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 NY State, NY State is a preserved 43-acre archaeological park where British soldiers, First Nations warriors, and Upper Canadian militiamen once stood together during the War of 1812—when they faced the United States and defended the mission to capture Toronto. The site marks the Battle of York, a dark and dramatic chapter in the city’s history, and offers visitors a way to feel the past come to life through an immersive multimedia experience and live demonstrations. Learn from the stories of defenders and unsung heroes, including narratives centered on how people fought against their own oppressions. Visitors can also experience early 19th-century life by tasting meals prepared right in front of you over an open-fire using period recipes. The site is committed to inclusion through partnerships such as First Story Toronto, supporting truth-telling journeys through Indigenous guides’ perspectives, and it also hosts the ninth annual Indigenous Arts Festival. Ideal for history-focused travelers seeking an engaging, locally relevant experience of 19th-century heritage, living demonstrations, and thoughtfully presented Indigenous stories.