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Old Fort Niagara
Old Fort Niagara
Lake Ontario
view websiteRobert Moses Parkway North
Youngstown, NY 14174
716-745-7611
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-K
School-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Historical Landmark
Special Collection
Old Fort Niagara Description
Little hands fly to ears when the costumed soldier points and fires his musket during a demonstration at Old Fort Niagara. "Do it again!" exclaimed one 6-year-old. It's one of the most popular moments at the fort but it only happens once an hour. In between, kids can run wild exploring the 300-year-old fort, complete with drawbridge, canons, and a lighthouse. Inside the visitor center, older kids get a kick out of the real-life game of capture the flag that ended with a Garrison flag being stolen by the British during the War of 1812 (it was returned here in 1994).
Kid Tips
Babies: While there are some spots that are easy to wheel a stroller around, there are also plenty of hills and some bumpy terrain. Between that and the musket firings, it's not a great place to try to calm a baby.
Toddlers & Pre-K: The fort has plenty of high places to fall from, so stick to the marked paths and heed the signs.
School-Age Kids: Those learning about military history will see it come to life with this museum visit. They'll find everything from replica muskets to video reenactments of battles. Audio phones throughout allow kids to listen to narrated tales.
Planning Notes
- Plan to stay. Just outside the fort is a great state park complete with a swimming pool, playground equipment, and dozens of soccer fields. Bring a ball and swimwear to let off steam after your visit.
- Reenactments are held throughout the year. Check with the fort for dates and times.
- Great gifts. Souvenir replica pistols and muskets abound, but there are also shirts, stuffed toys, and books to capture kids' interest.
Just the Facts
Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (until 7 p.m. in July and August). The last admission each day is 30 minutes prior to closing time.
Fees: $10-$20
Recommended Time: 1 - 2 hours
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