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 dedicated to bringing the War of 1812 and the Battle of York to life. Located in a historic setting where British soldiers, First Nations warriors, and Upper Canadian militiamen stood together—facing the United States in the mission to capture Toronto—Fort York preserves the memory of the battle that shaped the city’s past. Visitors can feel history come alive through an immersive multimedia experience, live demonstrations, and programming that highlights the stories of defenders and unsung heroes. The experience also extends to how early 19th-century life felt, including meals prepared over an open-fire using recipes from the era, allowing guests to taste history as part of their visit. Fort York further emphasizes inclusion through Indigenous narratives and stories, supported by a partnership with First Story Toronto and guided truth-telling journeys. In 2021, the site plans to host the ninth annual Indigenous Arts Festival. For history lovers and cultural explorers in Fresno, California, Fort York National Historic Site offers an engaging destination to explore layered perspectives on conflict, resilience, and community memory.