Old Fort Niagara, in Youngstown, protects the mouth of its namesake river at the point it meets Lake Ontario. One of the oldest forts in the US, it saw combat in the French and Indian War. Today, you can visit original 17th-century buildings and see a host of exhibits, frequent battle reenactments and demonstrations.
History of Old Fort Niagara
Located at the beginning of the Niagara River, Old Fort Niagara was a vital station for over three centuries. It offered entry to the Great Lakes, which gave the location tons of value. After the creation of the Erie Canal, the fort lost most of its worth and dwindled. Fort Niagara was controlled originally by the French until 1759 when the British took over the land through the French and Indian War. They eventually would have to give it up to the United States in the late 1700s until they were able to capture it back in 1813, only to lose it once again two years later through the War of 1812. This was the last conflict that took place at the Old Fort. Since then, the grounds have been restored through their not-for-profit organization.
Enjoy hourly tours to help you learn and explore the fort itself. Attend demonstrations that range from soldier life and artillery to laundry and military music. Learn all about what it was like to be at the fort when it was active. Watch film presentations about the struggles at the fort during the 18th century and about the all-around history of the land. You can even observe a musket demonstration and meet a soldier to learn all about what they wore, equipped, and did at the fort.
Events
Old Fort Niagara hosts great historical events throughout the year. While visiting, you can look forward to celebrations for Presidents’ Day and Patriot’s Day, as well as commemorations of past wars. Click here for more events.
“What a great to learn early history and see it as it was in the 18th Century!”
—Madeline V., TripAdvisor
Old Fort Niagara is One of Don Wildman’s Favorite Museums in New York
“Old Fort Niagara, in Youngstown, protects the mouth of its namesake river at the point it meets Lake Ontario. One of the oldest forts in the US, it saw combat in the French and Indian War. Today, you can visit original 17th-century buildings and see a host of exhibits, frequent battle reenactments and demonstrations. Did I mention the spectacular view?”
Take Amtrak to Old Fort Niagara
Enjoy a day filled with history from New York via Amtrak to Niagara Falls Station in Niagara Falls—Don’t forget to use the New York By Rail 15% discount!
Get picked up from Niagara Falls Station and taken to your reserved #NYTRAIN Enterprise Rent-a-Car. Click here to reserve your car or call the Niagara Falls office today at: 716-298-1000.
