Mars, Pennsylvania

Mars is a borough in Butler County, Pennsylvania, United States. With over 2,000 residents, this small community is located approximately 30 miles north of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. With its close proximity to the city, Mars has become a popular bedroom community for many who work in Pittsburgh. The borough is also home to a number of businesses and industries, as well as a variety of schools and organizations.

Is Mars a good place to live?

Many people living in Mars, Pennsylvania, say it is a great place to raise a family. The community is close-knit, and there are plenty of things to do nearby. The schools in Mars are highly rated, and the borough has a low crime rate. There are also many parks and recreation areas nearby, which makes it easy to get outdoors and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.

What are the schools like in Mars, Pennsylvania?

The schools in Mars, Pennsylvania, are highly rated. There are several elementary, middle, and high schools in the borough, as well as a variety of private and charter schools. The schools on Mars offer a challenging and rigorous curriculum, and many students go on to attend college after graduation.

What is the cost of living in Mars, Pennsylvania?

The cost of living in Mars, Pennsylvania, is relatively affordable. The borough has a number of businesses and industries, which helps to keep the cost of living down. Additionally, there are many parks and recreation areas nearby, which makes it easy to get outdoors and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.

What are the job opportunities like in Mars, Pennsylvania?

The job market in Mars, Pennsylvania, is strong. There are many job opportunities available in the borough, as well as in the surrounding areas. The median household income in Mars, Pennsylvania, is $44,773, which is lower than the national average of $64,994. The cost of living in Mars, Pennsylvania, is also lower than the national average.

History of Mars

Along Breakneck Creek, Samuel Parks built a house and a gristmill powered by water in 1873. Parks planned to open a post office in his home, so he asked his buddy Samuel Marshall for assistance in starting one. The post office was renamed Overbrook. Overbrook was chosen as the route for the Pittsburgh, New Castle, and Lake Erie Railroad in 1877, and a station was established there. Due to the railroad already having an Overbrook stop, the community's name was changed to Mars in 1882.

The origin of the name "Mars" is unknown. Some claim that Park's wife loved astronomy, while others think the name was abbreviated to Samuel Marshall. Mars was officially formed as a borough on March 6, 1895. Mars granted permission for the Pittsburgh and Butler Street Railway in 1904 so that it could build its right-of-way through the borough. Pittsburgh, Mars, and Butler Railway was the name under which the route was renamed after joining the Pittsburgh, Harmony, Butler, and New Castle Railway in 1917. In 1931, the line was closed.

The borough inspired the naming of the USS Mars (AFS-1). In 1963, the ship joined the US Pacific Fleet, and it was decommissioned in 1998. After that, it was sunk in 2006 as a target vessel. The USS Mars' bell was donated to the borough and is now a memorial in the town's park.

Today, Mars is a thriving community with a strong sense of pride. The borough offers a variety of businesses, schools, and organizations, as well as many parks and recreation areas. Mars is an ideal place to raise a family or start a business. There are plenty of job opportunities available in the borough, and the cost of living is relatively affordable.

Things to do in Mars, PA

When visiting Mars, Pennsylvania, there are a few things that you absolutely must do in order to get the full experience. Some of the top attractions in the area include the following:

Mars Train Station: The Mars Train Station is a historic landmark in the area and offers a unique experience for visitors. It is the only working train station in the area and offers tours of the facility as well as rides on vintage trains.

Mars Flying Saucer: The Mars Flying Saucer is a must-see for any visitor to the area. Planet models, a "Martian Zoo," a "Martian Cafe," and other features are available at this one-of-a-kind attraction. The saucer is open for tours and has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs.

Mars Borough Athletic Complex: The Mars Borough Athletic Complex is a great place to take the family for a day of fun. Many events and activities are held throughout the year, including youth sports leagues, concerts, festivals, and more.

Keystone Shooting Center: Keystone Shooting Center is a gun range that offers a unique experience for visitors. The shooting range, which has been in business since 1993, provides both indoor and outdoor shooting options and a gun shop where customers can buy firearms. They offer various services, including instruction, competitions, and events.

Whether you're looking for a historic experience, a one-of-a-kind attraction, or a fun-filled day for the family, Mars, Pennsylvania, has something for everyone. Be sure to add these must-see attractions to your list when planning your next trip!