Gettysburg: Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour Countryside & Orchards

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Pennsylvania’s rolling fields and charming farm life just outside Gettysburg, this horse-drawn carriage tour from Silvershire Farm offers a peaceful, scenic experience. It’s a cozy, family-friendly way to see the countryside, learn about local farms, and enjoy a quiet moment away from battlefield history.

What immediately appeals to us about this tour is how it combines gentle farm scenery with engaging narration. Plus, the chance to feed and pet the horses adds a personal touch that feels genuine rather than touristy. On the downside, it’s a short, one-hour ride—so if you’re after a more in-depth exploration or a longer adventure, you might want to look elsewhere. Otherwise, this experience is best suited for families, couples, or groups seeking a relaxing, picturesque outing with a bit of farm charm.

Key Points

• Authentic countryside experience: Ride through working farms, orchards, and scenic hillsides, not just a tourist trap.
• Friendly guides: Hosts like Bill and Bobbie are praised for their warmth and knowledge, making the journey more engaging.
• Interactive elements: Kids and adults love feeding the horses and snapping pictures with the team.
• Ideal for families: The slow pace and petting activities make it perfect for children of all ages.
• Value for money: At $44 per person for an hour, it offers a wholesome farm experience without breaking the bank.
• Seasonal beauty: Spring blossoms, summer lushness, and fall colors make this a year-round visual treat.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Carriage Tour Experience

This one-hour carriage ride begins at the Big Red Barn on Silvershire Farm, just a quick 15-minute drive north of Gettysburg. The location is straightforward to find — a large, picturesque barn at the intersection of Clearview Rd and Quaker Run Rd, with clear signage and easy parking.

What makes this tour stand out is the setting. As you settle into your carriage, you’re surrounded by gently rolling hills, verdant fields, and clusters of orchards. Depending on the season, you’ll see spring blossoms that blanket the trees, or in fall, the hillsides ablaze with reds, golds, and oranges. During summer, it’s lush and green, with crops ripening in the fields.

The Ride Itself

The carriage is pulled by two gentle Shire draft horses, known for their calm temperament and impressive size. The pace is slow and relaxing — perfect for soaking in the views and having a conversation without feeling rushed. The hosts narrate the journey, sharing insights about the farms, the orchards, and the history of the area, including some Civil War context.

Guests consistently praise the guides for their friendly demeanor and wealth of knowledge. As one reviewer put it, “Bill and Bobbie were the ultimate hosts! Enjoyed every minute of the trip. So much fun to give treats to all the horses after a delightful tour.” It’s clear the hosts genuinely care about creating a memorable experience.

Scenic Stops and Photo Opportunities

A highlight is the scenic overlook, where the carriage pauses for a photo. From there, you can snap pictures of the valley spread out beneath you — a perfect shot to remember the day. This stop is also a good moment to take a break, breathe in the fresh country air, and admire the landscape.

Farm Encounters and Feeding the Horses

The tour isn’t just about scenery; it’s about animals and farm life too. After the ride, you have the chance to meet the rest of the farm’s horses and feed them treats—an activity beloved by children and adults alike. As one visitor noted, “You can meet and take pictures with your team and feed them treats. Kids and adults like this part of the tour.” It’s these personal moments that make the experience stand out.

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Seasonal Variations

The farm’s charm varies throughout the year. In spring, the blossoms make for a fairy-tale setting. In summer, lush green crops and perhaps a glimpse of an elk herd add to the rural tableau. Autumn is perhaps the most spectacular, with mountains and trees turning fiery reds and golds. The hosts tailor their narration to the season, enriching your understanding of farm life and local history.

The Practicalities

Pricing: At $44 per person, this tour provides good value, especially considering the personal attention and scenic quality. It’s a brief yet immersive experience that offers more than just a ride — it’s a chance to slow down, enjoy the outdoors, and learn about local farms.

Group Size & Booking: Limited to 10 participants, the small group size helps ensure everyone gets personalized attention. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, and you can reserve and pay later — offering flexibility if your plans change.

Duration & Timing: The ride is typically available in the mornings and lasts precisely one hour. This makes it an easy addition to a day’s itinerary, perhaps after visiting Gettysburg battlefield or other local sites.

Accessibility & Restrictions: The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with animal allergies. Participants must sign a waiver acknowledging the risks associated with equine activities. No smoking, drones, or alcohol are permitted, ensuring a peaceful farm environment.

Authenticity and What Travelers Are Saying

Reviewers consistently give this experience a perfect 5-star rating. Many highlight the friendly, knowledgeable guides as a major plus: “Bill and Bobbie were very friendly and pleasant,” said Jeffrey A, emphasizing how their pride in the farm shows through their storytelling.

The scenery also receives high praise. “The view of it all was breathtaking,” remarked Jeffrey, especially noting the winding trail atop a hill overlooking lush farmland. Children particularly enjoy feeding the horses, and families appreciate the relaxed pace and engaging guide interaction.

Couples and solo travelers note that it’s a peaceful, unhurried way to connect with rural Pennsylvania. One comment from Kathleen encapsulates the appeal: “Great thing to do for your family. We are planning to do it again in August.”

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This carriage ride is ideal for those seeking a tranquil, scenic break from more intense sightseeing. It’s perfect for families with children who enjoy animals and open spaces, as well as couples or small groups wanting a relaxed farm experience. If you love horses, picturesque landscapes, or farm life, this tour delivers authentic charm at a fair price.

However, if you’re after a comprehensive historical tour of Gettysburg’s battlefield or looking for a more active adventure, this isn’t the right fit. It’s more about peaceful rural beauty than battlefield history or high-energy activities.

In short, this experience offers a genuine, heartfelt peek into Pennsylvania’s countryside, with friendly hosts, lovely views, and plenty of opportunities to connect with the farm’s animals. It’s a small but meaningful addition to any Gettysburg trip, especially if you’re craving a break from the crowds and want a piece of the quiet country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children of all ages enjoy the gentle ride, the opportunity to pet and feed the horses, and the scenic farm views. It’s especially popular with families.

How long does the tour last?
The carriage ride itself is one hour. It’s a perfect length for a relaxed outing without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour meet?
The meeting point is the Big Red Barn at the intersection of Clearview Rd and Quaker Run Rd, Aspers, PA. It’s easy to find and has ample parking.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with animal allergies. Participants must sign a waiver, and certain items like drones, alcohol, and coolers are not permitted.

Is this experience offered in multiple languages?
Currently, yes—English is the language of the tour.

What should I wear?
Dress according to the weather — comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, especially if it’s sunny or rainy.

The Gettysburg Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Countryside & Orchards offers a delightful way to experience Pennsylvania’s rural charm. It’s authentic, intimate, and visually stunning, making it a worthy addition for those looking to enjoy farm life and scenic views without a long or expensive commitment. Whether you’re traveling with family, a partner, or on your own, this little journey by horse is bound to leave you with peaceful memories and plenty of photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: