1. What do I need to know to have the best possible visit to Fort York?
Fort York is the site where the British founded modern, urban Toronto in 1793, the place where the battle of York came to its violent climax in 1813 during the War of 1812, the position of the city's primary harbour defence between the 1790s and the 1880s, and the home of a military garrison until the 1930s. Today, its defensive walls enclose Canada's largest collection of original War of 1812 buildings. Every year, thousands of people visit the site to explore its fascinating history and enjoy its public programmes. You will get the most out of your visit by taking a tour of the site and it's Georgian era structures.

2. How much does it cost to visit?
Adults: $14.00, Seniors (65+): $10.00, Youth (13–18 yrs,): $8.00, Children (6–12 yrs.): $6.00, Children (5 and under): FREE
Groups of 10 or more: Please contact fort staff at 416-392-6907.
(all prices include applicable taxes and are in Canadian dollars) Please see Rates and Admissions for details.

3. Does the museum accept credit cards?
Yes, we accept AMEX, MasterCard, Visa, and debit cards.

4. How long does it take to visit?
Guests should allow at least 2 hours for their visit to Fort York.

5. What are the museum's operating hours?
Fort York is open year-round, seven days a week, closed over the Christmas holiday season. For further information select operating hours or call 416-392-6907 for details.

6. Where should I park?
There is limited accessible and public parking in front of the Fort York Visitor Centre at 250 Fort York Blvd. Additional Green P parking is available at the corner of Fleet Street and Strachan Avenue. Access this Green P lot via the westbound lane of Fleet Street and turn right onto Garrison Road (Garrison Road is marked by the ‘Old Fort York’ archway). This parking lot can also be accessed from Strachan Avenue. Once parked, visitors can walk along Fleet Street to Fort York Boulevard to the Visitor Centre entrance.

7. How will I know where to go once I arrive?
Once parked, visitors can walk along Fleet Street to Fort York Boulevard to the Visitor Centre entrance. Visitors arriving via the East gate are advised to make their way (via a map) to our admissions desk at the Canteen Museum Store. Depending on the time of year and staffing complement, different tours and introductions are offered. When staffing allows, a Casual Visitor Tour is offered (about 40 min.). On busy days, a general introduction is offered (about 15 min.). Staff members are available to answer your questions or suggest alternate routes suitable to your needs and interests.

8. How much walking will I have to do?
Visiting Fort York requires easy walking over fairly even terrain. Some structures and exhibits require walking up or down stairs.

9. How difficult is it to get around?
Most visitors will find Fort York fairly easy to access. All walkways within the 7-acre walled site are asphalt surface and are wheelchair accessible. The pathway in the Strachan Ave. cemetery is a packed gravel surface and of limited use for wheelchairs. For further information see our Accessibility section.

10. Are there places to sit throughout Fort York?
Yes. There are benches on the walkways outside the Canteen Museum Store and adjacent to buildings off pathways. There are also picnic tables on site.

11. Can I bring a stroller?
Yes, strollers are welcome at Fort York and are easy to navigate throughout most of the site.

12. Is there a best time to visit?
Fort York is open year-round and each season has something unique to offer — heritage gardens, military & musket drill, music demonstrations, special events such as Ghosts of the Garrison. Fort York offers seasonal guided tours to explore the fort's eight historic structures, its defensive works, and its exhibits. During the school year, many school children take part in our educational programs.

13. What should I wear during my visit?
Fort York is mainly an outdoor site with walking required between locations. Seasonal attire is recommended.

14. How do I find out about what is going on at Fort York?
Fort York offers interactive experiences daily. There are also special events during the season. Please see our Events Listing for information about these special programmes.

15. Can I film, photograph, or record my visit when on-site?
Yes. We encourage you to take photographs or use video cameras for your own use. Due to safety, security, and privacy issues, guests are asked to notify interpretive staff of their intent to film or record interpretive and animation experiences. Commercial filming, photography, and recording are granted by permission only and must be approved in advance of visit. Staff can connect interested parties with the City's Film Liaison Office, and/or Toronto Culture.

16. Is there a shop at Fort York?
Yes, the Canteen Museum Store presents a wide selection of gifts and educational materials. Shopping with us will provide you with some unique and desirable items while supporting the museum. Proceeds from sales help fund our educational programmes and museum exhibits.

17. What else is there to do in and around the City of Toronto?
There is much to do in and around Toronto. Many visitors spend a number of days visiting Toronto, not only Fort York, but also the many shops, restaurants, attractions, and cultural institutions in the area. For a listing of what to see and do, go to www.toronto.ca

For further information please call 416-392-6907 or email Fort York at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Helpful Links

www.toronto.com
www.seetorontonow.com
www.ontariotravel.net
www3.ttc.ca