History, Haunts & Autumn Adventures
Crisp mornings, brilliant foliage and centuries of stories waiting to be discovered—there’s something special about fall in Gettysburg.
As the leaves turn shades of red, orange and gold, Gettysburg and the surrounding Adams County countryside offer plenty of reasons to plan an autumn escape. From exploring the historic battlefield and strolling downtown to apple harvest traditions and ghostly encounters after dark, fall brings a different kind of energy to this storied destination.
And when you stay at Hotel Gettysburg, you’ll be right in the heart of it all.
Make It a Ghostly Getaway at Hotel Gettysburg
Tap into spooky season and make Hotel Gettysburg’s Ghostly Encounters Package part of your autumn escape.
Our historic downtown setting puts you in the perfect place to experience Gettysburg’s legendary past, from the stories found around Lincoln Square to the haunted history waiting throughout town.
Spend the day discovering Gettysburg’s historic sites and fall scenery, venture out after dark for a ghostly encounter, then return to the comfort and historic charm of Hotel Gettysburg.
Step into History During World War II Weekend
History comes to life in Gettysburg during the 28th Annual World War II Weekend, September 18–20 at Eisenhower National Historic Site. In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, this year’s event explores how the ideals of American liberty carried from the nation’s founding into the global struggle of World War II. Experience a memorable weekend of living history, special programs, and powerful stories that bring the people and moments of the era to life.
Take in Gettysburg’s Fall Foliage
History comes with an especially beautiful backdrop in autumn. Peak fall color in Gettysburg and Adams County typically arrives from mid-October through early November, transforming the area’s rolling hills, orchards and historic landscapes.
Take a scenic drive through the countryside, enjoy a leisurely walk through town or spend an afternoon exploring Gettysburg National Military Park surrounded by the colors of the season.
Adams County offers several ways to recharge in the great outdoors. From a round of golf and fishing to bike rides and hikes through the trails, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Don’t forget your camera—the combination of historic landmarks and autumn foliage makes this one of the most photogenic times of year to experience Gettysburg.
Experience Gettysburg After Dark
When night falls, Gettysburg’s history takes a decidedly spookier turn.
Known for its many tales of unexplained encounters and lingering spirits, Gettysburg is home to a variety of ghost tours and paranormal experiences. Visitors can walk historic streets by lantern light, hear stories tied to the town’s Civil War past or take part in a paranormal investigation.
Fall—and especially the weeks surrounding Halloween—is the perfect time to discover Gettysburg’s mysterious side.
Explore the Gettysburg Battlefield
No trip to Gettysburg is complete without spending time on the Gettysburg National Military Park battlefield, and fall is an especially beautiful season to explore it. Cooler temperatures and changing leaves create a striking backdrop as you visit the monuments, historic farms and landscapes where the Battle of Gettysburg unfolded.
Explore at your own pace with a self-guided driving tour, experience the battlefield with a Licensed Battlefield Guide, or see this historic landscape from an entirely different perspective—on horseback. Designated bridle trails wind through portions of the battlefield, offering a memorable way to experience both Gettysburg’s history and its autumn scenery. Guided horseback tours are also available through local outfitters.
However you choose to explore, give yourself plenty of time to take in the landscape, reflect on its history and enjoy the beauty of Gettysburg in the fall.
Celebrate Apple Harvest Season
Fall in Adams County means apple season.
The countryside surrounding Gettysburg is filled with orchards and farm markets where visitors can enjoy the flavors of the harvest. One of the season’s signature traditions is the National Apple Harvest Festival, held during the first two full weekends of October in nearby Biglerville.
The festival celebrates Pennsylvania apple country with handmade crafts, food, live entertainment, orchard experiences and plenty of seasonal fun.
Beyond the festival, make time to explore local farm markets and orchards for fresh apples, cider and other tastes of fall.
Celebrate the flavors of Adams County
September kicks off the closing stretch of the Adams County Field to Festival with events like the Gettysburg Wine & Music Festival and the Sweet Potato Festival.
Visit with Lincoln
Witness a live recreation of the Gettysburg Address during Lincoln at Gettysburg, hosted on November 16 and 17. This signature event begins with Lincoln’s arrival by train, followed by welcoming speeches and his visit to the David Wills House. On the following day, watch the presidential procession from the Square to the Soldiers’ National Cemetery for the deliverance of his Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address.
Stroll Through Historic Downtown Gettysburg
Sometimes the best fall itinerary is the simplest one.
Step outside Hotel Gettysburg and explore the shops, restaurants, historic sites and attractions surrounding Lincoln Square. Grab a warm drink, browse local stores, enjoy a leisurely meal or simply take in the architecture and atmosphere of downtown.
Hotel Gettysburg’s central location means you can experience much of the town on foot—and return to the hotel whenever you’re ready to relax.
Raise a Glass to the Season
Gettysburg and Adams County’s agricultural roots also make fall a delicious time to explore the region’s craft beverage scene.
Local wineries, cideries and breweries offer another way to taste the season, with everything from locally made hard cider to Pennsylvania wines and craft brews. Follow the area’s tasting trails, make an afternoon of visiting local producers or settle in for a seasonal drink after a day of sightseeing.
Plan Your Fall Escape to Gettysburg
Whether you’re drawn by the changing leaves, fascinating history, harvest flavors or the possibility of something going bump in the night, Gettysburg belongs on your fall travel list.
Make Hotel Gettysburg your home base and experience the season from the heart of historic downtown. Explore by day, uncover Gettysburg’s mysteries by night and come back to the warmth and comfort of a hotel that’s part of the destination’s story.