Fort York National Historic Site: Toronto's War of 1812 Battlefield
Explore Toronto's origins at Fort York: War of 1812 history, original buildings, and immersive experiences in the heart of downtown.
Step back in time at Fort York, the birthplace of urban Toronto and a pivotal site in the War of 1812. Explore original military buildings, experience immersive exhibits, and discover the stories of those who defended the city.
A brief summary to Fort York National Historic Site
- 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, Old Toronto, Ontario, M5V 3K9, CA
- +1416-392-6907
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as Fort York is primarily an outdoor site with walking required between locations.
- Allow at least two hours to fully explore the site and its exhibits.
- Check the Fort York website for special events and programming, especially during the summer months.
- Take a guided tour to get the most out of your visit and learn about the fort's history and significance.
- Visit during Doors Open Ontario for special military architecture tours and access to barracks and fortifications.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Union Station, take the 509 Harbourfront streetcar westbound towards the CNE Exhibition grounds. Exit at the Fleet Street and Fort York Boulevard stop. Walk north to the Visitor Centre. A single fare on the streetcar is approximately CAD 3.30. Alternatively, from Bathurst Station, take the 511 Bathurst streetcar southbound and exit at Fleet Street and Bastion Street. Walk north along Bastion Street to Fort York Boulevard. Cross Fort York Boulevard and walk west along Fort York Boulevard to the Visitor Centre.
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Walking
From the intersection of Fleet Street and Strachan Avenue, walk east along Fleet Street to Fort York Boulevard. Turn left onto Fort York Boulevard and walk north to the Fort York Visitor Centre. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes.
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Car
From the Gardiner Expressway eastbound, take the Jameson Avenue exit to Lake Shore Boulevard. Continue eastbound on Lake Shore Boulevard, past Exhibition Place, and turn left onto Fort York Boulevard. Continue north on Fort York Boulevard past Fleet Street. The parking lot is in front of the Visitor Centre, under the Gardiner Expressway. Metered parking costs CAD 1.00 per half hour. Additional Green P parking is available at the corner of Fleet Street and Strachan Avenue.
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