May 7, 2026 (Huntsville, ON) - Muskoka Heritage Place – Museum, Village and Train – will officially open for the 2026 season on Saturday, May 16. From hands-on heritage activities to scenic train rides, there’s plenty to experience this spring, summer and fall. 

The Pioneer Village is a favourite stop for visitors of all ages. Walk through a collection of historic buildings that reflect the daily lives of early settlers in Muskoka during the late 1800s. Explore family homes, a working blacksmith shop, schoolhouse, church, general store, inn, barn and more! Costumed narrators bring the past to life with interactive activities like candle dipping, wool carding, iron bending, baking, schoolhouse lessons, period games, and dressing up in traditional attire. For those who have visited us in the past, we are introducing new immersive activities and stories to the site informed by public input into MHP’s recent strategic planning process! 

A highlight of any visit is a ride on the Portage Flyer Train. This open-air experience travels one kilometre along the Muskoka River, offering beautiful views and a glimpse into local railway history. Located at Rotary Village Station at 100 Forbes Hill Drive, Huntsville the train is part of what was once known as the “shortest commercially operated narrow-gauge railway in the world.” Inside the station, guests can explore the history of steam travel at the Steam Museum’s exhibit Full Steam Ahead: By Rail and By Water. 

Explore Muskoka Museum’s new temporary exhibit, Layers of Meaning: Symbols in Quilts, showcasing the memories and meaning of local quilts. 

Special events will also be held throughout the season, including programming for National Indigenous Peoples Day (school program), Father’s Day Train, Canada Day and more. New to 2026 – explore local family history and lore at MHP’s Cemetery Tales program, taking place every Thursday evening in September and October! 

Muskoka Heritage Place is open daily from May 16 to October 10, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (last entry at 3:00 p.m.). The Portage Flyer Train operates Tuesdays to Saturdays - Train times vary by season, so be sure to check our website for hours of operation. Admission can be purchased at the main entrance upon arrival. Find us at 88 Brunel Road, in Huntsville, Ontario. 

Visit muskokaheritageplace.ca for more details and schedules.