Visiting Old Fort Niagara: A Revolutionary History Photo Tour -

Niagara Falls draws millions of visitors each year, captivated by the thundering waters and breathtaking views. I truly love the falls, and have visited the city several times. In particular, I love that we can see Niagara Falls for free, and that so many things to do in Niagara Falls are worthy of a travelers limited time. But just a short drive from the Falls, hidden on the shores of Lake Ontario, lies a gem of American history: Old Fort Niagara. I think visiting Old Fort Niagara should be a part of your Niagara Falls itinerary.

A scene of a cannon, an old white tool shack, on a grassy lawn, with the blue Lake Ontario in the distance, seen when visiting Old Fort Niagara.

The Old Fort Niagara historic site offers more than just a glimpse into the past; it’s a journey back in time to the early days of colonial North America. With its well-preserved structures, fascinating history, and stunning vistas, visiting Old Fort Niagara is a must-visit for history buffs, photographers, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the significant role the region played, long before the falls became a tourist attraction.

What’s more, its peaceful beauty has a very soothing quality. The rugged sand colored stone of the fort sitting on the vibrant green grass contrasted agains the vivid blues of the sky and Lake Ontario somehow comforts the soul.

At the same time, I also found it a bit exciting, as it was my 5th and final Great Lake, and I do keep track of such things. One could almost find a meditative quality at the far end of the ramparts on a quiet day.

Let’s take a closer look at why this fort is such a significant site, and why I think visiting Old Fort Niagara should be in your plans.

The Rich History of Old Fort Niagara

A woman in a red blouse, jeans and work boots stands in the middle of a grassy area, with a stone mansion in the behind her, when visiting Old Fort Niagara. — Me, ready to take you on a tour of Old Fort Niagara.

Old Fort Niagara’s history is a tapestry woven with tales of exploration, military strategy, and cultural exchange. The story begins in 1678, when French explorer René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, established a small outpost near the mouth of the Niagara River. This early settlement laid the earthworks for the construction of the fort, which would become a key strategic point in the centuries that followed.

The first permanent structure, the “French Castle,” was built in 1726 by the French to protect their interests in the Great Lakes region. Despite its name, the building is a fortified house rather than a true castle, but its thick stone walls and strategically placed gun ports made it a formidable stronghold. The French used the fort to control access to the interior of North America and to maintain their fur trade routes. However, the fort’s strategic importance also made it a target for rival powers.

In 1759, during the French and Indian War, British forces captured Old Fort Niagara after a 19-day siege, marking a turning point in the struggle for control over North America. The fort remained under British control and during the American Revolutionary War, when it served as the British Headquarters for the Great Lakes, and became a refuge for Loyalists and Native American allies. These unlikely partners ran raids on against Revolutionaries in western New York and northern Pennsylvania, areas considered the frontier at that time.

Two canons perpendicular to each other, pointing out over a ground work slope, seen when visiting Old Fort Niagara. — The battlements of Old Fort Niagara point toward land, and not toward the water.

After the war, the fort was handed over to the United States under the terms of the Jay Treaty in 1796. The British moved next door, or more accurately, across the Niagara River, and built Fort George. After a series of skirmishes during the War of 1812, Niagara was recaptured by the British. It wasn’t until the conclusion of that war that the fort was permanently returned to American hands, thus, like New Orleans, becoming one of the few US locations that have been under rule of 3 different flags.

Barely more than a dozen years later the fort’s strategic importance was diminished by the completion of the Erie Canal. A modernized, “New Fort Niagara” was built around the structures of the original, and over the next century and a half the fort would be ramped up and down as various conflicts occurred, serving as a troop training site for the Spanish-American War, officer’s training school for WWI, and a military prison during WWII.

Throughout its history, Old Fort Niagara served as a critical military outpost, witnessing the ebb and flow of colonial power in North America, and later a back-stage base for often overlooked elements of national security. Today, it stands as a testament to the region’s complex past, offering visitors a tangible connection to the events that shaped the continent.

Why Should Visiting Old Fort Niagara Be Part of Your Plans?

A woman stands at the top of a wooden stairway next to a stone wall, touching the base of a cannon pointing over the wall, with a stone kiln behind her, when visiting Old Fort Niagara. — Another visitor seems a bit awed by the size of this cannon pointed over the wall.

Visiting Old Fort Niagara is more than just a walk through history—it’s an immersive experience that brings the past to life. Here’s why this site should be on your itinerary:

Stunning Architecture and Preservation: The fort’s stone buildings, including the iconic French Castle, are remarkably well-preserved, offering a rare opportunity to see colonial military architecture up close. The thick walls, narrow staircases, and hidden passages give you a real sense of what life was like for the soldiers and settlers who lived here, and you can explore freely, at your own pace.

Historical Reenactments: One of the highlights of visiting Old Fort Niagara is the chance to witness historical reenactments. Throughout the summer months, the fort comes alive with demonstrations of military drills, musket and cannon firings, and even full-scale battle reenactments. These events provide a vivid portrayal of the fort’s role in the conflicts that shaped early America. Our visits have been off-season, but we were still able to learn about firing colonial muskets, and watch several demonstrations. In fact, that was where we learned the origins of the phrase “cocking” a gun.
Interactive Exhibits: The fort’s museum offers a range of exhibits that delve into the history of the region, from the early Native American inhabitants to the European colonization and military conflicts. Artifacts, maps, and interactive displays help to tell the story of Old Fort Niagara and its significance in the larger context of American history.

The north watchtower of the fort, in the distance, looking out over Lake Ontario.

Breathtaking Views: Situated at the mouth of the Niagara River, where it meets Lake Ontario, Old Fort Niagara offers some very stunning views. From the ramparts, you can see across the river to the Canadian shore, and on a clear day, the Toronto skyline is visible in the distance across the Lake. The scenic location makes it an ideal spot for photography, with the fort’s historic structures providing a dramatic foreground. I was extremely happy with all of the photos that I took, inside and out.
A Peaceful Retreat: Unlike the bustling tourist areas around Niagara Falls, Old Fort Niagara offers a quieter, more reflective experience. The serene setting, combined with the rich history, makes it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the past. Now, it does get busy at times, and there are class fieldtrips in the spring and fall. However, our last time visiting Old Fort Niagara there were two different classes on site, but we rarely were close enough to any of them for interaction.

What to Expect When Visiting Old Fort Niagara

A blood stained US Flag from the War of 1812. It is kept under dim lights, with no flash allowed, for preservation. Seeing this flag was quite emotional for me, and I still find the photo moving.

The broader part of the Fort, what was once New Fort Niagara, is now a New York State Park, which is passed through to get to the Old Fort. It is a broad expanse of grassy area, with a children’s playground and public pool, and a few other historical sites. The parking lot for the Old Fort lies between two sides of the state park.

After parking, you’ll enter Old Fort Niagara through the museum. This exhibits and short introduction film share the story of the area and why it was a critical location in Colonial times, the various groups that controlled the fort, and the Native American tribes that lived in the surrounding lands. There are artifacts including uniforms, weapons, and the flag seen above.

Upon exiting the museum you’ll be greeted by the imposing stone walls and a glimpse of the French Castle. Once inside the fort, it dominates the landscape, but that can’t be seen from this vantage yet.

The long brick wall enclosing the landside of the fort.

The fort’s grounds are extensive, with several buildings to explore, including the barracks, powder magazine, and the officers’ quarters. Each structure has been meticulously restored, with period furnishings and artifacts that give you a glimpse into the daily lives of the fort’s inhabitants.

My son moves along the curving walkway to the gate of Old Fort Niagara.

The entrance to the fort, with the chained drawbridge gate.

Two visitors pass through the gate into the fort. The inscription above the entrance reads “Porte des Cinq Nations,” in honor of the 5 Iroquois Nations, who the French considered as friends and allies.

The French Castle, with its kitchen, powder keep, and well off to the left.

A close up of the French Castle. The upper level windows were outfitted with with holes and opening doors for defensive firing.

The carved Fleur de Lis heraldry above the entrance.

The interior of the trading room, featuring fabric, mending materials, furs, and boat making materials.

The regiment quarters, with the diagram explaining proper uniform attire.

A closer image to show the tiny bunk and dining area to be shared by 6 soldiers.

Some of the working structures of the fort, including a map and boat working area.

Simulated powder kegs in the powder stores.

The cannons and station in the watchtower.

As you walk through the fort, you’ll encounter costumed interpreters who bring history to life with their knowledge and passion. They’re more than happy to answer questions, share stories, and demonstrate various aspects of 18th-century military life.

Whether you’re watching a musket firing or learning about the fort’s strategic importance, these interactions add a dynamic element to your visit, although they vary with the seasons.

A volunteer dressed in Colonial Revolutionary style explains musket use to a group of visitors.

White smoke rises from a long musket, near the head of a man dressed as a Revolutionary soldier, in a grassy area, seen when visiting Old Fort Niagara. — Accuracy was always questionable at the time but longer barrels alleviated it to a degree.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, you’ll find endless opportunities to capture the beauty of the fort and its surroundings. The contrast between the rugged stone walls and the tranquil waters of Lake Ontario creates a striking visual effect, especially during sunrise or sunset. The Old Fort historic site is not open at those hours, but the surrounding state park is.

A memorial seating area looks out over Lake Ontario.

A square stone watchtower at the end of a gravel walkway in the midst of a grassy lawn, with the brilliant blue of Lake Ontario off to the left, seen when visiting Old Fort Niagara. — The north watchtower of the fort.

The center of the fort, as seen from a watchtower.

A scene from visiting Old Fort Niagara, looking out from the watchtower, across at the elaborate stone "French Castle" with 6 of its chimneys showing, and the Niagara River behind it. — The castle as seen from the north watchtower.

Be sure to explore the lesser-known corners of the fort, where you can find unique angles and perspectives that highlight the fort’s architecture and the natural beauty of the area.

After exploring the fort, take some time to walk along the river’s edge and explore the southern side of the state park. You’ll find more remnants of the fort’s military past, including old cannons and defensive earthworks, and the Officer’s Club still stands in the midst of the park.

Directly adjacent to the parking lot you’ll also see the beautiful stone fort lighthouse, and a historic cemetery, the final resting place of soldiers from the war of 1812 all the way through Desert Storm.

An elaborate stone lighthouse, with a house-like structure at the bottom, amidst budding trees, near the side of a lake of a lake, seen when visiting Old Fort Niagara. — The fort lighthouse, as seen from one of the watchtowers.

The walking paths also offer a peaceful retreat, with the gentle sound of the water and the occasional call of a seagull providing a soothing backdrop. If you would like to extend your time visiting Old Fort Niagara, or at the lakeside, you can take out pizza in nearby Youngstown, just a mile south of the park.

Old Fort Niagara Summary

A view seen visiting Old Fort Niagara, looking down from the ramparts, seeing the red brick walls, with holes for cannon shot, and the stone watchtower behind them, with the Niagara River in the distance. — The outer walls of the fort, with their cannon holes, as seen from the top of the ramparts.

Old Fort Niagara is a treasure trove of history, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the stories of those who shaped the early years of North America. From its strategic importance during the French and Indian War to its role in the American Revolution and beyond, the fort stands as a monument to the struggles and triumphs of the past.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply someone looking for a unique experience near Niagara Falls, visiting Old Fort Niagara should not be missed. Its well-preserved structures, engaging reenactments, and stunning views make it a highlight of any trip to the region. So pack your camera, bring your curiosity, and get ready to explore one of the most fascinating historical sites in the United States.

Tips for Niagara Falls and Other Sites in the Area

Other Cool US Historic Sites

Visiting Alcatraz Island – Is it Worth It?
Visiting Gateway Arch National Park
Visiting the Laura Plantation – Coming Soon!

Remember the History – Pin this Please!

Two scenes from visiting Old Fort Niagara, the historic lighthouse, and the soldiers quarters with their uniforms hanging, and bunks. There is a banner that reads: Old Fort Niagara, discovering Niagara Falls beyond the tourist crowds.

Two scenes from visiting Old Fort Niagara, the French Castle against a vivid blue sky, and two people walking through the stone gate. There is a banner that reads: Old Fort Niagara, adding some adventure to your Niagara Falls trip.

About the Author

Roxanna Keyes with the Superman Statue in Metropolis, Illinois.

You know me, Roxanna Keyes, sometimes referred to as FoxyRoxyK, the founder of Gypsy With a Day Job. I was 50 before I really began to experience all the world has to offer. I really don’t want you to wait so long!

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