THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Step aboard the Santa Express at Stone Gables Estate for a festive steam-powered journey through Elizabethtown’s winter landscape. Sing holiday tunes, visit Santa’s Toy Shop, and cross a stunning new trestle on this holiday train adventure.
Step aboard the Santa Express at Stone Gables Estate for a festive steam-powered journey through Elizabethtown’s winter landscape. Sing holiday tunes, visit Santa’s Toy Shop, and cross a stunning new trestle on this holiday train adventure.
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Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Stone Gables Estate · Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania
Located in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, Stone Gables Estate offers a unique holiday experience that combines outdoor charm with festive tradition through the Santa Express. This spirited train ride winds through the estate’s sprawling 280 acres, providing riders a chance to soak up crisp winter air and pastoral views from a beautifully decorated steam locomotive—a full-scale replica inspired by 19th-century railroads. The Harrisburg, Lincoln & Lancaster Railroad replica train, adorned with lights and holiday décor, pulls vintage-style coaches that create an immersive setting perfect for families and enthusiasts alike.
What sets this trip apart is its blend of history, entertainment, and seasonal cheer. The new trestle bridge, a 400-foot wooden open deck, adds an architectural highlight to the route, promising spectacular photo opportunities and elevated views of the estate’s rolling landscape. As the train rolls on, guests can sing along to holiday classics broadcast throughout the coaches, adding a communal, joyous soundtrack to the experience.
A key moment unfolds during a stop at Santa’s Toy Shop inside the beautifully decorated engine house. Children meet St. Nick in person, receiving gifts and warm holiday wishes in a lively interaction that makes for unforgettable memories. Beyond the train ride, guests get access to the Christmas Village at Ironstone Ranch, expanding the outdoor adventure with themed festive activities.
Stone Gables Estate stands out for integrating faith-based mission with outdoor hospitality, donating net profits to support abandoned children worldwide via Brittany’s Hope. More than just a seasonal ride, the Santa Express offers a meaningful, engaging entry into Elizabethtown’s outdoor recreation scene during winter. Whether you’re a local or passing through, this festive excursion promises both a charming winter outing and a chance to connect with community values amid scenic, open-air surroundings.
easy.
45 minutes.
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; minimal walking required between parking and boarding area.
Yes, children of all ages can enjoy the experience, with those under two riding free on a parent's lap.
No, all tickets must be pre-purchased online before arrival.
No, the Santa Express is not wheelchair accessible at this time.
The narrated train journey takes approximately 45 minutes including the stop at Santa's Toy Shop.
Food and drinks are not allowed onboard the train to ensure a clean, safe environment.
Cancellations due to inclement weather are communicated via email and social media with refunds issued accordingly.
Stone Gables Estate encompasses historic landmarks, with the railroad modeled after 19th-century Pennsylvania locomotives, reflecting the region's rich railway heritage.
The estate supports sustainable practices by maintaining open green space and responsibly managing its historic railroad and event facilities with minimal environmental impact.
Stone Gables Estate is an event venue and historic property in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, hosting seasonal festivals, theatrical dinners, family attractions, and outdoor adventures. Located on scenic grounds that include Ironstone Ranch and the Star Barn Village, the estate stages holiday experiences such as The Christmas Village at Ironstone Ranch, the National Christmas Center, the 8th Annual Christmas Light Drive-Thru, and Santa Express aboard a steam locomotive. The estate programs live performances and dinner events in the Star Barn, featuring acts like Servant Stage Cabaret, Grammy Award-winning duo Reggie & Ladye Love Smith, and Irish tenor Mark Forrest. Dinner-and-show evenings combine a festive buffet, gift shopping, and a drive-thru light display. Outdoor offerings include guided horseback trail rides and date night trail rides across shaded forest trails and open pastures, with scenic stops near Herr’s Mill Covered Bridge and other historic landmarks. Seasonal celebrations include the 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks Extravaganza with self-guided tours, live performances, yard games, and a petting zoo. Food trucks, artisan crafts, and family-friendly activities appear across multiple events, and shuttle access is available for select festivals. Stone Gables Estate emphasizes family-oriented programming, local vendors, and curated entertainment to create memorable experiences. Event listings, performer lineups, and specific amenities are published for each season so guests can plan visits. The estate’s combination of historic venues, themed holiday attractions, live music, and outdoor recreation defines its offerings in Lancaster County. Tickets, schedules, accessibility details, and parking instructions are published with each event to help visitors plan. Check event pages for updates.
Book with Stone Gables Estate