Appalachian Brewing Company in Gettysburg offers a variety of craft beers.Photo byJessica James 2024

Visitors to Gettsyburg aren't always there for the history. There is a new industry brewing, and it's drawing a younger crowd to the historic small town in Pennsylvania.

The addition of a burgeoning craft beer scene is one that is being welcomed by residents and visitors alike.

Each of the Gettysburg breweries listed here offers unique flavors and experiences. You can enjoy a beverage in a converted barn that was used as a Civil War hospital, or sit outside and sip your ale while overlooking the battlefield.

So keep reading for a list of places you can go enjoy a refreshing beverage and a bite to eat in Gettysburg.

Introducing Gettysburg Breweries

The breweries in Gettysburg have become a vibrant part of the town’s contemporary culture.

These breweries blend the rich historical tapestry of Gettysburg with modern craft brewing, attracting a new kind of visitor to this historic town.

Here is a list of Gettysburg breweries in no particular order.

1. Battlefield Brew Works

248 Hunterstown Road, Gettysburg PA
717 398-2907

Located just outside of Gettysburg in a converted barn that was used as a hospital after the Battle of Gettysburg, Battlefield Brew Works is is a distillery and restaurant that offers craft beers, artisanal distilled spirits, great pub food and live entertainment.

Battlefield Brew Works is located in a restored Civil War hospital barn.Photo byJessica James 2024

Battlefield Brew Works is actually the first distillery and brewery permitted in Pennsylvania. They keep six to eight handcrafted beers on tap and their distillery includes four types of whiskey, vodka, gin and rum.

This Gettysburg brewery is closed Monday through Wednesday.

Food menu includes appetizers, wings, sandwiches, salads and full dinner of meatloaf and lasagna.

They offer live music most weekends in the summer.

Related Story: If you want to tour a historic barn and house in Gettysburg that were used as Civil War hospitals, put the Lady Farm on your to-do list.

2. Appalachian Brewing Company – Battlefield

Address: 259 Steinwehr Ave, Gettysburg, PA

Part of the Appalachian Brewing Company family, this Gettysburg brewery offers a variety of craft beers brewed on-site.

The brewpub is a popular place to enjoy a meal or a drink after a day of exploring, since it’s located close to hotels, museums and the battlefield.

Appalachian Brewing Company has an outdoor display of tap handles.Photo byJessica James 2024

ABC features an outdoor soda and beer window if you just want to grab a drink, and a nice sitting area under trees to enjoy your beverage of choice.

ABC offers a varied menu with lots of options, from burgers to vegetarian meals and everything in between. Kitchen is open seasonally until 10 p.m., which is good for Gettysburg.

This brewpub is open daily.

3. FourScore Beer Co.

Address: 603 S Washington St, Gettysburg, PA

FourScore Beer Co. is located on a quiet street close to the tourist district of Gettysburg, and is an offshoot of longtime Gettysburg staple Tommy’s Pizza.

Opening in July 2019, this Gettysburg brewery offers a seasonally rotating menu and a host of well-crafted beers like Hop Hat IPA and a Gettys Brau pilsner.

FourScore Beer Co. in Gettysburg has indoor and outdoor seating.Photo byJessica James 2024

They provide indoor and outdoor seating and an area for playing cornhole.

Their food menu is pretty impressive, from handhelds and salads to wings and crabcake sandwiches.

(Personally, I can’t wait to try their S

4. The Thirsty Farmer Brew Works

Address: 290 Cashtown Rd, Biglerville, PA (just outside of Gettysburg)

FourScore Brew Co. is closed Monday’s and Tuesday’s.

Located in the scenic countryside near Gettysburg, Thirsty Farmer Brew Works offers a large selection of ales, lagers and ciders hand-crafted in their family farm brewery in small batches.

The Thirsty Farmer Brew Works is located across the road from the historic Round Barn.Photo byJessica James 2024

Many of the brews in this family-owned business are enhanced with hops and fruits grown on the farm that can be seen from the brewpub deck. A variety of homegrown apples are also blended together to produce an array of hard cider flavors ranging from tart and dry to sweet.

The Thirsty Farmer features indoor and outdoor seating, with their outdoor picnic area offering a picturesque view of the Historic Round Barn & Farm Market across the street.

(Take the time to go inside the Round Barn. It’s worth it!)

The Thirsty Farmer is open Thursday through Sunday.

5. Pilger Ruh Brewing

110 Chambersburg Street (rear), Gettysburg

Pottsville-based Pilger Ruh Brewing recently expanded into Gettysburg with a new taproom, located in historic downtown Gettysburg.

Offering 8 taps, cans, and a monthly rotating craft cocktail menu, Pilger Ruh also features craft cider and local wine. Seating is available inside, along with optional & seasonal outdoor beer garden seating.

Closed Monday through Wednesday

Other Beverage Locations In Gettysburg

Mason Dixon Distillery & Restaurant

Address: 331 E Water St, Gettysburg, PA

Description: While primarily a distillery, Mason Dixon also offers a selection of craft beers brewed on-site. Their farm-to-table restaurant complements the drinks perfectly, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Dawg Gone Bees Mead

430 Baltimore Street, Gettysburg
223-255-2275

New to the Gettysburg craft beverage scene, mead brings back the historic flavors of sweet, natural honey.

I didn’t know what mead was until I stopped into Dawg Gone Bees. They have samples and will help you find a flavor you love.

Wrap-Up Of Gettysburg Breweries

As you can see, Gettysburg offers more than just history. It’s also a destination for craft beer lovers and those who enjoy diverse dining options.

If you’re planning a trip to Gettysburg, make sure you read about the different seasons and find the best time to visit.

There are lots of ways to tour the battlefield, from spooky ghost tours to taking a scenic horseback ride. And of course, you don’t want to miss any of the unique museums!

You’re sure to need a place to relax after your day of exploring, so I hope you enjoy one (or more) of these Gettysburg breweries.