Riding Through History: A Gettysburg Escape

Severn, MD ➝ Gettysburg, PA | A day of roads, relics, and comfort food

There’s something about the open road that clears the mind better than any meditation app. This past weekend, I saddled up for a solo ride from Severn, Maryland to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania—a 90-minute cruise one way that fed both my need for speed and my soul. Round trip, plus some exploration time on local roads, the total ride clocked in at just over 3.5 hours in the saddle. And every minute was worth it. Blue skies, a slight chill, and just enough wind to keep my senses sharp but not frozen. As the suburbs faded behind me and the two-lane roads opened up, I felt that familiar calm wash over me—the kind only a motorcycle ride can bring. Twist of the throttle. Breathe in. Exhale.

First Stop: The Gettysburg Civil War Museum

Rolling into Gettysburg, I started with the Civil War Museum. I parked, peeled off my helmet, and let the gravity of the place sink in. It’s not just history here—it’s weight. The museum is immersive and sobering, packed with artifacts, detailed accounts, and well-curated exhibits that walk you through the chaos, courage, and cost of the Civil War.

As someone who often wrestles with anxiety, I found it oddly grounding. There’s a strange comfort in remembering that humans have endured worse and come out the other side.

The Auto Tour: Two Wheels, One Battlefield

Next up was the self-guided auto tour. Normally designed for cars, sure—but it hits differently on a bike. I cruised through the sprawling battlefield, visor up, letting the quiet of the rolling hills and monuments do the talking. Riding past names etched in stone, I couldn’t help but feel deeply connected to the road under my wheels and the echoes of stories that still linger here.

Refuel & Reset: Appalachian Brewing Company

After history and highways, it was time to feed the body. I rolled over to Appalachian Brewing Company, a place that’s now firmly in my “must-return” category. First thing I noticed? A three-legged dog lounging like it owned the place. We locked eyes. I nodded in respect.

The staff? Absolute gems. Warm, welcoming, and happy to talk food and beer with a road-weary rider.

Now, let’s talk poutine. Crispy fries smothered in rich gravy and melty cheese curds—exactly the kind of comfort food I didn’t know I needed. I paired it with a flight of their house microbrews. Each one had character, but the standout was their hoppy pale ale—bright, citrusy, and smooth enough to sip slow. I also tried their homemade cola on a whim, and it was surprisingly bold and flavorful. Think cola with backbone.

The Ride Back: Full Heart, Full Tank

As the sun started its slow descent, I geared up and headed home. The return ride gave me space to digest more than just lunch. This wasn’t just another ride; it was a reminder that healing and history can share the same road.

In total, I spent about 3.5 hours riding, weaving through scenic backroads, absorbing centuries of stories, and finding a little peace in unexpected places.

If you’ve never done Gettysburg on two wheels, add it to your list. There’s something restorative about pairing deep history with good food, better people, and a three-legged dog who doesn’t give a damn about your worries.

Until the next ride—

Brake. Bite. Breathe.

– Dom