Fort Erie's main outdoor draw is Crystal Beach, which retains a good sandy shore on Lake Erie even though the famous amusement park that once operated here is long gone. Old Fort Erie is a restored 1812-era fortification with daily living history demonstrations in summer. The Fort Erie Race Track has been in operation since 1897 and offers evening and weekend thoroughbred racing in season. The Niagara Parkway, following the river northward, makes an excellent leisure drive toward Chippawa and Niagara Falls.