Gettysburg American Brew Tour By Junket

The Gettysburg American Brew Tour by Junket offers a unique way to explore the town’s deep ties to history and its vibrant craft beverage scene. Priced at $65.62 per person and lasting roughly 2 hours, this guided experience takes visitors through a series of historic and modern venues, including Dawn Gone Bees, J&P Winery, Ploughman Cider Taproom, and ending at the iconic Blue & Gray Bar & Grille. Operating daily and available year-round, this tour is ideal for those interested in combining civil war history with craft drinks in a friendly, engaging atmosphere.

The tour’s expert guides lead groups through Gettysburg’s storied past while offering tastings of meads, ciders, wines, and craft beers. While it’s primarily a history-infused drinking experience, it’s important to note that drinks are not included in the tour price—tastings are paid for individually at each stop. This tour is especially well-suited for private groups, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or anyone seeking a laid-back, yet historically enriching outing.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $65.62 per person for roughly 2 hours.
• Stops Include: Dawn Gone Bees, J&P Winery, Ploughman Cider Taproom, and Blue & Gray Bar & Grille.
• Focus on History and Drinks: Combines local history with craft beers, wines, and meads.
• Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable guides with researched history.
• Not a brewery tour: Stops include wine, mead, cider, and historic taverns, but no breweries are visited.
• Limited seating during tastings: Some stops lack seating, and tastings may involve waiting in line.

Tour Start and End Points in Gettysburg

The tour begins at 452 Baltimore St, right in the heart of Gettysburg, making it easy to access from downtown accommodations. The final stop is the Blue & Gray Bar & Grille, located at 2 Baltimore St. It’s recommended to arrive promptly at 2:00 pm for the start, and the tour ends here, where visitors can enjoy a drink and the lively atmosphere of a Gettysburg favorite.

Visiting Historic Venues with a Craft Twist

Each location on the tour offers a distinct experience. The first stop, Dawn Gone Bees, specializes in honey-based wines inspired by ancient brewing methods. These meads carry the flavor of local honey and are a nod to the battlefield’s history, providing a taste that even predates the Civil War.

Next, the Witness Tree features oak-aged stouts and smoked porters that pay homage to Gettysburg’s battlefield echoes. Drinking here feels like stepping back into a time when soldiers gathered around fires, sharing stories over hearty ales.

The Shriver House Museum offers a glimpse into Civil War-era tavern culture. While the museum narrates the struggle of the Shriver family during the war, it also highlights the town’s long-standing drinking traditions, with former saloons operating in their basement as a hub of local social life.

Exploring Gettysburg’s Wineries and Cideries

The J&P Winery is located centrally in Gettysburg and showcases Pennsylvania’s winemaking heritage. Visitors may sample dry reds like merlot or sweet fruit wines such as peach, reflecting the region’s diverse viticultural offerings. The winery’s modern approach allows for a varied tasting experience, celebrating moments of joy amidst historical reflection.

The Ploughman Cider Taproom emphasizes local apple orchards and Pennsylvania’s cider heritage. Their small-batch blends range from crisp and refreshing to deep and complex, allowing visitors to appreciate the terroir of the region with each sip. Sampling ciders here feels like tasting a piece of historic orchards that have witnessed centuries of change.

The Charm of Lincoln Square and Final Cheers at Blue & Gray

Lincoln Square serves as the town’s historic gathering spot, where past and present mingle. It is the perfect place to absorb the local atmosphere, with historic taverns and modern breweries side by side. This stop highlights how Gettysburg’s social scene has evolved but remains rooted in tradition.

The tour concludes at Blue & Gray Bar & Grille, a Gettysburg staple known for hearty fare and an extensive selection of craft beers. Walls echo with stories of visitors past, making it a fitting place to unwind after a journey through history. Whether you’re craving a Civil War-themed brew or a modern IPA, this spot caps off the experience with a lively, welcoming vibe.

Practical Details and Accessibility

This tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join. It operates with a maximum of 15 guests, ensuring an intimate experience. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is near public transportation options.

Parking is available on side streets behind the Brickhouse Inn; visitors are advised not to park in the inn’s designated lot to avoid towing. The tour starts at 2:00 pm, and reservations should be made at least 28 days in advance due to popularity.

What the Tour Does Not Include

It’s important to remember that tastings are paid individually, so budget accordingly. The tour price does not cover drinks or guide tips, which are customary to tip for excellent guides. The tour is not recommended for those under 21, as it’s centered around alcohol consumption.

A Caution on Expectations

While the tour is often praised for its well-researched history and diverse beverage selection, some reviews mention seating limitations and long lines for tastings at some stops. Travelers should be prepared for potential wait times and standing during tastings, especially at smaller venues.

Gettysburg’s Historic Drinking Scene with a Modern Twist

The Gettysburg American Brew Tour by Junket offers a compelling look at the town’s civil war past intertwined with its modern craft beverage culture. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to highlight historic brewing techniques, local wineries, cideries, and taverns, creating a multi-sensory experience that blends storytelling with tasting.

While not a traditional brewery tour—due to the focus on wine, mead, and cider—it stands out for its engaging guides and insightful commentary. The tour provides a fun and educational way to spend a couple of hours, especially for those interested in history, drinks, or both.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, informative outing that combines Gettysburg’s history with its craft beverage scene, this tour offers good value and memorable moments. Keep in mind the individual tasting costs and seating limitations, but overall, it remains a popular choice for private groups and special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or under 21?
No, the tour is not recommended for travelers under the age of 21 due to the focus on alcohol tastings.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are paid for individually at each stop, and the $65.62 fee covers the guided experience only.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour starts at 452 Baltimore St and concludes at Blue & Gray Bar & Grille, both located in downtown Gettysburg.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is parking available nearby?
Yes, there are parking options on the side streets behind the Brickhouse Inn. Please avoid parking in the inn’s designated lot to prevent towing.

This Gettysburg American Brew Tour combines history and craft drinks in a way that appeals to many. It offers a relaxed pace, engaging guides, and a chance to enjoy Gettysburg’s storied past alongside its contemporary beverage offerings.