Old Fort Erie

Restored War of 1812 fort with costumed interpreters and cannon demonstrations

Address 350 Lakeshore Road, Fort Erie, ON L2A 1B1
Admission CAD $8.75 adult
Opening Hours Mid-May to Labour Day, daily 10:00–17:00

A reconstructed British-era fort dating to the War of 1812, now operated as a living history museum by the Niagara Parks Commission. Staff in period costume demonstrate musket drills, cannon firing, and garrison life of the early 19th century. The fort's earthworks and stone walls are original or closely based on archaeological evidence; the site saw some of the heaviest fighting of the entire war.

The fort sits on the Lake Erie shore with good views across to Buffalo, New York. The interpretive program runs daily in summer with scheduled demonstrations throughout the day. The Niagara Parks pass covers entry to several sites along the Niagara Parkway if you are visiting multiple attractions.

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A story
Fort Erie was the site of the bloodiest siege of the War of 1812. British forces surrounded the American-held fort in August 1814 and launched a night assault on 15 August that was repulsed at enormous cost — the British lost over 900 men killed, wounded, or captured in a single engagement. The Americans eventually abandoned and blew up the fort in November when retreating back across the river to Buffalo.

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