Berks County Heritage Center

2025 Season: April 26 to October 26

Hours of Operation:  Thursday - Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Sunday 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.       

The Berks County Heritage Center is a historic park that encompasses the Gruber Wagon Works, a National Historic Landmark, the C. Howard Hiester Canal Center, Wertz's Covered Bridge, Melcher's Grist Mill, the Deppen Cemetery, Bicentennial Eagle Memorial, Fraternal Order of Police Memorial, Doctor's Grove, the Distelfink sculpture, an herb garden, Mildred the Houseboat, the Epler’s One Room School House (maintained / operated by the Friends of the Epler’s One Room School House), and many historic farm buildings related to the site’s previous use. Year-round restrooms and picnic tables are available.

The lower level of the barn serves as an information center and features the Country Store and Snack Bar. The Heritage Center hosts several annual events along with a seasonal Interpretive Program series featuring workshops and programs for all ages. For more information on upcoming events or programs visit our calendar of events page, or e-mail the Parks.

Gruber Wagon Works

Guided tours of the Gruber Wagon Works are offered:

Thursday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. every hour on the hour, last tour at 3:00 p.m.

Sundays: 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. every hour on the hour, last tour at 3:00 p.m.

Tours will start at the lower level of the Heritage Center's Visitor Center Barn and last approximately 75 minutes. Purchase tickets at the Country Store located in the lower level of the barn.

C. Howard Hiester Canal Center

The C. Howard Hiester Canal Center will be open for self-guided walk-in visitor's Thursdays through Saturdays 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Sundays 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is free with a suggested donation of $2.00/person or included with admission to Gruber Wagon Works.

Epler's One Room School House Open Saturdays and Sundays

Beginning on April 26, 2025, the Friends of the Epler's One Room School House will be onsite during weekends. Visitors can discover the history of the19th century school house, its uses, and restoration. 

The School House will be open during the regular Saturday and Sunday hours of the Berks County Heritage Center:  Saturdays 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Sundays 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Access to the School House is free, with donations to the Friends of the Epler's School House greatly appreciated.