Gettysburg: Historic Downtown Food Tour

The Gettysburg: Historic Downtown Food Tour offers a flavorful glimpse into the town’s history and local culinary scene. Priced at $105 per person and lasting 2 hours, this guided walking experience takes you through Gettysburg’s most beloved food spots, blending multicultural flavors with Civil War tales. The tour starts at Sweet! The Candy Store, where a colorful selection of jawbreakers, fudge, and sour sweets sets a lively tone. While the duration is just two hours, it packs in a variety of tastings and stories that appeal to history buffs and foodies alike.

An honest consideration is that the tour is best suited for those able to walk about a mile and prepared for weather variations, as it takes place rain or shine. The group size allows for personal interaction, and the wheelchair accessibility makes it accommodating for many visitors. However, the tour’s focus on local favorites and historical sites makes it a compelling option for anyone interested in a short but rich experience of Gettysburg.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $105 and lasts 2 hours, making it a quick yet satisfying activity.
• Start Point: It begins at Sweet! The Candy Store, featuring a wide selection of sweets.
• Highlights: Visitors enjoy multicultural foods, Civil War stories, and visits to historic sites like the Gettysburg Hotel and David Wills House.
• Food Stops: The tour includes stops such as Blue Gray Bar and Grill and Garryowen Irish Pub, where food and drink are paired with historical anecdotes.
• Educational Focus: Learn about German pretzels, Philly Cheesesteaks, and Irish soldiers, blending culinary history with local lore.
• Food Quality: Tastings include a warm Apple Handpie at Gettysburg Baking Co, and gourmet sweets at Hershey.
• Reviews: While many praise knowledgeable guides and excellent food recommendations, some note issues like guides being late or stops closing unexpectedly.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible but requires comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Visiting Gettysburg’s Sweet Starting Point: Sweet! The Candy Store

The tour kicks off at Sweet! The Candy Store, an eye-catching shop filled with fudge, sour candies, bubblegum, and more. The brightly colored displays and variety of treats set a playful tone for the experience. The guide greets guests in a branded t-shirt and leads the group through the store’s selection before moving on to the first food and history stops.

This location offers an inviting atmosphere where sweets provide a taste of Gettysburg’s local charm. The initial tasting helps warm up the group and sparks anticipation for the culinary journey ahead. The candy shop’s lively ambiance makes it a memorable opening, especially for visitors with a sweet tooth.

Exploring the Blue Gray Bar and Grill: Pretzels and Cheesesteaks

Next, the Blue Gray Bar and Grill serves as the first significant food stop. Here, the guide shares stories about German pretzels and the famous Philly Cheesesteak, both staples rooted in Gettysburg’s diverse cultural history. Guests can sample these classic American and European-inspired dishes, gaining insight into local culinary traditions.

While the food quality varies—some reviews mention cold fries or incorrect orders—the historical storytelling adds depth to the experience. The atmosphere at the Blue Gray Bar and Grill is casual, making it easy to enjoy the treats and learn the lore surrounding each dish.

The Irish Connection at Garryowen Irish Pub

A notable stop on the tour is the Garryowen Irish Pub, where visitors can enjoy a cold Irish pint and hear about Irish soldiers’ role in the Battle of Gettysburg. The pub’s authentic Irish vibe complements the storytelling about the Battle of Gettysburg.

Guests learn how Irish soldiers fought bravely and beat back Pickett’s Charge, adding a military historical layer to the food experience. The pub offers a cozy atmosphere that enhances the connection between history and Irish culture.

Historic Sites and Civil War Stories

Between tastings, the guide shares tales about Gettysburg Hotel, Union Hotel, and the David Wills House, where Abraham Lincoln prepared the Gettysburg Address. These visits enrich the tour with historic insights while walking past notable landmarks.

While the tour does not include full tours of these sites, the stories told along the way provide a meaningful context. Many enjoy the blend of culinary exploration with history lessons that make each stop more than just a food tasting.

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Sweet Treats at Gettysburg Baking Co and Hershey

One highlight is the Apple Handpie at Gettysburg Baking Co, a warm, flaky pastry that offers a comforting end to the tasting adventure. Plus, sampling gourmet sweets at Hershey ties the experience into Pennsylvania’s confectionery legacy.

Guests appreciate the quality of the baked goods and the chance to try local specialties, making the tour a delicious journey through Gettysburg’s culinary and historical traditions.

Practicalities and Group Experience

The meeting point at Sweet! The Candy Store is easy to find, and guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. The tour is accessible for wheelchairs, accommodating a variety of mobility needs.

Transportation is not included, so visitors should plan to walk around Gettysburg’s historic downtown. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for personalized interaction with the guide, who is noted for being personable and engaging.

Review Summary and Common Criticisms

While many praise the knowledgeable guides and delicious food pairings, some negative reviews mention guides arriving late or stops being closed unexpectedly. For example, one review notes that a pastry stop was closed, leading to some disappointment.

Another reviewer points out that some food orders were incorrect or cold, indicating that restaurant coordination could be improved. However, the overall experience remains enjoyable for those interested in Gettysburg’s history and local eats.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

The Gettysburg: Historic Downtown Food Tour offers a fun and educational way to explore Gettysburg’s culinary scene intertwined with its historical significance. It’s ideal for visitors who enjoy short, guided walks, tastings, and stories about Civil War and local food traditions.

While it may not satisfy those seeking a full culinary experience or comprehensive site tours, it provides a memorable snapshot of Gettysburg’s rich past and diverse flavors. The cost is reasonable given the multiple tastings and historical insights, making it a worthwhile choice for history enthusiasts and food lovers in the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Gettysburg Food Tour last?
The tour runs for 2 hours, typically in the morning, providing a compact yet enriching experience.

Where does the tour begin?
It starts at Sweet! The Candy Store, where guests meet their guide dressed in a branded t-shirt.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but participants should be prepared to walk about a mile and wear comfortable shoes.

What kind of food is included?
Guests sample multicultural foods, including Apple Handpie, pretzels, Philly Cheesesteak, and gourmet sweets from Hershey.

Are drinks included?
Guests can enjoy a cold Irish pint at Garryowen Irish Pub; other beverages are not included.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour good for families?
While not explicitly mentioned, the short duration and family-friendly stops could make it suitable for families with children comfortable with walking.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine, so guests should dress accordingly.

Are there any food allergies or dietary restrictions accommodated?
Some reviews highlight food allergy concerns, so it’s wise to inform the guide beforehand. However, not all dietary restrictions are explicitly addressed.

What sets this tour apart from others in Gettysburg?
Its blend of food tastings with Civil War stories and visits to historic sites offers a unique cultural and culinary snapshot in just two hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby