A Local’s Guide to the 5 Best Gettysburg PA B&Bs to Experience History

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Gettysburg PA B&Bs - Cannons pointing south on the Gettysburg Battlefield, just west of town.
Cannons pointing south on the Gettysburg Battlefield, just west of town. Photo credit: Jessica James

If you’re trying to decide which of the many Gettysburg PA B&Bs offer an authentic historical experience, you came to the right place.

Known for playing a pivotal role in the Civil War, this south-central Pennsylvania town continues to offer visitors the chance to step back in time–right down to where they lay their heads at night.

As a lifelong Gettysburg resident and history enthusiast, I love recommending historical bed and breakfast stays to my out-of-town friends.

Here are my top 5 B&B recommendations for a memorable Gettysburg getaway.

Gettysburg PA B&Bs -  Stone building with a blue sign saying Battlefield Bed and Breakfast.
The Battlefield Bed & Breakfast offers 30 acres of peace and quiet just outside of Gettysburg. Photo credit: Jessica James

1. Gettysburg Battlefield Bed and Breakfast

2264 Emmitsburg Road
Gettysburg, PA 17325
717-334-8804

As the name implies, the Gettysburg Battlefield B&B is next to the Gettysburg National Military Park and is a short drive from the Gettysburg Visitors Center.

The historical ambiance and quiet country setting are just two of the attributes of this Gettysburg B&B. Daily morning history programs help guests understand the Civil War and local battles.

History

Built in 1809 as a single-family fieldstone farmhouse with a wooden summer kitchen and barn, the house was home to abolitionists during the Civil War. The barn was used as a field hospital after the Battle of Gettysburg.

What Makes This B&B Special:

  • Historic Tours: The B&B offers guided historic tours of the property and the surrounding battlefield area.
  • Scenic Grounds: Thirty acres with walking paths, gardens, and tranquil spots for relaxation.
  • Fireplaces: Many of the guest rooms feature working fireplaces, providing a cozy and romantic atmosphere, especially during the colder months.
  • Kids are welcome.
  • Pet Friendly: No size restriction for dogs and offers a one-acre fenced-in dog park.

Average Cost per Night: $175 – $299

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Gettysburg PA B&Bs - The Farnsworth House Inn
The Farnsworth House Inn includes a popular restaurant and tavern and is an easy walk to everything. Photo credit: Jessica James

2. Farnsworth House Inn

401 Baltimore Street
Gettysburg, PA 17325
717-334-8838

You can truly immerse yourself in the Civil War era in this award-winning Gettysburg B&B. Located along the main drag on Baltimore Street, the Farnsworth House features rooms decorated in a period style and an onsite restaurant that serves meals inspired by the 1860s.

History

Originally built in 1810, with a brick structure added in 1833, the Farnsworth House Inn sheltered Confederate sharpshooters during the Battle of Gettysburg and had more than 100 bullet holes in the walls. Following the battle, the house served as a hospital.

The Farnsworth House is one of the most haunted places in America and is one of the best bed and breakfasts to stay in for ghost hunters.

What Makes This B&B Special:

  • Dining: Fine dining restaurant with period decor and servers, as well as a casual tavern on site.
  • Parking: Free private parking for guests and a great location within walking distance to museums like the Gettysburg Museum of History, pubs, restaurants, and stores.
  • Ghosts Galore: This Gettysburg B&B offers a variety of haunted Gettysburg ghost tours and ghost presentations.

Average Cost per Night: $175 – $250

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Gettysburg PA B&Bs - The Brafferton Inn
The Brafferton Inn is the oldest deeded house in Gettysburg and offers 18 bedrooms. Photo credit: Jessica James

3. Brafferton Inn

44 York Street
Gettysburg, PA 17325
717-337-3423

Close to Lincoln Square, this charming downtown bed-and-breakfast features a variety of beautifully appointed guest rooms. With 18 bedrooms and 9 suites, the Brafferton Inn offers accommodations for both couples and families.

Close to the start of several Gettysburg Walking Tours.

History

Built-in 1786, the Brafferton Inn is the oldest deeded house in downtown Gettysburg. A tanner built the townhouse before there was a town, using a brownstone that is native to the area. The 4-bedroom house was expanded with an addition in 1815 attaching a kitchen and a larger dining room.

What Makes This B&B Special:

  • Room Choices: King beds, jacuzzi tubs, and/or gas fireplaces.
  • Beautiful Grounds: Even though it’s in town, this Gettysburg B&B offers balconies, decks, flower gardens, and a patio.
  • Dining Room: A spacious dining room makes it easy to enjoy the home-cooked full breakfast.
  • Little Extras: Fine linens and plush robes, gourmet breakfast, and fresh-baked cookies in the afternoon.

Average Cost per Night: $109-$239 (suites)

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Gettysburg PA B&Bs - The Baladerry Inn
The Baladerry Inn is located just outside of town in a peaceful country setting. Photo credit: Jessia James

4. Baladerry Inn

40 Hospital Road
Gettysburg, PA
717-337-1342

Sitting on the edge of the Battlefield, but close to town, the Baladerry Inn is one of the most historic inns in Gettysburg. Open year-round, it features beautifully furnished guest rooms, all with private baths and free Wi-Fi access.

History

The oldest section of the inn was constructed in 1812 on the Bushman Farm, with the rest of the main house added in 1830. The home was built as a tenant farmer’s house, and the property was used as a field hospital for the Army of the Potomac during the Battle of Gettysburg.

What Makes This B&B Special:

  • The Property: This country inn offers spacious landscaped grounds and romantic terraces.
  • Relax: A centrally located hot tub helps you unwind after a day of exploring.
  • Inside: A Great Room with a fireplace offers a comfortable place to relax or read on a rainy day.
  • Stay in the Carriage House: Need more room? Two-room suite available featuring a sunroom, large bedroom with king-size bed, fireplace, private bathroom, TV, free wi-fi access, and a private patio.

Average Cost per Night: Rooms $134-$185; Cottage Rose Suite: $222-$275

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Gettysburg PA B&Bs - The Brickhouse Inn
The Brickhouse Inn is located in the heart of the tourist district and is an easy walk to restaurants and museums. Photo credit: Jessia James

5. Brickhouse Inn B&B

452 Baltimore Street
Gettysburg PA
717-338-9337

The historic Brickhouse Inn is conveniently located within walking distance of downtown Gettysburg, the tourist district, and the National Cemetery.

With 17 beds in 15 rooms (plus a separate building with a private suite), there are plenty of options for everyone. Each of the elegantly decorated guest rooms comes standard with satellite TV, high-speed wireless internet, and air conditioning/heating.

History

Built-in 1898, the Brickhouse Inn is one of the “newer” buildings in historic Gettysburg, but still has its original wood floors and features authentic Victorian styling throughout.

It is located next door to the Welty House (also a B&B), which served as a sniper’s nest for Confederate sharpshooters during the Battle of Gettysburg.

What Makes This B&B Special:

  • The Rooms: Every room features either a bay window with a view of the town or a private porch with an original claw-foot tub.
  • Packages: Lots of packages for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries.
  • Special Tours: This Gettysburg B&B offers discounted tour packages and various tours tailored to each guest, from Food Tours and Pub Crawls to Battlefield and Ghost Tours.

Average Cost per Night: $170-$221

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Gettysburg PA B&Bs - The Tillie Pierce house
The Tillie Pierce house was the home of Gettysburg resident Tillie Pierce during the Battle of Gettysburg. Photo credit: Jessia James

Bonus Gettysburg B&Bs

Need some more ideas for your stay in historic Gettysburg? These B&Bs witnessed the Battle of Gettysburg and offered guests a true step back in time.

Tillie Pierce House Inn: Local resident Tillie Pierce, who wrote a book about her memories of the Battle of Gettysburg, lived in this house as a teenager and helped nurse wounded soldiers.
301 Baltimore Street
Gettysburg, PA 17325

Lightner Farmhouse B&B: Built in 1862, this Gettysburg B&B is located in a quiet country setting close to town and the battlefield.
2350 Baltimore Pike
Gettysburg, PA 17325

Information about Gettysburg PA B&Bs

Most of the check-ins at Gettysburg bed and breakfasts are between 3 and 4 p.m., but make sure you check with the innkeepers for your particular inn to make sure.

The closest airport to Gettysburg is Harrisburg International Airport, about 50 minutes away. BWI and Dulles are both about 90 minutes from Gettysburg.

Read More: Omni Bedford Springs Review: Experience Timeless Luxury

Which Gettysburg PA B&B Fits Your Style?

As you can see, Gettysburg offers a wide variety of charming bed and breakfasts that seamlessly blend historical features with modern comforts.

Whether you’re a history buff, a romantic getaway seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, these B&Bs are sure to give you lasting memories of your trip to Gettysburg.


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