Fort York Museum and National Historic Site
Learn about Canada's early history at the Fort York National Historic Site
The birth of Metropolitan Toronto began in what is now Fort York National Historic Site, one of ten museums operated by the City of Toronto. Situated in the centre of Toronto, Fort York is well known as the locale where the War of 1812 reached its fierce climax.
The Fort built in 1793 was used as the city’s main harbour defence until the 1880s. The Canadian army used the barracks to house their troops and families until the 1930’s.
Enter the grounds from the new visitor centre located below and slightly north of the Gardiner Expressway. Here you will find the 24,000 square foot visitor centre which opened in 2014. You will experience an overall orientation of the grounds covering 43 acres and the 200 year story of Fort York in this beautiful entrance hall that serves as a grand venue. There’s a cafe with outdoor access to the venue dock, four exhibits displaying a range of uniforms, weapons, metals, and the newest exhibit which displays portraits and posters from Canada’s Afghan Mission
Since 1923 Fort York was designated a National Historic Site joining nine other museums run by the City of Toronto today. The City reopened Fort York Victoria Day 1934 after closing for restoration in 1932. These restorations were done to celebrate the centennial of Toronto’s incorporation in 1834. Fort York National Historic Site has Canada’s largest collection of original military buildings from the era of the War of 1812.
Permanent and changing exhibits welcome and educate you on the origin of York (Toronto). This connects the past to the present.
During summer, the Fort is vibrant with lively colours and the intensity of the Guard as they perform daily with artillery firing, battle tactics, drums and other military music and drills. Visitors to the Fort will find it lively and exciting.
The Gallery is sectioned into four divisions. These divisions define four distinct eras of the Fort’s history. The first is from the beginning of 1793 to the end of the War of 1812. The second represents the time of the British Imperial Garrison between 1815-1870, the third the Canadian Military years of 1870-1930 and the last covers 1932 until now.
One of the first historic buildings you come across is the Canteen Museum Store. Take some time and browse through the merchandise at this quaint shop. There’s many interesting and unusual things for sale, something for everyone. The Canteen has a good selection of merchandise including the CD “To Follow the Drum” which has a variety of military music from the War of 1812 period, hand crafted First Nations jewellery, books, toys, pens, plus foods and preserves prepared right on site.
When visiting expect to spend at least 2 hours.
You can stop and rest at picnic tables and benches lining the walkways within the 7-acre walled area. These are wheelchair accessible, however, the pathway to the cemetery is packed gravel limiting wheelchair use.
Parking is limited so public transit may be less stressful and more convenient. Scroll down for information on how to get to Fort York by TTC from Union Station or Bathurst Station.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: Yes, there is a small entry fee. Children 5 years and under are free.Fort York Museum and National Historic Site Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Address: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3K9, Canada
Phone: (416) 392-6907
Official Website: Fort York Museum and National Historic Site
Fort York Museum and National Historic Site Reviews
Rated out of 5
We had an amazing experience at Fort York. The exhibit inside is wonderful. The grounds are beautiful. Every staff member we encountered was so kind and knowledgeable. Our tour was very informative and interactive but we were still able to explore on our own and learn more!
The washrooms are very clean as well!
Destiny Q - 3 months ago
This fort and battlefield is located in the heart of the largest city in Canada. The buildings are reconstructed faithfully and the staff is well informed and helpful. There is a informative visitor center/gift shop here. The British Army, Canadian militiamen and First Nations warriors fought the Americans on this hallowed ground in the War of 1812
Dan Theriault - a week ago
A fantastic place to step back in time! Fort York offers a rich historical experience with well-preserved structures, engaging exhibits, and knowledgeable staff who bring the past to life. It's perfect for families—kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring the grounds and learning about Canada’s military history. The site is easy to navigate, with plenty of informative displays, and the atmosphere truly immerses you in the 19th century. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for an educational outing, this is a must-visit spot in Toronto!
Don't forget to check out the show of the day and its schedules.
Tim Chu - 4 months ago
A nice museum to visit for a couple hours. There is a short guided tour, but you can just wander around. There is a live musket firing demonstration. See some authentic reproductions of how life in the fort was back then.
Flip Coin - a month ago
Great way to spend a few hours in the city for free - I didn't know anything about the war of 1812 but came away with a much better understanding of this major event in Canadian history.
All of the staff are amazingly helpful and full of knowledge that they were happy to share.
Would definitely recommend visiting!
Mark Clayton - 5 months ago
Directions
| TTC Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Yonge-University-Spadina | Union Station | 3 minutes |
| Bloor-Danforth Line | Bathurst Station | 3 minutes |
How to get to Fort York Museum and National Historic Site by TTC Subway
From Bathurst Station on the Bloor Street Line take a #511 Bathurst Streetcar south to Fleet Street at Fort York Blvd. Exit and continue west on Fleet Street, then go right onto Fort York Blvd. The entrance to Fort York is via the Visitor Centre just ahead.
From Union Station take a #509 Harbourfront Streetcar west towards the Exhibition grounds then proceed as above.
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Photo Gallery
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HIstoric Buildings at the Fort York National Historic Site -
Fort York Cannon with CN Tower in the distance cc licensed photo by Wanda Gould -
Battle of York Historic Marker cc licensed photo by Loozrboy -
Fort York Musket Shooting Demonstration cc licensed photo by Robert Taylor
