Tiny world shippensburg
RoadsideAmerica.com Team Field Report
Directions:
Benchfield Farms. 4.5 miles west of Newville, on the south side of Gameland Rd.
Hours:
Holiday season only. (Call to verify)
Phone:
717-269-8554
Status:
In Transition
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Tiny World
Ernest Helm built a town in miniature -- for his cats. He died in October 2015 and his family maintained the complex of tiny buildings, decorating them with lights for the holiday season. Tiny World closed in October 2024; all of the buildings were then purchased and moved to Newville.
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Visitor Tips and News About Tiny World
Reports and tips from RoadsideAmerica.com visitors and Roadside America mobile tipsters. Some tips may not be verified. Submit your own tip.
Tiny World
Tiny World has been purchased by Benchfield Farms in Newville. They are actively working on restoring the buildings and plan to reopen for the Christmas 2025 season.
[Margaret Enslin, 06/20/2025]
Tiny World
June 2024 - all of the structures are still there, but it does not look like anyone is maintaining them. They are in poor condition.
[Laura, 06/27/2024]
Tiny Worl
I can't believe that a man has built a miniature village in his back yard and opened it up to the public, and it's only about 30 miles from my house and I only discovered a week ago! Such is the case with
Tiny World
, an elaborate backyard world of knee-high buildings hiding in the farmlands of Chambersburg, PA.
The story behind Tiny World begins with a man named Ernest Helm who started building miniature houses as a hobby. After he finished one house, he'd build another...and another...and another...until he had himself a whole village. There's about two dozen or so buildings on display in Tiny World, all laid out on a cozy tiny path that winds through Helm's picturesque backyard.
It's not really even a tourist attraction. There's no signs pointing you to Tiny World, there's no brochures at the local visitor centers. Tiny World actually sits out in the middle of nowhere along a winding, narrow road. There's not even a sign in front of Tiny World. While hunting this place down, at first I drove by it and only slowed down when I noticed a tiny church on the side of the road. There is a small parking pad and a castle entrance which invites guests to "Look" but "Please Don't Touc
Tiny World in Shippensburg is a Must-See & Do for the Holidays
Be a kid again; enjoy the wonder of Tiny World in Shippensburg this holiday season. This tiny town has everything that life-sized towns have, including town hall, schoolhouse, church, fire station, shops of Main Street, Victorian houses, log homes, general store, train depot, and gas station. More than twenty structures make Tiny World a great place to spark the imaginations of young and old.
During the holiday season, Tiny World transforms to a winter wonderland as the sun sets. Open Monday through Thursday from 5 PM to 8 PM, Friday and Saturday 5 PM until 10 PM and Sunday 5 PM to 9 PM, Tiny World is an easy drive off Route 11 on Rice Road in Shippensburg and will remain decorated for the holidays through the first week of January.
In 1985, Ernest Helm retired and devoted his energy to creating “Tiny World.” The first structure was a Victorian-style “cat house” for the enjoyment of felines who roamed his property. It wasn’t long before an entire town took shape, and a retired man’s hobby become a roadside attraction.
Today, Helm’s daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Wendell Myers, are Tiny World’s ca
Tiny World
Visual Appeal of Tiny World
The visual elements of Tiny World create a captivating atmosphere for all visitors. The miniature buildings, including a church, grocery store, and train station, are meticulously crafted and filled with intricate details that are sure to amaze. The village is surrounded by a picturesque backyard path walk that adds to the overall charm. During the holidays, the buildings come to life with vibrant lights, making it a truly magical experience, especially for children. Visitors are also greeted by animals such as cats, chickens, and peacocks, which further enhance the visual appeal of the site. Whether it’s the holiday decorations or the whimsical houses, Tiny World offers a feast for the eyes.
Exceptional Services and Activities
Tiny World offers a variety of services that make it a memorable destination for families. One of the most beloved features is the seasonal holiday activities, including visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, where children can take photos and share their wishes. The community spirit is evident with the donation box at the entrance, and visitors are encouraged to contribute to the upkeep of the village. Guests can