Nestled in the rolling hills of York County, Pennsylvania, the historic Ma & Pa Railroad Heritage Village at Muddy Creek Forks is gearing up for an unforgettable summer season. If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life, stepping onto the grounds here is like stepping directly into the year 1915.
From vintage train rides on the historic Maryland & Pennsylvania Railroad to immersive historical encampments, the village has released its packed summer lineup. Mark your calendars for these upcoming family-friendly events!
Regular Summer Operating Hours
Before diving into the special weekends, keep in mind that the Heritage Village is open for regular summer admission every Sunday from June through Labor Day from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. You can enjoy walking tours, check out the original general store, and ride the motorcar train (with the last train departing at 4:15 p.m.).
However, if you want an extra dose of history, food, and activities, you will want to plan your visit around these special summer events:
June Events
Mid-Atlantic Milling Days
This weekend offers a rare treat for industrial history buffs. It is the only time this year that guided tours of the upper floors of the historic 1890 roller process flour mill will be offered to the public. You can explore how the village processed grain and fueled the local economy over a century ago.
Dates: Saturday, June 13 (11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) & Sunday, June 14 (1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
Phonographs & Ice Cream
Nothing says summer like ice cream and music. Come listen to the crackle of authentic, vintage phonographs playing tunes from the turn of the century while enjoying a scoop of delicious ice cream in the heart of the village.
Date: Saturday, June 27 (11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) & Sunday, June 28 (1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
July Events
From Rails to the River
A highly popular, exclusive event that requires advance ticket sales only due to limited capacity. This unique experience allows you to combine a nostalgic ride on the Ma & Pa Railroad with a scenic river cruise on the historic Chief Uncas electric boat.
Date: Saturday, July 11 (Starting at 9:30 a.m.)
Civil War Encampment
The village travels even further back in time for this one-day event. History comes alive as authentic, uniformed Civil War soldiers set up camp at Muddy Creek Forks. Visitors can interact with reenactors, examine period-accurate equipment, and learn about life on the front lines and the home front during the 1860s.
Date: Sunday, July 19 (1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
August Events
Early American Autos Day
See the transition from horsepower to horsepower! A stunning collection of vintage automobiles right from the 1915 era will be visiting Muddy Creek Forks. It’s a perfect backdrop for photos as these brass-era cars park alongside the historic general store and train station.
Date: Sunday, August 2 (1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
Close out the summer with one of the village's biggest living history events. Engage in lively discussions with costumed military and civilian interpreters, explore Ma & Pa Locomotive No. 82, and witness track-working demonstrations. The weekend also features children's crafts, historical activities, and delicious local food vendors.
World War II Encampment
Dates: Saturday, August 22 (11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) & Sunday, August 23 (1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.)
Plan Your Visit
- Location: 1258 Muddy Creek Forks Road, Airville, PA 17302
- What to Expect: Outside of the special events, visitors are encouraged to tour the general store and railroad station (built in 1899), the grain elevator, and explore the cannery ruins.
- Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. Note that ticket pricing varies by event, and online purchases include a small handling fee.
Whether you're a railfan, a history enthusiast, or just looking for a unique weekend road trip with the family, the Ma & Pa Railroad offers an authentic, charming window into Pennsylvania's past.
For real-time ticket availability, weather updates, and full event details, visit the official Ma & Pa Railroad Calendar.
