The Land of Little Horses, a longtime family attraction just outside Gettysburg, has announced it will permanently close after more than five decades of operation.
In a statement shared on Facebook, the park’s owners said the decision was made after careful consideration as they prepare to retire. The attraction will not reopen in the spring, ending a 54-year run that introduced generations of visitors to miniature horses and family-friendly entertainment.
The owners said they are seeking a potential buyer who could continue operating the park, though they acknowledged that outcome is uncertain. While expressing sadness over the decision, they said it is time to begin the next chapter of their lives and thanked guests for years of support, friendship and shared memories.
Though the park itself is closed, the Land of Little Horses gift shop will remain open on a limited basis throughout December. The shop will operate Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m., on Dec. 5–7, Dec. 12–14 and Dec. 19–21. During that time, customers can take advantage of deep discounts, including 75% off branded merchandise and 50% off all other items, including the park’s Breyer horse collection. Cash, credit cards and outstanding gift cards will be accepted.
The Land of Little Horses traces its roots to 1970, when Merchant Marines Tony Garulo and Stu Erickson encountered the Falabella family in Argentina while traveling the world together. The Falabellas had learned how to breed standard horses into miniature horses, and Garulo and Erickson quickly became captivated. They imported 25 miniature horses to Gettysburg, laying the foundation for what would become a unique attraction.
In 1971, the pair opened the Gettysburg Miniature Horse Farm on the current 100-acre site in the rolling hills outside town. The farm also became the original United States registry for Falabella miniature horses, giving it a significant role in the breed’s early history in the country.
Over the past 54 seasons, the park has operated under five different owners, welcoming thousands of families. Many visitors have shared stories of returning as adults with their own children after visiting the park in their youth.
Source: Land of LIttle Horses