Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, is one of those places that truly transports you back in time. Known for its pivotal Civil War battle and President Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, this historic town offers far more than battlefield tours. With a mix of rich history, charming dining, and even a touch of the supernatural, here’s how to experience 24 hours in Gettysburg to make the most of it.
Learn Lincoln’s Legacy with a Licensed Town Guide
After dinner, take an evening stroll with a licensed guide from Gettysburg. These tours are an excellent way to learn about Abraham Lincoln’s brief but significant time in Gettysburg.
Your guide will share stories of Lincoln’s arrival, his preparation, and the powerful speech he delivered that continues to echo through American history. Walking the same streets he once did adds a layer of connection that you can’t get from reading a plaque.
Prices run around $25 for adults for a 60-minute tour.
Learn more about the Civil War by visiting the Vicksburg National Military Park in Mississippi, opposite ends of the spectrum.
Dinner at Dobbin House Tavern
Start your Gettysburg adventure with a memorable dinner at Dobbin House Tavern, one of the town’s most beloved historic restaurants. Housed in an 18th-century stone building (the oldest standing residence in Gettysburg),this cozy tavern serves hearty fare in an atmosphere that evokes a bygone era.
Don’t skip the onion soup—a local favorite, bubbling with flavor and topped with perfectly melted cheese. If you’re a seafood lover, anything with shrimp or Maryland crab will make your taste buds happy, but the prime rib is hard to beat.
The historic setting, candlelit tables, and excellent service make this a must-do stop in town. For an extra special bonus, ask for a “canopy bed” topped table.
Morning Battlefield Carriage Tour
Begin your morning with a horse-drawn carriage tour of the Gettysburg Battlefield. While bus tours are common, exploring by carriage (thanks to Confederate Trails) adds a slower, more intimate pace that allows you to reflect on the magnitude of the events that took place here.
Knowledgeable guides share detailed accounts of the battle strategies, troop movements, and human stories that bring the battlefield to life. Bring water, it gets hot out there of the afternoon in the summer months.
And by the way, the split log fence shown below is called a “Virginia worm” fence. Jeopardy knowledge.
Pro Tip: As a professional traveler, I often shy away from “animal” attractions, but this company truly impressed me with the kindness shown to the horses and the way they checked temperatures, misted them with water, and sprayed for flies, among other things. I even got a glimpse of the app that tracks the animals’ performance and health information, ensuring their biggest assets (no pun intended) are not stressed or overheated.
Lunch at Sweney’s Tavern
For lunch, head to Sweney’s Tavern, part of the historic Farnsworth House Inn. This casual spot serves up satisfying fare, and the location itself is steeped in history—the Farnsworth House bore witness to the Battle of Gettysburg and still carries the scars of bullet holes.
It’s a unique opportunity to dine where history unfolded and enjoy a delicious meal, such as our gourmet burgers or New England-style fish and chips. For a unique offering, have a slice of Shoofly Pie (a PA Dutch tradition) or a cup of Goober Peanut Soup, a Georgia militia favorite.
Sweet Treat at Mr. G’s
In the afternoon, take a break at Mr. G’s Ice Cream, a local favorite known for its homemade flavors. Adventurous eaters should try the peanut butter and jelly ice cream—it’s quirky, nostalgic, and fabulously delicious; one of the best sweet treats I’ve had in ages.
Gettysburg Museum & Visitor Center
No trip to Gettysburg is complete without a stop at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center. This was a new addition to the Gettysburg landscape since my last visit.
Begin with the short film “A New Birth of Freedom,” which sets the stage for understanding the battle and its impact. Then, don’t miss the Cyclorama, a massive 360-degree painting that immerses you in Pickett’s Charge, complete with lights and sound effects. It’s one of the most impressive historic presentations you’ll ever see.
Overnight at Battlefield Bed and Breakfast
Cap off your 24 hours with a stay at the Battlefield Bed and Breakfast Inn, a property that once served as General Wesley Merritt’s headquarters during the battle. The inn, on South Calvary Battlefield, blends comfort, history, and a touch of mystery, along with walking trails, gardens, and a fenced dog run.
Some guests report ghostly encounters, although skeptics will be relieved to know that spirits tend to keep their distance.
Each room is unique, but the Houghtelin Room is a lovely choice, featuring period furnishings that enhance its historic charm. I loved the huge soaking tub, stone arched shower, and beautiful linens.
Breakfast here is more than a meal—it’s an event. Think of a pear frangipane tart, delicious quiche, fresh fruit, and hearty sides, all beautifully prepared and served in a welcoming setting.
Why 24 Hours in Gettysburg is Worth It
Even with just one day, Gettysburg offers a remarkable mix of history, hospitality, and local flavor. From hearty meals at historic taverns to immersive tours and unique lodging, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this pivotal town and its role in shaping the nation.
So, pack your walking shoes, your appetite, and maybe your ghost-hunting gear—Gettysburg (and perhaps some spirits) is ready to welcome you.
Read more WIMR posts with great history or ghost connections:
Terlingua, Texas: Visiting an Authentic Ghost Town
Aiken, SC: A Guilded Getaway