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Fort York – The Birthplace of Toronto

Fort York – The Birthplace of Toronto

Real lives, real stories—the heart of Toronto’s Historic Sites.

At Fort York National Historic Site history comes alive with the boom of the cannon and the smoke of musket fire. Tucked into a small green pocket of downtown Toronto, the Fort houses Canada's largest collection of original War of 1812 buildings and dates back to the founding of the city in 1793 by Lieutenant-Governor John Graves Simcoe.

But Fort York is less about dates and old relics than it is about reanimating this historic battlefield in the summer season. Open year-round, the fort offers seasonal guided tours by costumed guards, musket drill and music demonstrations. Hearth cooking workshops and English Country Dance demonstrations are also featured annually.

Summer long weekends are among the best times to visit as a full roster of activities is planned to help celebrate Victoria Day, Canada Day and Simcoe Day.

For hours and rates or more information please visit www.toronto.ca/museums

Fort York is located at 100 Garrison Road (north Fort York Blvd or Fleet Street, east of Strachan Avenue, west of Bathurst Street). Easily accessible by TTC via the Bathurst Street streetcar. Call 416-392-6907 or email fortyork@toronto.ca