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 with deep ties to the War of 1812 and the history of Toronto. Here, British soldiers, First Nations warriors, and Upper Canadian militiamen stood together against the United States during the mission to capture Toronto—setting the stage for the dark and dramatic Battle of York. Visitors can feel the past come to life through an immersive multimedia experience and live demonstrations that relive key moments of the battle. The site also highlights stories of unsung heroes and those who defended their city while fighting against their own oppressions. Fort York offers an on-site way to experience early 19th-century life through meals prepared over an open fire using period recipes, giving guests a memorable, hands-on connection to history. Since 2021, Fort York has engaged more directly with inclusion and Indigenous narratives through a partnership with First Story Toronto, featuring Indigenous guides on a truth-telling journey through their own lens, and the site has hosted the ninth annual Indigenous Arts Festival. For Raleigh, North Carolina visitors exploring nearby history and cultural heritage attractions, Fort York National Historic Site is a compelling destination for immersive, educational experiences rooted in local and Indigenous perspectives.