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 is a preserved 43-acre archaeological park in Toronto that brings the War of 1812 to life through immersive, multimedia storytelling and live demonstrations. Visitors can relive the Battle of York, a dark and dramatic chapter where British soldiers, First Nations warriors, and Upper Canadian militiamen stood together against the United States in an effort to capture Toronto. Through engaging experiences, Fort York highlights the stories of unsung heroes and the people who defended the city—while also confronting their own oppressions. The site features an immersive approach to history, including demonstrations and a hands-on way to connect with early 19th-century life by tasting meals prepared over an open fire using period recipes. Fort York also continues to deepen its historical perspective through inclusion of Indigenous narratives and stories, including a partnership with First Story Toronto for a truth-telling journey guided through an Indigenous lens, and the hosting of the ninth annual Indigenous Arts Festival. For audiences in Portland, Oregon looking for cultural and historical inspiration rooted in authentic, well-curated public history, Fort York offers a compelling destination experience that connects past events, lived experiences, and ongoing storytelling.