Adams County, Pennsylvania, with the Family

Adams County, Pennsylvania, is probably known best for its main destination: Gettysburg. But there’s so much more to see in this central Pennsylvania county beyond the battlefield, especially for traveling families.

Stay

Adams County offers many charming places to stay, but if you want a bit of privacy and some space away from the more crowded areas around downtown Gettysburg, book the conveniently located Baladerry Inn. This bed and breakfast was originally built as a family home in 1812 and then served as a field hospital during the Civil War. The main house and carriage house have since been converted into the accommodations you see today, but they still retain loads of historic charm. Carriage house guestrooms offer private, outdoor seating areas and plenty of indoor space. The inn serves breakfast daily. There are multiple gathering spots around the property, both indoors and out, a good perk for multigenerational travelers who want to converge somewhere other than someone’s guestroom.

Eat & Drink

Photo: Andrey Mikhaylov | Dreamstime.com

Adams County is known for its apple production, so parents have to indulge in a little cider while in the area. Jack’s Hard Cider offers awesome views of the rural countryside from the expansive terrace, alongside its nice selection of ciders in the tasting room. Thirsty Farm Brew Works serves a mix of cider and local beer, and the family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great lunch stop if you’re already in the area.

In Gettysburg, you can dine on brunch alongside your kids’ favorite fictional characters, while still getting your drink on, at Mason Dixon Distillery. Grab lunch or dinner at the lively Garryowen Irish Pub. Just be sure to make reservations for earlier in the evening if you want to avoid the crowds. The kids will love a stop by Cannonball Malt Shop. Watch their eyes grow wide when you plop a massive banana split in front of them, all for just a few bucks.

Play

There is an absolute wealth of fun things for families to do around Adams County, thanks to the region’s rich agricultural heritage. If you visit during the right season (apple picking is still an option this season!), you can pick your own at Boyer Nurseries and Orchards, or just stop by for a picnic and a romp in the hedge maze. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby Historic Round Barn & Farm Market to say hello to the friendly barnyard animals, which adults and kids alike will want to pet and feed.

If you do want to make sure you get in a little bit of history during your visit, but you’ve already seen the Gettysburg battlefields, there are a few other stops you can add to your itinerary. Try the Shriver House Museum and Jennie Wade House, both historic homes that give you a glimpse into daily life throughout the region’s history.