easy
45 minutes
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; minimal walking required between parking and boarding area.
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.
A Festive and Narrated Train Excursion and Christmas Experience
Experience the magic of the holiday season on a festive train ride through Stone Gables Estate. Enjoy a narrated journey aboard a beautifully decorated steam locomotive, sing along to Christmas classics, and meet St. Nick, who brings gifts for children. Don't miss the enchanting Santa's Toy Shop and the stunning new trestle!
Sing along with your favorite Christmas tunes as they are broadcast throughout the passenger coaches as your make your way through Stone Gables Estate. Watch the eyes of children and adults light up when St. Nick makes a surprise visit and hands each child a gift. Pictures are welcome! Sneak a peek during the stop at Santa's Toy Shop in the Engine House. It is beautifully decorated for Christmas.
The new track expansion will double the length of the current track. The train will cross over a 400 foot, newly built, wooden open deck trestle. New Star Barn Platform will be opening this Christmas season!
Monday-Friday (excluding Black Friday):
Saturday (Including Black Friday):
The Santa Express train is not wheelchair accessible.
*** Please note, at this time, all tickets must be pre-purchased online prior to your departure**
If you need assistance to board and de-board please call or email info@stonegablesestate.com
Enter at Brittany's Hope: 1160 North Market Street, Elizabethtown PA 17022. (Please type the physical address listed above into your GPS.)
Please arrive at least 15-20 minutes before your train departure time.
Once you arrive watch for signage to direct you to park. Walk to the Ironstone train platform. Please check in with the Guest Services Attendant. Give the first and last name of the person who booked the tickets.
Parking is available near the train site (see directions). Mobile restroom facilities are available near the train platform.
Dress comfortably and weather appropriate as there can be some walking. Strollers are welcome to the estate but cannot board the train.
To find out if we have cancelled any train rides due to inclement weather, keep a close eye on your email, check our social media, and/or please call 717.902.9791. Related refunds will be issued within 7-10 days.
The Santa Express train is NOT wheel chair accessible.
The Star Barn will NOT be open for viewing.
All sales are final. Refunds will be issued by Stone Gables Estate if the event has been cancelled.
No food, drinks, animals, or smoking onboard the train.
Service animals are the only animals permitted on the property.
By purchasing a ticket, you agree to allow Stone Gables Estate and/or its representatives to use any photos taken for promotional or advertising purposes. You also consent to a subscription to our e-newsletter.
Stone Gables Estate and/or its representatives are not responsible for lost or stolen items. You may check our lost & found.
Stone Gables Estate is home to the historic Ironstone Ranch, The Star Barn Village, St. Michael’s Vineyard, the Harrisburg, Lincoln & Lancaster Railroad, the Herr’s Mill Covered Bridge, and much more. The property encompasses 280 scenic acres and includes a working horse ranch along with numerous settings other event settings.
Stone Gables Estate is a Biblical, faith-based ministry/business. Its mission is to donate 100% of its' net profits to aid abandoned children worldwide through Brittany’s Hope, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. "Events with a Purpose". For more information about Stone Gables Estate, check out our website!
Please email us at info@stonegablesestate.com or call 717-902-9791. We experience a very high call and email volume due to Christmas inquiries. We will return your call as soon as possible. Thank you for your patience.
Plan to arrive at least 15-20 minutes before departure to park and check in smoothly.
Prepare for chilly temperatures with layered clothing, as some walking is involved between parking and train boarding.
Tickets must be bought online in advance; no walk-up sales are available during the holiday season.
The Santa Express train is not wheelchair accessible, so plan 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.
Helps maintain warmth during outdoor waiting and walking in cold weather conditions.
winter specific
Useful in case of snow or wet ground on the estate paths.
winter specific
Capture memorable moments aboard the train and scenic shots of the new trestle and decorations.
Convenient for carrying gifts, extra clothes, or snacks for after the train ride.