Gettysburg historic rail route unveiled
Regional operator Patriot Rail is launching the Gettysburg Excursion Railway, a revitalized heritage rail experience that brings history to life.
The 25-mile rail line between Gettysburg and Mount Holly Springs marks the fourth excursion train route for the company, which further expands Patriot Rail’s newly formed Excursion Division.
“This launch marks an exciting new chapter in Patriot Rail’s Excursion Division,” said Brandy Christian, CEO at Patriot Rail.
“We’re proud to enhance tourism to experience the rich history of one of America’s most iconic landscapes.”
Patriot entered the rail excursion business a decade ago with the Blue Ridge Scenic Excursion Railway based in the Blue Ridge Mountains between Blue Ridge, GA and McCaysville, TN.
In 2023, the company added two New Hampshire excursion trains located in Lincoln, NH, and Meredith NH, and a Rail Bike adventure in Laconia, NH.
The Gettysburg Excursion Railway features fully renovated 1950s-era Budd passenger coaches, transformed into first-class passenger railcars.
The train offers a café car serving snacks and refreshments.
Throughout the season, the café car will serve as a venue for special onboard events, catered by the Gettysburg College culinary group & Wyndham Gettysburg Hotel & Conference Center.
Departing from the restored former Gettysburg and Harrisburg Railroad Depot built in 1884, this new attraction will offer passengers a blend of historical storytelling and cultural immersion.
“The Gettysburg Excursion Railway is more than a train ride—it’s a moving tribute to the stories that shaped our nation,” said Karl Pietrzak, President and CEO of Destination Gettysburg.
“As both residents and visitors travel this historic route, they’ll connect with the past in a way that’s immersive, educational, and truly memorable.”
Highlights include:
Unique views of the Eternal Light Peace Memorial and Gettysburg’s rolling countryside
Engaging narration about Adams County history including Civil War figures and events
Themed rides and private event space, festive holiday excursions, and rail cars ideal for special occasions
A gift shop at the restored 1884 Depot featuring railroad history highlights and souvenirs
The Gettysburg Excursion Railway is set to open to the public later this month, with tickets available online and in person at the Depot.
Patriot Rail is a short line and regional rail service provider, offering rail freight transportation and ancillary rail services in 24 states on 1,200 miles of track.
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