Gettysburg American Brew Tour By Junket

Gettysburg American Brew Tour by Junket: A Perfect Blend of History and Craft Beverages

If you’re visiting Gettysburg and looking to combine a bit of history with some quality local drinks, the Gettysburg American Brew Tour might just be your ideal experience. This guided 2-hour adventure takes you through the town’s storied past while sampling some of Pennsylvania’s best craft offerings. Organized by Junket, a women and minority-led company, and led by knowledgeable guides, it promises an engaging mix of stories, tastings, and scenic stops. With a solid 4.5-star rating from travelers, this tour is gaining popularity for its balance of education and fun.

What we love about this experience is how it manages to weave Civil War history into a relaxed, social setting—perfect for those who want more than just a standard historical tour. Plus, the stops at different local venues offer a genuine taste of the area’s brewing culture. One potential consideration to keep in mind is that, despite the name, the tour emphasizes wine, mead, and cider rather than traditional breweries, which might be a surprise for some.

Whether you’re a history buff, a craft drink enthusiast, or just out for a unique way to explore Gettysburg, this tour has plenty to offer. It’s especially well-suited for private groups, celebrations, or anyone eager to raise a toast to the past while enjoying authentic local flavors.

Key Points

• Unique blend of history and craft drinks: Combines Civil War tales with tastings at various local venues.
• Diverse sampling options: Includes mead, wines, ciders, and craft ales, offering a broad taste of Pennsylvania’s beverage scene.
• Authentic venues: Stops like Dawn Gone Bees, J&P Winery, and Ploughman Cider tap into the region’s heritage and craftsmanship.
• Well-researched guides: Expect engaging storytelling backed by local knowledge, making each stop informative and fun.
• Accessible and inclusive: Suitable for most travelers (most over 21), with a welcoming atmosphere.
• Cost-effective for the experience: At around $65, it offers a focused, immersive experience for those interested in both history and drinks.

What to Expect from the Gettysburg American Brew Tour

This tour offers a rich, yet comfortable way to experience Gettysburg beyond the battlefield. It starts at 2:00 pm and covers several stops across the historic town, lasting approximately two hours. The group size is capped at 15, which means you’ll get personalized attention and the chance to ask plenty of questions.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Dawn Gone Bees – Honey-Based Wines

The journey kicks off at this unique meadery inspired by ancient brewing techniques. Here, the focus is on honey wines, crafted from locally sourced honey. The guide will share stories about how these drinks connect to historic times, possibly even predating the Civil War. From reviews, we know that this stop is loved for its authentic, locally sourced honey and the way it transports you to bygone eras. The tasting lasts about 17 minutes, giving you plenty of time to savor and learn.

Stop 2: Witness Tree – Bold, History-Infused Ales

Next, you’ll visit a craft brewery under the shade of Gettysburg’s notable trees. Their oak-aged stouts and smoked porters are crafted to honor the echoes of the battlefield. This stop offers a taste of how beer-making can be intertwined with history, with many reviews highlighting the bold flavors and the connection to local heritage. Expect another 17-minute tasting, with the chance to soak in the atmosphere and perhaps imagine soldiers gathering here long ago.

Stop 3: Shriver House Museum – Civil War-Era Tavern Culture

While the museum itself recounts a poignant wartime story, it also reveals how locals once gathered in taverns and saloons during the Civil War era. According to reviews, this stop offers a glimpse into Gettysburg’s drinking past, with the original Shriver saloon providing context for what local drinking culture looked like during turbulent times. The tasting here is brief but insightful, lasting around 17 minutes.

Stop 4: J&P Winery – Pennsylvania’s Modern Winemaking

This stop introduces you to a local winery that blends tradition with modern techniques. From the reviews, we know visitors appreciate the wide variety of wines, from bold reds to sweet fruit wines like peach. It’s a perfect opportunity to toast to Gettysburg’s resilience after all the history. The tasting at J&P Winery is about 17 minutes long, allowing you to savor different styles and chat with knowledgeable staff.

Stop 5: Ploughman Cider Taproom – Apple Heritage in Every Sip

Crafted from apples grown in the region, Ploughman’s ciders emphasize Pennsylvania’s orchard legacy. Reviewers mention the crisp, refreshing ciders that range from simple to complex, embodying the terroir. Expect about 17 minutes here to enjoy a sample of locally crafted ciders and hear stories about apple-growing traditions.

Stop 6: Lincoln Square – The Heart of Gettysburg

No visit to Gettysburg is complete without a stroll through Lincoln Square. Historically a gathering point, it now features a mix of historic taverns and modern breweries. Here, you’ll feel the lively spirit of the town, with many visitors noting the sense of walking in Lincoln’s footsteps. This stop isn’t a tasting but sets a wonderful scene for the final segment.

Final Stop: Blue & Gray Bar & Grille – The Classic Gettysburg Pub

The tour wraps up at one of Gettysburg’s staples, serving hearty food and a diverse selection of craft beers. You might find Civil War-themed brews alongside contemporary IPAs, and the lively ambiance makes it an ideal place to reflect on your experience. Reviewers love the friendly atmosphere and the chance to unwind with a drink in a historic setting.

Analyzing the Experience: Value, Taste, and Atmosphere

The $65.62 price point for this guided experience includes a well-researched narration, a small group size, and visits to several carefully selected venues. While drinks are not included in the ticket price, each location offers tastings that provide excellent value—many reviewers commend the quality and authenticity of the beverages.

The stops are deliberately chosen to showcase a variety of drink types, from mead to wine, cider, and beer. This variety ensures that most guests will find something they enjoy. The tour’s emphasis on local producers and historic techniques makes each tasting more meaningful than just a casual sip. Several visitors mention that guides are not only knowledgeable but also personable, adding context and stories that deepen the tasting experience.

However, some reviews point out that the tour doesn’t visit traditional breweries, which could be confusing for those expecting a beer-focused experience. The final stop at a pizza place serving beer was also noted as a less engaging part of the tour, with some waiting times for tastings, but overall, the experience remains positive.

The group size of up to 15 means you’ll get more personalized attention, and the walking component—mostly short visits of about 17 minutes at each stop—keeps it relaxed. The tour feels well-paced, allowing guests to enjoy each venue without feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history lovers who appreciate a good story along with their drink, wine and cider enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a relaxed, social way to explore Gettysburg. It’s also suitable for private groups or celebratory occasions like bachelorette parties, thanks to its inclusive and festive atmosphere.

People who want a more beer-centric tour might find it slightly off the mark since the focus leans more toward wine, mead, and cider. Also, travelers under 21 are not advised to join, in accordance with alcohol laws.

The Sum Up

The Gettysburg American Brew Tour offers a refreshing twist on traditional sightseeing, combining storytelling with tasting at some of the region’s most historic and craft-focused venues. It provides a meaningful way to connect with Gettysburg’s past through its beverages, making history accessible and enjoyable. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and carefully curated stops make it a great value for money experience for those interested in history, local culture, or simply a fun afternoon with friends.

While it might not satisfy those seeking a beer-only experience or a more intense brewery tour, it excels at offering a well-rounded and authentic taste of Gettysburg’s beverage heritage. Whether you’re a casual drinker, a history enthusiast, or somewhere in between, this tour promises a memorable, flavorful, and educational afternoon.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
No, the tour is recommended for travelers over 21 due to alcohol consumption.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
No, drinks are not included, but each venue offers tastings that add value and variety to your experience.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately two hours, with visits to multiple venues and short walk times.

Can I participate if I am not a big drinker?
Absolutely, the tour is as much about the stories and scenery as it is about tasting. You can enjoy just the ambiance and learn about Gettysburg’s drink history.

Is there a guide, and what do they do?
Yes, a professional, well-researched guide leads the tour, providing engaging historical narration and insights into each venue.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Bring a valid ID for tastings, and a sense of curiosity.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most stops are short walks and venues are accessible, but it’s best to check with the provider if you have specific needs.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 452 Baltimore St and wraps up at Blue & Gray Bar & Grille on Baltimore Street.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility for your plans.

The Gettysburg American Brew Tour provides a balanced, engaging look at Gettysburg’s liquid legacy. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to combine history with local flavors, all wrapped into a friendly, small-group experience.