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 43-acre archaeological park in Toronto where British soldiers, First Nations warriors, and Upper Canadian militiamen stood together during the War of 1812—an event that led to the Battle of York and a dark, dramatic chapter in the city’s history. Visitors can feel the past come to life through an immersive multimedia experience and live demonstrations that bring key moments of the battle into focus. The site highlights the stories of unsung heroes and those who defended their communities, including personal histories shaped by the struggle against oppression. Fort York also offers an interactive glimpse of early 19th-century life through open-fire meal preparation using period recipes, allowing guests to taste foods prepared right in front of them. In 2021, Fort York expanded its storytelling by partnering with First Story Toronto to incorporate Indigenous narratives through a truth-telling journey led by Indigenous guides, and the site hosts the ninth annual Indigenous Arts Festival. For people searching in Seattle, WA and across Washington State for meaningful historical experiences and cultural programming, Fort York National Historic Site provides an engaging way to connect with War of 1812 history and evolving inclusive interpretation.