Heritage Place Train Station — Local services in District Municipality of Muskoka

Our family visited Muskoka Heritage Place and were excited to experience the train station, especially for our young children. Unfortunately, what should have been a fun outing was overshadowed by what appeared to be clear racial bias.

We were the only Asian family there during our visit. The train conductor enthusiastically offered the other children conductor hats to wear for photos, gave them keepsake coins, and shared details about the available kid-friendly activities. When it came to our children, none of these gestures were extended—not the hats, not the coins, and not even a mention of the activities. We were completely overlooked.

This experience left us deeply disappointed. Whether intentional or not, the differential treatment was undeniable and left our children feeling excluded. It’s unacceptable that families of color still have to face this kind of experience in 2025.

We hope this review prompts reflection and change. All families—regardless of background—deserve to feel welcomed...

Edit sent to Google to correct name as Huntsville & Lake of Bays Railway (Rotary Village Station) as shown on its entrance display board. Hope it gets accepted.

Pros _ Takes you back the memory lane revisiting and recapping the actual bygone era of unforgettable times. The staff are friendly and recap of traditional warmth and legendary era. The museum models and photo displays relives the past moments and history. A short trip back and forth takes you along the river bank on one side and lush forest on other side.

Cons_ For the time quoted as a ride of 25 minutes, the actual ride to and fro is just close to 5 to 8 minutes with an wait time of 15 minutes at next stop where engine changes positioning.

A must for kids and those interested in rail history and wanna a peek in past.

Enjoy your historical...

We had an absolutely great time at the railway! Highly recommend this if you have a train fan and are in the area. We were worried about the trip length due to previous reviews, but it is actually 7 minutes each way (according to the lady at the front desk). Before the start of the trip there is a recording, you then take the train to a station where you can see the engine inside the train (basically you look at the fire) and then they take the steam engine and turn it around to drive you back. There is an oral presentation inside the train museum where you can see a replica of an old train station office. Total time was 40-45 minutes. The ticket is not expensive and you can ride the train more than once on the same day with the cost...