Gettysburg: Beyond the Battlefield, a Food Destination Emerges

by  Kimberly Button | Oct 21, 2015
Savor Gettysburg Food Tours.
Savor Gettysburg Food Tours. / Kimberly Button

The town of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania has been defined by war for more than 150 years. As the site of the pivotal Civil War battle, it's long been host to history buffs and reenactors. Looking towards its future, though, and focusing on modern-day pursuits, Gettysburg is rapidly becoming a surprising culinary destination. Located in one of the 10 most bountiful fruit belts of America (and the country's fourth largest apple-producing area), a farming resurgence is spurring the growth of wineries, ciders, and farm-to-table restaurants just minutes from the historic battlefields. Here are some of our favorite ways to get a "taste" of Gettysburg, which is located just 90 minutes from Washington, D.C.

Start with one of three different Savor Gettysburg Food Tours. Walk through the streets of downtown while drinking and eating at locations showcasing the town's best cuisine. The Wine, Cider, and Dine Tour highlights local wineries that utilize fruits from the area, and includes a wide variety of samples. (From $59)

Seeking a tour you can do at your own pace? The Gettysburg Wine & Fruit Trail is an agritourism and "agritainment" trail in south-central Pennsylvania highlighting more than 50 restaurants, bars, green markets, bakeries, and more. Grab the passport at any member establishment, visit at least six different ones, and you can earn small prizes like a hat or wine glasses. (Free)

Perched on a ridge overlooking orchards and farmland, Hauser Estate Winery offers wines, ciders, and 360-degree views in its glass-enclosed tasting room. This destination is particularly great for anyone who loves hard cider; Hauser Estate has an expansive menu of offerings. (From $1 to $4 tastings)

Reid's Winery and Cider House Cafe downtown offers a quick and easy reprieve from historical sightseeing. Grab a bite to eat and enjoy a flight of wine, cider, or fruit wines on the patio. (From $5)

Drive just outside of Gettysburg to find the hidden gem of Fidler & Co. Craft Kitchen & Grocery. Highlighting upscale rustic cuisine from nearby farms, you might need to stand in line for the dozen or so tables with views of the kitchen, but the homemade buckwheat ramen noodles or an apple, bacon, and maple pizza are well worth it. (Entrees from $11)

Experience Colonial cuisine in the oldest house in Gettysburg at Dobbin House Tavern. The historic 1776 home serves traditional and period fare (try the daily porridge cooked over coals) in six rooms, including the bedroom where guests can actually dine in bed. (Entrees from $24.95)

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