Fort York National Historic Site

Preserved as a 43-acre archeological park, Fort York is where British soldiers, First Nations warriors, and Upper Canadian militiamen stood together against the United States and their mission to capture Toronto in the War of 1812. The bloody Battle of York that ensued was a dark and dramatic moment in the history of the city.

Feel the past come to life. Relive moments of the battle through an immersive multimedia experience and live demonstrations. Be inspired by the stories of unsung heroes and those who defended our city, while fighting against their own oppressions. Experience how soldiers and their families lived by tasting meals from early 19th-century recipes, prepared right in front of you over an open-fire. In 2021, Fort York will engage in the inclusion of Indigenous narratives and stories through a partnership with First Story Toronto where Indigenous guides embark on a truth-telling journey through their own lens and the site will host the ninth annual Indigenous Arts Festival.

Fort York National Historic Site in Toronto, Ontario is a preserved 43-acre archaeological park that brings the War of 1812 to life. This historic ground is where British soldiers, First Nations warriors, and Upper Canadian militiamen stood together as they resisted the United States’ mission to capture Toronto, leading to the Battle of York—one of the city’s darkest and most dramatic chapters. Visitors can relive key moments through an immersive multimedia experience, plus live demonstrations that help the past feel immediate and real. Fort York also highlights the stories of defenders and unsung heroes, with thoughtful programming that reflects the complex histories of the time, including the perspectives of those who fought against their own oppressions. Guests can experience early 19th-century life through tasting meals prepared from period recipes over an open fire. In 2021, Fort York expanded its inclusion efforts through a partnership with First Story Toronto, featuring Indigenous guides leading a truth-telling journey through their own lens, and the site hosted the ninth annual Indigenous Arts Festival—an important platform for Indigenous narratives and arts in Toronto.