The visitor center at Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, Wednesday through Sunday, except for January 1, Thanksgiving, and December 25.
There is no entrance fee at Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site. Admission is free year-round.
From Philadelphia, take PA Turnpike (I-76) West to exit 312, then PA Route 100 North to PA Route 23 West. Discover a 19th-century iron plantation nestled in picturesque countryside, just 52 miles from the city.
Parking is available at the Visitor Center on Mark Bird Lane with 5 ADA spaces. No specific RV or motorcycle designations. No overnight parking. No parking fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site, situated in southeastern Berks County, Pennsylvania, is a captivating testament to America’s industrial heritage. This 848-acre historic site, surrounded by the verdant expanse of French Creek State Park, offers a unique glimpse into the operation of a 19th-century rural iron plantation.
As you wander through the meticulously restored grounds, the imposing blast furnace, ironmaster’s mansion, and auxiliary structures evoke the bustling activity of a bygone era. The air is thick with the history of iron production, where workers once fed the furnace with iron ore, limestone, and charcoal, their labor punctuated by the rhythmic tapping of molten iron every 12 hours.
The landscape is a tapestry of rolling hills, woodlands, and meadows, providing a serene backdrop to the industrial relics. Seasonal changes bring vibrant hues to the area; spring blossoms paint the trees with pastel shades, summer sun casts long shadows across the historic buildings, autumn foliage sets the woods ablaze with color, and winter snows blanket the site in a tranquil silence.
For those seeking immersive experiences, ranger-led tours offer in-depth insights into the site’s history and operations. Local support groups are dedicated to preserving and interpreting the site’s archival documents, adding a layer of depth to every visit. Nearby, the charming towns of Elverson and Reading beckon with their artisan shops, historic eateries, and cultural attractions.
In the summer, visitors can enjoy reenactments and living history demonstrations that bring the site to life. The surrounding French Creek State Park invites exploration with its hiking trails, where one can spot a variety of wildlife and enjoy the serene beauty of the natural environment. For a truly immersive experience, combine your visit with a stay at one of the nearby historic lodges or bed-and-breakfasts, and explore the local outfitters for kayaking or fishing excursions on French Creek.
Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site is more than a historical relic; it is an invitation to step into the heart of America’s industrial past, surrounded by the natural beauty and rich cultural tapestry of southeastern Pennsylvania.
- Area (mi²)
- 1.3
- Annual visitors
- 54 000
- Established year
- 1771
Top 3 Facts about Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site
Workers fed the furnace 400 to 800 pounds of iron ore, 30 to 40 pounds of limestone, and 15 bushels of charcoal every half-hour, with temperatures reaching 3,000°F to produce molten iron tapped every 12 hours.
This historic site, surrounded by French Creek State Park, is a haven for diverse wildlife. Ray-finned fishes swim in the creeks, while amphibians and reptiles inhabit the wetlands. The skies are filled with a variety of bird species, and mammals such as deer and rabbits roam the grounds. The landscape is dotted with historic structures amid a backdrop of natural beauty, offering hiking trails that wind through forests and along waterways, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and history aficionados alike.
Explore a landscape where Precambrian crystalline rocks and Cambrian-age quartzite form the rugged backbone, with the steepest topography rising from silica-rich graphitic gneiss and banded mafic gneiss. The terrain is dotted with Triassic quartz conglomerate and sandstone, resistant to erosion, while the lower areas are carved by French Creek, which flows through soluble Vintage Dolomite. Here, deep, well-drained soils contrast with poorly drained creek-side soils, creating a diverse and textured natural tapestry.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days in late September to explore the historic iron plantation, attending the Apple Picking event. Park at the visitor center, wear comfy shoes for hilly gravel paths, and pack meals as on-site options are limited. Enjoy peaceful walks and historic insights.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. For camping, include a tent, sleeping bag, and multi-tool. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid stressing animals. Never feed them and keep trails and habitats undisturbed. Dispose of trash properly to preserve the natural environment. Respect the flora and fauna, especially during sensitive seasonal periods.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water, and check weather conditions. Follow park rules and signs. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 610-582-8773.
Seasons
In spring, mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and blooming landscapes make for a perfect visit. Join the annual Sheep Shearing Day in May to experience 19th-century crafts and meet new lambs, amidst gentle spring rains and vibrant flora. A must for history and nature enthusiasts.
Experience summer’s warmth, with temperatures in the 80s and 90s, amidst historic charm. Join the annual Sheep Shearing Day in May or Establishment Day in August, featuring family-friendly activities and traditional crafts. Ideal for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts._readableCodeAtMax 125 characters.
Experience the crisp autumn air, with temperatures in the 50s and 60s, as the foliage transforms. Attend the annual Park Day volunteer service project in October, and immerse yourself in the historic iron-making community amidst the vibrant fall colors.
Experience the serene winter landscape from December to January, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 38°F. Crisp air and occasional single-digit lows create a surreal backdrop for exploring historic iron-making facilities, though some areas may be closed due to harsh conditions. Ideal for those seeking a tranquil, icy beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site is Reading, Pennsylvania. It is located in Union Township, Berks County, about five miles south of Birdsboro, PA.
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Dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Retractable leashes extended beyond this limit are not allowed.
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Yes, parking is free. There is a decent-sized parking lot available, including space for vehicles like campers, trailers, and motorhomes.
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At Hopewell Furnace, workers operated a blast furnace to produce iron from 1771 to 1883. The process involved filling the furnace with iron ore, limestone, and charcoal every half-hour, and the founder would judge the temperature and consistency of the molten iron to tap it every 12 hours. The molten iron was then either cast into molds or hardened into pig iron in the cast house floor.