Military history is very much a part of the Niagara on the Lake of today, with a number of National Historic Sites and landmarks serving as important monuments to the past. These eye-catching landmarks include the Fort Mississauga National Historic Site, the Fort George National Historic Site, Butler's Barracks and the Navy Hall, the latter of which stands right next to the Niagara River.One landmarks of interest within Niagara on the Lake include St. Mark's Church and the Court House Theatre. Built during the late 1840s and home to an ornate auditorium capable of seating audiences of more than 300 people, the Court House Theatre has never been more popular, playing an integral part of the town's famous annual Shaw Festival since it was first held here in 1962.
Fort George National Historic SiteAddress: 26 Queen Street / Niagara Parkway, Niagara on the Lake, L0S 1J0, Ontario (ON), Canada, CA
Tel: +1 905 468 4257
An acclaimed military landmark in Queens Parade Park, the Fort George National Historic Site comprises a number of defensive palisades. Now listed as a National Historic Site and playing an important part during the War of 1812, the Fort George National Historic Site was actually built in 1979 and remains in a good state of repair. Inside, you will discover the officer's quarters, a military kitchen and various storage facilities, along with costumed workers and soldiers, who add to the overall atmosphere. From here, Fort Niagara in New York is clearly visible across the river.
Open: April to November, daily - 10:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge, discounts for children, free admission after 16:15
Fort Mississauga National Historic SiteAddress: Niagara on the Lake Golf Club, 143 Front Street, Niagara on the Lake, LOS 1J0, Ontario (ON), Canada, CA
Tel: +1 905 468 3424
The remains of the Fort Mississauga National Historic Site are located on the western side of Niagara, next to the town's Niagara on the Lake Golf Club. Building of this red-brick landmark commenced in 1814, with construction work lasting three years. Fort Niagara in New York has been used by both the British and Canadian army, and was actually built on the site of the Mississauga Point lighthouse. Today, a small plaque marks the site where the lighthouse once stood. Visitors must keep to the marked trail at all times, since golfers are often to be found playing a round close by. On occasion, you may even need to wait patiently whilst a shot is played!
Open: daily - dawn to dusk
Admission: free
Court House Theatre (Courthouse Theatre)Address: 10 Queens Parade, Niagara on the Lake, L0S 1J0, Ontario (ON), Canada, CA
Tel: +1 905 468 2172
Each year between April and November, more than 800 performances are hosted during this long festival. These plays are stage not only at the Court House Theatre, but also at the Royal George Theatre and at the more modern, purpose-built Festival Theatre, which was inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II during her 1973 visit to Canada.
Open: daily - hours vary
Admission: charge for performances
St. Mark's Church41 Byron Street, Niagara on the Lake, L0S 1J0, Ontario (ON), Canada, CA
Tel: +1 905 468 3123
St. Mark's Church is the oldest Anglican landmark in the whole of Ontario and is laid out in the traditional shape of a cross. Founded in 1792, St. Mark's Church is known for its exceptional stained-glass windows, which span more than 150 years. Various changes and modifications have been made over the years, although much of the original structure remains quite unchanged and in an excellent condition.
Open: daily
Admission: free
Navy HallAddress: 305 Ricardo Street, Niagara on the Lake, LOS 1JO, Ontario (ON), Canada, CA
Navy Hall is rather tucked away and overshadowed by the adjacent Fort George National Historic Site. Residing within Queens Parade Park, the Navy Hall is a notable local landmark, being part of a former British fort supply depot. This is the only remaining building still standing from this part complex, with the rest being destroyed around 200 years ago. Interestingly, the site was used briefly by the provincial parliament building for Upper Canada, who first met here in 1792, in nothing more than a tent.
Open: daily, view from exterior only, often used for special events
Admission: free
Butler's Barracks National Site
Address: Queen's Parade / Niagara Parkway, Niagara on the Lake, L0S 1J0, Ontario (ON), Canada, CA
Tel: +1 905 354 4580
Butler's Barracks National Site lies on the western side of Memorial Park, which is has become something of a historical landmark. Easily reached along Mary Street, or by walking along the trail from Fort George, Butler's Barracks dates back some 200 years, when it was used as an important storage facility during the War of 1812. Over the years, the barracks have been used extensively by the Canadian military for many further purposes. Marked guide visitors around this site and its military history within the onsite Lincoln and Welland Regiments Museum.
Open: April to November, daily - 10:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge, discounts for children, children under six years old are free
