Gettysburg: Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour Countryside & Orchards

Gettysburg: Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour Countryside & Orchards offers a peaceful, scenic escape just outside the historic battlefield. While many know Gettysburg for its Civil War history, this tour shifts gears to focus on the bucolic beauty of the area’s orchards, rolling hills, and farm life. It’s a gentle adventure that blends nature, farm culture, and a bit of local history, making it a lovely choice for those wanting a more relaxed experience beyond battlefield tours.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how personal and engaging it feels. The guided narration from friendly hosts makes it feel like a visit with friends rather than just another tourist attraction. Plus, the chance to feed and pet the horses at the end is a sweet touch that keeps both kids and adults smiling. On the flip side, if you’re looking for an active or historically intensive experience, this one might not be the right fit.

Overall, it’s well-suited for families, couples, or anyone craving a gentle, scenic ride with a real farm atmosphere. If you’re a nature lover or want to enjoy some fresh country air with easygoing company, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Scenic Landscape: Ride through Adams County’s picturesque countryside, orchards, and rolling hills.
• Engaging Hosts: Knowledgeable guides who share interesting insights about the farms, orchards, and horses.
• Interactive Experience: Kids and adults can pet and feed the horses after the ride, adding a fun, personal touch.
• Flexible Timing & Small Groups: Usually available in the morning, with only 10 participants max for a more intimate experience.
• Value for Money: At $44 per person, it offers a relaxing and scenic alternative to more intensive battlefield tours.
• Seasonal Beauty: Witness spring blossoms or vibrant fall foliage, with year-round views of farmland and mountains.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Gettysburg Carriage Tour

If you’re traveling in the Gettysburg area and want to experience its rural charm, this horse-drawn carriage tour from Silvershire Farm is a standout. It’s not just a ride; it’s a window into farm life and natural beauty, with the added bonus of knowledgeable guides and the chance to get up close with the horses themselves.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The tour lasts about one hour, which is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed outing without a big time commitment. You’ll meet at the Big red barn at the intersection of Clearview Rd and Quaker Run Rd, just a short drive north of Gettysburg. Once seated in the carriage, you’ll set off through two working farms, which include an orchard and Christmas tree farm, along with a horse farm.

Throughout the ride, your guides will narrate stories and facts about the area, the horses, and the orchards. This part of the experience is where the guides really shine—many reviews highlight how friendly, knowledgeable, and welcoming the hosts are. As you gently sway through the countryside, you’ll see the mountains, rolling hills, and fields that paint the landscape with seasonal colors.

In spring, the orchards burst into bloom, creating a canopy of blossoms. In fall, you’ll enjoy the fiery reds, oranges, and yellows of the changing leaves—a sight many reviews raved about. Even outside these seasons, the lush scenery and farm life offer a peaceful, picturesque view of rural Pennsylvania.

The Horses and the Farm Experience

The carriage ride is pulled by two gentle Shire draft horses, which are incredibly calm and friendly. Many visitors mention how much they enjoyed seeing these magnificent animals up close—some even feeding them treats afterward. At the end of the tour, there’s ample opportunity to meet the horses, take photos, and feed them, which adds a memorable hands-on element that kids and adults alike seem to love.

The Guides and Narration

Guests consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. As one reviewer, Jeffrey, mentioned, “Bill and Bobbi greeted us with smiles and provided loads of information about the orchards and the area.” Their storytelling makes the scenery come alive, turning a simple carriage ride into an educational and charming experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Price and Value

At $44 per person, the tour is quite reasonable for the quality and intimacy it offers. Considering that it includes a narrated ride, the chance to meet and feed the horses, and the scenic views, many visitors find it to be excellent value—especially when compared to more formal or lengthy battlefield tours.

The Experience for Different Visitors

This tour suits a variety of travelers. Families love the chance for kids to pet and feed the horses and enjoy the wide-open farm spaces. Couples appreciate the slow-paced, scenic ride and the opportunity for some peaceful time together. Nature lovers and photographers will find plenty of beautiful vistas and seasonal color changes to capture.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging
– Beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons
– Interactive, family-friendly ending with horse petting and feeding
– Small group size ensures a relaxed, personalized atmosphere
– Good value for the price, offering a unique perspective on rural life

Cons:
– Not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users (the tour involves some uneven farm terrain and requires signing a waiver)
– The experience might be considered short for those wanting a longer ride or more in-depth farm tour
– It’s weather-dependent; rain or extreme heat could affect the ride, so dress accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and informative outing that feels like a visit to a friend’s farm, this is a fantastic choice. It’s especially good for families with children who enjoy animals and outdoor settings. Nature lovers, or anyone seeking a break from more structured battlefield sightseeing, will find it refreshing.

Those traveling with small groups appreciate the intimacy and flexibility, while anyone who loves horses or picturesque landscapes will be glad they opted for this experience. It’s not a tour for those seeking historical immersion or intense physical activity, but for a laid-back, charming day out, it hits the mark well.

Final Thoughts

This carriage tour from Silvershire Farm is a peaceful, charming way to explore the countryside around Gettysburg. It’s rooted in farm life and natural beauty, with knowledgeable hosts who make the journey both fun and educational. The opportunity to pet and feed the horses adds a personal touch that many visitors treasure.

While it may not be the most action-packed or lengthy activity, it’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, scenic experience that offers a taste of rural Pennsylvania’s beauty. For a fair price, you’ll enjoy stunning views, friendly guides, and a memorable farm visit that’s suitable for all ages.

If you’re into scenic rides, farm animals, and a leisurely pace, this tour is worth considering. Just check the weather forecast and dress comfortably—because this is about enjoying the outdoors in all its seasonal glory.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children generally enjoy petting and feeding the horses at the end of the ride. It’s a relaxed activity that kids find fun and engaging.

How long does the tour last?
The ride takes about one hour, making it a manageable and enjoyable outing without taking up your whole day.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You’ll find the meeting point at the Big red barn located at the intersection of Clearview Rd and Quaker Run Rd, Aspers, PA.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

What should I wear?
Dress in weather-appropriate clothing; it’s an outdoor activity, so be prepared for sun, rain, or chill.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with animal allergies. Also, no smoking, drones, or alcohol are allowed on the farm or during the ride.

Is this a guided tour?
Yes, it’s a narrated journey with a live guide who shares insights and stories about the farm, orchards, and local area.

What is the price?
It’s $44 per person, which many find reasonable considering the scenic views and personal experience offered.

This Gettysburg countryside carriage tour offers a peaceful, scenic, and personal look at farm life and rural beauty. It’s a slow-paced, charming trip that’s well-loved by visitors for its friendly guides, stunning views, and the simple joy of spending time with horses. For those craving a gentle outdoor experience that’s fun, educational, and picturesque, it’s a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: