Gettysburg: Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour Countryside & Orchards

Imagine gliding gently through rolling hills, past blooming orchards and farm landscapes, all while learning about the area’s natural beauty and history. That’s exactly what you get with the Gettysburg Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour offered by Silvershire Farm. This one-hour ride isn’t your typical sightseeing — it’s a relaxing, picturesque trip that combines scenic views, farm life, and charming horses, all just a short drive from the historic battlefield.

What makes this experience truly special are the close interactions with the horses, the stunning seasonal scenery, and the informative narration that brings the landscape to life. Whether you’re traveling with kids or seeking a peaceful escape, the tour offers a laid-back way to enjoy Adams County’s countryside.

That said, it’s important to note that this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, which could be a consideration for some travelers. Also, since it’s a small-group experience limited to 10 people, booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot. Perfect for families, nature lovers, or history buffs who want a break from more intense battlefield tours, this carriage ride provides a gentle, authentic taste of rural Pennsylvania.

Good To Know

• Scenic beauty: Experience the picturesque rolling hills, orchards, and mountain views.
• Interactive fun: Kids and adults can feed and pet the horses, adding a personal touch.
• Expert narration: Guides share insights about the farm, orchards, and Civil War history.
• Flexible timing: Usually available in the morning, with plenty of seasonal highlights.
• Value for money: At $44 per person, this experience offers a cozy, scenic adventure.
• Small group setting: Limited to 10 participants for a personalized experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Gentle Ride Through Gettysburg’s Countryside

Unlike more traditional battlefield tours, this carriage ride offers a peaceful alternative that emphasizes the area’s rural charm. Less about warfare and more about the landscape, it’s a way to see a different side of Gettysburg—one filled with orchards, mountain vistas, and workings farms.

Starting from Silvershire Farm, located just 15 minutes north of Gettysburg, the tour begins at a distinctive big red barn at the intersection of Clearview Rd and Quaker Run Rd. From there, you’ll hop onto a carriage pulled by two gentle Shire draft horses—the real stars of the show. These gentle giants provide a smooth ride, making it accessible even for those who prefer a relaxed pace.

Throughout the journey, guides share stories about the orchards, farming life, and the Civil War history in the area, offering a well-rounded picture of Adams County. One reviewer, Jeffrey A, noted how Bill and Bobbi (the hosts) are “very knowledgeable and personable,” making the ride both educational and enjoyable.

What the Tour Covers: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

The Starting Point and Setting

The tour kicks off at the farm’s barn, where you’ll meet the horses and get a quick overview from your guide. This is where you’ll see the carriage and learn about the Shire horses pulling it, which is especially fun for kids who love animals.

Traveling Through Farm and Orchard Land

As the carriage begins its gentle roll, you’ll traverse two working farms—an orchard and Christmas tree farm, plus a horse farm—each offering a glimpse into rural life. During spring, the blossoming orchards provide a burst of color, while in fall, the landscape transforms with vivid yellows, ambers, and scarlets.

The guides will narrate interesting tidbits about the orchards and crops—information that’s particularly appreciated by visitors interested in agriculture or seasonal changes. According to reviews, the scenery is breathtaking, with one guest noting how “the view of the farm and countryside from the hilltop was simply beautiful.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Encountering the Animals

Feeding and petting the horses is a highlight for many. The hosts, Bill and Bobbi, are praised for their friendly demeanor and knowledgeable approach. As one guest shared, “Bill and Bobbi were the ultimate hosts,” and the kids especially loved giving treats to the horses after the ride.

On top of that, you may see other farm animals, and there’s even a chance to meet and photograph the whole team of horses after the ride—adding a memorable, hands-on element that kids and animal lovers will cherish.

Scenic Photo Stop

Towards the end, the carriage halts at a viewpoint overlooking the valley, perfect for taking photos of the mountains and farmland. Many reviewers, including Caitlin, mention how the views are truly picturesque, making this a great opportunity to capture memories.

The Experience: What Makes It Worth It

The Personal Touch and Guide Expertise

The small group size ensures a personalized experience, with guides like Bill and Bobbi adding warmth and local knowledge. Caitlin highlighted how everyone enjoyed the ride, regardless of age, and Jeffrey praised the hosts for their friendly approach and information sharing.

Seasonal Highlights

If you’re visiting in spring, you’ll enjoy the blossoming orchards, adding a splash of color and scent to your experience. In autumn, the fall foliage gives an entirely different but equally stunning backdrop, which many guests say is breathtaking.

The Scenic Value

The views from the hilltop overlook and the winding trail through the countryside are what really make this tour stand out. Guests often mention how peaceful and beautiful the scenery is, providing a perfect break from more intense historical sites.

The Cost and What You Get

At $44 per person, this tour offers great value for those looking for a relaxed, scenic experience. It includes the one-hour carriage ride, narrated insights, meet-and-greet with the horses, and photo opportunities.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour runs in the morning, and booking ahead is wise, especially in peak seasons. It’s mostly suitable for families and those who can comfortably sit in the carriage for an hour. Guests should dress weather-appropriate and note that the experience isn’t accessible for wheelchair users or those with animal allergies.

Why Choose This Tour?

This carriage ride is a delightful blend of nature, animals, and local farming culture. The casual pace makes it a perfect option for travelers who want a relaxing, scenic, and educational experience without the hustle of traditional battlefield tours.

It’s especially suited for families with kids, couples seeking tranquility, or nature lovers eager to see a side of Gettysburg beyond the battlefield. The hands-on horse interactions and photo opportunities add a memorable touch, making it a standout activity in the area.

Final Thoughts

For anyone visiting Gettysburg who wants to combine beautiful scenery with farm life and animal encounters, this horse-drawn carriage tour delivers in spades. The tour’s balance of relaxed sightseeing, expert narration, and interactive animal moments makes it an experience that feels authentic and personal.

The small group size, friendly guides, and seasonal highlights make it a valuable addition to your trip—whether you’re in town for history, nature, or simply seeking a peaceful way to see the countryside.

This tour offers excellent value, with stunning views and an unrushed pace that lets you truly appreciate Adams County’s rural charm. It’s a wonderful way to slow down, enjoy some fresh air, and connect with the land and animals of this historic area.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for young children?
Yes, many reviews mention children enjoying feeding and petting the horses, making it a family-friendly activity.

How long does the tour last?
The carriage ride lasts approximately one hour.

Can I feed the horses?
Absolutely, you can meet the horses after the ride and feed them treats, which is a favorite part for kids and adults alike.

Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at the big red barn at the intersection of Clearview Rd and Quaker Run Rd, Aspers, PA.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, this activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility scooters.

What should I wear?
Dress in weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour is outdoors and can be affected by the weather conditions.

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

To sum it up, if you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic, and interactive experience just outside Gettysburg, the Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour at Silvershire Farm is a wonderful choice. It offers genuine farm encounters, stunning views, and a relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for families, animal lovers, or those simply wanting a break from more structured historical tours. For a modest price, you gain a memorable taste of Adams County’s landscape and rural charm.

You can check if your dates are available here: