Fort York is really f’n cool!
When I was in school, I don’t remember studying Toronto’s history at all. None! Can’t even tell you when Toronto became Toronto. What’s a curious Torontonian to do? Visit Fort York, for starters.
Fort York recounts some fascinating details of Toronto’s history. Like, did you know Front Street was once the front of the city — the street that met the harbour? The original shoreline bumped up against Front Street, which is why there’s a slight dip when you head south from Front onto Queens Quay. There’s a little topographical tidbit for you.
Past to present
Fort York sits between the newest buildings of the city, The Bentway is just outside its front door, and major condo development is happening across the street. Fort York is surrounded by newness but the history remains. What a wonderful juxtaposition between the new and old!
You’ll find a bunch of pop-up events at the ol’ Fort. Like on Family Day, the fort’s historic kitchen circa 1826 is open, and they’ll be serving hot chocolate and baked goods from the original stone hearth. During the summertime, you can catch reenactments of battle scenes and take cooking lessons. Events that celebrate indigenous culture, music festivals, and food festivals are also sprinkled throughout the year.
History comes to life
So, what can you expect? Well, Ewan Wardle, Fort York’s program director, gave us a personal tour of the four sections of the visitor’s centre. You’ll find artifacts from the excavation, maps, and models detailing the life of the fort; be introduced to the British soldiers and the war of 1812, along with the role of Toronto’s indigenous people; and peek at some rare and delicate artifacts in the vault. The walk up to the fort itself is a journey through an immersive exhibition of the chaotic battle for Fort York.
The deets
Fort York’s visitor centre is open on weekdays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and weekends from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission is $14 for adults, $10 for seniors, $8 for youth, $6 for children, and there’s free entry for children under 5.
Hours can vary based on seasons. Check out their website now and then for the most up-to-date information.
Come for the history, stay for the neighbourhood
Fort York is located right downtown, so there’s plenty to do around here! In the winter, strap on your skates and glide around the Bentway. In the summer, catch some rays on a paddleboard while you drift around Lake Ontario. Who knows what else might strike your fancy around the Fort.
