Fort York

History comes to life - The visitor's experience Fort York is an important historic site. It is the spot where the British founded 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 programs. Learn more! Open most days of the year, Fort York offers seasonal guided tours as well as musket, drill, and music demonstrations. Explore the fort's eight historic structures, its defensive works, and its exhibits. Fort York National Historic site is one of 10 historic museums operated by Toronto Culture. Toronto's Historic Museums engage visitors, inspire passion, challenge ideas and connect the past to the present.