The Haunted Gettysburg Hotel | Haunted Gettysburg Places to Stay

The Ghosts of the Gettysburg Hotel

are Civil War soldiers really haunting this historic hotel?

The Haunted Gettysburg Hotel: Where History Never Checks Out

In the heart of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania—a town forever etched into America’s soul by one of its bloodiest battles—stands a hotel where history isn’t just remembered…it lingers. The Gettysburg Hotel, a fixture on Lincoln Square since the early 19th century, is more than just a charming place to stay. For those who believe, it’s a paranormal hotspot. For those who don’t, well…spend a night here and get back to us.

Whether you’re looking for a brush with Civil War history or a chilling ghost story that unfolds in your room at midnight, the Gettysburg Hotel delivers. Here at Ghost City Tours, we’ve had more than our fair share of encounters—and if the reviews (and EVPs) are to be believed, so have countless guests.

The History of the Gettysburg Hotel

The Gettysburg Hotel was originally established in 1797 as the Scott Tavern. By 1809, it had been renamed the Indian Queen and was already a popular stop for travelers and statesmen alike. In the decades that followed, the hotel grew with the town—serving not just as a social hub, but as a silent witness to some of America’s most pivotal moments.

When the Civil War came to Gettysburg in July 1863, this hotel—then called the McClellan House—was no passive bystander. The building was commandeered and used as a field hospital during the Battle of Gettysburg. Wounded Union soldiers were brought here in droves, their cries echoing through the halls as overworked surgeons did their best with limited supplies and grim odds. Blood stained the floorboards, and death lingered in the rooms. Some say it never left.

The structure was renovated in the 1890s, and again in the late 20th century, eventually becoming the modern, elegant hotel you see today. But despite the fresh paint and posh amenities, the past still bleeds through the walls.

Ghosts of the Gettysburg Hotel

If you believe Gettysburg’s battlefield is haunted, it only makes sense that its most storied hotel would be, too. The Gettysburg Hotel is infamous for its ghosts, and paranormal activity is so commonplace that the staff barely flinch when you mention it.

An illustration showing ghost of a woman often seen dancing in the Ballroom
The Ghost of a woman has been seen dancing in the ballroom

The Dancing Woman

One of the most famous spirits said to roam the Gettysburg Hotel is a woman in period dress, often seen dancing in the hotel ballroom. Some speculate she’s the ghost of a Civil War-era nurse, taking a break from her harrowing duties in death that she rarely had in life. Others claim she was a guest who died tragically and never checked out. Regardless, guests and employees alike have spotted her swirling alone through the room, her gown trailing as if caught in a wind only she can feel.

Rachel: The Nurse Who Never Left

Another commonly reported spirit is known simply as Rachel. Believed to be a Civil War nurse who worked tirelessly to save lives in the hotel-turned-hospital, Rachel is often described as a gentle presence—but she makes her presence known. Guests report drawers opening on their own, personal items being moved, and the inexplicable feeling of being watched. Some have even heard the soft swish of skirts in the hallway at night, only to find no one there.

The Vanishing Union Soldier

Several people have reported seeing a Union soldier in full uniform standing at attention in their room or in the hallway—only to blink and find him gone. In some cases, he’s spotted checking doors as if still on duty. Could he be a spirit still guarding the men he once fought beside?

Haunted Experiences in the 21st Century

Paranormal investigators, ghost tour groups (including ours), and thousands of curious guests have explored the Gettysburg Hotel, hoping for an encounter with the supernatural. They’re rarely disappointed.

Visitors have reported:

  • TVs and lights turning on or off by themselves
  • Cold spots in otherwise warm rooms
  • Items going missing, only to reappear in strange places
  • Footsteps echoing through empty hallways
  • Full-body apparitions seen—and sometimes caught on camera
  • Several guests have even left in the middle of the night, unable to explain the eerie sensations or strange voices they experienced after the lights went out.

A Favorite for Paranormal TV and Ghost Hunters

The Gettysburg Hotel has caught the attention of paranormal investigators and television crews alike. The hotel has been featured on shows about haunted places, where EVPs (electronic voice phenomena) and unexplained activity were captured during overnight investigations. It's considered one of the most haunted hotels in Pennsylvania—and with good reason.

Even our founder, Tim Nealon, has stayed at the Gettysburg Hotel more than once. And each time, he’s come back with stories that give even seasoned ghost hunters the chills. Disembodied whispers in empty hallways. A hand brushing past his leg while he was in bed. Doors slowly creaking open. If you're a skeptic, this hotel may convert you.

Why Do the Ghosts Remain?

Like the town of Gettysburg itself, the hotel is steeped in the kind of trauma and turmoil that leaves a psychic scar on the land. Between the horrors of war, the grief of loss, and the passage of thousands of souls through its halls, it’s no wonder the veil is so thin here. Some spirits may not even know they’ve died. Others might simply not be ready to move on.

Or perhaps Gettysburg, like the hotel at its heart, is simply too historic to let go.

Booking a room at the Gettysburg Hotel

If you’re brave enough to stay the night, the Gettysburg Hotel is fully operational and welcoming guests year-round. It’s the perfect blend of luxury and legend, where you can enjoy fine dining, boutique comfort—and possibly, a glimpse into the afterlife.

Whether you’re visiting Gettysburg for its rich Civil War history or hoping to catch a ghost on camera, this hotel is a must-visit. Just don’t be surprised if your pictures contain something... extra.

An illustration showing the chaos at the Field Hospital located at the Cashtown Inn
During and after the battle, the Cashtown Inn was used as a field hospital by the Confederate Army. Many soldiers died here.

Our Gettysburg Ghost Tours

Curious about Gettysburg’s haunted history? Take a ghost tour with Ghost City Tours and experience the stories, spirits, and secrets that bring this historic town to life after dark.

Get to know Gettysburg's Most Haunted Places

A scene from the Battle of Little Round Top.
The Ghosts of Little Round Top

What Ghosts haunt the streets of Gettysburg?

One of the many haunted Hotels in Gettysburg where you can spend the night.
The Haunted Gettysburg Hotel

Find a haunted Hotel in Gettysburg for your next stay

The Ghost of Jennie Wade
The Ghost of Jennie Wade

Is the ghost of Jennie Wade haunting Gettysburg?