(Huntsville, ON) From February 17 to March 2, 2026, Muskoka Heritage Place (MHP) is inviting members, visitors, residents and supporters to share their experiences and ideas through a short survey that will help inform the development of the historical landmark’s five-year strategic plan.  

“We know Muskoka Heritage Place, especially the Pioner Village and Portage Flyer Train, are synonymous with Huntsville and want to ensure this cultural asset continues to serve the ever-evolving needs, values and interests of our residents and visitors,” shares Simone Babineau, Director of Community Services for the Town of Huntsville. “Your input into the Strategic Plan will help ensure we understand these needs in order to better serve our community in the years ahead.” 

Muskoka Heritage Place is home to the Muskoka Museum, Muskoka Pioneer Village, Rotary Village Station, and Portage Flyer Train. It is the steward of 16 historical buildings, over 65,000 local artefacts, two century-old steam trains and a mid-century diesel train, and several permanent and temporary exhibit spaces. Together, its working village and hands-on activities, seasonal workshops and programming, museum exhibits, scenic train ride along the Muskoka River, and more, provide visitors with the opportunity to travel back in time to see and experience life as the first settlers in Huntsville did.  

It is the Town’s mission to deliver quality services through responsible decision-making. Public engagement is an essential step in this process and will help the Town realize its commitment to growing in a way that balances the creation of vibrant, inclusive, and connected communities with the celebration and preservation of Huntsville’s distinct character. The survey is one opportunity for our community to weigh in on how MHP can grow and adapt in a way that builds on our strengths and authentic experience, while making room for new opportunities and improvements that improve the visitor experience.  

The survey takes approximately 10 minutes and is completely confidential. It is open to everyone and is part of a wider public engagement process that is guiding the strategic planning process. To learn more, you can register for project updates on myhuntsville.ca. 

Hard copies of the survey will also be available at Muskoka Heritage Place, Town Hall, the Canada Summit Centre, and the Huntsville Public Library. The survey closes on March 2, 2026. 

Muskoka Heritage Place’s Strategic Plan to help keep local historical landmark on track from 2026 to 2030.  

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For media inquiries, contact:  
Communications@huntsville.ca