare.

Sampling Fresh Baked Goods at Gettysburg Baking Co.

The third stop takes place at Gettysburg Baking Co., a cozy bakery known for flaky croissants and sourdough bread. Here, 20-minute tastings include a Civil War Soldiers Biscuit, a modern take on hardtack, reflecting Gettysburg’s historical roots. The bakery’s warm atmosphere and well-crafted baked goods make it an ideal break for anyone craving comfort foods after walking around town.

Dining at the Historic Hotel Gettysburg

The Hotel Gettysburg, established in 1797, hosts the next stop at One Lincoln restaurant. The menu features classic American comfort foods with a historical twist, including the Lincoln Pot Roast. The 20-minute visit offers tasty, slow-braised dishes and a chance to absorb the hotel’s storied past. The building’s famous history and ghostly rumors add an extra layer of intrigue to this stop.

Savoring Modern Flavors at 101 Bistro

The tour then moves to 101, a modern bistro renowned for its farm-to-table approach. Guests sample shrimp and grits, blending Southern tradition with Pennsylvania ingredients, and duck confit fries, a delicious indulgence. This 20-minute stop presents a contemporary contrast to earlier stops, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and creative cuisine. It’s a good spot to reflect on Gettysburg’s history while enjoying cutting-edge dishes.

Indulging in Chocolate at Gettysburg Chocolate Market

The final destination is Gettysburg Chocolate Market, a handcrafted chocolate shop. Here, decadent truffles and gourmet hot cocoa are served, along with the signature Battlefield Bark—dark chocolate with caramel and sea salt. The 20-minute visit is a sweet ending, with gourmet bonbons that may include whiskey flavor, recalling the liquid courage soldiers sought before battles. This stop is perfect for chocolate lovers reaching the tour’s conclusion.

Practicalities: Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from 100 Baltimore St at Sweeet! Candy Store. It ends at Gettysburg Chocolate Market, located at 9 Baltimore St. The group size is limited to 15 travelers, enhancing the personal touch and interaction with guides. Parking is available on side streets behind the Brickhouse Inn, but visitors should avoid parking in the hotel’s designated lot to prevent towing. The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible for most.

What to Expect During the Tour

The 2-hour itinerary emphasizes food tastings at six carefully selected stops. Each location provides a sample of local and historic cuisine in about 20-minute visits, providing a relaxed pace that allows for enjoying the food and learning from the knowledgeable guides. The tour’s focus on historic downtown ensures that stops are within a short walking distance.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Gettysburg Tours

Unlike traditional battlefield tours, this experience combines culinary sampling with historic landmarks. The small group setting creates a more intimate environment, where guides can share well-researched stories along with food recommendations. The inclusion of Amish treats and Philadelphia-inspired flavors adds regional flavor, making it appealing for those interested in local cuisine.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers a fun and tasty overview of Gettysburg’s downtown, it is not a comprehensive sightseeing experience. The stops are confined to a roughly 100-yard radius, so those expecting to see many historic sites might find the scope limited. No transportation is included, and parking restrictions require attention. The tour is most suitable for those who enjoy moderate walking and culinary exploration.

Final Thoughts on the Gettysburg Food Tour

This 2-hour food experience provides a delightful taste of Gettysburg’s local flavors paired with historic insights. It’s especially well-suited for foodies, history enthusiasts, or families looking for a relaxed, engaging activity. The professional guides and diverse sampling stops make it a memorable way to experience the town’s culinary culture.

While some reviews mention cancellations or changes in stops, the majority highlight delicious food, knowledgeable guides, and a personalized atmosphere. It’s a good choice for anyone wanting a light, flavorful introduction to Gettysburg’s downtown area, especially when combined with other tours or sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, with six stops of roughly 20 minutes each.

What is the cost?
The price is $70.50 per person, covering all samples and guided storytelling.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Sweeet! THE Candy Store at 100 Baltimore St and ends at Gettysburg Chocolate Market, 9 Baltimore St.

Is parking available nearby?
Yes, there are parking spaces on side streets behind the Brickhouse Inn. Avoid parking in the hotel’s lot to prevent towing.

Are the stops accessible?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most stops within walking distance and service animals allowed.

Are tips included in the price?
No, guide tips are not included and are appreciated if you enjoyed the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is typically booked about 22 days in advance and confirms within 48 hours of booking.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for most ages, especially those interested in food and history.

What type of food is sampled?
Expect sweets, baked goods, American comfort foods, and chocolates, with some treats inspired by local and historical themes.