Stone Gables Estate and Star Barn Village
Stone Gables Estate offers historic charm, scenic beauty, and festive fun with its Star Barn Village, train rides, and seasonal light shows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical Christmas lights & Santa!
Stone Gables Estate and Star Barn Village
Best Time
Magical Christmas lights & Santa!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stone Gables Estate offers historic charm, scenic beauty, and festive fun with its Star Barn Village, train rides, and seasonal light shows.
"A fantastic drive through Christmas light experience with well-done displays."
🎯 Book Train Tickets Online
Pre-registration is mandatory for train rides. Book early, especially for holiday events!
🚗 Follow GPS for Entry
Directions can be a bit confusing; use GPS and look for signage upon arrival.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Harrisburg, Lincoln & Lancaster Railroad
The Star Barn Village
Enjoy a nostalgic train ride, especially magical during holiday events like the Santa Express.
The Star Barn Village
Elizabethtown, PA
A charming collection of historic barns offering lodging, event spaces, and a glimpse into the past.
+3
Christmas Light Displays
Stone Gables Estate
Experience enchanting drive-through light shows and festive holiday attractions.
Horseback Riding at Ironstone Ranch
Ironstone Ranch
Enjoy guided trail rides on healthy, well-cared-for horses with knowledgeable staff.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Train Tickets in Advance
Consider Mobility for All Guests
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Train Tickets Online
Pre-registration is mandatory for train rides. Book early, especially for holiday events! +1
🚗 Follow GPS for Entry
Directions can be a bit confusing; use GPS and look for signage upon arrival.
🐴 Horseback Riding Staff
Staff like Ashely are knowledgeable and great for nervous riders. [^Review]
✨ Moravian Star Forest
Appreciate the well-done light displays without inflatable decorations. [^Review]
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Train Tickets Online
Pre-registration is mandatory for train rides. Book early, especially for holiday events! +1
🚗 Follow GPS for Entry
Directions can be a bit confusing; use GPS and look for signage upon arrival.
🐴 Horseback Riding Staff
Staff like Ashely are knowledgeable and great for nervous riders. [^Review]
✨ Moravian Star Forest
Appreciate the well-done light displays without inflatable decorations. [^Review]
⏳ Allow Time for Exits
Be prepared for potential long waits exiting the parking lot after events. [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Stone Gables Estate for its enchanting holiday events, particularly the Santa Express train and beautiful light displays. The historic Star Barn Village and the horseback riding at Ironstone Ranch are also frequently highlighted as positive experiences. However, some guests note challenges with event organization, such as confusing directions and significant delays when exiting parking lots after popular events.
"Here for Fourth of July fireworks. Nice price ($20 for a carload). A bit confusing for directions to best viewing areas (#2's on paper map, but no signage on the grounds). Good exit protocols and cooperation with local emergency management."
Michael Prasad
"Wow, such a pleasant experience at Stone Gables Estate. My family and I did horseback ride for one hour. The staff was great, horses are healthy, and our guide/coach, Ashely was simply amazing and very knowledgable. She made my family feel at ease. Even if you are nervous or have phobia of horses, this location and horses will help you overcome your fears. It was worth the travel!"
J T
"A fantastic drive through Christmas light experience. The Moravian star forest is extremely well done and I liked that they didn't have any blow up decorations - it was all lights.
Beautiful area, great lights, and enough different colors and setups to keep you wanting more. There are a few areas that were completely empty on one side of the car for an extended period of time, but I don't think they can help that with the placement of the road/neighbor owned land."
Zbeichel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stone Gables Estate is located at 1 Hollinger Lane, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. It's about 15 minutes outside of Hershey and Lancaster. While GPS is recommended, some visitors have noted that signage upon arrival can be a bit confusing, so pay close attention. +2
The estate offers various attractions, but some activities like horseback riding may be challenging for those with mobility concerns. Drive-through light shows and train rides are generally more accessible. It's advisable to check specific accessibility for each attraction.
Parking is available on-site. However, be aware that exiting the parking lot after popular events, like the Fourth of July fireworks, can take over an hour due to a single exit lane. [^Review]
Yes, Stone Gables Estate is a great destination for a day trip, offering a variety of activities from train rides to exploring the Star Barn Village and enjoying seasonal events.
With its charming lodging options at The Star Barn Village and beautiful scenic grounds, Stone Gables Estate can be a lovely spot for a romantic getaway, especially during the holiday season or for events.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, tickets are required for specific attractions, most notably the Harrisburg, Lincoln & Lancaster Railroad. Pre-registration and online ticket purchases are mandatory for the train rides. +1
Tickets for the Santa Express and other train rides must be purchased online in advance through the Stone Gables Estate website. Dates and times are limited, so booking early is highly recommended. +2
Admission costs vary depending on the event or attraction. For example, a carload for the Fourth of July fireworks was around $20. Train rides and other specific activities have their own ticket prices. Check the official website for current pricing. [^Review]
Stone Gables Estate hosts numerous seasonal events, including a popular Christmas train (Santa Express), drive-through light displays, and Fourth of July fireworks. +3 [^Review]
Yes, you can schedule a tour of The Star Barn Village, Ironstone Ranch, and St. Michaels Vineyard to explore wedding and event venue options. Contact them via phone or their website.
🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the Harrisburg, Lincoln & Lancaster Railroad, The Star Barn Village with its historic barns and lodging, Ironstone Ranch for horseback riding, and seasonal events like Christmas light shows and Fourth of July fireworks.
It's a nostalgic train ride, often featuring a replica steam train. During the holidays, it becomes the Santa Express, where you can meet Santa. Conductors are often entertaining. +2 [^Review]
Ironstone Ranch offers guided trail rides with healthy horses and knowledgeable staff. Guides like Ashely are praised for making riders feel at ease, even those with phobias.
Visitors can enjoy a drive-through Christmas light experience, featuring well-done displays like the Moravian Star Forest, with a focus on lights rather than inflatable decorations. +1 [^Review]
Yes, it's considered a great family getaway, especially for holiday events like the Santa Express train ride and exploring the charming Star Barn Village. +2
📸 📸 Photography
The historic Star Barn Village offers picturesque backdrops, especially with its charming architecture. The train rides, particularly the Santa Express, provide great photo ops. Seasonal light displays also make for stunning evening shots. +2 [^Review]
Yes, passengers are encouraged to take photos during the train rides. The Santa Express, in particular, offers perfect opportunities for memorable family photos with Santa. +1
The Star Barn Village itself is highly photogenic. For evening events, the light displays offer a vibrant canvas. The grounds of Ironstone Ranch also provide scenic natural backdrops for photos.
The Star Barn is a popular wedding venue, so wedding photography is very common. Visitors also capture photos of the historic barns, seasonal decorations, and the train rides. +1
There is no specific information available regarding drone usage. It's always best to check with the estate management directly or review their visitor guidelines before flying a drone on the property.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting, consider the train rides as a more accessible option for younger children or those with mobility challenges. While horseback riding is available, ensure it aligns with your children's comfort levels and abilities. Be prepared for potential crowds during peak times, especially for holiday events, and factor in extra time for parking and exiting.
💍 Couples & Wedding Planners
+1 Couples can explore the estate, which also includes Ironstone Ranch and St. Michaels Vineyard, to find the perfect backdrop for their special day. +1Beyond weddings, the estate offers a romantic escape. Consider a horseback riding excursion at Ironstone Ranch for a memorable date, or enjoy a cozy evening exploring the Christmas lights during the holiday season. The lodging options within the Star Barn Village provide a charming place to stay for a romantic getaway.
🚗 Day-Trippers
For those seeking outdoor adventure, horseback riding at Ironstone Ranch is a popular option. If visiting during the holidays, the drive-through light displays offer a magical evening experience. Remember to check the estate's schedule for specific events and book any necessary tickets in advance, particularly for the train rides.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Star Barn Village: A Historic Gem
+3Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Star Barn Village is a testament to preservation and offers a cozy atmosphere. It's part of the larger 280-acre estate, which also includes Ironstone Ranch and St. Michaels Vineyard, contributing to the estate's diverse offerings. The village is a central hub for many of the estate's activities and events.
+2Many visitors are drawn to the unique architecture and the stories these barns hold. It's a place where history meets modern-day enjoyment, whether you're attending an event, staying overnight, or simply exploring the grounds. The attention to detail in its restoration makes it a standout feature of Stone Gables Estate.
Seasonal Magic: Trains, Lights, and Holidays
Beyond the train, the estate features enchanting drive-through Christmas light displays. Visitors rave about the elaborate light setups, including the Moravian Star Forest, which provides a captivating visual experience without relying on inflatable decorations. These light shows are perfect for a cozy evening outing.
Other seasonal events, like the Fourth of July fireworks, also draw crowds. While these events are popular, it's important to note that they can lead to significant traffic and exit delays. Planning your visit and being prepared for crowds are key to enjoying these festive occasions. [^Review]
Horseback Riding Adventures at Ironstone Ranch
The staff at Ironstone Ranch, including guides like Ashely, are frequently praised for their expertise and friendly demeanor. They are adept at making guests feel comfortable and safe, even those who may have a fear or phobia of horses. This welcoming environment helps visitors overcome anxieties and fully enjoy the ride. [^Review]
Whether you're an experienced rider or a beginner looking for a unique outdoor activity, horseback riding at Ironstone Ranch provides a memorable experience. It's a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside from a different perspective.
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